12 32 1900 https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/0c5809082906b9d1f819d8e02c60332e.pdf 05f2614af65786fcce337dd795b143af PDF Text Text Volume 68, Number 10 October 2006 “It’s important for presidents to embrace the Jones Act. I have supported the Jones Act and will con ntinue to do so.” President George W. Bush September 4, 2006 The SIU and its affiliated training facility were complimented by President George W. Bush on Labor Day when the commander-inchief visited Piney Point, Md. to give a speech in which he also reaffirmed strong backing of the U.S. maritime industry (as reflected in his comments about the Jones Act, above). SIU President Michael Sacco (left in photo at right) introduced President Bush, whose administration consistently has supported the U.S. Merchant Marine. Before addressing the crowd at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, President Bush took the wheel inside the full mission bridge simulator. Pages 2, 3, 12 and 13. �Crowley Building 4 More ATBs President’s Report Supporting the Jones Act Nine words. That’s all it took for President Bush to bring his administration’s support of the domestic fleet into national focus. Speaking at the SIU’s affiliated training facility on Labor Day, the president stated, “It’s important for presidents to embrace the Jones Act.” He also pledged to continue backing the Jones Act, a law that requires cargo moving between domestic ports to be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. No one who worked in our industry in the midMichael Sacco 1990s would take such statements lightly. Back then, the Jones Act was under severe attack from foreign-flag interests who were out to sink the domestic American-flag fleet. Those foreign entities and their U.S. front men were vicious, but they also were slick. They launched an expensive campaign of disinformation which unfortunately gained footing among some members of Congress. The threat was quite real and very significant. Bills were introduced to weaken or wipe out the Jones Act, which has served our nation’s best interests since its enactment in 1920 as part of the U.S. Merchant Marine Act. Some of those bills picked up more than a few cosponsors, as did related proposed legislation also designed to cripple the American-flag fleet. Our industry responded in part by forming the Maritime Cabotage Task Force or MCTF, a group described as the most broad-based coalition the American maritime industry has ever put together to promote laws guarding our nation’s right to control the maritime traffic within our borders. The SIU proudly signed on as a charter member and today remains one of the MCTF’s more than 350 members—a group including the Maritime Trades Department, other maritime unions, vessel owners and operators, shipyards, trade associations, pro-defense groups and many others. With the truth on our side, we set the record straight on what the Jones Act and other cabotage laws mean to America’s national and economic security. We produced trustworthy studies that demonstrated how America’s Jones Act fleet is the foundation of the world’s safest and most efficient transportation system. By 1997, a majority of House members once again publicly endorsed the Jones Act, and the threat from that particular era had been extinguished. Today, support for our cabotage regulations is strong, both in the administration and in Congress. For proof, look no further than the president’s Labor Day statements and the current orders for new U.S.flag tankers in Philadelphia and San Diego—at least 19 ships in all. Businesses simply don’t make those kinds of investments unless they’re confident. In this case, they are confident in America’s ability to build good ships, provide safe crews and uphold the laws that help preserve our U.S. Merchant Marine at a dangerous period in history when our nation simply cannot afford to be without one. Of course, the attacks haven’t completely gone away. Pro-maritime political candidates in Hawaii are fighting off pesky attempts to diminish the time-tested laws that help maintain a pool of well-trained, loyal, U.S. citizen crews. Other salvos are fired from time to time, normally on a small scale but always with the threat that even a small weakening of the Jones Act ultimately could lead to disaster. It’s also worth mentioning that last year around this time, the MCTF effectively let the federal government know that the Jones Act fleet unquestionably can meet our nation’s domestic maritime transportation needs, both during routine times and in crises like the ones right after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The coalition approached a delicate and difficult situation and turned it into a positive for our industry, from the standpoint of educating legislators and others about the sometimes underestimated capacity of the domestic fleet. Even with that relatively brief bit of background, you can see why President Bush’s words about the Jones Act last month mean so much. His statements are a testament to the importance and effectiveness of the Jones Act as well as the reliability of the crew members and ship operators and others who keep the domestic fleet afloat. To the rank-and-file members and retirees of our union, I thank all of you—because you are a big part of the reason why the President of the United States can stand up for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Volume 68, Number 10 October 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 Four new builds are on the horizon for SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. Officials from the company’s vessel management services division last month announced the signing of a contract to build four more articulated tug-barge (ATB), 185,000-barrel tank vessels. The new vessels are slated to be built at Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Miss. and then delivered in six-month intervals between the first half of 2009 and the end of 2010. Including owner-furnished equipment, they will have an estimated delivered cost of $236 million. The four new ATBs (Pride/650-7, Achievement/650-8, Innovation/650-9 and Vision/650-10) will be operated by Crowley’s petroleum services segment as they are completed. These four new vessels will bring Crowley’s total ATB fleet to 14, consisting of four 155,000-barrel and ten 185,000-barrel ATBs. Four of Crowley’s 155,000-barrel vessels, the Sea Reliance/550-1, Sound Reliance/550-2, Ocean Reliance /550-3 and Coastal Reliance/550-4 have each made more than 100 successful voyages and moved over 75 million barrels of product with zero spills in the last four years, averaging approximately 21 million barrels moved a year. The first of the 185,000-barrel ATBs, Pacific Reliance/650-1 was christened at the end of March. The second vessel of this type, Gulf Reliance has been delivered and the 650-2 is under construction for Crowley in Mississippi and is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2006. The remaining vessels contracted in 2005 (Resolve/650-3, Commitment/650-4, Courage/650-5 and Integrity/ 650-6) will be delivered by 2008. “It’s always good news when new tonnage enters the U.S.-flag fleet,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Crowley has a great safety record and our crews are dedicated, productive, safe and reliable—all of which goes hand-inhand with what the company depends on.” “We have received extremely positive feedback from our customers on our ATBs,” said Tom Crowley Jr., company chairman, president and CEO. “The first 10 ATBs have all been chartered, and we are extending the 650 series to meet additional demand for this class vessel as soon as possi- ble. These vessels offer compelling economics and exceptional safety and performance.” 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. The four tugs being built under the new contract will be interchangeable with the other tugs in the company’s ATB fleet. The 185,000barrel barges will be substantially identical to those currently under construction. 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 not required of 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 electrically driven 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 dual mode inert gas system and vapor collection system for maximum safety. An enhanced mooring system features 1,000-foot Spectra-type lines on split drums with a high-speed 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 heavy fuel 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. Seafarers Vote on Amendments Voting began Sept. 1 for the purpose of amending the constitution of the Seafarers International Union/ AGLIWD/ NMU. As previously reported, SIU members may cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Oct. 31, 2006. A constitutional committee was elected at the June 5, 2006 membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the constitution. The members of that committee studied proposed amendments to the constitution that had been submitted by the executive board, and the committee recommended that the changes be approved and brought to a vote by the membership. The full text of their report was published in the August issue of the Seafarers LOG and was presented to the membership at membership meetings. Some of the proposed changes include a modification of the types of mail services that may be utilized for union election cycles (reflecting the increased use of overnight mail and similar ser- Right: Voting at the Honolulu hall is Electrician Efren Villarosa. Port Agent Neil Dietz is at right. Securing their ballots at the Baltimore hall are (from left) AB Nestor Agcaoili, AB Kim Brown and Chief Steward Robert Brown. vices and the decline of telegrams); creation of a “retiree members” class, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2006; elimination of the position of vice-president at large from the list of elected officers (to take place after the positions are vacated by current officeholders); and a change in the port address of the San Francisco hall. Seafarers eligible to take part in this vote are full-book members in good standing. The eligibility standard is spelled out in the union’s governing document, the constitution. AB Walter Lichota (left) receives his ballot from Port Agent Neil Dietz. October 2006 �President Bush Credits SIU, School Labor Day Speech Includes Strong Praise for Union, Paul Hall Center The SIU and its affiliated training facility received accolades from President Bush on Labor Day, as the commander-inchief stopped in Piney Point, Md. to deliver an upbeat speech in which he also expressed strong support for the U.S. maritime industry. SIU President Michael Sacco introduced President Bush, whose administration consistently has backed the U.S. Merchant Marine. The outdoor Labor Day address took place shortly before noon Sept. 4 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, with approximately 700 students, staff members, industry representatives and other guests in the audience. President Bush flew in Marine One from Washington, D.C. to the Southern Maryland campus, where he toured the simulator building— including a turn at the wheel inside the full mission bridge simulator—and then addressed the crowd near the shore, by the training vessel Osprey. He was flanked on stage by unlicensed apprentices, upgraders and students enrolled in NCL America training at the Paul Hall Center. Afterward, President Bush leisurely met with students and others from the audience, posing for photos, shaking hands and signing autographs. He mingled for nearly 30 minutes, an unusually long time according to individuals who have attended other White House events. In a brief but enthusiastic introduction, SIU President Sacco described President Bush as “a true friend of the U.S. Merchant Marine. His leadership has created thousands and thousands of jobs in the U.S.-flag fleet, which in turn has improved America’s In photo at left, SIU President Michael Sacco introduces President Bush to the Paul Hall Center crowd on Labor Day. At right, flanked by students from the Seafarers-affiliated school, President Bush notes the importance of proper training and how it benefits workers and the economy. boats (and) those who are enginational and economic security.” President Bush wasted no time neers on the boats have the expressing his admiration for absolute best training possible. “I applaud the Seafarers Union both the union and the school. “I didn’t realize how strong and I applaud the employers working togethyour facilities er to make sure are,” he stated. See pages 12-13 for more that those who “I wasn’t sure work for a livwhat to expect, photos from the ing have what it but this is a fanLabor Day event. takes to be comtastic facility. It petitive. We’ve speaks to your leadership, and the leadership and got to make sure that’s the case the importance of your union. throughout all the work force.” Speaking of the nation’s marAnd so, here on Labor Day, I say to the union members who are itime policies, he added, “It’s here, happy Labor Day, and important for presidents to thanks for supporting leadership embrace the Jones Act. I have, that is progressive, smart, capa- (for) five-and-a-half years as the ble, and has your best interests at president, supported the Jones Act and will continue to do so.” heart.” During the rest of his 11Describing his firsthand experience in the bridge simulator and minute, nationally televised his tour of the engine simulator, remarks, President Bush disPresident Bush called it “one of cussed what he described as prothe most amazing training tools I growth economic policies that have ever seen. It shows this promote job expansion, including union’s commitment, along with tax relief. He touched on the need industry’s commitment, to mak- for less reliance on foreign oil and ing sure that those who pilot the the concurrent importance of Crescent Adds Tug ‘Noon Wednesday’ Seafarers-contracted Crescent Towing earlier this year added a twin-screw harbor tug to the segment of its fleet that is based in Mobile, Ala. The Noon Wednesday features a modern design and state-of-theart equipment, noted SIU Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly, who attended the tug’s christening May 17. “It’s an outright addition to the fleet, and it might be the widest tug I’ve ever been on,” said Kelly. The Noon Wednesday is 75 feet long and 40 feet wide. It was delivered in May and quickly demonstrated its capabilities. According to news reports, a barge sank in Mobile’s ship channel during Memorial Day weekend. The day after the holiday, with the channel reopened, the new tug helped move a dozen Celebrating the christening in Mobile, Ala. are company officials and Seafarers (from left) Engineer Jason Johnston, Deckhand John Brock, Deckhand Timothy McKibbon, Cooper Marine (Crescent’s parent company) President Angus Cooper, SIU Port Agent Ed Kelly, Captain Bo Tucker, Crescent VP Tadd Willcutt, Engineer Michael Hurst, Engineer Johnny Johnston, Deckhand Gerald Beuk, Captain Ronnie Walker, Port Chaplain Bernie Maret and Deckhand Josh Burns. vessels, according to an article in Workboat magazine. “She’s got a squatty body,” Crescent Vice President Prentiss (Tadd) Willcutt told the publication. “We have such tight turns here in Mobile, and we have to put them in those finger piers. It’s not like the milewide Mississippi River.” The new boat’s features include a pilothouse with 360-degree visibility and twin EMD 16-645 diesels producing a combined 4,500 hp at 900 rpm. The tug’s running speed is 12.5 knots; it can hold 30,000 gallons of fuel. “It’s got everything you’d expect and hope for in a modern tugboat and it has been very wellreceived here in Mobile,” added Kelly, who also pointed out that the christening took place precisely at noon on a Wednesday. Left: The Noon Wednesday joined Crescent Towing’s fleet this summer. October 2006 developing technologies for energy sources. In an apparent nod toward fair trade, he also stated, “One of the ways to make sure that we’re a competitive nation is to continue opening up markets for U.S. products. If I was somebody who was driving a ship or an engineer on a ship, I’d want to hear a president say, ‘We want you to be selling U.S. products—transporting U.S. products around the world.’ And my message to the world is this: Just treat us the way we treat you. That’s all we expect. We just want the rules to be fair—because I believe this country can compete with anybody, any time, anywhere, so long as the rules are fair.” Early in his speech, President Bush noted that he had been scheduled to visit the school on Labor Day 2005, but had to cancel that trip due to Hurricane Katrina. He said he was “thrilled” to be invited again and “couldn’t wait to say yes.” He credited American workers with helping make the U.S. “the economic leader in the world” and asserted that proper training is vital to the nation’s wellbeing. “It starts with making sure our workers have the skills necessary to compete in the 21st century. That’s one of the primary reasons I came to this facility.” Industry Awaits Final TWIC, MMC Regs Representatives from the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continue meeting with government and industry officials to help protect merchant mariners’ rights relative to the upcoming Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and its related Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC). At press time in late September, the industry still awaited the Department of Homeland Security’s final rulemakings on the aforementioned documents. Those regulations are expected to be issued in the very near future. After issuing notices of proposed rulemakings in May, the government reportedly received 1,950 formal comments on the TWIC and relatively few on the MMC. The SIU issued comprehensive comments on both items and continues working with other U.S. maritime unions as well as the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department to ensure fair treatment for mariners. “Naturally, the SIU will immediately and carefully deliberate on the final rulemakings when they are delivered,” stated SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. “We have treated this situation with utmost seriousness and urgency and will continue to do so.” As reported last month, the comment period only has been extended for one component of the TWIC and MMC proposed rulemakings —specifically, the sections pertaining to ID card and reader technology. Ports and other businesses won’t have to install and use the card readers as quickly as first proposed, even though the government apparently will proceed with issuing TWICs to workers. In its formal comments and in other communications, the SIU has emphasized that it completely backs the worthwhile goal of effective security aboard ship and in port, but has very legitimate concerns about certain aspects of the proposals for both the TWIC and the MMC. Basically, the SIU (individually and also along with other maritime unions) recommends 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 clear-cut: 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. Seafarers LOG 3 �First Philadelphia Tanker Floated Out OSG to Operate New Builds from Aker American Shipping The float-out of union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard’s first Veteran Class product tanker, Hull 005, took place Sept. 18. The flooding of the yard’s building dock floated the vessel off its keel blocks in advance of the ship’s move to the facility’s outfitting dock for some final touches in that phase of construction. The ship’s entire structure has already been completed and its propeller and rudder also had been fitted as of mid-September. When fully completed, the 46,000 deadweight ton Veteran Class vessel will be the most modern product tanker in the U.S. domestic fleet, according to the shipyard. Slated to be christened the Overseas Houston at the shipyard in November, the vessel will be the first in the yard’s 10-ship, double-hulled tanker build program for American Shipping Corporation, a subsidiary of Aker American Shipping, and chartered to SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). As reported earlier in the LOG, the keel for the second vessel in the U.S.-flag series—a ship scheduled for completion in 2007—was laid May 15. A week earlier, the shipyard started production on the third doublehulled tanker, cutting steel for the vessel which also is scheduled for completion next year. All 10 of the vessels are expected to sail in the Jones Act market. Part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act (named in honor of its author, the late Senator Wesley Jones, R-Wash.) mandates that cargo moving between United States ports is carried on U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag, U.S.-owned and U.S.-built vessels. Each of the new tankers will be 600 feet long and capable of transporting 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. Each vessel will weigh 46,000 deadweight tons (dwt). The tanker program was announced in April 2005. At that time the company pointed out that in the U.S. commercial shipbuilding sector, the order for 10 tankers was believed to be the largest of its kind. Also at that time, OSG President and CEO Morten Arntzen stated, “The 10-ship program is OSG’s first giant step to building a world-class U.S.-flag shipping business.” More recently, OSG Senior Vice President Captain Robert Johnston stated that his company is exploring the possibil- The first tanker in a 10-ship fleet being built at the Aker Philadelphia Shipyard was floated off its keel blocks Sept. 18. ity of investing in as many as 17 new additional U.S.-flag ships. Secret Mission, Open Kudos for SBX Crew Twenty-six Seafarers recently were lauded for their contributions to the Department of Defense’s Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) X-Band Radar (XBR) Project office while working aboard the Interocean American Shipping Corp.-operated SBX-1. The SBX-1, during the period when the mariners earned the recognition, was involved in classified operations which had been mandated by the Department of Defense (DOD). The planning, training and execution of this mission ran from June 14 to July 5, 2006. Army Col. John R. Fellows, of the DOD GMD Joint Program office, in a letter of appreciation to Interocean American Shipping Military personnel hone their skills during a voyage. which recognized the mariners, said in part: “I would like to commend and express my sincere appreciation to your team for their outstanding contributions to the GroundBased Midcourse Defense XBand Radar Project office and to our nation. The SBX was tasked to perform a classified speLeft: The SBX-1 is selfpropelled, but sometimes it is more efficient to catch a ride. USNS Red Cloud Receives ‘Constant Care Award’ The SIU-crewed USNS Red Cloud recently was recognized for its outstanding record of safe operations since the vessel’s delivery in 2000. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Red Cloud offloads coalition combat equipment and supplies at Souda Bay, Greece, after returning from deployment in Iraq in May 2005. 4 Seafarers LOG The USNS Red Cloud is part of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command fleet and is operated by Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL), which is based in Norfolk, Va. The honor, the “Constant Care Award,” recently was established to recognize vessels within the MLL fleet that have operated for at least five years without a lost time accident (LTA). According to the company, “Constant Care means being proactive, preparing for problems in advance, and taking the proper course to complete a task safely and efficiently.” The Red Cloud is the first vessel to achieve this significant milestone since the award’s inception. The company pointed out that despite regularly scheduled crew rotations during the aforementioned five-year period, “the safety culture was passed on from crew member to crew member and continued to hold true. ‘Constant Care’ requires more cial mission that was mandated by and in support of the Secretary of Defense….your team’s assistance to this effort was superb. Their professionalism and dedication were evident throughout this critical event.” Receiving recognition were Bosuns James Crate and Wes Slattery; ABs John Ulstrom, Greg Overstreet, Mark Bolitho and Christopher Yohe; Ordinary Seamen Matt Jenness and Gene Hoehn; QMEDs David Spaulding, Joseph Benavente, Jordan Cuddy and Victor Bunghart; than safety training. It requires commitment and reinforcement.” On August 11, the award formally was presented by MLL Director of Operations Jerry Eker. SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and SIU Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny joined Capt. George G. Galyo, USN, Commander, Sealift Logistics Command Atlantic, and others for the ceremony in Norfolk. Capt. Christopher Begley noted that one of the primary reasons for the USNS Red Cloud’s success is that officers and crew members view the vessel as their home, and they look out for one another as family. Both Mangram and Galyo praised the crew for their continued success. During the past five years, the Red Cloud has logged more than one million nautical miles and completed more than 25 deployments or missions. The vessel is one of eight large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessels managed by Maersk Line, Limited. The LMSR ships are named for Medal of Honor recipients. Electricians Kirk Benton and Frank Guenther; QEE Paul Mullersman and Wiper Bryan Fisher. Also honored were Steward/ Baker Bill Bragg; Chief Cooks Larry Pugh and Nancy Vaupel; ACUs Larinda Sawyer and Elba Alfaro; and SAs Terry Lane, Francis Fiorella, Steve Concepcion, Cindy Galarza and W. Carnell Frink. The SBX-1 is a unique combination of an advanced X-Band radar mounted aboard an oceangoing, semi-submersible platform. It provides the Ballistic Missile Defense System with a missile tracking and discrimination capability that can be positioned to cover any part of the globe to support both missile defense operations and testing. The platform is twin-hulled, selfpropelled and very stable in rough seas and turbulent sea conditions. The platform’s oceanspanning mobility allows the radar to be repositioned as needed to support the various test scenarios envisioned for the Ballistic Missile Defense System or to The SIU-crewed SBX-1 supports America’s national security. provide radar coverage of possible threat missile launches from anywhere in the world. The Sea-Based X-Band Radar is 240 feet wide and 390 feet long. It towers more than 280 feet from its keel to the top of the radome and displaces nearly 50,000 tons. Larger than a football field, the main deck houses living quarters, workspaces, storage, power generation, a bridge and control rooms while providing the floor space and infrastructure necessary to support the radar antenna array, command, control and communications suites and an in-flight interceptor communication system data terminal. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (fourth from right) and Port Agent Georg Kenny (far left) join crew members and officers on the USNS Red Cloud in celebrating the Constant Care Award. Pictured from the left are Bosun Thomas DeCarlo, MLL Director of Operations Jerry Eker, Capt. Christopher Begley, Bosun Terry Evins and Capt. George G. Galyo, USN. October 2006 �Peters Nominated as Transportation Secretary President Bush on Sept. 4 nominated Mary Peters to become the nation’s next Secretary of Transportation. Peters currently serves as an executive for transportation policy at a major engineering firm. She headed the Federal Highway Administration from 2001-2005, and prior to that spent three years directing the Arizona Department of Transportation. If confirmed by the Senate, Peters will succeed Norman Mineta, the longest-serving Secretary of Transportation in U.S. history. Mineta, a strong advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine, retired in July after serving in the post for five and onehalf years. “I’m pleased to announce that I intend to nominate Mary Peters to be the next Secretary of Transportation,” President Bush said in making the announcement. “Our nation’s transportation infrastructure is vital to our prosperity and competitiveness; it’s critical to the everyday lives of our citizens. “The Secretary of Transportation is responsible for maintaining a safe, reliable and efficient transportation system,” the president continued. “In addition, the Secretary of Transportation plays an important role in our nation’s coordinated efforts to guard against terrorist threats to our aircraft, our seaports and our infrastructure. “It is a job that requires vision and strong leadership. Mary Peters is the right person for this job,” President Bush said. “She brings a lifetime of experience on transportation issues, from both the private and public sectors. “She’s an innovative thinker. She knows how to set priorities and to solve problems. And as a member of my Cabinet,” concluded the president, “Mary will work closely with state and local leaders to ensure that America has a state-of-the-art transportation system that meets the needs of our growing economy.” After thanking President Bush for affording her the opportunity to serve as America’s next Secretary of Transportation, Peters took the podium in the White House’s Roosevelt Room. In part she said, “Today, our vital transportation infrastructure is showing signs of aging. We are experiencing increasing congestion on our nation’s highways, railways, airports and seaports. And we’re robbing our nation of productivity and our citizens of International Study Shows Union Ships Are Happier Editor’s note: The following article—written by Dr. Erol Kahveci, a senior research associate at the Seafarers’ International Research Center in Cardiff, UK—is being reprinted from the International Transport Workers’ Federation publication, Seafarers’ Bulletin. The article has been edited slightly for style. The results of a major survey on the working conditions aboard car carrier vessels have provided some useful, if unsurprising data for seafarers’ rights campaigners. The message from 627 unlicensed seafarers who were surveyed over the past two years in a major international study is clear: mariners feel happier, healthier and more valued when employed on vessels sailing under national flags rather than on flag of convenience (FOC) ships. But those on FOC ships feel distinctly better off if they are serving on a ship with an ITF agreement. The survey also confirms what members of trade unions probably already believe—that the percentage of FOC car carriers that are covered by ITF agreements are relatively high compared to that of the general fleet. About 60 percent of all vessels in the international fleet fly FOCs. The remaining 40 percent sail under national flags. Of those FOC ships according to ITF estimates, about 30 percent are covered by one of its collective agreements. Trade union officials believe that car carriers are more likely to take out the “insurance policy” of an ITF agreement because they carry high value cargo and run on very tight schedules. The fact that Japanese ownership is disproportionately high in the car carrier sector is also significant. Japanese companies are likely to belong to the Joint Negotiating Group which, along with the ITF, forms part of the International Bargaining Forum (IBF). The IBF, of which the ITF is a member, negotiates pay and conditions for seafarers on FOC ships. Overall, the survey results are consistent with the general pattern of national versus FOC distribution (40 percent national flag versus 60 percent FOC). The percentage of FOCs with union agreements however, is considerably higher. Of all the FOC car carriers, 62 percent have uniform ITF agreements (known as “total crew cost” or TCC). Nine percent of these carriers have agreements negotiated by the IBF and 28 percent have no ITF recognized agreement. Patterns of perception What difference do national flags and the different types of agreements make? According to the results of the survey, they make a great deal of difference. Unlicensed mariners working under national flags are more likely to express positive attitudes about their relationships with their company and crewing agency than those working on FOC ships with agreements. They also are more apt to give October 2006 companies and crewing agencies higher marks than those on FOCs without agreements. Seafarers were asked standard questions about their pride in and loyalty towards their companies…. Because of the contractual nature of employment in the industry, the TCC agreements do not cover pensions. Aside from those from Singapore, most seafarers from Asian countries have no retirement pension contribution from their employer. Such benefits also are rare for seafarers from Indian Ocean and East European countries. These agreements are void of provisions that grant seafarers medical care while they are on leave. Filipinos—the largest national group—are afforded medical health coverage for a maximum period of six months when on leave. It also is mandatory for Filipinos to contribute to a medical insurance system. Seafarers from the Indian Ocean, East European and Asian countries are less fortunate. The great majority—95, 100 and 72 percent of those surveyed respectively—have no such benefit. The Need to Feel Valued On matters related to training and skill development, and to hours of work and rest, the pattern likewise is clear: those working under national flags are most likely to make positive evaluations, followed by those under ITF-recognized agreements. Both of those groups again tend to be more positive than those on FOC ships with no agreements. Such responses go hand-in-hand with unlicensed mariners’ evaluations of their officers’ performance (based on how they are treated, kept informed, etc.). Regardless of their rating, unlicensed mariners on national flag vessels generally feel that they have enough input with respect how they work and the workload involved (hours) in getting jobs done. They are equally concerned about stress related to job security, pay issues, physical working conditions and having to work while in pain. Overall, it is clear that unlicensed mariners who work on FOC ships that do not have ITF agreements are the most disadvantaged. Among other things, they are less likely to be encouraged to develop their skills, to feel that their jobs are secure or to be consulted on crewing, pay, health and safety and other issues. They also are less likely to feel that they have any influence over their work. Not surprisingly, they are less likely to take pride in whom they work for. The majority of unlicensed mariners on foreignflag car carriers do not get six hours of uninterrupted rest daily. Those on ships that do not have ITF agreements, however, are more likely to be deprived of it. These mariners also are more likely to feel that they work very hard, are constantly rushed and worry about job security during rest hours. The message from the survey to those wanting to go to sea on car carriers is clear enough: go aboard a vessel that flies a national flag. Those who have no alternative except FOCs should go on one that has an ITF agreement. White House photo by Shealah Craighead President George W. Bush’s nominee for Secretary of Transportation, Mary Peters, addresses the media during the announcement in the Roosevelt Room Sept. 5, 2006. quality time with their families. “In some cases,” Peters said, “this is the result of systems and structures that are more suited to a bygone era than to the 21st century. Should I be confirmed by the United States Senate, I look forward to working with you, Mr. President, with Congress, and with our public and private sector partners to address these issues and to provide our nation with a transportation system that is unparalleled in its security, in its safety, its efficiency, and its effectiveness.” Survey Says Many Americans Fret About Health Care Costs Three out of every four Americans recently surveyed by the Commonwealth Fund expressed strong worries about the quality, affordability and accessibility of the nation’s health care system. One of the most startling findings to come out of the report, Public Views on Shaping the Future of the U.S. Health Care System, is that Americans of every economic standing are finding it difficult to afford health care coverage. According to the study, 50 percent of respondents belonging to families earning less than $35,000 said they had “somewhat serious” or “very serious” problems in paying their medical bills. The result was practically the same for those in families making $35,000 to $49,999—48 percent expressed strong concern. Among higher income families, 33 percent earning between $50,000 and $74,999 are finding it hard to pay their medical bills. Even higher-income Americans are having problems—21 percent of families with incomes greater than $75,000 are expressing concern. Finally, there is a broad consensus that the federal government should take a more active role in this area. Eighty percent of those surveyed say that the U.S. government should ensure that all Americans have access to adequate and affordable health insurance. A non-profit organization, the Commonwealth Fund was formed in 1918 to explore issues relating to health care. It has long been a catalyst for change, according to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD). In the 1920s, it led the charge for improved childcare that resulted in the emergence of public health departments in communities around the country. From 1920 to 1940, the organization drew attention to inadequacies in America’s network of rural hospitals. In a related development, The New York Times reported that not only are some children moving back home after college and asking mom and dad for monthly subsidies, but in a growing number of states children can now stay on their parents’ health insurance plans well into their 20s. Reporter Jennifer Lee said that with 18- to 34-year-olds— the fastest growing group of uninsured—states are extending the time that children can be a dependent for insurance purposes. In New Jersey, which this year enacted the highest age limit, children can “piggyback” until they turn 30, as long as they live in the state and don’t have their own children. The trend stems from a concern that a healthy—and profitable—segment of the population is dropping out of the insurance pool. About half of all states have studied such proposals, and at least nine have passed laws, eight of them since 2003 and three just this year, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. About 30 percent of adults ages 18 to 24, and more than onequarter of adults 25 to 34, are uninsured, though the average for all age groups is 16 percent, according to figures released by the Census Bureau in late August. It is not known how many people have taken advantage of extended coverage, because policies are administered by private companies and most of the changes have only recently taken effect. Continued on page 9 Seafarers LOG 5 �ANSWERING THE CALL ABOARD THE USNS WRIGHT T he SIU-crewed USNS Wright, part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet, early last month was activated in the port of Baltimore. Answering the call to duty as is their tradition, Seafarers fully crewed up the U.S.-flag military support ship. As evidenced by the photos on these two pages (which were taken Sept. 7), the vessel was a hub of activity. SIU members worked side by side with members of the United States Marine Corps to ready the vessel for its pending mission. They effected a variety of minor repairs, inspected vital operating systems and loaded stores. The Wright is a helicopter repair ship, which can provide support for offshore helicopter activity and house more than 325 people. The RRF is a fleet of militarily useful ships, normally used to support the U.S. Armed Forces in time of war or national emergency. Many of the ships from the RRF have been back and forth to the Middle East, supporting armed forces there. RRF ships also have frequently been activated to help in recovery efforts from disasters overseas, but last year with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita marked the first time they have been activated to assist in recovery from a domestic disaster. The RRF program was initiated in 1976 as a subset of the Maritime Administration’s National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) to support the rapid worldwide deployment of U.S. military forces. Seafarers crewed up the USNS Wright early last month in the port of Baltimore for an upcoming deployment. Taking a well deserved break from their duties are (from left) AB Alfred Martin, OS Jose Ramos and OS Ed Riscos. Facing away from the camera is OS Leonard Gregg. Recertified Bosun Tom Moore inspects and checks off on his list of tasks in preparation for launch. AB Eleazar Lozano Jr. readies the deck of the USNS Wright to receive stores containers. Recertified Bosun Tom Moore (left) attentively listens to a briefing given by the chief mate of the USNS Wright. Other SIU members taking in the briefing are (in no particular order) ABs Emmanuel Wabe, Albert Haarman, Angelo Acosta, Eleazar Lozano, Antonio Santos and Albert Martin and OSs Leonard Gregg, Jose Ramos and Ed Risco. Other SIU crew members aboard the Wright for the activation, but not pictured in this feature, include SAs Norman Adler and Dominic Dumlao; QMEDs Kenneth Powell and Therman Ames; QEE Rodolfo Cunanan and OMU Arthur Marshall. Chief Cook Kevin Fischer moves another of his creations to the serving line to be dished up for hungry shipmates. 6 Seafarers LOG Assistant Cook Julie Dvoroznak cuts a pie in preparation for lunch. Delivering the Goods Seafarers over the years have “I especially am impressed built an untarnished reputation with their emphasis on safety of “delivering the goods” when- and their attention to detail ever and wherever needed. when it comes to practicing it,” That reputation remains Everett continued. “I still intact today, and remember the according to first time I U.S. Marine sailed with Master Sgt. them and how Charles Everett, thoroughly a Jacksonville, they briefed N.C. native with us when we more than 22 mustered for years of service an overview in the Corps, of the vessel. SIU members “They told are still doing us what we their all to keep needed to do if it that way. a fire broke Everett is one of out and covmany Marines ered all procewho were aboard dures that Master Sgt. Charles Everett the USNS Wright would be folSept. 7 as it prelowed in the pared for a miliunlikely event tary deployment from the port that we had to use the vessel’s of Baltimore. lifeboats. They even told us “Seafarers are a really hardwho would get into which working and dedicated group of lifeboat…. I call that thorough people,” said Everett, who once and it gives all of us a good before has had occasion to rub feeling.” sleeves with members of the Everett, his fellow Marines “fourth arm of defense” during aboard the Wright and every military operations. “I shipped other person in uniform often out on this same vessel in the depend on the dedication and past and I have nothing but training of others while deploygood things to say about how ing to perform their respective the SIU folks conducted themjobs. “As a group, I think we’re selves. They are extremely pro- in great hands with the memfessional, very cooperative and bers of the SIU on this vessel,” will do whatever is needed to Everett said. “They all know keep everything running their jobs and they do them smoothly. very well.” October 2006 �A pair of SIU crew members is busy with duties on deck. Steward Assistant John Cator dishes up an entrée for a crew member during lunch. Left: Plumber Kenneth Pell checks the faucet in the galley of the Wright to ensure that water pressure is up to standard. Chief Steward Rayfield Crawford packs away items in one of the vessel’s storage areas. QMED Earl Ebbert checks the power supply of one of the vessel’s coffee makers. QMED Alshea Dixon conducts an inspection of systems in the engine room. Recertified Bosun Tom Moore carries a case of bottled water to the galley storage room. AB Santos Antonio (left) and AB Eleazar Lozano Jr. guide a piece of equipment as it is lowered dockside from the deck of the USNS Wright. ANSWERING THE CALL ABOARD THE USNS WRIGHT October 2006 Seafarers LOG 7 �CIVMARS Assist in Mercy’s Humanitarian Missions The Navy’s Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy recently completed a fivemonth humanitarian mission in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia. The vessel is crewed by 66 civil service mariners (CIVMARs), some of whom are members of the SIU Government Services Division. Mariners operate and navigate the ship while military personnel and volunteers from non-governmental organizations team up with local doctors to provide much-needed treatment to patients at each stop. When the hospital ship responded to the December 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, they utilized not only helicopters, but also were able to transport doctors, patients and cargo with rigid-hull inflatable boats. Since Mercy’s missions are scheduled in places with no existing ports, the ship must anchor off shore. So, for their most recent mission, they acquired two utility boats from the Navy, which they affectionately call “Band-Aid” boats. Each of these boats can take about 45 passengers at a time, three times the number that can be moved by either of the two helicopters on board the Mercy. “The Band-Aid boats are wonderful,” said Capt. Joseph Moore, USN, commander of the Mercy’s Medical Treatment Facility. “We would not have been able to treat nearly the number of people that we have without them.” The two boats have been painted white, like the ship they support, and are marked with red crosses. Each one also has the likeness of a Band-Aid bandage painted on the steering column, one with a “1” painted in the center of the bandage, and the other with a “2.” Each boat is assigned three mariners: two from the deck department to steer and operate the boat and one from the engine department to monitor and repair the engine, if necessary. Third Mate Richard Paramore and ABs Dale Witham and Timothy Wheelock are among the regular Band-Aid boat drivers. On most days, from the first earlymorning run at 6:30 through the last late run in the evening, they assist in ferrying passengers nonstop from ship to shore and back again. This can easily add up to 12- to 16-hour days for each of the drivers. “It’s a long day, but I love it. It’s really good to help all of those people,” said Paramore. In 43 days of operations at six stops in the Philippines and Indonesia, the boats transported approximately 5,000 people as well as medical and building equipment to and from the ship. The only stop at which the boats were not utilized was in Bangladesh, because the ship was operating too far off shore. In addition to transporting patients, the Band-Aid boat mariners also provide them with care and support as they and their loved ones make the journey to the hospital ship for treatment. Many of the patients are unfamiliar with hospitals, ships and the English language—and the journey is often a frightening experience. “The mariners are remarkable in the amount of sensitivity and care that they have shown in U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Don Bray The USNS Mercy, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, is anchored off the coast of Dili, Timor (in Indonesia) to provide humanitarian, medical and civic assistance to the island’s residents. Band-Aid boats are used to transport patients, doctors and supplies to and from the ship. helping people to get on and off the ship,” said Capt. Bradley Martin, USN, the humanitarian mission commander. “They have served as excellent ambassadors for Mercy.” “If it weren’t for the Band-Aid boats, this mission certainly wouldn’t have touched as many people as it has,” said Capt. Robert T. Wiley, Mercy’s civilian master. “Over the course of our mission, our utility boats have moved over five times the number of passengers and equipment than the helos have at a fraction of the cost, making them the most cost-effective and high volume means of ship-to-shore transportation for this deployment.” The medical personnel on this mission saw more than 40,000 patients both on the ship and at local hospitals ashore. In addition, the Seabee unit aboard, along with some of Mercy’s CIVMARs, helped with infrastructure improvement projects at almost every locale. The USNS Mercy left its last humanitarian stop in late August and was scheduled to return home to San Diego by the end of September. Wilmington-Area Seafarers March in Parade U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Edward G. Martens “Band-Aid One,” one of two transport boats, shuttles patients and crew from ship to shore when the USNS Mercy anchored for a week off the coast of Tarakan, a small Indonesian island. Seafarers participated in the annual Labor Day parade in Wilmington, Calif. Among those taking part in the event (and pictured at right) were Andres Mano, Jamie Merced, Efren Ancheta, Thomas Leong, Samuel Lampshire, James Boss, Jefferson Julian, Thom Montgomery and son Jett, Dispatcher Nick Rios, Port Agent John Cox and family (wife Tausha, daughters Alexis and Ashley), Osei Baffoe, Steven Benavides and Ricky Williams. ATC Ship Model Docks at HQ Seafarers-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. last month commemorated the addition of the Alaskan Explorer to its fleet by leaving a model of the new vessel at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. for employees and guests to observe. Checking out the replica are (from left) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, SIU President Michael Sacco, ATC Director of Labor Relations Bill Cole and SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. The Alaskan Explorer, a doublehulled tanker and the fourth in the Alaska Class built in San Diego, was delivered Aug. 18 and started sailing with an SIU crew shortly thereafter. 8 Seafarers LOG October 2006 �CIVMAR News Tragedy Aboard USNS San Jose In late August, two MSC bargaining unit employees died while working along the side of the USNS San Jose in a “cherry picker” lift. These individuals were assigned to paint the side of the vessel. The union has started an investigation of the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident. All CIVMARS should be aware that training, certification and/or licensing are necessary prior to using this type of equipment. The Navy has certain protocols and precautions that must be followed when using this type of equipment. Training, special safety equipment, spotters and other safety criteria must all be considered prior to and while you are working with and on the lift. (Space does not permit a complete listing here of all the safety requirements and precautions.) If you are assigned to this duty and feel you have not received the correct training or do not feel confident that you will be able to safely operate the equipment as a result of adverse conditions or because you do not have enough experience, it is very important to let your shipboard supervisor and your union representative know. The union will be able to assist you in this situation. The union will be following this case very closely. If you need more information about using the lift call SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler at (510) 4442360 or e-mail civmarsupport@seafarers.org. Snapshots from Jacksonville Notice of Limitation to Personal E-mail Accounts and Web Sites The union’s Government Services Division has received notice from MSC that in the near future all CIVMARS sailing aboard MSC vessels will no longer be able to use their private e-mail account to send or receive messages from the vessel. All CIVMARS will be required to have a “.mil” e-mail address. There will be some restrictions to surfing and connecting with certain commercial web sites. CIVMARS will also be required to utilize a Defense Common Access Card to use the shipboard computers. The union is reviewing this policy very carefully and preparing impact and implementation proposals for MSC’s review and response. The union has requested that this policy be changed only after bargaining has been completed. The union believes that this policy could substantially impair the ability of mariners to conduct their personal affairs aboard the vessel as they have been able to do in the past. The union is also seeking information about how CIVMARS may use their own personal computers aboard the vessel to enable them to continue full access to their personal e-mail accounts and unlimited access to the internet. The union is interested in hearing from CIVMARS with any questions or concerns about how this change will impact them. You can call your union representative or e-mail civmarsupport@seafarers.org. SIU Jacksonville Safety Director Randy Senatore (seated near lamp at left, wearing vest) and Port Agent Archie Ware (behind the camera) meet with Seafarers aboard the USNS Stockham on July 25. The union representatives and mariners discussed the new SIU standard contracts, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan eligibility requirements, proposed SIU constitutional amendments and more. Article Describes Routine Aboard SIU-Crewed Georgia Some of the differences between life aboard a U.S. Navy ship and a U.S. merchant ship— like the SIU-crewed Maersk Georgia—were highlighted in the Sept. 2006 issue of SEAPOWER, the official publication of the Navy League of the United States. The Georgia, a containership operated by Maersk Line Ltd., is one of four vessels in that company’s fleet that participates in the Maritime Security Program (MSP), which was established by the Maritime Security Act of 1996 to provide approximately $100 million annually for up to 47 vessels to partially offset the higher operating costs of keeping these vessels under U.S.-flag registry and making them available to the Defense Department in times of need. (The MSP was extended for 10 years when the original program expired in October 2005. It also grew to include up to 60 ships and includes additional funding.) In drawing the comparisons, one of the main differences mentioned by the author, Matt Hilburn, associate editor of SEAPOWER, is that the Georgia, among the most modern ships in the U.S.-flag fleet, carries a crew of 19 on its run from the U.S. East Coast through the Mediterranean, into the Middle East, on to India and then back on 49-day runs. In the past, such ships would have carried larger crews. With 19 persons aboard ship, life for the crew of the Georgia is very busy, particularly when arriving in or departing from a port. “On a carrier there may be 19 or 20 guys doing what you just saw three do,” said Capt. James Rodgers, a merchant mariner since 1973, who came on board in Norfolk, Va. to start a October 2006 This is one of three pages in the September 2006 issue of SEAPOWER magazine that talks about life aboard the SIUcrewed USNS Georgia. Port Agent Archie Ware (left) is pictured with Florida State Senator Anthony Hill during a July 15 meeting of the Florida State AFL-CIO which took place at a local firehouse. The two discussed the importance of grassroots political action and some of the issues affecting the maritime industry. They also talked about the U.S. Merchant Marine’s efforts in hurricane relief missions along the Gulf Coast as well as the need to maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet. Americans Worry About Health Care Costs Continued from page 5 typical 98-day stint as captain of the ship. He was referring to departure activities from the port of Norfolk—including loading and unloading cargo and picking up or dropping off a pilot, although he noted that comparisons between the two may be difficult to make given the different missions of each ship. While at sea, however, crew members have a more regular routine, working four hours on watch and then getting eight hours off—but with the unpredictability of life aboard ship, anything can happen to interrupt that free time. Another difference between a Navy and merchant vessel is the lack of distinction between rank. Licensed merchant mariners (the equivalent of officers in the Navy) and unlicensed merchant mariners (enlisted persons) are not likely to display their rank or job title. “We tend to work together and not emphasize hierarchy,” said Rodgers. “I may address an [able-bodied seaman] just as a friend.” SIU member Franklyn Cordero, the chief steward aboard the USNS Georgia, was featured in the article as well. Cordero, a 30-year SIU veteran, noted that much of the galley functions have become more automated over the years, which helps, particularly with a three-man steward department. Up at 3 a.m, he is responsible for planning meals, ordering food, baking, keeping track of the ship’s sanitation, and, “when the chief cook needs it, pitching in with the cooking.” Port Agent Archie Ware (left) presents newly retired Seafarer Neftali Santana with his first pension check in early August. The recertified bosun began sailing with the SIU in 1967 and most recently sailed aboard the Commitment. The rise of uninsured young adults results from two main economic forces, analysts say. Changes in the workplace mean that fewer jobs now have full benefits, which disproportionately affects the newest workers. In addition, the rising cost of premiums, whether shared with an employer or paid individually, might make insurance less attractive to a relatively healthy population. For years, children have been allowed to stay on their parents’ health insurance until they turned 19, or until they turned 22 or 23 if they remained full-time students. Some of the laws extending the age of coverage allow insurers to charge extra premiums, which vary depending on the plan. They also have various restrictions, sometimes requiring that the child be a full-time student, be unmarried, reside in the state or even live with the parents. In general, these laws do not apply to insurance plans financed by the employer—as opposed to plans in which the employer buys coverage from an insurance company—because self-insured plans, favored by some larger companies, are shielded from state rules and laws under the 1974 Federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act. Before this year, laws extending health coverage were passed in Colorado, Massachusetts, New Mexico, South Dakota and Texas. Utah, where young Mormon men commonly complete two years of missionary work, passed the first law, in 1994. The governors of Delaware and Rhode Island signed such laws last July. New York State has three bills in legislative committees to raise the age limit for children to 25, with various restrictions. Connecticut has a similar proposal in committee. Seafarers LOG 9 �Seafarers and their families: These are some of the images we all look forward to seeing—and sharing with our brothers and sisters of the sea. If you have a family-related photo you would like to be included in the next family photo page, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photos will be returned, if so requested. If e-mailing digital images, please send them to dhirtes@seafarers.org. The higher the resolution, the better. Wearing his graduation cap and gown is Puerto Rico Port Agent Amancio Crespo and his family (from left) daughters Cristina Maria, Amanda Maria and his wife, Maria de los Angeles. Crespo received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Next stop: law school. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone shows off his 9month-old grandson, Gibson Hill, at the grand opening of the Oakland hall on Aug. 17. Recertified Steward Howard H. Lewis of Las Vegas, Nev. has seven granddaughters. Here he poses with four of them: Antonia Perez, Valerie Robinson, Alexandria Robinson and Jamilla Robinson. Thanks to his wife, Susan, for sending this photo to the LOG. Priscilla Senatore (right) and her son Jake got to meet President Bush when he came to the school on Labor Day. Senatore is administrator of admissions at the Paul Hall Center. AB Larry Casteneda brings his son Larry Jr. with him to the hall in Puerto Rico. 10 Seafarers LOG The Hill family gets together in Piney Point. From the left are Recertified Bosun Billy Sr., Unlicensed Apprentice Billy Jr., and Billie Sue Hill (mom). Billy Sr.’s brother, Tracy Hill, also sails as an electrician with the union, and their father, Chuck Hill, and grandfather, Thomas Perrett, also sailed SIU. October 2006 �October 2006 Seafarers LOG 11 �Labor D The President Arrives at Piney Point Seafarers-A Paul Hall Ce Hosts Presi Additional coverage appears SIU President Michael Sacco introduces President Bush, calling him “a true friend of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” President Bush shook many han and cordially posed for lots of ph tos after his speech. Here, he pictured with (first row, from le SIU VP Contacts George Trick guest Daniel Alioto and the fam of SIU Secretary-Treasurer Dav Heindel—Marinea, David, Zacha Jerri-Dee and Chelsea. Crowley Maritime Corp. Chairman and CEO Thomas B. Crowley, Jr. looks on as son Thomas Bannon Crowley gets an autograph. 12 Seafarers LOG October 2006 �Day 2006 Affiliated enter ident Bush s on pages 1, 2 and 3 John Mason, director of training, American Service Technology, points out some of the engine simulator’s features. Listening to the president’s remarks are SIU President Sacco; John Angus, longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine and former president of the National Propeller Club; and SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. ds hois eft) er, mily vid ry, The President Departs October 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �Today you can dig up the Slop Chest online at www.siustore.com Visit the store and place your order today! SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Retiree Recognized for WWII Service An 80-year-old SIU retiree who sailed during World War II earlier this year was honored in Sellersville, PA for his contributions during the war effort. Anthony Kondracki of Quarkertown, PA. was lauded along with 100 other area resi- dents during a ceremony conducted at the borough firehouse by State Rep. Paul Clymer (R-PA.), according to a report in The Intelligencer newspaper by Hilary Bentman. Kondracki was the lone merchant mariner to be recognized during the event which also honored veteran Army infantrymen, Marines and airmen. Clymer afforded recognition to the veterans in his district for their service more than six decades ago, according to Bentman. Despite being vastly outnumbered by veterans of the other services, Kondracki wore his U.S. Merchant Marine medals and ribbons proudly. As a 16-year-old, Kondracki sailed into harm’s way while transporting locomotives to Russia to be used by the Red Army against the Germans during World War II, the report said. “Our guys went through a lot of bad things,” he told the newspaper. “I’m glad someone finally recognized us.” This is the certificate Anthony Kondracki received in recognition of his contributions during World War II as a merchant mariner. IMPORTANT NOTICE: 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 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. October 2006 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea November & December 2006 Membership Meetings AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED 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 DECK DEPARTMENT Totals 1 0 9 3 2 9 30 20 0 9 11 27 11 27 5 1 5 1 32 22 1 3 2 9 1 2 14 13 5 7 11 12 12 5 3 10 6 4 20 7 1 2 0 1 1 1 3 4 2 1 3 5 5 2 1 0 1 0 5 10 0 1 4 4 0 2 16 12 0 4 7 16 7 10 1 0 3 1 15 10 3 0 12 20 1 14 68 54 1 15 32 86 21 25 8 0 15 2 72 61 7 9 8 26 12 14 55 35 1 21 16 45 34 20 6 8 16 11 49 33 2 2 1 9 1 1 18 12 0 6 2 19 11 6 5 0 2 3 16 9 294 258 71 225 147 48 113 510 426 125 Joliet .....................Thursday: November 16, December 14 Mobile ..................Wednesday: November 15, December 13 Baltimore..............Thursday: November 9, December 7 Boston ..................Monday: November 13* ..............................Friday: December 8 ...............................(*change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Guam ....................Friday: November 24* ..............................Thursday: December 21 ...............................(*change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu...............Friday: November 17, December 15 Houston ................Monday: November 13, December 11 ............................... Jacksonville ..........Thursday: November 9, December 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 7 5 1 9 14 24 0 4 7 18 12 9 1 4 2 1 20 10 3 4 5 11 3 3 12 20 1 3 4 7 4 6 2 3 2 3 27 8 0 1 2 2 1 3 6 3 0 2 0 4 3 5 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 0 9 1 0 5 9 12 0 4 5 5 8 6 1 2 4 0 21 10 2 4 4 5 0 5 6 4 1 6 3 7 5 5 4 2 2 2 20 3 0 2 1 2 0 1 5 1 0 1 0 4 4 1 0 0 0 0 3 4 0 0 4 1 0 4 3 5 0 6 2 1 2 5 1 1 1 0 12 5 0 0 7 7 2 14 24 40 1 9 10 38 18 17 2 4 4 3 21 17 3 2 7 13 8 2 19 36 3 6 7 11 14 9 1 3 5 2 28 17 2 0 2 4 1 2 13 5 1 2 1 6 6 6 0 0 2 2 7 12 148 131 37 102 90 29 53 238 196 74 0 0 4 8 1 12 24 18 0 3 6 15 10 22 0 1 1 2 20 23 1 0 0 8 0 7 8 7 0 0 4 7 7 7 1 1 2 2 10 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 1 1 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 5 19 14 0 7 3 14 8 16 0 2 0 0 17 18 1 0 1 4 0 2 2 6 0 1 1 5 9 5 0 2 1 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 4 4 0 0 0 7 3 7 0 1 2 0 11 4 1 0 7 10 4 14 39 34 0 5 9 37 13 39 4 3 1 3 29 41 0 0 0 13 3 18 13 15 0 4 7 9 14 8 1 1 5 3 22 16 0 0 1 0 1 0 11 2 3 0 4 7 2 1 0 0 0 1 3 4 170 82 17 127 45 8 47 293 152 40 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 3 6 4 0 0 2 6 1 6 0 0 0 0 6 1 2 1 4 4 2 5 23 22 0 5 7 40 17 17 1 23 0 0 14 7 4 2 1 7 0 5 16 10 1 2 4 14 21 8 0 21 0 0 11 6 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 4 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 4 14 8 0 2 5 15 10 10 1 13 2 1 7 6 1 0 1 4 0 2 2 7 0 3 1 1 14 1 0 27 0 1 3 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 0 5 8 5 0 1 4 10 1 9 0 0 2 0 10 1 3 3 5 11 3 12 37 34 0 7 7 64 26 26 1 15 1 0 29 13 10 4 2 17 1 13 26 23 1 3 9 34 30 17 0 3 1 0 17 13 35 194 133 16 103 70 0 56 297 224 647 665 258 470 385 155 213 1,097 1,071 463 *“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. October 2006 New Orleans.........Tuesday: November 14, December 12 New York .............Tuesday: November 7, December 5 Norfolk .................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Philadelphia..........Wednesday: November 8, December 6 Port Everglades ....Thursday: November 16, December 14 San Francisco .......Thursday: November 16, December 14 San Juan ...............Thursday: November 9, December 7 St. Louis ...............Friday: November 17, December 15 Tacoma .................Friday: November 24, December 22 Wilmington...........Monday: November 20, December 18 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals All Departments Algonac ................Monday: November 13* ..............................Friday: December 8 ...............................(*change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) 1 2 0 6 2 0 7 11 1 3 1 9 5 6 3 0 0 1 7 6 Port Totals Piney Point ...........Monday: November 6, December 4 3 9 5 14 7 8 23 21 4 12 10 30 20 12 4 14 11 5 32 14 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 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 10 11 1 6 43 25 0 9 25 41 13 19 7 0 6 1 43 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 Trip Reliefs Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals ARMONDO “SKIP” ALVAREZ Please contact your brother, Mark Ah-Low at 460 Martin Lakes Drive South, Jacksonville, FL 32220; or call him at home (904) 695-1883 or on his cell phone (904) 210-6634. BRUCE BUTLER Please contact your daughter, Eugina Ford at (281) 682-6708. She is moving soon. 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. Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, 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 George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 5 9 5 6 14 0 2 2 43 4 1 2 3 5 0 0 0 15 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 5 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 4 5 5 2 7 0 1 2 26 2 3 2 2 4 1 0 0 14 2 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 6 0 2 3 1 11 1 1 3 22 12 24 1 22 33 0 2 1 95 3 5 0 4 24 0 0 0 36 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 5 0 5 1 1 3 0 0 1 11 13 13 2 4 13 0 0 1 46 1 3 0 1 4 0 0 0 9 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 6 4 2 0 9 0 0 1 22 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 2 0 1 0 0 3 2 8 Port 1 3 0 0 4 0 0 0 8 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 2 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 6 1 3 7 0 0 0 20 1 0 1 1 5 0 0 0 8 1 0 1 0 1 2 1 0 6 2 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 0 1 2 1 0 6 0 5 1 0 3 0 0 1 4 11 18 2 5 18 0 0 0 54 2 3 0 2 20 0 0 1 28 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 4 Totals All Departments 85 26 19 40 21 19 43 195 73 12 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This old photo was sent to the LOG by Pensioner Trinidad Sanchez of Carolina, P.R. It was taken in Saigon, Vietnam in 1966. The group had come ashore from the General Simon B. Buckner, a civilian-manned Army transport vessel. Sanchez is on the far right. Brother Sanchez began sailing with the SIU in 1967 from the port of San Francisco. He worked in the steward department. Before retiring in November 2005, he sailed aboard the USNS Fisher. If anyone has a vintage unionrelated 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. October 2006 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA HECTOR AGUILAR, 65, was born in Costa Rica. Brother Aguilar commenced his SIU career in 1990 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first voyage was aboard the Independence. Brother Aguilar worked in the steward department and in 1995 and 2000, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Aguilar most recently sailed on the Coast Range. He makes his home in Fontana, Calif. MILES BLACK, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1980 in Seattle, initially shipping aboard a Manhattan Tankers vessel. Born in New York, the engine department member enhanced his skills in 1995 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Black most recently sailed aboard the Tacoma. He calls Mt. Lake Terrace, Wash. home. JAMES BURTNETT, 65, became an SIU member in 1986. Brother Burtnett first sailed on the USNS Wilkes as a member of the deck department. He upgraded his seafaring abilities in 2000 at the Piney Point training school. Brother Burnett, who was born in California, last sailed aboard the Independence. He resides in Thompson Falls, Mont. SIU LEUNG CHAN, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1993 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Chan primarily sailed on the USNS Regulus during his seafaring career. He was born in China and worked in the steward department. In 2000, Brother Chan took advantage of the educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Metairie, La. WALTER HARRIS, 66, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1987. Brother Harris first shipped aboard the USNS Indomitable. He upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Harris was born in Boston, Mass. and worked in the steward department. His most recent voyage was on the Horizon Enterprise. Brother Harris lives in Honolulu. SALVATORE QUAGLIATO, 71, is a New Jersey native. Brother Quagliato started his SIU career in 1987. He first sailed in the deck department of the USNS Capella. Brother Quagliato upgraded his seafaring skills on two occasions at the union-affiliated school. His last ship was the Defender. Brother Quagliato makes his home in Long Beach, Calif. THOMAS VAIN JR., 65, became a Seafarer in 1963. Brother Vain’s earliest trip to sea was aboard the Marore. The deck department member upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and most recently sailed aboard the USNS Antares. He was born Approving the Standard Agreements Left: Voting on the standard agreeements takes place on the Tyco Decisive in the port of Mobile. From the left are Bosun Jose Gomez and ABs Lovell Smith and Koksal Demir. Below: Other crew members aboard the ship wait for their turn to vote. in Baltimore, Md. and now resides in Jacksonville, Fla. born in New Orleans and now lives in Covington, La. EVAN VERENIOTIS, 65, joined the union in 1969. Brother Vereniotis initially sailed on the Steel Rover in the steward department. Born in Greece, he attended classes at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Vereniotis last worked aboard the Horizon Hawaii. His home is in Athens, Greece. AARON BREAUX, 50, is a native of Louisiana. Boatman Breaux began his seafaring career in 1978. He worked primarily aboard Crescent Towing vessels. Boatman Breaux shipped in the deck department. He is a resident of Metairie, La. SHINICHI YOICHI, 72, was born in the Philippines. Brother Yoichi began his employment with the SIU in 1971. His first voyage was aboard the Overseas Ulla. Brother Yoichi was a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Falcon Lady. Brother Yoichi calls Portland, Ore. home. INLAND FRANCIS BENEDICT, 69, started shipping with the SIU in 1956. Throughout his career, Boatman Benedict sailed aboard vessels operated by Dixie Carriers. The deck department member was WAYNE NICHOLAS SR, 62, joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Nicholas sailed aboard Gulf Atlantic Transport Corporation vessels. In 1983, he upgraded his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Nicholas makes his home in Eight Mile, Ala. GREAT LAKES TIMOTHY THOMPSON, 53, embarked on his SIU career in 1971 in the port of Detroit, Mich. Brother Thompson originally sailed with Inland Lakes Management in the deck department. The Michigan born mariner enhanced his seafaring abilities on three occasions at the training Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1945 As a first step toward a National Labor Relations Board election covering the Isthmian fleet, the SIU this week notified Isthmian that the SIU represented a majority of Isthmian seamen and demanded full recognition as the sole collective bargaining agent. In the event Isthmian refuses the recognition, the SIU will then petition the Labor Board for an election covering all the unlicensed seamen aboard Isthmian ships. In the meantime the organizational drive continued in full swing. 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. HILLARD BROWN, 63, became an NMU member in 1967. Brother Brown first sailed on the American Scientist. He was born in Charleston, S.C. and worked in the engine department. Brother Brown most recently shipped aboard the Cape Edmont. CUTHBERT FORBES, 63, is a native of Honduras. Brother Forbes joined the union in 1967, first sailing on the Gulf Supreme. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Argonaut. HENRY RICHARDSON, 59, launched his NMU career in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Richardson was born in New Orleans and shipped as a member of the steward department. His first ship was the U.S. Builder; his most recent was the ITB Jacksonville. around the world due to the refusal of the foreign crews to sail the vessels with their vitally needed cargoes to the war zone…. The Craftsman was first tied up in Kobe, Japan by the desertion of her Indian crew, who would not sail with her Vietnam-bound supplies. A Chinese crew was flown in to man the vessel, but upon reaching Hong Kong, they too refused to continue with the U.S. military cargo. Both of the other ships (London Craftsman and Elys Harbour) are also manned by Chinese crews who refuse to take their cargoes to Vietnam. This Month In SIU History 1955 A new high in both the number of benefits and total sums paid out was established by the dependents’ hospital and surgical plan for the month of October. Sixty Seafarer families benefited from payment of over $9,500 in hospital bills and surgical-medical fees during the month. In the four months since the plan started operating, 196 benefits of this kind have been paid to Seafarers at a total outlay of better than $31,000. 1965 Three more foreign-flag ships transporting military cargoes to South Vietnam for the Defense Department are tied up at various ports October 2006 facility in Piney Point, Md. Brother Thompson’s last ship was the American Republic. He resides in Milton, Fla. 1975 Seventeen ships under contract to the SIU this month received charters to carry U.S. grain to Russia after strong political pressure by labor forced the Ford administration to negotiate a new long-term, five-year shipping agreement with the USSR, which includes higher freight rates and a ceiling on the amount of grain that can be sold to the Russians. Labor’s unified stand against the uncontrolled sale of grain to Russia not only has given a much-needed shot in the arm to the ailing U.S. tanker industry, but will help stabilize all grain-related consumer prices in this country. U.S. tankers will haul an estimated 890,000 tons of grain to the Soviet Union in October. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA HUBERT ARCHIBALD Pensioner Hubert Archibald, 88, passed away May 15. Brother Archibald joined the union in 1966. His first voyage was aboard the Good Fellow. Brother Archibald was born in New York and shipped in the steward department. Before retiring in 1987, he last sailed on the Boston. Brother Archibald made his home in the state of Washington. ELVYN BUSSELL Pensioner Elvyn Bussell, 81, died April 4. Brother Bussell became an SIU member in 1951 in the port of Philadelphia. He initially sailed aboard the Potrero Hills. Brother Bussell worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Diamond State. Brother Bussell was born in Covington, Ky. and called Philadelphia home. He began receiving his pension in 1985. DAVID CAMPBELL Brother David Campbell, 49, passed away April 23. He joined the SIU in 1980 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Campbell’s first ship was the Robert E. Lee. The steward department member, who was a native of Tacoma, Wash., last sailed on the Horizon Tacoma. He was a resident of Spokane, Wash. WILLIAM COFONE Pensioner William Cofone, 81, died Jan. 31. Brother Cofone began his seafaring career in 1955 in the port of Philadelphia. His first trip was on the Royal Oak, where he worked in the deck department. Brother Cofone, who was born in New York, last sailed aboard the Overseas Valdez. He resided in the Philippines and began receiving his pension in 1990. ESTUARDO CUENCA Pensioner Estuardo Cuenca, 82, passed away April 24. Brother Cuenca started sailing with the SIU in 1952 from the port of New York. He originally worked on the Steel Ranger in the engine department. Brother Cuenca was born in Ecuador. Prior to his retirement in 1985, he worked aboard the Pittsburgh. Brother Cuenca lived in Hialeah, Fla. ing career. Boatman Oliver first worked aboard the Cedar Rapid. Prior to his retirement in 1991, he worked aboard G&H Towing Company boats. Boatman Oliver called Timpson, Texas home. FELIX DAYRIT HENRY REYNOLDS Pensioner Felix Dayrit, 92, passed away April 10. Born in the Philippines, Brother Dayrit embarked on his seafaring career in 1948. His first ship was the Steel King. Brother Dayrit was a member of the engine department. His final voyage was aboard the Santa Maria. Brother Dayrit started collecting his retirement compensation in 1979. He called San Francisco home. Pensioner Henry Reynolds, 72, passed away March 7. Boatman Reynolds joined the ranks of the SIU in 1963. He sailed primarily aboard Hvide Marine and Seabulk Tanker vessels. Boatman Reynolds was born in Niceville, Fla. and lived in Port Arthur, Texas. He went on pension in 1996. FRANCES DEAL Pensioner Frances Deal, 79, died April 26. Sister Deal joined the union in 1978 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Her first ship was the Santa Magdalena. Sister Deal worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Kauai. She was born in West Virginia and made her home in Los Angeles, Calif. Sister Deal began receiving her pension benefits in 1992. LUIS FILIPETTI Brother Luis Filipetti, 71, passed away April 1. He became an SIU member in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Filipetti was born in Puerto Rico and first sailed aboard an Ore Navigation Company vessel. He last worked on the Cape Ducato. Brother Filipetti resided in Adjuntas, P.R. GARFIELD PERSLEY Brother Garfield Persley, 26, died March 13. He joined the Seafarers in 2005 while at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Persley’s first trip to sea was aboard the Steven L. Bennett. He was a resident of his native state of Louisiana. DONALD RUNDBLAD Pensioner Donald Rundblad, 75, passed away March 3. Brother Rundblad launched his SIU career in 1947. He initially sailed on the William F. Cody. Brother Rundblad was born in New York and shipped in the deck department. He made his home in Tacoma, Wash. INLAND ARTHUR CUNNINGHAM Pensioner Arthur Cunningham, 81, died May 14. Brother Cunningham joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1953 in the port of San Francisco. He began his seafaring career on the Santa Magdalena. Brother 18 Seafarers LOG sailing with the NMU in 1944 from the port of New York. Born in Martinique, his last voyage was aboard the Marine Fiddler. Brother Ossou retired in 1968. the Hampton Roads. He went on pension in 1985. Cunningham was born in Hamilton, Ohio. The steward department member last worked aboard the Chief Gadao. Brother Cunningham, who made his home in Portland, Ore., began his retirement in 1987. SYDELLE AYUSO OLLIE TAYLOR Pensioner Ollie Taylor, 80, died May 15. Born in LaGrange, N.C., Boatman Taylor initiated his seafaring career in 1977, sailing primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Boatman Taylor retired in 1991 and made his home in Satsuma, Fla. GREAT LAKES EDWIN ROOFNER Brother Edwin Roofner, 53, passed away May 3. He became an SIU member in 2005. Brother Roofner was born in Youngstown, Ohio. He worked in the deck department on the Susan Hannah during his seafaring career. Brother Roofner was a resident of Chicago. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. MARCIANO ALMEIDA Pensioner Marciano Almeida, 78, died March 20. Brother Almeida joined the union in 1945 in the port of New York. He was born in Fall River, Mass. and sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Almeida initially shipped on Pensioner Sydelle Ayuso, 80, passed away Jan. 13. Brother Ayuso became an NMU member in 1960 in the port of New York. The steward department member’s first voyage was aboard the Argentina. Brother Ayuso last sailed on the American Astronaut. He started receiving his retirement benefits in 1987. WILLIAM BONNER Pensioner William Bonner, 96, died Jan. 15. Brother Bonner commenced his NMU career in 1935 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first vessel was the E.R. Kemp. Brother Bonner was a Rhode Island, native. He began collecting his pension in 1968. ALFRED CUNNINGHAM Pensioner Alfred Cunningham, 78, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Cunningham joined the NMU in 1967 in the port of Houston. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Leslie Lykes. Brother Cunningham was born in Illinois and shipped in the engine department. His last voyage was on the Margaret Lykes. Brother Cunningham became a pensioner in 1990. JOHN LeBLANC Pensioner John LeBlanc, 83, died Feb. 17. The Texas-born mariner began his NMU career in 1942, first sailing from Port Arthur, Texas aboard the Gulf Gem. He was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1972, Brother LeBlanc worked on the Texaco Georgia. DIDIER OSSOU Pensioner Didier Ossou, 83, passed away Jan. 9. Brother Ossou began FREDY RECINOS Pensioner Fredy Recinos, 86, died March 24. Brother Recinos joined the union in 1963 in the port of New York. He initially shipped as a member of the steward department on the Constitution. Brother Recinos, who was born in Guatemala, last sailed aboard the Brinton Lykes. He went on pension in 1983. CHRISTOBAL ROSARIO Pensioner Christobal Rosario, 80, passed away Feb. 26. Brother Rosario joined the NMU in 1943 in the port of New York. He first worked aboard the Southern Sun. Brother Rosario last sailed on the Export Champion. He started receiving his pension in 1971. JOSEPH TRUPIO Pensioner Joseph Trupio, 88, died Feb. 4. Brother Trupio was born in Brooklyn, and began his seafaring career in the port of New York. Brother Trupio’s last voyage was aboard the American Lark. He retired in 1968. MARTIN YATES Pensioner Martin Yates, 90, passed away Feb. 16. Brother Yates joined the NMU in 1937 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. The steward department member, who was born in the Cayman Islands, first worked on the Benjamin Brewster. His most recent voyage was aboard the Marine Texan. 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 Barnes, Claude 80 DOD NAME AGE Dec. 7 Maggio, Antonio 78 DOD Aug. 24 Battle, Luis 89 Dec. 11 McKiver, James 67 Aug. 24 Bertalo, Ferdinand 78 Aug. 4 Midence, Salvador 85 June 23 Blanco, Basilio 82 Dec. 3 Mosely, Arthur 81 Aug. 1 Butigan, Andrew 81 May 18 Negron, Rafael 84 Feb. 5 91 July 31 JAMES OLIVER Cooke, Edmond 93 Dec. 8 Ng, Hon Chung Pensioner James Oliver, 80, died March 6. Boatman Oliver began shipping with the SIU in 1945 in the port of Philadelphia. The Texas-born mariner sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions during his seafar- Cruz, Cristobal 82 Dec. 10 Paun, Tin 90 July 24 Davis, Cornelius 81 Aug. 12 Poopsingh, Flavius 93 Aug. 1 DeMario, Ernest 84 July 23 Rolling, Albert 79 July 21 Fawson, Mary 90 Feb. 1 Shepherd, Edward 87 July 31 Harris, Hewlet 82 Aug. 4 Simmons, Lloyd 69 Aug. 20 Hayes, Leon 82 July 25 Trahan, James 78 Aug. 22 James, Leslie 89 Aug. 3 Trotman, Stephen 60 Aug. 9 Latten, Henry 79 Aug. 5 Winnier, Joseph 82 Aug. 3 October 2006 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), July 27—Chairman Glenn R. Christianson, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Ursel R. Barber, Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan, Engine Delegate Michael G. Bautista, Steward Delegate Jabr A. Matari. Bosun discussed benefits of new contract and and spoke about importance of contributing to SPAD. He asked departing crew members to leave rooms clean for next person and reminded them to check in with customs and immigration as well as their union agent before leaving ship. Secretary encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. and keep documents, drug tests and dues current. Treasurer stated $350.37 in cook-out fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for great food and cookouts during journey. Suggestion made to have nationwide registry for all ports. Everyone was asked to keep noise down while watchstanders are resting. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam; Hong Kong. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), July 30—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Cynthia L. Caster, Educational Director Mohamed N. Alsinai, Deck Delegate Mark E. Pesola, Engine Delegate Leo B. Bacall, Steward Delegate Reynaldo C. Telmo. Chairman announced Aug. 1 payoff prior to arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He advised crew members to check with boarding patrolman before departing vessel. He also spoke about new requirements for SHBP eligibility and that balloting on changes to constitution will take place between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31. Secretary asked crew going ashore to clean rooms and see her if any cleaning supplies are needed. Educational director urged all mariners to take advantage of union’s free education at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or dis- puted OT reported. Bosun read and posted e-mail from Port Agent Bryan Powell in the crew lounge. Crew was asked to put trash in the garbage room receptacles. Clarification requested regarding emergency leave, including complete copy of the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act. Discussion held about new eligibility rules for medical benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Next ports: Tacoma; Anchorage, Alaska. MOTIVATOR (Maersk Line Limited), July 23—Chairman Laurentis D. Colbert, Secretary Judi L. Chester, Educational Director Edwin P. Taylor, Deck Delegate Donald Clotter, Engine Delegate David Terry Jr., Steward Delegate Sukirman B. Suraredojo. Chairman led discussion on observations pertaining to new contract. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Piney Point school. He stated that it has been great having the apprentices onboard; they have helped lighten the busy load. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Questions raised concerning pension benefits. Bosun reported great trip; crew worked well together. All onboard thanked steward department for excellent job preparing food and cleaning ship. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston; Norfolk, Va. ACHIEVER (Maersk Line Limited), Aug. 3—Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Educational Director Michael S. Kirby, Deck Delegate Vasilijs P. Semesjuks, Engine Delegate Glenn G. Barnes, Steward Delegate John G. Reid. Chairman reviewed highlights and changes in new contract. Secretary reported on communications from company regarding pay increases retroactive to July 1 that will be mailed by check to member’s current address on file. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to sign up for courses Moving Containers AB Stacey Twiford is on top of a container, preparing to latch it to the crane in order to move it from the Flickertail State. Bosun Dave Brown (in front) directs the crane operations. October 2006 offered at SIU-affiliated school. He also reminded them to start renewal of merchant marine documents (MMDs) early. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun requested improvements to gym, new T.V. antennae, new computer and e-mail for crew. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 2— Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary William E. Bryley, Educational Director James E. Tyson Jr., Engine Delegate John E. Coleman. Bosun read letter from company stating that mail being received without ship name on it is being returned to sender. Secretary asked everyone departing ship to clean room and leave fresh linen for next person. He also reminded crew members not to use stripper when cleaning showers; it eats away at the finish and drain seals. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade every chance they get at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed concerns about contact number for medical plan due to time difference between Honolulu and headquarters. Bosun thanked deck department for great job working in holds. Crew expressed gratitude to Chief Cook Freddie Castro for good chow. Everyone was asked to put cushions back on couch and return dishes to the pantry when done watching movies. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 6—Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Thomas M. Wybo, Educational Director Morris A. Jess, Deck Delegate Wilfredo G. Caidoy, Engine Delegate Gualberto M. Salaria, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Chairman reported on new overtime rate as of Aug. 12; company will mail members the difference if not aboard vessel. He posted 2006 contract changes for everyone to read. Secretary informed crew not to wait for union meeting to address problems. He led discussion on proper steps for resolving issues and conflicts. Treasurer stated $900 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding pension benefits. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done and good teamwork. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), Aug. 13—Chairman Amante V. Gumiran, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Jan Haidir, Steward Delegate Ruben Q. Fiel. Bosun pointed out some changes made in new contract. Secretary requested clarification on payoff/day-off policy. Educational director advised crew to take advantage of educational opportunities available at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. This could improve immediate earning potential. Treasurer stated $234 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was announced that San Francisco hall moved to Oakland, Calif. President’s report in July 2006 Seafarers LOG was read. Everyone was impressed with SIU President Michael Sacco’s visit with U.S. President George W. Bush. “You can’t ask for a better opportunity to promote U.S. Merchant Marine and our union than that.” It was noted that TV and radio reception in crew lounge has been poor. Captain and chief engineer will get technician to work on problems. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. INTEGRITY (Interocean American Shipping), Aug. 6— Chairman Robert V. Bakeman, Secretary Susanne Cake, Engine Delegate Davon G. McMillan, Steward Delegate James C. Wadsworth Jr. Chairman talked about new contract and thanked crew for working together safely. He asked mariners to return to ship one hour before sailing. Educational director urged members to enhance seafaring abilities at maritime training facility in noted that some rooms need replacement carpeting as well. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. SEABULK POWER (Seabulk Tankers), Aug. 27—Chairman Bradley L. Seibel, Secretary Steven R. Wagner, Educational Director Candido Molina, Deck Delegate James M. Moore, Engine Delegate Gregory A. Terado, Steward Delegate Samuel S. Johnson. Chairman announced Aug. 28 payoff in Tampa, Fla. He asked members to report any safety issues to department head and thanked everyone for great job, especially during Coast Guard inspection. It was Aboard the Green Lake Roosevelt Allen is the chief cook aboard the Green Lake, pictured below in Port Hueneme. Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated that all profits from recycling cans will go toward purchase of movies in Charleston, S.C. and new grill in Baltimore. Clarification requested on penalty rates. Recommendation made to raise pension benefits and wage rates. Next port: New York. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), Aug. 8—Chairman Thomas P. Flanagan, Secretary Gerard L. Hyman, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Basil R. D’Souza. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Charleston, S.C. He thanked members for safe, smooth trip. Educational director encouraged mariners to keep documents current and upgrade at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested information on new contract. Suggestions made regarding improving pension, medical and vacation benefits. Steward department thanked for job well done. Next ports: Norfolk, Va.; Charleston. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Ship Management), Aug. 26—Chairman Samuel Duah, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John E. Trent, Deck Delegate Michael W. Edwards, Engine Delegate Craig S. Croft, Steward Delegate Devalence W. Smiley. Chairman stated patrolman coming aboard in Tampa, Fla. He asked crew members to be prepared to pay dues at that time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was suggested that each member read the Seafarers LOG to see what the union is doing for us. President’s report from LOG was read and discussed. Request made for new mattresses for crew rooms. It was reported that ship would sail one day early due to approach of Hurricane Ernesto. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to attend classes at Paul Hall Center and renew MMDs at least 6 months before expiration date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. Next port: Tampa. USNS MARY SEARS (Horizon Lines), Aug. 20—Chairman Richard D. Hilbert, Secretary Philip Lau, Educational Director Christopher Eason, Deck Delegate Kelly J. Doyle, Steward Delegate James C. Dewey. Chairman talked about holiday change: Paul Hall Day will be replaced by Columbus Day. He also went over change in medical benefits. Questions were raised about new 150-day policy in order to be eligible for benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Limited), Aug. 14—Chairman Eddie L. Thomas Sr., Secretary Susan K. Bowman, Educational Director Timothy A. Chestnut, Engine Delegate Pati F. Taototo, Steward Delegate Teresito O. Reyes. Bosun talked about changes in seatime requirements to remain eligible for benefits. He also reported on safety meeting. Bosun stressed importance of separating trash, noting that aerosol cans are like bombs in an incinerator. Treasurer stated $57.50 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to increase wages and vacation pay. Crew members conversed about what ship’s fund money should be used for. Suggestions included basketbal hoop, DVD burner, T-shirts, pingpong table. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. 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. Repeating a Key Message To keep our union on a true course, it certainly bears repeating, especially in these times: Keep ’em sailing and rolling under the American flag, with American-crewed, Americanbuilt ships. It’s also important that we support trade agreements which protect workers’ rights. By reading the Seafarers LOG, it is obvious that the membership is doing its best to promote and protect a strong U.S.flag fleet. Peter Katlen (Retiree) Xenia, Ohio What the Doctor Ordered Just letting you know that I’ve been taking several medications every day for many years. I am 75 years old and am very grateful for my prescription drug coverage through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The program works very well. Pete Macaraeg San Francisco Backing H.R. 23 The SIU has been a great help in supporting and promoting H.R. 23, the Belated Thank You Act. Here is a suggested message for mariners and other supporters to use when calling or writing their elected representatives to promote this legislation (the toll-free number to the Capitol switchboard is 888-355-3588): I urge you to sign Discharge Petition #14 for the release of H.R. 23, the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act. The members of the U.S. House of Representatives have shown overwhelming support—264 representatives have signed on as cosponsors, but the bill hasn’t been moved out of committee to the full House for a vote. Merchant mariners were an integral part of World War II. We suffered a high casualty rate while we delivered troops, tanks, food, airplanes, fuel and other needed supplies to every theater of war. Without the services of merchant mariners, it would have been very difficult, if not impossible, to win World War II. Unfortunately, we were denied any rights under the GI Bill. We became the forgotten service. It wasn’t until 1988 that we were given any benefits, and even then, we did not receive some portions of the GI Bill. The average age of the WWII mariner is 82. Passing H.R. 23 would provide compensation for many years of lost benefits, which denied many of us the opportunity to get a higher education and to obtain a home loan. Please support us by signing Discharge Petition #14 for H.R. 23. Richard Wiggins Kansas City, Missouri (See photo below) Appeal from USS Dear American seafarers: You may recall the first time you stepped into a USS center in a foreign port. If not, certainly many of your shipmates do. A safe haven, a friendly face, a telephone to call home, money orders so you can transfer funds, a deliciously prepared meal, a gift shop with affordable items, a friend when you need one most—a place to call home away from home. Since 1942, the United Seamen’s Service (USS) has prided itself on the programs and services offered to promote the welfare of American and allied seafarers like you. Today, USS needs your help. Dwindling financial resources makes USS increasingly unsustainable. Survival will depend on the agency’s ability to continue partnerships with seafarers and to build relationships and seek support in the maritime industry—with unions, carriers, government, military and veteran mariners. The origin of the USS coincides with United States involvement in World War II. The military had the USO and military clubs. It was necessary to provide a facility for those American sea- farers who traveled into harm’s way to carry troops and supplies throughout the world, and President Franklin Roosevelt was at the forefront of the effort by the maritime unions and management to establish the USS. USS has continued over the years to provide services to American seafarers to help alleviate the hardships experienced during the Korean, Vietnamese and Persian Gulf conflicts. Today, American mariners are again engaged in maintaining the critical flow of supplies to U.S. armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and the network of USS centers are there to support them. A USS affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association, continues to provide libraries to U.S.-flag vessels, and especially to the ships of the Ready Reserve Fleet, to ensure that our mariners have quality reading material while at sea. The USS has survived in an industry that has been through radical change over the last 65 years. Those of us in the maritime industry understand the challenge: international unrest keeping military ships at sea rather than on shore; higher food, beverage and labor costs not easily passed on to seafarers visiting our centers; unstable currency exchange rates; extremely high insurance premiums at our centers in the Pacific due to storms and threat of earthquake; and the total loss of our headquarters office in the World Trade Center on 9/11, among other issues. It is imperative that we support the American seafarers across the globe that overcome adversity and proudly carry our world commerce and serve America in times of crises. Your tax-deductible donation will assist USS in supporting American seafarers. Thank you for your consideration of this worthy cause. As we said in our historic 1940s campaign, “That’s Our Outfit! Let’s Keep It Going!” You may contact USS at 635 Fourth Avenue, Ground Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11232, telephone (212) 269-0711, email: ussammla@ix.netcom.com Let’s keep USS going today. Roger T. Korner Executive Director Brooklyn, New York Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. Retired mariners show their support for H.R. 23. 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. October 2006 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for October 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. Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training - AB November 6 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT November 13 November 17 November 27 December 8 October 16 October 20 Assistant Cargo (DL)* (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting Academic Department Courses Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October 2 October 27 November 13 December 8 October 30 November 10 Lifeboatman/Water Survival 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. Upgrade at the Paul Hall Center Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Oct. 2, 2006. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops November 13 December 8 Marine Electrician October 23 December 15 A future edition of the Seafarers LOG Welding October 9 October 27 will contain a complete guide of all the upgrading courses available to Recertification Bosun October 9 students in the year 2007. November 6 � 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 ________________________________________________ October 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. 10/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 677 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 677. They include (in alphabetical order) Mohammed Ali, Carlos Balado Hernandez, Michael Bussiere, Rustin Calame, John Cash, Robert Freeman, Thomas Hampshire, John McKay, Zachary Miano, Teddy Ramos Zayas, Cindy Smith, Thomas Streeper III, Michael Stilwell, Darrell Taylor, Kristopher Travis, Steven Trewitt, Eeric White and John Worae. AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Sept. 15 are (in no specific order) Arnie Borja, S. Khin Naing, Leander Garrett, Jack Gainers, Vadym Gutara, Richard Fugit, Michael Williams, Ronald Ramos, Jeffrey Tyson, Robert Hayes and Jacob Kamp. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. FOWT — Aug. 8 graduates of the FOWT course are SIU upgraders (in no specific order) Jaret Latta, Mark Pitt, Richard Goff, Paul Jefferson, Michael Warner, Kevin Tyson, Dustin Schultz, Gregory Holsey Jr. Ted Gonzales, Adam Soto, Jeremy Martinez, Maurice Terry, Randolph Scott, David Quade, Lua Tran, Mikel Tittsworth, Martin Hamilton, Kevin Lopez, Howard Vick, Bryan Dawson and Emma Porter. (Note: Not all are pictured.) ARPA — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the ARPA course Aug. 25 are (in alphabetical order) Joel Fahselt, James Hall, Carl Kivela, Sergey Kurchenko, Kenneth Lattin, Carlos Llanos and Robert Warren. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is standing third from right. Radar — Under the instruction of Mike Smith (second from left) are Aug. 18 graduates of the radar course (in alphabetical order) Joel Fahselt, William Gates, James Hall, Sergey Kurchenko, Kenneth Lattin, Carlos Llanos and Robert Warren. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason— that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Computer Lab Classes Left: Holding his certificate of achievement for a course completed Aug. 4 in the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center is James Bryand Jr. His instructor, Rick Prucha, stands beside him. Right: With instructor Rick Prucha (standing) are students who completed their computer courses Aug. 11. They are Fernando Mesa (left) and Matthew Whitmore. 22 Seafarers LOG October 2006 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Upgrading students who completed this course Aug. 11 are (in no specific order) Warren Barney, Elisha Johnson, Brian Gauntt, William Brennan, Eduardo Osorio, Alvin Jackson, Michael Orton, Michael Valdez, Jefferson Julian, Denis Dubro, Slavi Zahariev, Joseph McCrosky, Novert Wimberly, Jose Lopez, Charlie Chapman, James Larkin Jr. and Carlos Velasquez. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Tankerman (PIC) Barge — The tankerman (PIC) barge course took place Aug. 7-11. Receiving certificates of completion are (in no specific order) David Nimmer, Glenn Perry, Al Zapata-Nicholls, Tom Filippone, Michael Merrell Jr., John Haller, German Oliva, William Rieckelman, Lace Killman and Chris Cain. Not pictured is Carlos Perez Jr. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at far left. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Aug. 18 was graduation day for students in the water survival course. They are (in no specific order) Tracy Hill, Abdulataef Ali, S. Khin Naing, Richard Fugit, Joaquim Ganeto, Anya Mixon, Ardeccia Hill, Jimmie Gross Jr. Keith Kowaleski and Julie Duoroznak. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is seated in front. Medical Care Provider — Completing the medical care provider course Aug. 18 are (in no specific order) Victor Nunez, Lace Killman, Larry Pascua, Antonio Libo-on, Joseph Grandinetti and James Bryant. Their instructor was Mark Cates (not pictured). STCW — NCL, Aug. 17: Christina Preciado, Shawn Richardson, Jennifer Richardson, Edmundo Rico, Concetta Rocco, Orion Rodgers, Renesha Rogers, James Roper, Kipenzi Roseberry, Max Roseme, Maria Schneider, Cidnee Scott, Amy Scull, Christopher Sermons, Muein Sharkassi, Andrea Smith, Gina Spriggs, Caitlin Sullivan, Tiffany Swearingen, Gino Terranova, Nichole Thomas, Pirun Tough and Candace Trice. STCW — NCL, Aug. 24: Erica Dulla, Angel Dumeng Jr., Christopher Eastwood, Johanna Figueroa Mulero, Timothy Fonseca, Josh Garner, Quinterria Gibson, Carl Gonzalez, Christopher Gosnell, Justine Goworoski, Charlotte Gray, Donzalla Greer, Angeleen Gulch, Roger Harper, K. HayesBoots, Hayley Hill, James Holman, Tamia Horton, Glenda Howell, Paul Hunt, Shigeo Iesako, Tonya Jackson, Olga Jaramillo, Lisa Jeffery, Matt Kalafut, Shaun Kelley and Carol Leach. October 2006 Academics Dept Taking advantage of the educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center, Rahul Bagchi recently completed Math 101—College Mathematics. Standing next to instructor Rick Prucha, he displays his certificate of completion. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 68, Number 10 October 2006 Attention Seafarers: Remember SPAD for Job Security Seafarers S eafarers o n t hhee West C oast Working as a team aboard Matson’s Manukai are, from left, ACU Mary Lou Lopez, Chief Steward Carl Poggioli and Chief Cook Karen Fensel. This photo was snapped during a recent servicing visit to the inland Brusco tugs Wynema Spirit and Lulapin Spirit in Port Hueneme. From the left are Deck Utilities Kasanova Langi, Mike Howard, Jason Diaz and Mike Johnson. New Oakland Hall Opens Loaded with containers, the Manukai recently called on the port of Long Beach. While visiting the West Coast for the grand opening of the new union hall in Oakland, President Michael Sacco (seated) and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (far left) met with crew members aboard the Horizon Reliance. Capt. Jim Marshal (center) presents a safety award to AB Albert Mensa Jr. (left) and Patricio Libre aboard the Seabulk Mariner. Thanks to Recertified Bosun Ramon Castro, the bosun aboard the vessel, for sending this photo to the LOG. A grand opening was held to mark the occasion of the moving of the old San Francisco hall to a new facility in nearby Oakland, Calif. Aug. 17 (Sept. 2006 Seafarers LOG). Approximately 150 peo- With much excitement in the air, SIU President ple attended the Michael Sacco (center) is ready to cut the ceremoceremony, nial ribbon to the new hall as Vice President West including SIU Coast Nick Marrone (left) and Assistant Vice officials President West Coast Nick Celona look on. President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel as well as representatives from companies and other unions, including Matson, APL, Horizon, Crowley, Iron Workers, Sheet Metal Workers, Plumbers, Carpenters, IBEW, Fire Fighters, Police Officers and the Alameda Labor Council. Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown sent a proclamation that was read to the audience, welcoming the SIU to the city; and the Eleventh Coast Guard District presented the union with a certificate of appreciation to commemorate the new hiring hall and in “grateful appreciation for your outstanding support of the United States Coast Guard and the San Francisco Bay Maritime Community.” As previously reported, the new hall offers more than 30 parking spaces next to the building, with additional parking nearby. It includes a media room for rank-and-file members featuring a television and highspeed internet hookups. It has a classroom for off-site training, meeting and conference rooms, is bright and clean, and—best of all—it’s well situated to the waterfront and within easy distance of public transportation. Retired Port Agent Vince Coss (right) shares a happy moment with Nick Marrone II during the grand opening ceremonies. � 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 October 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CROWLY BUILDING FOR MORE ATBS SEAFARERS VOTE ON ADMENDMENTS PRESIDENT BUSH CREDITS SIU, SCHOOL LABOR DAY SPEECH INCLUDES STRONG PRAISE FOR UNION, PAUL HAL CENTER INDUSTRY AWAITS FINAL TWIC, MMC REGS CRESCENT ADDS TUG ‘NOON WEDNESDAY’ FIRST PHILADELPHIA TANKER FLOATED OUT OSG TO OPERATE NEW BUILDS FROM AKER AMERICAN SHIPPING SECRET MISSION, OPEN KUDOS FOR SBX CREW USNS RED CLOUD RECEIVES ‘CONSTANT CARE AWARD’ PETERS NOMINATED AS TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY INTERNATIONAL STUDY SHOWS UNION SHIPS ARE HAPPIER SURVEY SAYS MANY AMERICANS FRET ABOUT HEALTH CARE COSTS CIVMARS ASSIST IN MERCY’S HUMANITARIAN MISSIONS ARTICLE DESCRIBES ROUTINE ABOARD SIU-CREWED GEORGIA NEW OAKLAND HALL OPENS 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 10/01/2006 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. 10 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/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 https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/6faaf36b5df7941cd46d340dfd694bbd.pdf 11580f03113f684b97594852c19a8f08 PDF Text Text 37484_p1_3,9.qxp 7/27/2006 7:42 PM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 8 August 2006 SEAFARERS Approve Standard Contracts New Agreements Increase Wages, Maintain Benefits SIU members overwhelmingly voted in favor of the new standard freightship and tanker agreements last month during shipboard meetings and at the union halls. The five-year pacts boost wages and maintain medical benefits along with other favorably received components. Pictured above (from left) are some of the Seafarers who endorsed the new contracts—at the Baltimore hall, aboard the Cape Wrath and aboard the USNS Altair. Pages 3, 6, 7. USNS Sacagawea Christened Matson Welcomes New Ship The Seafarers-contracted Maunalei (both photos at immediate left), Matson’s newest containership, was christened July 22 at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. SIU President Michael Sacco led an SIU delegation that attended the ceremony. Page 3. The second vessel in the Navy’s new T-AKE class was christened June 24 in San Diego. The USNS Sacagawea (above) will be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. Page 4. Rallying for Workers’ Rights SIU Crews Honored For Relief Operations Seafarers from five ships recently were recognized for their relief operations along the Gulf Coast during the immediate aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita last year. Some of those members are pictured above after the June 14 ceremony aboard the USNS Brittin in New Orleans. Page 8. Seafarers participated in a rally July 13 in Washington, D.C. to protect workers’ rights. Above, students from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education are pictured with AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Richard Trumka (seventh from left) and Maryland-D.C. AFL-CIO President Fred Mason. In photo at left, Seafarers pose with AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson. News on SIU Constitution Pages 11-14 TWIC, MMC Updates Page 2 �37484_P1_3,9.qxp 7/27/2006 5:28 PM Page 2 SIU Weighs in on TWIC, MMC President’s Report Gains and Challenges Even for a union that’s accustomed to having a lot on our plate, this is an extremely busy and important time. I’m especially concerned about the proposed federal rules for implementing new credentials for mariners and other transportation workers in the United States. In this case I’m referring to the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and the separate Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). The SIU has gone through the proposed reguMichael Sacco lations with a fine-tooth comb. We have submitted our formal comments to the Transportation Department, and along with other maritime unions we also submitted joint testimony to Congress last month. Details are included in a separate article in this issue of the LOG. Let me make perfectly clear that the SIU supports strong, comprehensive security policies for our ships and our ports. We want the same things that any concerned citizen would want—safe, productive operations and security that’s tight enough to protect people while also being fair to all concerned. That means striking a balance between letting commerce flow while keeping our guard up at all times. It also means taking a practical, logical approach to implementing the requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, which is the law behind these new credentials. On that last point, our union’s position is that the current merchant mariner document (MMD) essentially meets or exceeds the proposed requirements for a TWIC, pending the addition of a biometric identifier such as a fingerprint. As we told Congress and the Transportation Department, there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Mariners are already closely regulated and, in the context of a TWIC, we’re ahead of the game. The government should look elsewhere within the transportation industry to begin instituting this new ID. We’re already using a proven one, and we’re already jumping through enough hoops. Similarly, the MMC for individual mariners is largely unnecessary, and the format itself (a paper document) is a step backwards. This is a vital development not only for the SIU but in fact for our entire industry, and we will stay on top of it every step of the way. Speaking of this particular issue, I’ll close with a line from a July 3 editorial in the Houston Chronicle which discussed (among other points) the Jones Act and security policies for U.S. crews, and which, in my opinion, also applies to the TWIC: “U.S. mariners and the owners of their vessels are required to get high-tech ID cards and file reams of documents…. Treating the U.S. Merchant Marine as if it were the prime threat just doesn’t make sense.” New Contracts Congratulations to our negotiators and our rank-and-file membership for the new standard freightship and tanker agreements, which were ratified in July. Even the most skeptical individual would have to agree that it’s quite an accomplishment in this day and age for a union to secure a five-year contract that increases wages while keeping health benefits. Our standard agreements should be a source of pride, and I believe these new contracts live up to that description. On a personal note, I have always felt that our members stay informed on the key issues. They have reinforced that belief once again by understanding that the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Trustees had to make changes in our benefits structure. We all know what’s happening to our fellow workers in other industries when it comes to health coverage. We want to make sure that we can continue to provide for our members—the best mariners in the world. Volume 68, Number 8 Unions Offer Sensible Solution: Modify Current MMD The SIU formally submitted comments early last month concerning federally proposed rules on the implementation of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and (separately) the consolidation of Merchant Mariner Qualification Credentials (MMC). The comments were submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Docket Management Facility, in accordance with guidelines contained in the respective Notices of Proposed Rulemakings. Additionally, the SIU joined with other U.S. maritime unions in crafting related testimony presented July 20 to the U.S. House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. (The subcommittee is part of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.) As previously reported, the new credentials were mandated in the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) of 2002. Since the government issued Notices of Proposed Rulemakings in late May, various segments of the U.S. maritime industry have analyzed the proposals—and many have warned of unintended consequences that could cripple commerce by throwing port operations into gridlock. Maritime unions including the SIU have emphasized that they fully embrace strong shipboard and port security measures, but that such regulations must not cause undue burden on mariners or other transportation workers, nor should they disrupt commerce. More than 550 organizations or individuals submitted comments on the TWIC and MMC, including four members of the House Committee on Homeland Security (U.S. Reps. Bennie Thompson, Loretta Sanchez, Jane Harman and Peter DeFazio). It is believed that the overwhelming majority of those comments—possibly all of them—urged changes to the proposed rules, including an extension of the comment period (which closed in early July and as of press time hadn’t been reopened). During the subcommittee hearing on July 20, Ron Davis, president of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) spoke on behalf of unions including the SIU, MEBA, MM&P and AMO. “In regards to future changes in mariner credentialing and the creation of the Transportation Worker Identity Credential, the Department of Homeland Security should allow the existing U.S. Merchant Mariner Document to serve as both a TWIC and a mariner credential for the purposes of identification and qualifications held by the mariner,” he stated. “Essentially, we propose keeping the MMD ‘as is’ with the exception of adding a biometric identifier as mandated in the Maritime Transportation Security Act and ensuring that it complies with all International Labor Organization conventions.” He added 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. Seafarers again are reminded that nothing has been finalized with respect to the new regulations, and that the final rules probably won’t be finished for at least a few months. As currently written, the new regulations would require that the TWIC pro- gram is fully in place 18 months after the final rules are published. Following is the bulk of the SIU’s written comments to the Transportation Department: The SIU recognizes and appreciates the breadth, complexity and challenge of protecting our nation and our maritime transportation network from terrorist incursions. We believe that a safe, secure and reliable maritime transportation system is vital to this nation’s economic, defense and national security. To that end, the SIU has implemented a number of educational and training programs responding to the mandates of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) and the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) Code and, further, has offered our assistance and views to the government in its efforts to devise and implement appropriate measures to protect this nation and our transportation sector from terrorism. First and foremost, the SIU requests a 90-day extension of the comment period to allow all concerned mariners the opportunity to review the proposal and comment appropriately. By the nature of their employment, many mariners may, as yet, not have had the opportunity to either review the complex document or contact their representatives with their assessment of the proposal. In fact, the complexity and sheer magnitude of the proposal itself warrants an extended comment period. It is unreasonable to expect such an immediate turnaround on this important proposal especially since the agencies involved have had a number of years to promulgate regulations. The maritime sector should have adequate time to review and assess the proposal and its impact on the industry. The SIU generally endorses the concept contained in the proposed rule for a biometric transportation security card. However, there are select items within this proposal that warrant concern and comment. The SIU will focus its comments on those issues, as follows. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) As noted, the SIU endorses the precept of a biometric transportation security card as mandated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. The SIU appreciates the efforts and the time expended by the Coast Guard and the Transportation Security Administration in attempting to implement this requirement. However, we believe that the complicated and burdensome process proposed by the agencies is both unnecessary for merchant mariners and may essentially prove disruptive to maritime commerce. As such, the SIU strongly recommends that the current merchant mariner document be altered or modified to include an encoded biometric, to be used as a biometric transportation security card in lieu of the proposed TWIC, especially since the Coast Guard recognizes the MMD as an identity document. The SIU believes that with a security vetting process (threat assessment), preferably initiated by the Coast Guard, the biometric MMD would adequately respond to the mandate of the MTSA for a biometric transportation security card, given the fact that the Coast Guard advises that a security assessment is not required for the mariner population who Continued on page 5 MarAd Conducts Exercise at Piney Point August 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 The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) in late June conducted a readiness exercise at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Among the participants were Gene Magee, chief, Reserve Fleet (seated foreground, above right photo) and Captain Owen Doherty, USNR (standing in photo at left). Associate Administrator for National Security Jim Caponiti played a key role in organizing the event. August 2006 �37484_p1_3,9x.qxp 7/29/2006 1:16 AM Page 3 Seafarers Approve Standard Contracts Agreements Boost Wages, Maintain Medical Benefits, Preserve Jobs SIU members last month demonstrated their overwhelming support for the new standard freightship and tanker agreements, ratifying the five-year pacts during meetings at the union halls and aboard ship. Voting continued as this edition of the Seafarers LOG went to press in late July, but based on tallies from 132 SIU-crewed ships and from membership meetings and special meetings conducted at the halls, the standard contracts clearly were headed for ratification. Approximately 98 percent of the votes were in favor of the agreements. Despite negotiations that in many ways were more difficult than usual, the SIU bargaining team—led by Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Contracts George Tricker—secured contracts that not only call for wage increases in each year of the pacts, but also maintain health benefits at the current Core Plus level. The latter issue consumed much of the negotiations—not surprising when one considers the staggering cost of health care nowadays. Retroactive to June 16, 2006 and running through June 15, 2011, the contracts include numerous other gains, including an amendment to the Shipping Rules that changes tours of duty for seamen with class “A” seniority employed above an entry rating from 22 months to 12 months. Overall, in spite of repeated demands from the companies for various concessions, the SIU didn’t lose a single job under the new agreements – and in fact took no losses in any category. “I’m very pleased with it,” said Chief Steward John Hale when asked his opinion of the Seafarers on the Cape Knox (above) and the Horizon Challenger (below) show their enthusiasm about the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. people a chance to get these jobs.” She also said, “The pay increases are very reasonable.” Tricker said the union’s “greatest challenge during the course of the negotiations was to secure unprecedented monetary increases to the funding of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan in order to continue offering benefits at the current Core Plus level while still providing increases in wages and all wagerelated items.” Following are highlights of the new agreements: „ Wages and Overtime. Effective July 1 in each year of the contract, wages and Continued on page 6 Matson’s Maunalei Christened in Philly new contracts. “The wage increases are outstanding.” AB Zinnonnon Jackson stated, “With the economy being in the state it’s in, our bargaining committee did a marvelous job in making the necessary changes to benefit the security of all members and their families.” Recertified Bosun Aubrey Davis pointed to the modification of the old “22-month rule” as a highlight of the new pacts. “That is a worthwhile change and it’s going to work out,” he observed, noting that he and many other members had requested such action. Speaking of the contracts as a whole, OMU Dennis Swords noted, “I’m very pleased. Overall there are many good points and it’s all positive news.” Electrician Prescilo Zuniga described the new agreements as “good, helpful for us Seafarers, especially the annual (wage) increases.” Wiper Gilbert Regalado took a broad view of the contracts, noting that “the sacrifices that have been made in years past” are now paying off as the union continues building upon earlier, steadily accumulated gains. “I also really like that so many ships manned SHBP Eligibility Change Announced The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) last month announced a change in its eligibility rules. As reported at all SIU membership meetings and as specified in a letter to Plan participants, as of Jan. 1, 2007, 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. In other words, in order to be eligible for benefits in 2007, a mariner must have 150 days of covered employment in 2006 in addition to the one day of covered employment in the six months preceding a claim. The increased requirement of 150 days as compared to the old standard of 125 days recently was approved by the SHBP Board of Trustees. In her report to the membership for July, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen noted that the change is being implemented “in order to maintain the level of benefits provided” to eligible Seafarers and their dependents. An informal polling of rank-and-file members and SIU port agents last month found Seafarers generally taking the change itself in stride. As reported at the membership meetings, the average deep-sea SIU member already averages well over 150 days of sea time per year. Also, Seafarers repeatedly acknowledged that this change is consistent with nationwide realities involving the continually increasing cost of health care. The concern most often voiced by members upon August 2006 by the union are under the standard contracts,” he added. Bosun David Jones viewed the agreements as “an improvement, considering the wage increases and everything compared to some of the other industries out there—even some (traditionally) union industries like the auto industry. The contract we got this time is good for us, plus we’re maintaining our health care coverage whereas other industries are losing theirs.” AB Harry Champagne said the standard contracts are “decent overall” and fair agreements for all concerned. Chief Steward Donna Taylor applauded the new 12-month rule, declaring, “It gives more hearing about the adjustment to 150 days seems to be simply making sure that they secure enough sea time by year’s end to maintain SHBP eligibility in the New Year. Chief Steward Donna Taylor agreed with that sentiment but also added, “Change is always necessary in any job so that everybody wins. We all have to be understanding…. The union has been very good to me. I’ve been able to buy my own home, my own car.” “It’s going to work out for the long-term guys out here like myself,” said Bosun David Jones. “I’m a family man—I have two children—and I know from past experience the union has always covered us if we need something. Going to 150 days from 125 doesn’t really bother me because I’m out there anyway.” According to the non-profit, non-partisan National Coalition on Health Care, spending for medical coverage continues to increase at the fastest rate in U.S. history. In 2005, employer health insurance premiums increased at a rate nearly three times greater than the rate of inflation. The yearly premium for an employer health plan covering a family of four averaged about $11,000, while the annual premium for single coverage averaged more than $4,000. Another telling statistic reflects the steady drop in employer-sponsored health care. The percentage of people with employment-based health insurance has declined from 70 percent in 1987 to 59.8 percent in 2004. Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company’s newest containership, the Maunalei, on July 22 was christened by Millie Akaka, wife of Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii), during a ceremony at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Akaka formally christened the ship with the traditional breaking of a bottle of champagne against the hull of the vessel. SIU officials attending the christening included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. They were joined by a host of other officials from Washington, Hawaii and Guam who represented labor, other segments of the U.S. maritime industry and government. The ceremony’s slate of speakers consisted of W. Allen Doane, chairman of Matson and chairman and CEO of its parent company, Alexander & Baldwin; Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM); Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii); and Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam). “As we entered the 21st century, we faced a considerable challenge in developing a modernization and replacement strategy for the Matson fleet,” said Doane. “Between 1983 and 2002 Matson had only one new ship constructed, the R. J. Pfeiffer, in 1992. “In only four years, Matson has introduced four new ships to its fleet, an achievement that’s truly historic.” Abercrombie stressed the importance of the U.S. maritime industry. “What needs to be understood is the firm connection between a vibrant and healthy U.S. maritime industry and the prosperity of our nation,” he said. “I’m proud to say we were able to revive the cruise industry in Hawaii with American-owned, American-flagged cruise ships, with 4,000 jobs created, all union jobs, from stem to stern, [paying] American wages, obeying U.S. environmental, labor and health laws, with taxes paid to this country.” He also emphasized the key role of the Jones Act as it pertains to national security. The Maunalei is the fourth new containership built by the shipyard for Matson in the past four years. Each vessel’s steward department is crewed by SIU members. Rounding out the Matson fleet upgrades were the deliveries of the SIU-contracted Manukai in 2003, the Maunawili in 2004, and the Manulani in 2005. The Maunalei, which means “mountain flower” in Hawaiian, is 681 feet long and weighs more than 44,000 tons when fully loaded. Beginning in August, the vessel will be deployed in Matson’s Hawaii-Guam-China service alongside the other three containerships constructed by Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard has built four U.S.-flag containerships for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation. Above, the newest ship (Maunalei) displays the Stars and Stripes for its christening. Seafarers LOG 3 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19.qxp 7/27/2006 5:00 PM Page 4 2 T-AKE Ship Christened nd USNS Sacagawea Signals More CIVMAR Jobs The U.S. Navy on June 24 christened the USNS Sacagawea, the newest ship in the Lewis and Clark class of underway replenishment ships, at the General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) delivered the ceremony’s principal address. Lucy Honena Diaz and Rachael Lynne Ariwite, familial descendants of Sacagawea, served as cosponsors of the ship, which will be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. Amy Mossett, a Mandan-Hidatsa member of the Three Affiliated Tribes of North Dakota, served as honorary matron of honor. Designated T-AKE 2, the Sacagawea honors the Lemhi Shoshone woman who acted as guide and interpreter for Lewis and Clark on their expedition into the Northwest region of the United States. The USNS Sacagawea is the second of nine ships in the Navy’s new T-AKE class. The USNS Lewis and Clark (T-AKE 1) on June 20 was delivered to the Navy’s Military Sealift Command. The Navy has awarded NASSCO six contracts valued at approximately $2.8 billion for the design and construction of the nine ships in the T-AKE program. Construction of the Sacagawea began in September of 2004. It is scheduled to be delivered to USNS Lewis and Clark MSC in the first quarter of 2007. T-AKE is a combat logistics force vessel intended to replace the current capability of the T-AE 26 Kilauea class ammunition ships, T-AFS 1 Mars class combat Labor Icon Evy Dubrow Dies at 95 Evelyn (Evy) Dubrow, one of America’s most powerful, most respected and best-loved advocates for working people and their unions, passed away June 20. She was 95. Although diminutive in stature—Dubrow stood only four feet, 11 inches—her accomplishments were anything but small. She was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a friend of presidents and champion of low-wage workers and a major force in the union movement. As one newspaper headline described her, she was the “Capitol Hill lobbyist everyone loves.” AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, recalling the many years he worked with Dubrow, said, “When I started my first job in the union movement at the International Ladies Garment Workers Union in New York, Evy Dubrow was already an experienced lobbyist for the union—and she was already a legend. As time passed and I had the chance to get to know her, I understood why. “Evy had a rare combination of intelligence, wit, pragmatism, compassion and charm. She was so beloved and so persuasive that she could open doors and win victories on Capitol Hill for working people when no one else could. And although her heart and soul were always with the most progressive representatives and senators like John Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey and Tip O’Neill, she also counted staunch conservatives like Barry Goldwater and Bob Dole as her friends—and more than 4 Seafarers LOG once, she won their support. Dubrow was so popular among lawmakers that former House Speaker O’Neill had a permanent chair provided for her just outside the chamber of the House. “Evy joked that she would have been a terrible lobbyist for the oil companies, but behind the joke was the core of who she was,” Sweeney continued. “I’m convinced that the biggest reason she won so many victories over the years was that she was lobbying for a cause she loved with all her heart: the women and men of her union. All of us who were her friends are remembering her and sharing our own stories of her, but I believe that the best eulogy of Evy Dubrow was actually said years ago by a senator: Evy Dubrow is the union label. It was true then, and it will always be.” Born the daughter of impoverished immigrant factory workers from Belarus, Dubrow got her first taste of political activism handing out fliers during the Spanish Civil War in the late 1930s in New York City’s Union Square. She first joined a union, the Newspaper Guild, at The Morning Call in New Jersey, and it changed her life. She served as the secretary of the Guild, assistant to the president of the New Jersey Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO), and as organizer and political education director of the Textile Workers in New Jersey. Dubrow found her true calling when David Dubinsky hired her in 1956 as the lobbyist for the International Ladies’ Garment Workers Union (ILGWU), where he was president. Her very first task was to oppose a proposal that would outlaw secondary boycotts. Her next issue was fighting for an increase in the minimum wage to $1 an hour. stores ships and, when operating with T-AO 187 Henry J. Kaiser class oiler ships, the AOE 1 Sacramento class fast combat support ships. Designed to operate independently for extended periods at sea while providing replenishment services to U.S., NATO and allied ships, the USNS Sacagawea will directly contribute to the ability of the Navy to maintain a worldwide forward presence. Ships such as the Sacagawea provide logistic lift from sources of supply either in port or at sea from specially equipped merchant ships. It will transfer cargo (ammunition, food, limited quantities of fuel, repair parts, ship store items, and expendable supplies and material) to ships and other naval warfare forces at sea. The USNS Sacagawea is 689 feet in length, has an overall beam of 105 feet, a navigational draft of 30 feet, and displaces approximately 42,000 tons. Powered by a single-shaft dieselelectric propulsion system, the ship can reach a speed of 20 knots. The Sacagawea has modular cargo holding and handling systems on board and can carry more than 6,600 tons of dry cargo and nearly 23,500 barrels of fuel. Photo Courtesy of Women’s Research & Education Institute Evelyn (Evy) Dubrow (1911-2006) It was the start of an extraordinary career. For two generations, Dubrow lobbied in Washington, D.C., for just about every good cause in public life: fighting against the return of the sweatshops and industrial homework and against free trade laws that exploit workers in this nation and around the world; and fighting for pay equity, labor law reform, family and medical leave, civil rights, universal health care and much more. She rose through the ILGWU to become an international union vice president in 1977. In presenting Dubrow with the Medal of Freedom (the nation’s highest civilian honor) in 1999, President Bill Clinton said, “For more than five decades, Evy Dubrow has fought to improve the lives of America’s working women and men. A tenacious and effective union activist, she has been a force for social justice and improved labor conditions by working for increases in the minimum wage, health care reform, family and medical leave, and pay equity for women. Renowned for her grace, candor, and integrity, she has earned the respect of opponents and allies alike.” The USNS Sacagawea will be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. SIU-Contracted Companies Earn Environmental Awards Three SIU-contracted companies recently were recipients of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Rear Admiral William M. Benkert Marine Environmental Awards for Excellence. Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. of Houston and Oakland, Calif.based Matson Navigation Co. landed silver and bronze awards (plaques), respectively, in the competition’s Large Business Vessel Category while U.S. Shipping Partners of Edison, N.J. took home an honorable mention in the Small Business Vessel Category. The awards were bestowed June 26 during the American Petroleum Institute Tanker Conference in San Diego. “The Benkert Award demonstrates how industry has led, innovated and far exceeded expectations as good stewards of the sea,” said Rear Adm. Craig Bone, who presented the awards on behalf of the Coast Guard. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez represented the union during the conference and witnessed the awards ceremony. “We salute our contracted companies for staking their claims on these awards,” Tellez said. “It’s a real testament to effort put forward by company officials to protect and safeguard the marine environment and it speaks volumes about the quality of our people who are working aboard these companies’ ships. Congrats are in order all around.” Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. (OSI) received the highest-level award among all vessel operators who applied for the Benkert Award. This unique honor recognizes the environmental commitment of the company and its employees, ashore and afloat, and the excellent record this collaborative effort has achieved, an OSI publication noted of the award. OSI operates with a safety management system meeting the requirements of the International Safety Management Code (ISM). The company’s quality management system complies with ISO 9001:2000. Both systems are independently certified by the American Bureau of Shipping. OSI vessels are in compliance with Shipboard Security requirements of MTSA and ISPS, and the company’s security plans have been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Presently, OSI is providing ship management services to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command and the U.S. Maritime Administration. Matson President and CEO James Andrasick commended his company’s safety, quality and environmental affairs (SQE) and vessel operations departments for this distinguished achievement. “The criteria for receiving the Benkert Award require operators to demonstrate comprehensive and industry leading environmental initiatives,” he said. “Matson’s efforts here have clearly gone far beyond today’s stringent requirements. In every example, Matson’s SQE and vessel operations departments received the full support and cooperation of all Matson personnel. The collaborative work has been exceptional.” Matson has had a zero discharge policy since 1993. In 2003, the company’s Chief Gadao became the first U.S.-flag container vessel certified to the American Bureau of Shipping’s Safety, Quality and Environmental Management (SQE) program. All of Matson’s vessels now have the SQE certification, which requires a documented environmental management system focused on continuous improvement. In addition, Matson offices and terminals are certified to the ISO 14000 environmental management system standard. Matson provides ocean transportation services for Hawaii, Guam, China and the Mid-Pacific as well as logistics services throughout North America. U.S. Shipping Partners L.P. is an active participant in the U.S.flag Jones Act coastwise tanker trades for refined petroleum products and chemical parcels. The company operates six integrated tug barges (ITB) which carry petroleum products and two tankers which haul mainly chemicals. U.S. Shipping Partners recently placed an order for an Articulated Tug Barge (ATB), for delivery early in 2006. The company employs approximately 30 shore staff and approximately 300 fleet personnel. The SIU-contracted companies were three of nine to receive recognition during the API event. The Benkert Award was named for the late Rear Adm. William M. Benkert, a distinguished Coast Guard officer widely known for his leadership and vision in marine environmental protection. It was created to recognize vessel and facility operators who have implemented outstanding marine environmental protection programs that far exceed mere compliance with industrial and regulatory standards. August 2006 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19.qxp 7/27/2006 5:00 PM Page 5 ‘All Available Boats’ Examines New York Evacuation on 9/11 The story of the waterborne evacuation of thousands of people from lower Manhattan in the wake of the 9/11 attacks—a massive operation in which SIU members played a key role—now is being retold through a new multimedia exhibit in New York. “All Available Boats: Harbor Voices and Images, 9.11.01,” according to the Associated Press uses the voices of those who were there to tell the somewhat overlooked story of how tens of thousands of people escaped lower Manhattan on Sept. 11, 2001 by boat. Among the voices are those belonging to tug captains, police officers, other maritime workers, financial experts, students, teach- Maritime Trades Dept. Launches Web Site The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (MTD) last month went electronic with its communications competency by launching its new web site— www.maritimetrades.org. SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as MTD president, in late June announced the premier of the department’s latest communications vehicle. The site replaces the department’s longrunning newsletter, Maritime, which ceased publication in March. In addition to carrying general information on the department, the new MTD web site contains data about its officers, and facts about its 24 affiliated internation- al unions and its port maritime councils. It also will maintain links with various maritime, labor and governmental organizations. The new web site will be updated regularly with the latest news and information from maritime labor and the industry. It will announce upcoming events involving the MTD and its port councils. Twenty-four international unions comprise the MTD. These unions represent more than 5 million members in maritime-related industries. The MTD also has a series of 19 port maritime councils in major port cities across the United States and Canada. SIU Weighs in on TWIC Continued from page 2 have an MMD issued after February 3, 2003, implying that those mariners have undergone a full security vetting by the Coast Guard and therefore need not undergo a TWIC security assessment. The SIU urges the Coast Guard to continue this simplified approach for merchant mariners who are required to hold merchant mariner documents instead of opting for the TSA proposed process. Further, the SIU believes that the Coast Guard itself has the authority to implement the biometric transportation security card mandate as recommended above. In fact, the MTSA requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue a biometric transportation security credential to merchant mariners. Section 102 of the MTSA defines “Secretary” to mean “the Secretary in which the Coast Guard is operating.” It is our view that within this definition, the Coast Guard has the authority to issue an MMD with an encoded biometric as a merchant mariner biometric transportation security credential. Moreover, this would certainly negate the need for a change in the Code of Federal Regulations as proposed in USCG-2006-24371, the Consolidation of Merchant Mariner Qualification Credentials. A further reason for utilizing a biometric merchant mariner document in lieu of a TWIC is the fact that the rule proposes standards which will primarily impact merchant mariners and port workers. Why reinvent the wheel when a proven, time-tested, and internationally accepted document already exists that, with some modification, responds to the mandate of the MTSA. In addition, to date, there are no TWIC requirements for other workers in all modes of transportation. It is our view that if the TWIC is not applicable to all modes of transportation, then the system is essentially flawed due to port intermodalism and the security objective is undermined. User Fees In this rule, the TSA proposes to establish new user fees for the TWIC process. Although the SIU opposes a TWIC requirement for merchant mariners, we nonetheless advance that it is patently unfair to impose yet another user fee on the merchant mariner for a credential that can be encompassed in the MMD. In fact, the merchant mariner is already charged a user fee for the process associated with the MMD. The SIU is aware that Section 520 of the 2004 DHS Appropriations Act requires TSA to charge a reasonable fee for providing credentialing and background investigations in the field of transportation. The principle behind user fees is based on the philosophy that beneficiaries of federal expenditures should repay the government in the form of a user charge on all or a portion of the federal expenditures incurred for a service. User fees are based on the premise that some agency services are of benefit only to particular segments of the population and that fairness dictates that these services be subject to user fees. However, the SIU contends that the TWIC program is not of benefit to a particular segment of the population—the merchant mariner in this case–but primarily in the interest August 2006 ers, stockbrokers and other citizens. The exhibit is located at the Seamen’s Church Institute’s gallery at 241 Water Street, New York, N.Y. In promoting the exhibit, the AFL-CIO noted, “The brutal images of terrorist destruction on Sept. 11, 2001, are burned into our collective memories. But there are other images from that day that most of us didn’t see. Among those: New York’s tugboats, ferries, fireboats, work boats and private pleasure boats evacuating more than 300,000 people from Lower Manhattan on the day the terrorists’ planes took down the Twin Towers, killing nearly 2,800 people.” The exhibit “describes how the maritime community in boats crewed by members of the SIU, Marine Engineers; Masters, Mates and Pilots; Fire Fighters; Longshoreman and other unions moved survivors—many of them injured—to safety.” Shortly after the first plane hit the North Tower, the Coast Guard put out the call for “all available boats.” Capt. Kirk Slater, an SIU Photo Courtesy Seamen’s Church Institute The exhibit offers various viewing and listening choices. member, and two SIU deckhands on the NY Waterway ferry West New York were among those who answered the call. In 2001, Slater told the AFLCIO magazine America@work that before the second plane hit the South Tower, the West New York had made two trips loaded with evacuees when “I looked up and saw the second plane go right into the Trade Center…. [Soon after] I heard this rumble. The first building came down, came down fast. It was a crystal-clear day, but this huge [debris] cloud of public security. It is our belief that one of the key criteria regarding the application of a user fee for TSA services rendered is whether the service provides a special benefit to an identifiable recipient above and beyond those that accrue to the public at large. In this case, it does not. Therefore, given the fact that obtaining a TWIC is in the interest of public security, merchant mariners should not be assessed a user fee. It is neither fair nor reasonable to assess a user fee on a merchant mariner for a security mandate that has broader benefits. The background checks and security threat assessments contained in the proposal are considered necessary to enhance the security of our nation’s ports and are part of an overall effort to fight terrorism elements…. Federal Preemption The SIU recognizes and acknowledges the fact that states have the right to regulate access to their port facilities. However, once a national identity standard is promulgated, it is critically important that these standards supersede state regulations. Thus, the SIU recommends that the federal TWIC or MMD program preempt any state or local regulations covering identity cards for mariners. The entire purpose of an identification credential is to provide a universally recognized identity card and to assure a mariner access to vessels and port facilities. In addition, the mandatory provisions of the International Maritime Organization’s ISPS Code require facilitation of access by mariners. Additional state or local requirements will create confusion and intolerable conditions for mariners, undermine the purpose of the TWIC, and disrupt interstate and foreign waterborne commerce. Allowing states to arbitrarily impose different or added security requirements is inconsistent with the intent of the TSA and Coast Guard to achieve a level of consistency governing threat assessments and transportation credentials. Further Comments on the TWIC Program The SIU believes that the TWIC program, as proposed, is an economic train-wreck waiting to happen. It will not enhance security but will certainly disrupt commerce and place an intolerable burden on American merchant mariners. The program is also flawed since it exempts foreign seamen from the process while focusing completely on U.S. merchant mariners who are screened, regulated and fully vetted by the Coast Guard. It has been estimated that 97 percent of our imports and exports are carried on foreign-flag vessels with foreign crews who in our view pose the gravest security risk. Yet, these crews are exempt from the TWIC requirements. If the TSA and Coast Guard actually implement this proposed rule, the SIU, in addition to our recommendations above, advocates the following: „ Any national TWIC issued to American merchant mariners must be compatible with the International Labor Organization’s Convention 185 so that the document will be acceptable in foreign ports. „ Any waiver or appeals cases should be held before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) at a hearing on the record. It is unfair to have a mariner go back to the very was approaching us. I had a full load, so I got out of there fast. But it engulfed us, like the worst fog.” The smoke and debris forced many boats to operate by radar to find their way to the Manhattan docks. But as “All Available Boats” shows, that didn’t slow the incredible and efficient rescue efforts by the maritime community. The exhibit is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during weekends. The exhibit will run through Sept. 30. agency which determined he was a security risk in the first place to resolve the issue. „ TSA should eliminate the self-disclosure of convictions requirement in the application process. The TWIC applicant will be required to undergo an extensive background check which will uncover any disqualifying factors for obtaining a TWIC. Why then should the applicant be required to complete a self-disclosure form? „ If mariners are required to obtain a TWIC, they should be guaranteed unfettered access to ports. „ There should be a clear nexus between terrorism security and the crimes that will disqualify an individual from holding a maritime TWIC, as the list of felony offenses that will disqualify a mariner from obtaining a maritime TWIC is too expansive, nebulous and unfocused on eliminating true security risks. U.S. mariners are and will always be an effective asset in the global war on terrorism and are the most trained, qualified and vetted workers in the transportation industry. Our history of answering the call to perform our patriotic duty in every conflict and disaster is a matter of public record. In summary and to be clear, we urge the TSA and the Coast Guard to recognize the contributions of American mariners to the economic and defense security of our nation by exempting them from the unnecessary burden of obtaining a TWIC. The SIU looks forward to working and cooperating with the TSA and Coast Guard to find an amenable resolution to this important issue. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Sincerely, Michael Sacco President In its comments about the MMC, the SIU in addition to requesting an extension of the comment period noted, “The SIU urges the Coast Guard to separate this proposed rule from the timeline advanced in the TWIC proposal and further recommends that this proposal be either deferred or reintroduced gradually and subsequent to a thorough testing of the TWIC program, if promulgated…. During an initial review of the document, the SIU detected a number of minor errors and several noticeable omissions in the proposal which may create unintended consequences. Further, it has been noted that the Coast Guard intends to create a paper document which, in our view, is a reversion to the past. Smarter credentials are the answer, utilizing smart card technology. In fact, it is such technology that will enable the Coast Guard to bring U.S. maritime credentialing from the 19th to the 21st century. “As advanced by the Coast Guard in its Proceedings publication, the consolidation of credentials requires substantial effort, planning, coordination, and cooperation and many complex and sensitive details will have to be considered including revision of current statutes and regulations. The SIU agrees with this tenet and looks forward to working together with the Coast Guard to achieve a meaningful transition of credentialing to the 21st century.” Seafarers LOG 5 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19x.qxp 7/29/2006 1:27 AM Page 6 Seafarers Approve Standard Contracts Bargaining committee members included (front, from left) Ed Hanley, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Jack Craft, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Captain Robert Johnston, (standing) Mike Bohlman, Carol Berger, Wally Becker, Jean Harrington, Tony Naccarato, Bob Rogers, Bill Cole and Jack Robinson. Continued from page 3 overtime are increased as follows: 2 percent in 2006; 3 percent in 2007; 3 percent in 2008; 4 percent in 2009; and 4 percent in 2010, for a total of 16 percent over the life of the contract. „ Shipping Rules. Responding to numerous recommendations received from the membership, the union successfully amended the Shipping Rules by changing tours of duty for seamen with class A seniority employed above an entry rating from 22 months to 12 months. A labor-management committee has been created to identify and resolve crew shore-leave issues. Seafarers being relieved shall register at a port in the continental United States, Puerto Rico, Hawaii or Guam within 72 hours after being relieved, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. (Hawaii and Guam are new additions to this rule.) Mariners who hold permanent status aboard commercial vessels having the right to relief must confirm their intent to reclaim their position by notifying the hiring hall dispatcher at least 72 hours prior to the vessel’s arrival. This may be done by phone (a change from past practice). After validating a permanent seaman’s credentials in accordance with Rule 2 C. (2.) the hiring hall shall ship the seaman and advise the company to arrange transportation from either the seaman’s domestic home of record (excluding Guam) or the hiring hall from which he is registered (seaman’s choice). Mariners with either A or B seniority may extend their contractual tour of duty when mutu- ally agreed between the union and the company. Minimum time off for all ratings shall change from 30 days to 45 days. Shipping registration cards’ period of validity for mariners accepting the balance of a relief assignment (if less than 30 days) shall be extended by the number of days employed. „ Holidays. In order to conform with the rest of the maritime industry and effectively meet the SIU’s contractual obligations, Paul Hall’s birthday will be replaced by Columbus Day as a contractual holiday. „ Work Rules and Miscellaneous. Based on recommendations from the membership, vessels with automated payroll systems may now pay off at sea. The company is required to notify the union’s manpower office each time a vessel will be in a U.S. port after a payoff at sea or when the vessel will be paying off in a U.S. port. (This will not change the servicing of vessels by SIU port representatives.) The ship’s committee’s duties shall be expanded to expedite and facilitate the crew’s union business. Maintenance and cure will be increased from the current rate of $8 per day to $16 per day. Reimbursement for launch service will be increased from $10 to $25 per round trip, per man carried once every 24 hours. Reimbursement for loss of clothing will be increased from $500 to $1,000. Each crew member is required to possess a sufficient supply of needed medication for the duration of his shipboard assignment. Obtaining maintenance medica- LIBERTY STAR 6 Seafarers LOG BALTIMORE HALL CAPE WASHINGTON HORIZON FAIRBANKS tion is the mariner’s responsibility. Seamen shall be required to remain on board until properly relieved, unless given written authorization to depart by the captain. In order to improve the preparation and serving of food and eliminate waste on all SIU-contracted vessels, the procedures contained in the “Three Man Steward Department Guide” shall be used for guidance. A committee of recertified stewards will review and update the guide. In ports that are located fairly close to one another, such as (but not limited to) New York to Philadelphia, Seattle to Longview, Jacksonville to Charleston, or New Orleans to Baton Rouge (in either direction), bus or rail transportation may be used as mutually agreed to by the union and the company. If payment of overtime is delayed by the company beyond 72 hours (exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays or holidays) after signing off articles, additional compensation shall be paid at the rate of $25. Other Contract News „ The union has negotiated a three-year agreement with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock and also has secured tentative threeyear contracts with (respectively) Transoceanic Cable Ship Company, Sealift Inc. and Osprey Ship Management. Each of the contracts calls for annual wage increases while maintaining health care coverage at the Core Plus level. Each of the agreements also maintains pension benefits. Without exception, health care costs dominated the negotiations for each contract. „ Seafarers last month ratified the new Great Lakes standard freightship agreement. The five-year contract calls for wage increases in each year of the pact; maintains health benefits at the Core Plus level; and boosts vacation pay by 78 percent. The new Great Lakes agreement also replaces the extendedseason bonus with a safety bonus—effective July 1, 2006, an amount equivalent to 2 percent of base wages will be contributed to the Seafarers Vacation Plan for employees who complete their assigned tours of duty free of illness or injury. Additionally, signatory employers have agreed to provide satellite service and receivers for each billet. They will supply the same monetary contribution as provided to officers for satellite service. „ Negotiations on new agreements continue with the following companies: Waterman Steamship, Liberty Maritime, and Interocean American Shipping. USNS FISHER and USNS PILILAAU OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS GALENA BAY USNS WRIGHT August 2006 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19x.qxp 7/29/2006 1:53 AM Page 7 Seafarers Approve Standard Contracts TACOMA HALL USNS BOB HOPE GLOBAL SENTINEL SEABULK ARCTIC PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS USNS SEAY USNS POLLUX MAERSK NEBRASKA USNS BENAVIDEZ SL COMMITMENT USNS INTEGRITY COAST RANGE USNS BELLATRIX PHILADELPHIA HALL August 2006 ITB PHILADELPHIA NORFOLK HALL Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Mieluchowski reviews contract details aboard the USNS Shughart. USNS SHUGHART Seafarers LOG 7 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/27/2006 5:03 PM Page 8 Union Provided Solid Foundation, Great Memories Prominent Broadcaster Ivan Scott Still Treasures Shipboard Experience He has an Ivy League degree and a resumé that would stand out even in a high-powered city like Washington, D.C. But for Ivan Scott, nothing tops the education or experience he received as an active SIU member in the 1940s and ’50s. Scott, 76, is the Pentagon and national security correspondent for a group of radio and television stations including major ones in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, St. Louis and Washington. The job routinely allows him to interact with top-level U.S. military and government officials. Previously, among other notable posts, he served as a presidential appointee (first as an assistant chief of information for the Navy, then as communications director for the Federal Transit Administration) and a combat correspondent and anchor for ABC, CBS and Mutual. One might think that Scott’s four years at sea would be long forgotten, but that’s not the case. During a recent interview at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. (located just outside Washington), Scott’s genuine affection for the union immediately surfaced. Despite the passage of nearly a half-century, his maritime background remains a big part of his identity. Reflecting on his time with the SIU, Scott emphatically declares that if given a choice between his four years at sea and his days at Princeton, “It’s no contest—I’d choose the sea. You become a man and you get an education. The training was absolutely beyond compare.” His ties with the SIU weren’t limited to sailing. Scott helped organize the Cities Service fleet in 1948—one of the most important victories in the union’s early history—and he still has a lump on his head from walking the picket lines during the equally key Isthmian campaign from that same era. After he left the industry for Former Seafarer Ivan Scott proudly displays his honorary book during a recent visit at SIU headquarters. He also had a full book as an active member beginning in the late 1940s. good in the late 1950s and entered broadcasting, Scott developed a strong friendship with SIU President Paul Hall as well as with Seafarers LOG Editor Herb Brand, a trusted assistant to the union president. In 1983, Scott received an honorary SIU book—Book No. 4, he proudly notes. Scott’s recollections of his sailing days are rich in detail. He remembers several close calls at sea, including striking a mine SIU Crews Honored for Relief Operations Seafarers from five SIU-contracted Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet vessels on June 14 were recognized for the myriad of services they provided people along the Gulf Coast during the immediate aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The mariners—24 SIU members who served aboard the USNS Algol, USNS, Altair, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Pililaau and USNS Pollux, respectively, when the two storms struck—each were awarded the U.S. Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement. They received their awards during an MSC-sponsored and AMSEAcoordinated hurricane relief ceremony aboard the USNS Brittin in Violet, La. Rear Adm. Hugo G. Blackwood, MSC vice commander, delivered the keynote address and presented the medals to the mariners. Assisting the admiral in the medal presentations were John Henry, MSC Sealift Program manager, and USNS Brittin Master Capt. Robert Groom. New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook represented the SIU. “When hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated the Gulf Coast in 2005, MSC ships manned by the merchant mariners in attendance here today again responded to the call to service,” Groom said. “This time it was not the call of conflict but a call of crisis and need. And once again, American Merchant Mariners answered that call and helped the people of New Orleans and other Gulf Coast cities and towns.” Those receiving medals and their respective vessels were: „ USNS Algol: Bosun Walter L. Loveless, FOWT Terrance C. Ford, Wiper Noe Orellana and SA Yolanda E. Martinez; Those receiving medals from aboard the USNS Algol included Bosun Walter Loveless, Wiper Noe Orellana, SA Yolanda Martinez, Chief Engineer Robert Cheramie, Second Assistant Engineer George Ahten, Wiper/OMU Terrence Ford and First Assistant Engineer Alex Zarganas. 8 Seafarers LOG „ USNS Altair: Bosun Morris E. Foster, AB Jonathan E. Brown, OS Leroyal Hester, Wiper Ralph E. Derocha, Wiper Marco T. Oliva, SB Darrell C. Weatherspoon and SA Jouan J. Jackson; „ USNS Bellatrix: Bosun Wayne Venison, AB Stanley Williams, AB Austin Howard, OS David H. Perry, Wiper Frank Casby, Wiper Earl C. Kendrick and Storekeeper Charlotte A. Tuggle; „ USNS Pililaau: AB Damon M. Johnson; and „ USNS Pollux: Bosun Wilfredo C. Rice, AB Robinson M. Crusoe, OS Mark A. Fleming, SB Mariano M. Martinez and SA Armando S. Evangelista. Among the medal recipients from the USNS Altair were Bosun Morris Foster, AB Jonathan Brown, OS Leroyal Hester, Wiper Marco Oliva, SB Darrell Weatherspoon, SA Jouan Jackson, Chief Mate Laurence Ledwon, Chief Engineer Thomas Ostarly, 1st Assistant Engineer James Mahar, and 2nd Assistant Engineer Michelle McCoy. Not pictured are Capt. Paul Breslin and Wiper Ralph Deroch. USNS Bellatrix medal recipients included Wiper Frank Casby, AB Stanley Williams, Wiper Earl Kendrick, AB Austin Howard and Third Assistant Engineer David Schutte. that didn’t explode. He rattles off the names of vessels and shipmates as if the experiences happened yesterday. “What I liked about shipboard life was the sense of adventure and the caliber of person I sailed with and for,” he notes. “I never had a boring day at sea.” Like others from that period, Scott entered the industry at a very young age—16 in his case, during the last week of 1946. He first sailed as an OS aboard the tanker Wahoo Swamp, a non-union ship. “I was so green I didn’t know which was fore and which was aft,” he acknowledges. Thirty minutes after climbing that initial gangway, with others not realizing Scott was a firsttripper, he found himself steering. A series of “90-degree swings” in New York Harbor quickly ended that particular assignment. Following several more voyages, Scott ended up on a Cities Service vessel while the SIU was trying to organize the fleet. He helped with the campaign (earning a full book) and found a home with the union, even though he would move in and out of the industry for the next decade. “I was turned loose on the world after World War II when you could get anything you wanted for a pack of cigarettes,” Scott says with a wink. He joined the U.S. Air Force and served from 1948-52, eventually working as an air traffic controller. But he still found time for the SIU, discretely making a coastwise run while otherwise on base in Lake Charles, La. He returned to sea for a year after finishing his time with the Air Force and being honorably discharged. He completed high school and then enrolled at Princeton, a prestigious university. Still, he wasn’t done with the sea. Scott sailed on Isthmian’s Steel Advocate following his freshman year. After graduating from Princeton in 1959, his military experience helped him secure work as a broadcaster covering the Pentagon, while his labor history proved invaluable when reporting on the trade union movement. As an up-and-coming reporter with an SIU background, he was befriended by Paul Hall, a towering figure not just within maritime labor but in the entire union arena. “He was almost a father image to me,” Scott says. “He was one of the most dynamic leaders I’ve ever met, and he had a total vision for the future. I was a great admirer of Paul’s.” Scott kept an eye on the SIU and the U.S. Merchant Marine in general even as he moved on to other segments of his career. Today, he says the country absolutely must maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet, pointing to Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom as the latest among an overwhelming number of examples supporting that stance. “It’s vital for a world power,” Scott notes. “The Achilles heel of the U.S. military is a lack of adequate sealift, although we’re closing the gap somewhat.” As a Pentagon correspondent, Scott frequently meets with top U.S. officials. He says he let Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld win this friendly arm-wrestling match, but the LOG is investigating that claim’s veracity. August 2006 �37484_p1_3,9x2.qxp 7/31/2006 1:35 PM Page 9 Industry ‘Pioneer’ Bill Saul Dies at 80 William Repass Saul, retired official with the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, died July 15 in Leonardtown, Md. He was 80. Saul was a former assistant to the vice president at the Paul Hall Center, working in that post from 1993 to 1997. He also had served for many years as a waterways advisor and union confidante. Previously, he was well-known as a top official at Steuart Petroleum. “Bill was an absolute pioneer in our industry,” said Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. “He had a wealth of knowledge in many areas—especially the maritime industry—and he always was willing to share it with you. He was a very kind and gentle person, someone who it was a pleasure to know and work with. He will be missed.” “Bill was a hands-on executive, at home in coveralls and jeans as well as designer suits,” said Paul Hall Center Instructor Mitch Oakley. “He was as keen in the shipyard as he was in the boardroom. “Consummate businessman, world class entertainer, and always a gentleman, his fatal flaw was his huge heart,” Oakley continued. “I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to love and learn from Bill Saul. Thank you, Bill, for always having a glass half full—your sharing spirit will continue to inspire those of us you touched.” “I met Bill Saul back in the Snapshots from Southern California ’70s when I first went to Piney Point,” said Jerry DiPreta, retired Pall Hall Center comptroller. “He was a great man and a true gentleman, someone I was proud to know. “He was very knowledgeable about the maritime industry, particularly about the inland waters and inland vessels,” DiPreta continued. “Bill always treated people with respect, and it was a real pleasure to call him my friend. He will be greatly missed.” “I worked with Bill for about 10 years at the school,” shared Capt. Jack Russell, a part- time instructor at the Paul Hall Center. “We ran the Osprey (one of the school’s training vessels) together and trained a number of unlicensed apprentices and upgraders on how to operate a ship. SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox recently mailed these photos of various happenings in Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Pedro, Calif. “He was a mentor of mine because I learned so much from him,” Russell continued. “Bill also was a father figure to me, because I lost my father a long time ago. We shared a good many father-son things over the years, and he always provided me with sound advice. I’ll always remember him as the wonderful, kind, caring person that he was.” Born in Buckingham County, Va., Saul attended Pennsylvania Maritime Academy and held a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 until 1947. Saul is survived by his wife, Patricia; two daughters, Susan Mathews of Beaufort, S.C., and Johanna A. Saul of Compton, Md.; one son, John T. Saul of Prince Frederick, Md.; three grandchildren and one great grandchild. Funeral services were conducted July 22 at the Patuxent Presbyterian Church in California, Md. with the Reverend Mike Jones officiating. Saul’s The late Bill Saul is shown in one of his favorite places: at the helm of the Osprey. remains were interred in Chestnut Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Appomattox, Va. The family asks that those wishing to make memorial contributions consider the St. Mary’s Nursing Center, 21585 Peabody Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Notice The union was scheduled to open its new hall in Oakland, Calif. in late July, as this edition was going to press. Contact information for the new hall is as follows: 1121 7th Street Oakland, CA 94607 Phone: (510) 444-2360, Fax: (510) 444-5587 Apprentice Earns GED SIU President Michael Sacco (left) addresses a National Maritime Day audience of approximately 300 people in San Pedro on May 22. Sacco was the keynote speaker at a luncheon sponsored by the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial Committee (AMMVMC). Earlier that day, John Pitts, president of the AMMVC, speaks at a separate National Maritime Day ceremony in San Pedro. Cox and other SIU representatives attended both gatherings. Unlicensed Apprentice Ceresa Moreno (pictured with SIU officials) recently earned her GED through the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Moreno received the certificate at the July membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., where she was congratulated by (from left) SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Contracts George Tricker. Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 12 at the U.S. Coast Guard’s new regional exam center (left) in Long Beach, Cox (center) poses for a photo with (from left) incoming Captain of the Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach Paul Wiedenhoeft and outgoing Captain of the Port Peter Neffenger. The new REC is located at 501 West Ocean Blvd. ATTENTION SEAFARERS: Help SPAD Help You—Contribute to SPAD The SIU-contracted Pride of Hawaii arrives at Berth 93 in Los Angeles on May 21, one day after its christening at another location within the port. August 2006 Seafarers LOG 9 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24x.qxp 7/29/2006 3:20 AM Page 10 Snapshots from . . . HORIZON HAWAII Jacksonville IN THE JACKSONVILLE HALL AB Antonio Mercado (above) and AB Patrick Lavin (left) prepare for a lifeboat drill aboard the Horizon Hawaii. Above: Abdul Azeem Binladen, Garry Matthews and Jackie Jones are sworn in by SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey as Seafarers attending the union meeting in Jacksonville (right) look on. TUG BOAT SEA HORSE AB Raymond Fernandez stands gangway watch. From the left are SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Archie Ware and crew members aboard the Crowley tug Sea Horse: Norman Skipper, Travis McGee and Isaac Coldwell. From the left: Chief Cook Juan Vallejo Hernandez, SA Jorge Mora and Recertified Steward Joseph Gallo make up the galley gang on the Horizon Hawaii. TUG BOAT ENSING HORIZON DISCOVERY Left: Third Engineer Michael McClinton and EU Mike Devonish take on bunker fuel aboard the Horizon Discovery. McClinton, a former SIU member, now sails as a licensed seaman with MEBA. Chief Mate David Massay and Second Mate Jose Marrero work on the Crowley tug boat Ensing. AB Douglas Hodges prepares the gangway for Seafarers to go ashore in Jacksonville. The Horizon Discovery docks in the port of Jacksonville. Chief Cook Tracey Newsome (left) and Recertified Steward Joseph Laureta (right) prepare lunch on board the Horizon Discovery. 10 Seafarers LOG August 2006 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19.qxp 7/27/2006 5:01 PM Page 11 Seafarers to Vote on Constitutional Amendments Balloting Begins Sept. 1 Voting starts Sept. 1, 2006 for the purpose of amending the constitution of the Seafarers International Union/AGLIWD/ NMU. SIU members will be able to cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Oct. 31, 2006. A constitutional committee was elected at the June 5, 2006 membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the constitution. The members of that committee studied proposed amendments to the constitution that had been submitted by the executive board, and the committee recommended that the changes be approved and brought to a vote by the membership. The full text of their report is on page 14. Some of the proposed changes include a modification of the types of mail services that may be utilized for union election cycles (reflecting the increased use of overnight mail and similar services and the decline of telegrams); creation of a “retiree members” class, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2006; elimination of the position of vice-president at large from the list of elected officers (to take place after the positions are vacated by current officeholders); and a change in the port address of the San Francisco hall. Seafarers eligible to take part in this vote are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is spelled out in the union’s governing document, the constitution. The ballot will list the proposed changes to the constitution as determined by the committee. A sample copy of the ballot appears on pages 12 and 13. 20 Polling Places The election will be conducted by mail ballot as provided by the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postagepaid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 20 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) „ From Sept. 1 through Oct. 31, „ „ „ „ 2006, eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots and envelopes marked “Ballot” and mailing envelopes at the halls between 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, Monday through Saturday, excluding any holidays recognized in the port. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. The member will be asked to sign a roster sheet indicating the date, the number of the ballot given, and his or her book number. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be stamped with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenge.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and placed in the mailing envelope and then dispatched in the mail. These steps ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. Absentee Ballots For members who believe they will be at sea during this time, the SIU constitution provides for absentee voting procedures. „ Full-book members in good standing who need to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters—5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. „ 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. „ Requests for absentee ballots The constitutional committee, which met at SIU headquarters, submitted their recommendations in a report dated June 7, 2006. August 2006 Elected at the Piney Point membership meeting on June 5, the constitutional committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed constitutional amendments. From the left are Christopher Nardone, Thommie Hampton, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, David Martz (chairman), William Henderson, Dulip Sookhiram (alternate), Charles Curley (alternate), Jose Guzman, George Mazzola and SIU Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta. „ „ „ „ „ must be postmarked no later than 12:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15 and delivered no later than Monday, Sept. 25. 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 Sept. 30. Upon receiving the ballot and envelopes, vote by marking the ballot. After voting, 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 lefthand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. The mailing envelope must be received by the depository no later than Nov. 5 and must be postmarked no later than 12 midnight on Oct. 31. Tallying the Votes The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rank-and-file tallying committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected at the Nov. 6 membership meeting in Piney Point. The tallying committee report will be submitted to the secretary-treasurer and mailed to each port no later than Nov. 30 and then will be submitted for ratification by the membership at the regular December membership meetings. 20 Voting Locations Voting will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9 a.m. to 12 noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Sept. 1, 2006 and shall continue through Oct. 31, 2006. ALGONAC BALTIMORE BOSTON FT. LAUDERDALE GUAM HONOLULU HOUSTON JACKSONVILLE JOLIET MOBILE NEW ORLEANS NEW YORK NORFOLK OAKLAND PHILADELPHIA PINEY POINT PUERTO RICO ST. LOUIS/ALTON TACOMA WILMINGTON 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 2315 Essex St. Baltimore, MD 21224 Marine Industrial Park/EDIC, 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 1221 South Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Cliffline Office Ctr., Suite 101B, Bldg. B 422 West O’Brien Dr. Hagatna, Guam 96931 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 10 East Clinton St. Joliet, IL 60432 1640 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 3911 Lapalco Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 1121 7th St. Oakland, CA 94607 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Piney Point, MD 20674 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Santurce, PR 00907 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 3411 South Union St. Tacoma, WA 98409 510 North Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 Seafarers LOG 11 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19x2.qxp 7/31/2006 1:28 PM Page 12 Seafarers to Vote on Constitutional Amendments BALLOT NOTICE OF PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR VOTING LOCATIONS AND ADDITIONAL PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL REVISIONS S OFFICIAL BALLOT For Constitutional Amendments No. 00000 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICAAtlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU VOTING PERIOD SEPTEMBER 1, 2006 THROUGH OCTOBER 31, 2006 INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS—In order to vote, mark a cross (X) in YES or NO box below the Proposition. If you mark more than one box for a proposition than specified herein, your vote for such proposition will be invalid. MARK YOUR BALLOT WITH INK OR INDELIBLE PENCIL A 06 S 1, 20 3 NT E M ER ND OB ME OCT A L GH NA IO ROU T U H TIT 6 T NS 200 O , C 1 ED ER OS EMB P O T PR SEP R FO IOD R PE NG VO TI WHEREAS, the Executive Board of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU met to discuss the current needs and conditions of the Union, its membership and the maritime industry in this country; and M WHEREAS, among their discussions and deliberations was the subject of proposed revisions in the Union's Constitution which would enable the Union to function more efficiently and to continue to fulfill its obligations to the membership; and WHEREAS, a Constitutional Committee was elected on June 5, 2006, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. They studied the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolutions and unanimously concurred on all proposed constitutional revisions; and WHEREAS, the report of the Constitutional Committee was approved by the membership at the regular membership meetings in July 2006. NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED THE FOLLOWING CONSTITUTIONALLY ADOPTED PROPOSITIONS, TO BE VOTED UPON, IF ADOPTED, WOULD AMEND THE CONSTITUTION AS FOLLOWS: PROPOSITION #1 PROPOSITION #4 Are you in favor of amending Article III, Membership, Section 1 as follows: Change the first sentence to read: “There shall be (3) classes of membership: full book members, probationary members and retiree members.” And add the following at the end of this section: “Retiree members shall receive the Union’s monthly newspaper and will be kept abreast of Union activities, especially those relating to efforts in the legislative and political arenas with potential impact upon retirees. In addition, retiree members may participate in Union social events and grass root activities.” Are you in favor of amending Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Section 2 as follows: Change the first sentence of paragraph one to read: “No candidate for full book membership shall be admitted into such membership without having paid an initiation fee of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), except as otherwise provided in this Constitution.” And change the first sentence of paragraph two to read: “Each candidate for probationary membership and each probationary member shall, with the payment of each of his first quarterly dues, as required by Section 1, pay at each such time the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250.00) as partial initiation fee.” ❏ NO ❏ PROPOSITION #2 Are you in favor of amending Article III, Membership, Section 3 to read as follows: “Members more than one (1) quarter in arrears in dues can be suspended and, if so suspended, shall forfeit all benefits and all other rights and privileges in the Union. They can be dismissed if they are more than two (2) quarters in arrears in dues.” YES ❏ NO ❏ YES P YES ❏ NO ❏ PROPOSITION #5 Are you in favor of amending Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee as follows: Add Section 5 to read: “Notwithstanding the above, the annual dues amount for retiree members shall be five dollars ($5.00).” YES ❏ NO ❏ PROPOSITION #3 Are you in favor of amending Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Section 1(a) to read as follows: “Dues annually in the sum of five hundred dollars ($500.00) which shall be paid in equal amounts on a calendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each calendar quarter, and;” ❏ NO ❏ Are you in favor of amending Article VIII, Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents and Port Agents, Section 1 by deleting “and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large.” Are you in favor of amending Article X , Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel by deleting “Section 10. Vice-Presidents at Large.” in its entirety; by renumbering Sections 11 through 16 accordingly; and by deleting all references to the Vice-Presidents at Large positions in “Section 14. Executive Board.” and Section 15. Delegates.” ❏ OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 Seafarers LOG OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 See Reverse Side for Voting Locations and Additional Proposed Constitutional Revisions OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 12 ❏ OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 NO E YES OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 YES L PROPOSITION #6 Are you in favor of amending Article VII, Systems Organization, Section 2 by deleting “and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large.” August 2006 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19x2.qxp 7/31/2006 1:18 PM Page 13 Seafarers to Vote on Constitutional Amendments OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 A OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 S OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 BALLOT NOTICE OF PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS Voting will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 A.M. to 12 Noon, Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence on September 1, 2006 and shall continue through October 31, 2006. OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 NO ❏ ❏ NO ❏ PROPOSITION #10 Are you in favor of amending Article XXIV, Definitions and Miscellaneous Provisions Relating Thereto, Section 8 to read as follows: “The terms ‘this Constitution’ and ‘this amended Constitution’ shall be deemed to have the same meaning and shall refer to the most recent version of the Constitution.” YES ❏ NO ❏ OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 PROPOSITION #11 Are you in favor of amending Article XXIV, Definitions and Miscellaneous Provisions Relating Thereto, Section 13 to read as follows: “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.” YES ❏ NO ❏ OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 ❏ OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 YES YES E Are you in favor of amending Article XIII, Elections for Officers, Assistant VicePresidents and Port Agents as follows: Change the first sentence of Section 2(c) paragraph one to read: “When an applicant has been disqualified by the Committee, he shall be notified immediately by telegram, overnight mail, air mail, special delivery, or an equivalent mail service at the address listed by him pursuant to Section 1 of the Article.” Change the last sentence of Section 2(c) paragraph one to read: OFFICIAL BALLOT “In any event, without prejudice to his written appeal, the2006 applicant may appear in person before the Committee within two (2) days after the day on which the telegram, overnight mail, air mail, special delivery or an equivalent mail service is sent to correct his application or argue for his qualification.” Change the sixth sentence of Section 3(e) to read: “The Secretary-Treasurer, if he determines that such member is so eligible, shall by the 30th of such November, send by registered mail, return receipt requested or an equivalent mail service, to the address so designated by such member, a ‘Ballot’, after removing the perforated numbered stub, together with the hereinbefore mentioned ‘Ballot’ envelope, and mailing envelope addressed to the depository, except that printed on the face of such mailing envelope shall be the words ‘Absentee Ballot’ and appropriate voting instructions shall accompany such mailing to the member.” OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 PROPOSITION #8 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 ❏ L OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 NO Are you in favor of amending Article XXIII, Meetings, Section 1 as follows: Change the second sentence of paragraph two to read: “During the next week, meetings shall be held on Monday – at Houston; on Tuesday – at New Orleans; on Wednesday – at Mobile; on Thursday – at San Francisco area; and on Friday – at St. Louis.” OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 ❏ PROPOSITION #9 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 YES PUERTO RICO OAKLAND ST. LOUIS TACOMA WILMINGTON 3911 LaPalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 635 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232 115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 2604 South Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 1057 Fernandez Juncos Avenue, Santurce, PR 00907 1121 Seventh Street, Oakland, CA 94607 4581 Gravois Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63116 3411 South Union Street, Tacoma, WA 98409 510 North BroadBALLOT Avenue, Wilmington, OFFICIAL 2006 CA 90744 P OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 PROPOSITION #7 Are you in favor of amending Article XI, Wages and Terms of Office of Officers and Other Elective Jobholders, Union Employees, and Others, Section 3 to read as follows: “All elected individuals shall receive automatic wage increases in the same percentage amount and at the same time that the Union’s membership receives increases through the standard tanker and freight ship agreements.” NEW ORLEANS NEW YORK NORFOLK PHILADELPHIA PINEY POINT OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 520 St. Clair River Drive, Algonac, MI 48001 2315 Essex Street, Baltimore, MD 21224 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 1221 South Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Suite 101B, Cliffline Office Center, Bldg. B 422 West O’Brien Drive, Hagatna, Guam 96910 606 Kalihi Street, Honolulu, HI 96819 1221 Pierce Street, Houston, TX 77002 3315 Liberty Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 1640OFFICIAL Dauphin IslandBALLOT Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 2006 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 HONOLULU HOUSTON JACKSONVILLE JOLIET MOBILE M ALGONAC BALTIMORE BOSTON FT. LAUDERDALE GUAM VOTING LOCATIONS OFFICIAL BALLOT 2006 These amendments, if approved, shall become effective upon the date of certification of the Union Tallying Committee, unless otherwise specified. August 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/25/2006 6:04 PM Page 14 Seafarers to Vote on Constitutional Amendments REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at the Headquarters membership meeting, on June 5, 2006, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolutions submitted by our Executive Board. These Resolutions, containing the proposed amendments, prior to its submission to us, were adopted by a majority vote of the membership at Headquarters and all ports. The provisions of the Resolutions are summarized in this report and are attached in full so that all members will have available to them the full text for their review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendation. Upon a thorough review of the Resolutions, your Committee recommends the Constitution be amended as indicated below. It should be noted that, where feasible, the language of the Constitution is presented with the proposed language changes underlined. A. Amend Article III, Membership, Section 1 and Section 3 to read as follows: “Section 1. There shall be three (3) classes of membership: full book members, probationary book members and retiree members. Candidates for membership shall be admitted to membership in accordance with such rules as may be adopted from time to time by a majority vote of the membership and which rules shall not be inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution. All candidates with two hundred and sixty (260) days or more seatime in a consecutive twentyfour (24) calendar month period commencing from January 1, 1968, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels, covered by contract with this Union, shall be eligible for full membership. All persons with less than the foregoing seatime but at least thirty (30) days of such seatime, shall be eligible for probationary membership. Only full book members shall be entitled to vote and to hold any office or elective job, except as otherwise specified herein. All probationary members shall have a voice in Union proceedings and shall be entitled to vote on Union contracts. Retiree members shall receive the Union’s monthly newspaper and will be kept abreast of Union activities, especially those relating to efforts in the legislative and political arenas with potential impact upon retirees. In addition, retiree members may participate in Union social events and grass root activities.” “Section 3. Members more than one (1) quarter in arrears in dues can be suspended and, if so suspended, shall forfeit all benefits and all other rights and privileges in the Union. They can be dismissed if they are more than two (2) quarters in arrears in dues. An arrearage in dues shall be computed from the first day of the applicable quarter, but this time shall not run:” B. Amend Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Section 1 (a), Section 2 and add Section 5 to read as follows: “Section 1. All members’ dues shall consist of: (a)Dues annually in the sum of five hundred dollars ($500.00) which shall be paid in equal amounts on a calendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each calendar quarter, and;” “Section 2. No candidate for full book membership shall be admitted into such membership without having paid an initiation fee of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), except as otherwise provided in this Constitution. In addition, the candidate shall pay a ten dollar ($10.00) “service fee” for the issuance of his full book. 14 Seafarers LOG Each candidate for probationary membership and each probationary member shall, with the payment of each of his first quarterly dues, as required by Section 1, pay at each such time the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250.00) as partial initiation fee. The total of such initiation monies so paid shall be credited to his above required initiation fee for a full book member upon completion of the required seatime as provided for in Article III, Section 1.” “Section 5. Notwithstanding the above, the annual dues amount for retiree members shall be five dollars ($5.00).” C. Amend Article VII, Systems of Organization, Section 2 by deleting “and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large.” D. Amend Article VIII, Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents and Port Agents, Section 1 by deleting “and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large.” E. Amend Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel as follows: 1. Delete “Section 10. Vice-Presidents at Large” in its entirety. 2. Renumber Sections 11 through 16 accordingly. 3. Delete all references to the Vice Presidents at Large positions in “Section 14. Executive Board” and “Section 15. Delegates.” F. Amend Article XI, Wages and Terms of Office of Officers and Other Elective Jobholders, Union Employees, and Others, Section 3 to read as follows: “Section 3. All elected individuals shall receive automatic wage increases in the same percentage amount and at the same time that the Union’s membership receives increases through the standard tanker and freight ship agreements.” With regard to this amendment, the Committee recommends that, should the intent or application of this particular section become unclear, the Union’s Executive Board should be authorized to resolve any issues which may arise. G. Amend Article XIII, Elections for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents and Port Agents, Section 2 (c) and Section 3 (e) to read as follows: “Section 2. Credentials. (c)When an applicant has been disqualified by the Committee, he shall be notified immediately by telegram, overnight mail, air mail, special delivery, or an equivalent mail service at the address listed by him pursuant to Section 1 of this Article. A disqualified applicant shall have the right to take an appeal to the membership from the decision of the Committee. He shall forward copies of such appeal to each Port where the appeal shall be presented and voted upon at a regular meeting no later than the second meeting after the Committee’s election. It is the responsibility of the applicant to insure timely delivery of his appeal. In any event, without prejudice to his written appeal, the applicant may appear in person before the Committee within two (2) days after the day on which the telegram, overnight mail, air mail, special delivery or an equivalent mail service is sent to correct his application or argue for his qualification.” “Section 3. Balloting Procedures. (e)Full book members may request and vote an absentee ballot under the following circumstances: while such member is employed on a Union contracted vessel and which vessel’s schedule does not provide for it to be at a Port in which a ballot can be secured during the time and period provided for in Section 3 (a) of this Article or is in an accredited hospital any time during the first ten (10) days of the month of November of the election year. The member shall make a request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail or the equivalent mailing device at the location from which such request is made, if such be the case. Such request shall contain a designation as to the address to which such member wishes his absentee ballot returned. The request shall be postmarked no later than 12:00 p.m. on the 15th day of November of the election year, shall be directed to the SecretaryTreasurer at Headquarters and must be delivered no later than the 25th of such November. The SecretaryTreasurer shall determine whether such member is eligible to vote such absentee ballot. The SecretaryTreasurer, if he determines that such member is so eligible, shall by the 30th of such November, send by registered mail, return receipt requested or an equivalent mail service, to the address so designated by such member, a “Ballot,” after removing the perforated numbered stub, together with the hereinbefore mentioned “Ballot” envelope, and mailing envelope addressed to the depository, except that printed on the face of such mailing envelope shall be the words “Absentee Ballot” and appropriate voting instructions shall accompany such mailing to the member. If the Secretary-Treasurer determines that such member is ineligible to receive such absentee ballot, he shall nevertheless send such member the aforementioned ballot with accompanying material except that the mailing envelope addressed to the depository shall have printed on the face thereof the words “Challenged Absentee Ballot.” The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep records of all of the foregoing, including the reasons for determining such member’s ineligibility, which records shall be open for inspection by full book members and upon the convening of the Union Tallying Committee, presented to them. The Secretary-Treasurer shall send to all Ports the names and book numbers of the members to whom absentee ballots were sent.” H. Amend Article XXIII, Meetings, Section 1 to read as follows: “Section 1. Regular meetings shall be held monthly only in the following constitutional Ports at the following times: During the week following the first Sunday of every month a meeting shall be held on Monday—at Piney Point; on Tuesday—at New York; on Wednesday —at Philadelphia; on Thursday—at Baltimore; and on Friday—at DetroitAlgonac. During the next week, meetings shall be held on Monday—at Houston; on Tuesday—at New Orleans; on Wednesday—at Mobile; on Thursday —at San Francisco area; and on Friday—at St. Louis. All regular membership meetings shall commence at 10:30 a.m. local time. Where a meeting day falls on a Holiday officially designated as such by the authorities of the state or municipality in which a Port is located, the Port meeting shall take place on the following business day. Saturday and Sunday shall not be deemed business days.” I. Amend Article XXIV, Definitions and Miscellaneous Provisions Relating Thereto, Section 8 and Section 13 to read as follows: “Section 8. The terms ‘this Constitution’ and ‘this amended Constitution’ shall be deemed to have the same meaning and shall refer to the most recent version of the Constitution.” “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.” The Committee recommends that the amendments, if voted upon affirmatively in accordance with the following voting procedures, become effective upon their passage. It should be noted that the amendments regarding the dues and initiation increases will be effective January 1, 2007 and the amendments creating a “retiree members” class will be retroactive to January 1, 2006. In addition, the amendments regarding the removal of the two (2) VicePresidents at Large from the list of elected officers will not take place until such positions are vacated by the current officeholders. In addition, your Committee concurs with the Resolution that upon membership acceptance of our report and recommendations, a referendum vote by secret ballot be held as constitutionally required. We recommend that the voting follow the applicable procedures as set forth in Article XIII, Section 3 of the Constitution. We further recommend that the referendum period commence September 1, 2006 and end October 31, 2006. As such, the following dates and deadlines should be established: 1. Absentee ballot requests shall be postmarked no later than 12:00 p.m. on September 15, 2006 and must be delivered to the Secretary-Treasurer’s office no later than September 25, 2006. 2. The Secretary-Treasurer shall mail absentee ballots via registered mail, return receipt requested to any eligible members by September 30, 2006. 3. All ballots to be counted must be received by the depository no later than November 5, 2006 and must be postmarked no later than 12:00 midnight on October 31, 2006. 4 The Union Tallying Committee shall be elected at the Piney Point regular membership meeting on November 6, 2006. 5. The Union Tallying Committee Report shall be submitted to the SecretaryTreasurer and mailed to each Port no later than November 30, 2006 and shall be submitted for ratification by the membership at the regular December membership meetings. The Committee further recommends, if it is reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee’s Report, together with a copy of the proposed Resolutions and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, August 2006 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 September and October 2006. 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. Fraternally submitted, David Martz, M-2433, chairman Jose Guzman, G-1461 Thommie Hampton, H-6074 William Henderson, H-1818 George Mazzola, M-2288 Christopher Nardone, N-5218 Date: June 7, 2006 August 2006 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/25/2006 6:04 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September & October 2006 Membership Meetings JUNE 16 — JULY 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 0 8 12 3 10 47 33 1 14 13 34 7 2 0 7 14 1 49 27 283 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 0 0 5 5 0 3 11 16 0 8 7 21 8 2 3 5 4 1 15 5 119 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 2 0 4 5 1 8 28 23 0 5 2 24 12 3 1 0 17 1 13 18 167 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 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 3 0 4 3 Totals Totals All Departments 4 3 9 12 5 2 32 15 1 4 15 17 17 5 20 5 12 7 33 21 239 2 4 3 3 0 3 10 18 1 4 3 1 14 4 1 4 6 3 16 10 110 0 0 0 5 3 11 6 6 0 3 6 6 12 1 2 0 5 0 8 8 82 1 4 4 5 2 4 13 13 0 4 3 28 6 2 18 2 13 1 13 11 2 2 1 4 2 1 14 8 0 0 2 6 10 1 0 2 2 0 8 8 73 1 4 2 3 0 1 10 6 1 3 3 8 6 0 0 1 1 2 2 7 61 0 0 1 0 0 2 6 1 1 1 2 2 6 0 0 0 0 1 2 4 29 4 4 2 11 0 5 12 14 1 2 4 16 12 1 21 0 11 0 10 12 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 2 5 1 7 27 24 1 12 6 23 8 2 0 7 13 1 30 19 188 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 5 5 14 6 5 16 14 1 7 10 13 6 3 12 9 8 4 28 14 182 1 2 1 3 5 0 8 5 0 0 3 2 11 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 46 1 1 3 9 0 3 20 11 0 12 4 12 9 4 1 6 9 1 23 15 144 86 1 4 0 4 1 3 3 8 0 1 2 8 14 2 0 4 9 4 15 5 88 0 4 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 1 2 1 5 0 2 1 0 0 1 4 28 0 0 1 3 0 0 5 9 0 0 2 2 6 0 0 2 6 0 8 3 47 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 6 0 10 14 9 0 1 2 13 10 0 3 2 14 1 8 17 113 0 0 1 3 1 4 4 4 0 2 4 4 14 3 1 2 2 0 3 4 56 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 2 2 0 5 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 17 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 3 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 1 9 11 11 0 4 2 13 7 0 13 3 4 1 8 8 0 1 1 2 0 3 7 5 1 0 4 4 9 1 27 0 6 1 8 3 3 0 14 22 5 19 80 63 1 20 23 79 26 7 0 14 37 2 64 53 532 5 9 9 28 10 2 55 32 2 15 20 37 36 8 15 8 19 12 54 34 410 3 3 2 6 1 2 28 15 1 2 7 23 6 2 1 4 5 0 15 21 Piney Point .............Tuesday: September 5* ................................Monday: October 2 .................................(*change created by Labor Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: September 8, October 6 Baltimore ................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Boston.....................Friday: September 8, October 6 Guam ......................Thursday: September 21, October 19 Honolulu .................Friday: September 15, October 13 Houston ..................Monday: September 11 .................................Tuesday: October 10* .................................(*change created by Columbus Day holiday) Jacksonville ............Thursday: September 7, October 5 Joliet .......................Thursday: September 14, October 12 147 Mobile ....................Wednesday: September 13, October 11 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 4 1 3 9 16 0 2 4 5 11 1 3 1 5 0 10 8 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 1 4 0 1 10 5 0 0 0 11 9 1 1 3 8 0 9 5 0 0 7 10 1 10 29 29 0 16 18 40 12 3 3 5 15 1 21 18 2 2 8 9 3 6 22 33 3 12 9 10 25 4 4 6 7 5 22 15 1 0 3 6 1 5 13 11 1 2 1 15 8 2 0 1 3 2 8 10 238 207 93 3 0 5 6 2 16 46 35 1 11 8 43 15 4 5 3 35 2 28 41 0 0 2 6 6 11 12 11 0 4 6 9 16 1 2 0 5 0 12 13 0 0 2 2 0 1 6 4 1 2 2 6 5 0 1 0 1 2 3 7 68 309 116 45 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 7 7 3 0 1 2 11 1 0 0 0 7 0 9 4 1 5 4 8 2 7 28 26 1 7 7 76 16 2 19 4 19 1 27 15 10 7 5 15 2 9 25 34 1 2 6 38 27 1 5 0 14 0 20 24 22 147 142 18 99 83 0 53 275 245 591 578 305 405 425 174 259 1,132 1,008 530 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: September 12, October 10 New York................Tuesday: September 5, October 3 Norfolk ...................Thursday: September 7, October 5 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: September 6, October 4 Port Everglades.......Thursday: September 14, October 12 San Francisco .........Thursday: September 14, October 12 San Juan..................Thursday: September 7, October 5 St. Louis..................Friday: September 15, October 13 Tacoma ...................Friday: September 22, October 20 Wilmington.............Monday: September 18, October 16 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals SUZANNE CASTONGUAY Please get in touch with Tom Christie, who worked with you on the J.N. McWatters. You may e-mail him at gizorp1@hotmail.com. ERNESTO GUARIN Please contact your son, Dino Guarin, at (412) 2712651. Remembering Paul Hall August 20, 1914 - June 22, 1980 *“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. August 2006 Seafarers LOG 15 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/25/2006 Seafarers International Union Directory 6:04 PM Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JUNE 16 — JULY 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT 0 9 2 5 10 0 1 3 30 1 2 3 1 4 1 0 3 15 2 1 2 1 2 1 1 0 10 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 7 3 1 6 0 1 3 21 1 2 3 0 5 2 0 3 16 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 0 9 0 7 1 0 10 2 1 4 25 13 28 1 18 38 0 1 1 100 2 9 2 8 25 0 0 0 46 2 1 1 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 4 6 12 0 6 14 0 0 2 40 1 4 0 1 7 0 0 0 13 1 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 2 1 2 2 0 0 0 8 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 6 0 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 6 Port 1 3 1 0 2 0 0 1 8 1 2 1 0 1 2 0 0 7 0 0 4 1 0 2 0 0 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 2 0 1 3 0 0 0 7 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 5 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 2 6 0 2 0 1 5 0 1 0 9 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 0 5 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 2 6 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 5 14 1 4 12 1 0 0 37 1 7 0 1 14 0 0 1 24 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 Totals All Departments 45 26 22 38 28 22 33 177 83 16 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Ted Vargas of Princeton, W. Va. It was taken at sea in March 1949 during one of the many trips he made to Cruz Grande, Chile aboard the SS Steelore. He doesn’t remember the complete names of the other men in the picture with the exception of Hector Duarte, with whom he had sailed on another Ore ship, the SS Bethore. Brother Vargas was the 12-4 fireman; Duarte was the 8-12 fireman. The Ore ships were the bread and butter to many Seafarers in the port of Baltimore during that period, Vargas wrote the LOG in a note accompanying the photo, especially during times of slow shipping. Brother Vargas sailed on three Liberty ships in the ’40s and ’50s. He presentBrother Ted Vargas took this photo of his fellow shipmates aboard the SS Steelore. Standing from ly volunteers as the 12-4 the left are Smitty, Pierre and Pedro. Kneeling from the left are Sparks, Hector Duarte and Herbert. oiler aboard his fourth Liberty ship, the John W. Brown, based in Baltimore. He notes that an interesting book has been published about the John W. Brown: “Good Shipmates: The Restoration of the Liberty Ship John W. Brown, volume one: 1942-1994.” It was written by Ernest F. Imhoff, one of the vessel’s volunteer crew members. 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. August 2006 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19x.qxp 7/29/2006 4:22 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA JERRY BANKSTON, 65, joined the union in 1957 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Bankston first worked aboard the Alcoa Planter in the deck department. He attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in 1996 and 2000. Brother Bankston was born in Mississippi. His most recent voyage was on the Overseas Marilyn. Brother Bankston continues to live in Mississippi. SEVERIANO BONAFONT, 63, became an SIU member in 1970 in Puerto Rico. Brother Bonafont first sailed on the Osprey as a member of the deck department. The Puerto Rico-born mariner upgraded his seafaring skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Prior to his retirement, Brother Bonafont worked aboard the El Yunque. He makes his home in Toa Baja, P.R. ROY CONN, 67, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1992. Brother Conn first went to sea on the USNS Assertive. A native of Louisiana, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Conn enhanced his skills in 2000 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. Brother Conn calls Oak Grove, La. home. WILLIAM FARMER, 66, began his SIU career in 1997 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Farmer’s first ship was the USNS Able. He upgraded often at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Farmer’s most recent voyage was aboard the Observation Island. He was born in Kentucky and now lives in Charleston, S.C. ALEXANDER NICHOLSON, 71, was born in Ukraine. Brother Nicholson joined the SIU in 1993 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He took advantage of the educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center on three occasions. Brother Nicholson’s first trip to sea was on the American Falcon; he last worked aboard the Horizon Discovery as a member of the deck department. Brother Nicholson is a resident of St. Augustine, Fla. JOHNNY O’NEIL, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1960. Brother O’Neil’s first voyage was on a vessel operated by Globe Waterways. The engine department member attended the Piney August 2006 Point school in 2000 and 2002. Brother O’Neil was born in Puerto Rico. His most recent voyage was on the Horizon Crusader. Brother O’Neil continues to live in Puerto Rico. CHARLES SMOKE, 70, embarked on his seafaring career in 1960. Brother Smoke, who was born in Alabama, first sailed aboard the Navigator. His most recent ship was the Horizon Consumer. Brother Smoke resides in his native state. LUIS SPINA, 65, became an SIU member in 1962. Brother Spina, who was born in Central America, first shipped with Seatrade Corporation in the deck department. His last voyage was aboard the Seabulk Power. Brother Spina makes his home in Brandon, Miss. GRAYSON WARREN, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1964. Brother Warren initially worked on the Arizpa. He was born in Detroit, Mich. and shipped in the deck department. Brother Warren attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the Newark Bay. Brother Warren is a resident of Houston. WILLIAM WILLIAMS, 64, joined the SIU in 1964, first sailing aboard the Achilles. Brother Williams was a member of the engine department. Born in West Virginia, he most recently sailed on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Williams calls Cottonport, La. home. INLAND IVAN CHRISTIANSEN, 61, was born in Texas. Boatman Christiansen embarked on his seafaring career in 1980, working primarily aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing Company. Boatman Christiansen lives in Spicewood, Texas. JOSEPH KADAK JR., 61, joined the SIU in 1973. Boatman Kadak upgraded numerous times at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He frst shipped on a Dixie Carriers vessel. Boatman Kadak most recently sailed on the Pacific Reliance. He continues to reside in his native state of Louisiana. Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. ANTHONY LANIER JR., 64, became a union member in 1994. Boatman Lanier primarily shipped aboard Westbank Riverboat’s Boomtown. He was born in New Orleans and worked in the engine department. Boatman Lanier now makes his home in Port Sulphur, La. MAXIMO ALVAREZ, 65, joined the NMU in 1990 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Alvarez initially sailed on the Sealift Atlantic. Born in Honduras, he last sailed on the Kingston. PERRY RUBOTTOM, 62, launched his SIU career in 1993 in the port of Houston. Boatman Rubottom sailed primarily on vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. The deck department member, who was born in California, is a resident of Waring, Texas. GREAT LAKES EZZI SHARAY, 66, began shipping with the union in 1976 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Sharay worked primarily on American Steamship Company vessels and also aboard the Reiss Brothers and the Sharon. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Sharay calls Yemen home. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime CALVIN BRINKLEY, 65, became an NMU member in 1972, shipping from the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Brinkley’s first ship was the Lipscomb Lykes. He is a native of Alabama. LORRAINE CLOYD, 66, was born in Galveston, Texas. Sister Cloyd started sailing with the NMU in 1980. Her first voyage was aboard the Antigone Pass. Sister Cloyd was a member of the steward department. She most recently worked on the Cape Henry. WILLIAM EVLETH, 65, embarked on his NMU career in 1968 in Charleston, S.C. Brother Evleth first Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The Seafarers International Union was certified this week as the bargaining agent for unlicensed crewmen on ships belonging to the Cuba Distilling Company. On receipt of the certification, SIU headquarters sent a memorandum to the company asking the immediate commencement of contract negotiations. Cuba Distilling was first contracted in 1938. However, the company’s small fleet of ships was sunk during the war and the company went out of business. Upon its return last winter with new ships, company officials maintained that no agreement with the SIU existed since the last one negotiated had lapsed. went to sea aboard the American Scout. He was born in Patterson, N.J. and shipped in the deck department. Brother Evleth’s concluding journey was on the Green Lake. ADELMO GIUSTI, 70, initiated his seafaring career in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother Giusti was born in Chile. In 2001, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Giusti worked in the steward department. His first vessel was the Gulfcrest; his last was the Liberator. CHARLES JACKSON, 66, joined the NMU in 1962. Brother Jackson first sailed aboard the Green Valley. The deck department member was born in Texas. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME AGE EDP Curtis, Lance 79 April 1 Flores, Raul 56 July 1 Francis, Roderick 65 July 1 Harris, Hanson 65 April 1 Jones, Robert 65 May 1 Naysnerski, Wayne 55 May 1 rates plus an across-the-board 20 percent increase in wages, OT and penalty rates, all retroactive to July 1. 1969 The SIU-contracted Delta Steamship Line of New Orleans will more than double its fleet by purchasing Prudential Lines’ entire South American operation of ships and trade routes, it was disclosed recently. The sale will add 12 ships to Delta’s fleet, bringing their total to 23 vessels. It will put Delta’s service on all three U.S. sea coasts. This Month In SIU History 1957 Unable to make any headway in wage talks with the Bull Line after two months of negotiations, the SIU struck the company at its Brooklyn terminal on Monday, August 19. The four-ship installation has been tied up tight ever since by a 24-hour picket line manned by Seafarers. Talks with Bull Line reached an impasse a few days before the strike call over demands for parity with the West Coast scale on overtime and penalties 1985 The USNS Stalwart, the first new T-AGOS ship crewed by the SIU, recently completed a record voyage with top marks. “They did an excellent job and performed every task asked of them. This was a very important job that helped the nation’s security,” said an official of Sea Mobility Inc., the company which won the T-AGOS contract. The Stalwart’s deck and engine departments were singled out for the fine job they performed on the mission…. Two of the T-AGOS vessels have been crewed; the next two are due out by the middle of November in Norfolk and early December in Honolulu. Seafarers LOG 17 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24x.qxp 7/29/2006 3:34 AM Page 18 Final Departures RONALD JONES Pensioner Ronald Jones, 63, passed away March 31. Brother Jones started sailing with the SIU in 1962. He was born in Virginia and worked in the deck department. Brother Jones first shipped aboard an Ore Navigation Corporation vessel. His last trip was on the Leader. Brother Jones retired in 1989 and settled in South Williamsport, Pa. CARROLL KENNY Pensioner Carroll Kenny, 78, died March 18. Brother Kenny became a Seafarer in 1949 in New York. His first trip to sea was on the El Faro. Brother Kenny was a member of the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1993, he sailed aboard the Florida. Born in Todd, Minn., Brother Kenny called Martinez, Ga. home. REUEL PALMER Pensioner Reuel Palmer, 77, passed away March 27. Brother Palmer joined the SIU in 1945, first shipping on the Steel King. The deck department member was born in Massachusetts. Brother Palmer last worked on the Falcon Countess. He went on pension in 1985 and made his home in Berry Creek, Calif. PEDRO PEREZ Pensioner Pedro Perez, 73, passed away Oct. 22. Brother Perez began shipping with the SIU in 1958. His first ship was the Sentry. A member of the steward department, the Puerto Rico-born mariner last sailed aboard the Horizon Hawaii. He went on pension in 1997 and continued to live in Puerto Rico. ANTHONY SINCLAIR Brother Anthony Sinclair, 48, died Jan. 2. He started his SIU career in 1981. Brother Sinclair initially worked aboard the Oakland. He was born in Ohio and shipped as a member of the steward department. Brother Sinclair most recently sailed on the Horizon Crusader. He was a resident of Spring, Texas. ADRIAN TORRES Pensioner Adrian Torres, 90, passed away April 5. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Torres began sailing with the Seafarers in 1942 from New York. His first trip to sea was aboard the Rosario. Brother Torres was a deck department member. His most recent voyage was on the Aguadilla. Brother Torres started collecting his retirement pay in 1980. He lived in Taneytown, Md. ALFONS WEINERT Pensioner Alfons Weinert, 74, died Feb. 19. Brother Weinert joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards) (MC&S) in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. 18 Seafarers LOG The steward department member was born in Germany. Prior to retiring in 1989, Brother Weinert worked on the President Wilson. He resided in San Francisco. PAUL WHALEN Pensioner Paul Whalen, 77, passed away March 20. Brother Whalen launched his SIU career in 1968, first sailing on the Long Lines. He was a New York native and shipped in the engine department. Brother Whalen’s last voyage was aboard the Patriot. He became a pensioner in 1995. Brother Whalen was a resident of Las Vegas, Nev. ROBERT YARBROUGH Pensioner Robert Yarbrough, 80, died March 3. Brother Yarbrough embarked on his seafaring profession in 1952. The Alabama-born mariner initially worked on the Seawind and sailed as a member of the deck department. His last journey was aboard the Overseas Chicago. Brother Yarbrough began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1990. He made his home in Lake Charles, La. INLAND COLBOURNE AUTRY Pensioner Colbourne Autry, 79, passed away March 24. Boatman Autry joined the union in 1968 after serving in the U.S. Army. His first trip to sea was on a Steuart Transportation vessel. Boatman Autry was born in Virginia. He retired in 1989 and lived in Tangier, Va. DONALD GLASS Pensioner Donald Glass, 68, died March 15. Boatman Glass was born in Altoona, Pa. He started sailing with the SIU in 1975 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Glass first sailed aboard a Mariner Towing Company boat. He went on pension in 2003 and called Aurora, Colo. home. HAROLD KINNEY Boatman Harold Kinney, 47, passed away May 28. He joined the SIU in 1977 in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Kinney was a member of the steward department. His first ship was the St. Claire; his last voyage was aboard the Liberty Island. Boatman Kinney was born in Maine and resided in Chesapeake, Va. EARL NIXON Pensioner Earl Nixon, 75, died Oct. 22. Boatman Nixon became a union member in 1967. He first sailed on R.K. Davis Transportation Inc. vessels but primarily worked aboard vessels operated by Allied Transportation. Boatman Nixon made his home in Bel Haven, N.C. and retired in 1992. GREAT LAKES MISSED ALI Orleans. He first sailed on the Ero in the engine department. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the Almeria Lykes. Brother Gabriel was born in Louisiana. He retired in 1986. BERNARDINO GOICO Pensioner Missed Ali, 77, died Jan. 22. Brother Ali joined the SIU in 1970. The steward department member was born in Yemen. During his seafaring career, Brother Ali shipped primarily on vessels operated by American Steamship Company, including the U.S. Gypsum and the Buffalo. In 1992 he retired. He made Dearborn, Mich. his home. Pensioner Bernardino Goico, 85, died Nov. 25. Brother Goico joined the NMU ranks in 1964 in New York. His first trip was on the Argentina. Brother Goico’s last voyage was aboard the American Accord. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1982. 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. Pensioner Cruz Hernandez, 87, passed away Dec. 19. Brother Hernandez joined the NMU in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. The Puerto Rico-born mariner’s first ship was the Atenas. He last sailed on the United States. Brother Hernandez went on pension in 1970. JOHN ARENDALL Pensioner John Arendall, 80, passed away Dec. 29. Brother Arendall joined the NMU in 1942 in the port of New Orleans. He was born in Mobile, Ala. and worked in the steward department. Brother Arendall’s first ship was the Veraguas; his last was the Sealift Caribbean. He went on pension in 1986. MARCELO COLON Pensioner Marcelo Colon, 74, died Dec. 25. Brother Colon began shipping with the NMU in 1965, initially sailing aboard the St. Catherine from New York. The engine department member was a native of Puerto Rico. Brother Colon retired in 1991. His final trip to sea was on the American Astronaut. NICK DACKO Pensioner Nick Dacko, 93, passed away Oct. 19. Brother Dacko started his seafaring career in 1946 in the port of Baltimore. His first voyage was aboard the Carleton Ellis. His concluding journey was on the American Charger. Brother Dacko, who was born in Jamestown, Pa., began receiving his retirement compensation in 1967. VICTOR DEMIDOVICH Pensioner Victor Demidovich, 88, died Oct. 28. Brother Demidovich was born in Shenandoah, Pa. He became an NMU member in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Demidovich last shipped aboard the Lightning. He began receiving his pension in 1974. LAWRENCE GABRIEL Pensioner Lawrence Gabriel, 82, passed away Dec. 10. Brother Gabriel embarked on his NMU career in 1961 in New CRUZ HERNANDEZ HILARY HUNTER Pensioner Hilary Hunter, 80, died Nov. 24. Brother Hunter began working with the NMU in 1968, while in Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard the Export Bay. Brother Hunter shipped in both the engine and steward departments. Prior to his retirement in 1986, he sailed on the Spirit of Liberty. ALBERTO JIMENEZ Pensioner Alberto Jimenez, 78, passed away Dec. 28. Brother Jimenez was born in Puerto Rico and joined the union in the port of New York. Brother Jimenez’s final voyage was aboard the American Champion. He began collecting his retirement stipends in 1977. CARLOS LIMARDO Pensioner Carlos Limardo, 89, died Oct. 25. Brother Limardo became an NMU member in 1946, initially sailing from Galveston, Texas. His first vessel was a Liberty ship, the Crawford W. Long. Brother Limardo retired in 1968. His last voyage was on the Container Forwarder. KENNETH LINGO Pensioner Kenneth Lingo, 84, passed away Dec. 22. Brother Lingo started his seafaring career in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va., sailing in both the steward and deck departments. His first trip to sea was aboard the Mormacdale; his final voyage was on a Lykes Brothers vessel. Brother Lingo went on pension in 1972. GABRIEL MARTI Pensioner Gabriel Marti, 93, died Nov. 12. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Marti joined the union in 1944. He first shipped from the port of New York on the William R. Day. Brother Marti became a pensioner in 1968 after sailing aboard the Gibbs Lykes. CONNIE McCALLA Pensioner Connie McCalla, 70, passed away Dec. 12. Brother McCalla began working with the NMU in 1964 in the port of Houston. He was born in Jamaica and shipped in the engine department. Brother McCalla’s first vessel was the Spencer; his last was the Corpus Christi. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1998. JAMES MILLER Pensioner James Miller, 79, died Nov. 7. Brother Miller was born in Texas. He first sailed from Wilmington, Calif. on the Sampan. Brother Miller, who worked in the steward department, retired in 1988. SEYMORE RICHARDSON JR. Pensioner Seymore Richardson Jr., 87, passed away Dec. 10. Brother Richardson joined the NMU in 1952. The Alabama-born mariner first worked aboard the John L. Sullivan. Brother Richardson was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1983, he shipped on the Sheldon Lykes. JOSEPH TRACY Pensioner Joseph Tracy, 81, died Dec. 25. Brother Tracy joined the NMU in 1944, first sailing from the port of New York aboard the Alden Barnes Fiertz. His last journey to sea was on the Pioneer Commander. Brother Tracy began collecting his pension in 1971. 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 Abbey, Clarence 78 Batenhorst, Donald 69 Blake, Kenneth 79 Broussard, Preston 77 Dew, Billy 77 Fassbender, Paul 76 Goodman, George 87 Haines, James 78 Hall, Phillip 78 Higgins, Samuel 83 Howell, Cyril 84 Jones, Floyd 80 Legendre, Rae 76 Lopes, Julius 81 Lorin, Jack 85 Malbrough, Paul 78 Micklowski, Frank 92 Padilla, Jose 91 Paul, Eugene 84 Rubo, Giovanni 78 Simmons, Louis 94 Tims, Ralph 81 Venegas, Carlos 94 Williams, Willie 70 DOD April 16 June 7 June 16 March 21 June 25 June 23 May 20 May 31 June 15 June 10 June 10 May 26 June 27 June 18 June 17 June 18 May 7 March 21 Jan 1 April 6 Dec. 29 June 12 June 15 April 12 August 2006 �37484_P4_7,11_13,17,19x.qxp 7/29/2006 4:27 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On 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. 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 A. Calacal, Steward Delegate Alaa A. Embaby. Chairman urged everyone to read president’s report in Seafarers LOG. He also went over correspondence received from VP of Contracts George Tricker regarding changes to medical plan. Educational director explained Core Plus benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. TV wall mounts to be purchased in Charleston, S.C. for smaller room. Chairman thanked all departments for helping keep ship clean. Next ports: Charleston; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J. COMET (Maersk Line Limited), June 4—Chairman Mathew J. Bevak, Secretary Ernest Polk, Educational Director Daniel L. Borden, Steward Delegate Saleh M. Saleh. Chairman thanked all departments for great trip and encouraged them to contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Suggestion made to increase retirement pay. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. EL MORRO (Interocean American Shipping), June 25—Chairman Roan R. Lightfoot, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Monroe G. Monseur, Engine Delegate Victor Sapp, Steward Delegate Antonio Mendez. Chairman announced June 30 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He asked crew members to keep noise down in hallways while other crew members are sleeping. Educational director reminded everyone to check expiration dates on necessary sailing documents and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested information on new contract. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for job well done. Sailing on the Hauge Thanks to OMU John Steeber for sending along this photo of himself (right) and AB James Blitch, who sail together on the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge Jr. August 2006 FLORIDA (Maersk Line Limited), June 15—Chairman Herbert Charles, Secretary Joseph Jones, Educational Director David Vega, Deck Delegate Randell G. Porter, Engine Delegate Robert T. Norris, Steward Delegate Daniel L. Wehr. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested sailing board be posted early. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.), June 19—Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev, Deck Delegate John Bumgarner, Engine Delegate John Carson, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Chairman advised Seafarers to check their Money Purchase Pension Plan accounts. He requested information on status of new contract and expressed his gratitude to the steward department for great job during voyage. Educational director urged members to take advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $4,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was reminded to update beneficiary cards if changes have been made. Barbecue was announced for June 21 lunch. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), June 11—– Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Donald B. GaNung, Educational Director Clive A. Steward, Engine Delegate Angelo S. Wilcox Sr., Steward Delegate Simone J. Solomon. Chairman discussed possible changes in new contract and advised all members to be present for union meeting when Houston patrolman comes aboard. With increased competition for seafaring jobs, educational director urged crew to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in order to be trained and ready. Treasurer stated $200 in ship’s fund. Suggestion was made to buy DVDs with the money. Beef reported in deck department; no disputed OT reported. Bosun reminded crew members this is an election year. He stressed the importance of registering and voting for those politicians who are favorable to the maritime industry. Recommendations were made regarding vacation and pension benefits. Crew expressed gratitude to Chief Cook Solomon and GSU Tony Grant for preparing good meals. Next port: Houston. HORIZON DISCOVERY (Horizon Lines), June 10— Chairman James W. Saunders, Secretary Joseph A. Laureta, Educational Director Herman Castro, Engine Delegate Hector J. Ginel, Steward Delegate Tracey L. Newsome. Secretary urged all mariners to keep documents current and upgrade skills at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to increase pension and medical benefits. June 13 payoff to take place in Jacksonville, Fla. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: San Juan, P.R. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), June 4—Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Joseph J. Gallo Jr., Educational Director Mohamad Y. Abdullah, Deck Delegate Antonio M. Mercado, Engine Delegate Rene Vazquez, Steward Delegate Carlos H. Sanchez. Chairman announced June 9 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked all departments for working well together. Members were advised to have documents and dues ready when patrolman comes aboard. He also emphasized importance of keeping passports and other necessary documents up to date. Secretary thanked crew for great voyage. Educational director advised members to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. AB Ray Fernandez thanked fellow SIU crew members and officers for their support and generosity during his family’s time of mourning. Thanks given to Chief Cook Carlito Sanchez and SA Jorge Mora for their hard work and great meals. Next ports: Jacksonville; San Juan, P.R.; Port Elizabeth, N.J. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), June 11— Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Peter F. Ciddio, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Al M. Alhaj, Steward Delegate Marcus R. Rowe. Bosun announced payoff to take place June 13 in Oakland, Calif. He reminded crew members to separate plastic items from regular trash. For security reasons while in port, mariners were asked to use one door when entering and exiting the house by the gangway. Secretary reported smooth sailing. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade their skills by attending classes at the Paul Hall Center, which in turn would allow them to qualify for better paying jobs. Treasurer stated $100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Anyone using washing machine and dryer was reminded to check pockets, so that no foreign objects clog drains. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles, Calif. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), June 15—Chairman Howard W. Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Educational Director David S. Goodpastor, Deck Delegate Julie B. Ortiz. Chairman asked crew to check with patrolman before going ashore. Crew computer to be fixed in Tacoma; DVD player will be purchased in Kaoshiong. Everyone was reminded to wear hard hats during port operations or use the tunnel and also be aware of the no-smoking policy dockside in Guam. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point school and keep necessary shipping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked for excellent food and clean mess hall. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), June 18—Chairman Salvador N. Villareal, Secretary Cynthia L. Caster, Educational Director Mohamed N. Alsinai, Deck Delegate Harry Massa, Engine Delegate Husain A. Ali, Steward Delegate Reynaldo C. Telmo. Chairman discussed new contract and announced June 20 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. Secretary urged all members to see him after meeting to obtain any needed forms (registration, vacation, SMPPP, benefits, upgrading applications). He also shared highlights from the May membership meeting in Tacoma, including the introduction by Horizon Lines of five new vessels into service in the near future and the opening of a new Oakland agreements. Next port: Houston, Texas. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), June 18—Chairman Thomas P. Flanagan, Secretary Gerald L. Hyman, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Abdullah A. Oun, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov. Chairman thanked everyone for safe and successful trip. Secretary encouraged crew members to attend upgrading classes at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food during Aboard the Sea Breeze Crew members pose for a snapshot aboard the Crowley tug Sea Breeze. The picture was taken recently in Jacksonville, FL. hall (to replace the one in San Francisco). Members were advised to keep their dues paid up or risk having benefits suspended. Educational director encouraged all mariners to upgrade skills at the Seafarers-affiliated training school and take advantage of the union’s free education. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for satellite TV. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Next ports: Tacoma; Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), June 4—Chairman Loren E. Watson, Secretary Sherman W. Anderson, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate Mohamed M. Abdulla, Steward Delegate Efren P. Aguirre. Bosun thanked crew for safe voyage and good jobs. He announced June 10 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Electrician requested more classes be offered at Piney Point school geared toward the engine department. Request also made for information regarding sea time benefits and installing satellite TV in individual rooms. Crew was asked to take care of DVDs and return to case when finished with them. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), June 4—Chairman Gavino A. Octaviano, Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Educational Director Antonio A. Octaviano, Deck Delegate Ronald Owens, Engine Delegate George S. Galanis, Steward Delegate Richard A. Gegenheimer. Secretary urged crew to renew zcards early to avoid missing job opportunities. Beef reported in deck department; no disputed OT reported. Members requested second washer and dryer. Suggestions made regarding possible changes in steward sections of standard tanker and freighter voyage. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line Limited), June 14—Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Robert A. Ott, Deck Delegate John G. Gilston. Chairman announced June 17 payoff in Newark, N.J. He also reminded crew members to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made pertaining to high cost of medical insurance. Next ports: Norfolk, Va; Newark. SEABULK CHALLENGE (Seabulk Tankers), June 23—Chairman Kenneth A. Abrahamson, Steward Delegate Timothy J. Dowd, Educational Director Teresito O. Reyes, Steward Delegate Heath G. Bryan. Chairman stated actual letter—not just discharge—from Tanker Company is needed to renew tanker assist endorsement. Secretary advised members to start renewal process early on MMDs, allowing at least 12 months. Educational director noted that new tanker and freight agreements expected this summer, possibly mid-July or August. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to DEU for keeping house clean and to galley crew for great food. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (LMS Ship Management), June 11— Chairman Grant A. Shirley, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Alfred G. Lane, Engine Delegate Manuel C. Flores, Steward Delegate Rocel C. Alvarez. Secretary asked mariners to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. Educational director urged everyone to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about new contract. Request made for refrigerators in all rooms. Seafarers LOG 19 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24x.qxp 7/29/2006 4:03 AM Page 20 Know Your Rights 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. Leo Kinney: A True Shipmate Webster’s New World College Dictionary defines “shipmate” as a fellow sailor on the same ship. Webster is wrong! Our definition of “shipmate” is Harold (Leo) Kinney. Leo Kinney—a man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it and offer a helping hand to anyone, even the newest crew member, whom he would make feel at home. It was a pleasure to work with Leo, no matter what department he worked in: galley, deck or engine room. He would put his whole heart into every job from the cleanest to the dirtiest. Leo was the best cook on board our vessel. He will be remembered for his positive attitude. He was always cheerful, and it was a pleasure coming in at coffee time and meal hours. He always asked everyone if there was anything special he could cook for them or anything he could get them on the stores list. He tried to make everyone’s life on board these vessels a little easier. We could go on and on about all the good things and hard work this man did for his shipmates and the company, and few would disagree that it was a pleasure—and an honor—to work beside this man. He will be missed by many. May you rest in peace, Leo. Your friends, brothers and shipmates (Editor’s note: Brother Harold (Leo) Kinney died May 28, 2006. The above letter from his shipmates was sent to the Seafarers Harold (Leo) Kinney (center) poses with two of his shipmates. See page 18 for Brother Kinney’s obituary. LOG by David Ling, an SIU member working aboard the Dredge Liberty Island.) Thanks for All Your Help I am writing to thank our union for all the help extended to my wife and me this past year. My wife was in the hospital for 43 days after major brain surgery. She had a full recovery. I am now seriously disabled and am not able to work. I am receiving medical benefits for my problem. If it were not for the sickness and accident benefit, we would be in desperate straits. If not for these benefits, I don’t know what we would do. Most of all, I wish to thank Brother John Cox, our port agent in Wilmington, Calif. From the very first, he went far beyond his duties and responsibilities. I was at sea when my wife’s injury occurred. John took control, got me home and was directly involved in her recovery. For this, he deserves recognition for his direct help and uncalled-for involvement in our desperate time of need. I first joined the union in 1967. The SIU has always been there to help and support my family and me. However, this effort by the union is beyond anything I have ever experienced. John Cox is truly a “union man” in the fullest meaning of the phrase. He runs his hall in a fair and just manner for ALL. He is honest, knowledgeable and understanding and displays the qualities of leadership that we all need in these struggling times. Once again, to Brother Mike Sacco, John Cox and our great union, I say God bless you. George Paul Barber San Diego, Calif. Keeping Busy After Retirement I joined the Merchant Marine in 1943 and retired 27 years later in 1970 as an NMU member. I am very glad the SIU and NMU united and am receiving the Seafarers LOG, which I appreciate very much. I am very concerned about the passage of H.R. 23, the Belated Thank You to Merchant Mariners of World War II because there are not so many of us great old seamen still alive. I think it is about time that some credit be given to us for all the efforts we made in keeping this country free. I am very proud of what I did for our country. At 83, I am still trying to do something to keep busy. I compose music and have an Internet site (www.rupertolopez.5U.com). In April, Hilltop Records of Los Angeles came out with a CD, and one of my songs, “I’m Lonely Again,” is on it. They want to record two more songs, “From Texas to New York” and “My Dear United States.” God bless you all. Ruperto López Rosado Hormigueros, P.R. 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 8/06 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. August 2006 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24x.qxp 7/29/2006 4:15 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE FOWT September 11 November 3 Marine Electrician October 23 December 15 The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for August 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. Welding September 11 October 9 September 29 October 27 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion August 7 September 25 August 11 September 29 Basic Safety Training - AB August 14 September 25 November 6 August 18 September 29 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT September 18 November 13 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels - FOWT August 7 September 11 September 18 August 11 September 15 September 22 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* September 18 November 27 September 29 December 8 August 7 October 16 August 11 October 20 Course Advanced Fire Fighting* (one week) (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion August 21 October 2 November 13 September 15 October 27 December 8 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) August 21 August 25 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 7 September 18 October 30 August 18 September 29 November 10 Radar August 7 August 18 Radar Renewal (one day) August 28 Course Able Seaman (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Recertification Steward Upgrading Courses Bosun October 9 November 6 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning August 10, 2006. Academic Department Courses Engine Upgrading Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. Course Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops Start Date Date of Completion September 11 November 13 October 6 December 8 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 ________________________________________________ August 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. 8/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/27/2006 5:12 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 675 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 675. They include (in alphabetical order) Zachary Clayton, Carmelo Collazo, Christopher Curran, Darnell Keith, Alphonso Gowdy Jr., Marvin Hearman, Sherwin Jones, Rory O’Brien, Paul Pederson, Mychal Sands, Ronald Sease, Cornelius Taylor, Daron Tinney, Robert Vayko, Furman Watson, Jon Werner and James Wynegar III. AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending June 23 are (in no specific order) Steven Sanderson, David Barber, Dean Bettis, William Markeson, Jorge Nunez, Edwin Rivera, David Spangler, Asaad Al-Waseem, John Villarta, Daniel Manning, Ivan Zapata, Jennifer Souci, Daryl Alvin Jr., DeAris Henry and Horace Robinson IV. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Fast Rescue Boat — June 9 graduates of the fast rescue boat course include (in alphabetical order) Louis Barra, Nicole Geideman, Linsey Knight, Arthur Marshall, Stephen Thompson, Robert Warren and Lawrence Williams. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at right in the front. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Upgrading Seafarers and unlicensed apprentices completed this course June 15. They are (in no specific order) unlicensed apprentices Nicholas Gattuso, Lawrence Stanley-Dalton, Jeffery Novak, Claytain Carr, Antoine Best, Lester DeSheers and Aaron Larson; and Seafarers Shawn Alexander, Matt Waldman, Philomena Hoang, Ernesto Lagramada, Nestor Montano, Ricky Goodman, Matthew Whitmore, Randy Louque, David Grasso, Justin Bing, Henry Callahan, Richard DeLa Cruz, Fatim Rashed, Luke Staiger, Jose Blanco, Michael Garcia and Victor Rios. Advanced Fire Fighting — The advanced fire Machinist — Under the instruction of Steve Haver (second from left) are graduates of the machinist course, which took place June 5-23. They are Michael Kirby, Danillo Tabudlong, Ronald Sison, Miguel Batista, Christopher Schneider and Lamar Parker. fighting course took place June 5-9. Graduating from the class are Gregory Brunson Sr., Nathan Wirt, Alsea Mua, Michael Carvalho, Bobby Taylor Jr., Caleb Whorl, Charles Ross, Stephen Conley, Charles Clark and Byron Collins and their instructor, Tom Cessna (far left). Computer Lab Classes Left: Holding their certificates of achievement for courses completed June 23 in the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center are (from left) Ricky Goodman, Fatim Rashed and Joel Fahselt. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, stands in the back row. Right: With instructor Rick Prucha (back row) are students who completed their computer courses June 30. They are (from left) Daniel Manning, Timothy Sexton, Tawrence Abrams and Jorge Nuñez. 22 Seafarers LOG August 2006 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/25/2006 6:05 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Specially Trained OS — Included in the June 16 graduating class are Phase III unlicensed apprentices (in alphabetical order) Stephen McGruder, Shawana Mills, Brendan O’Brien, Nelson Orien, Algernon Reed, Lawanda Thornton, Taufiq Wasel and Jesse Willard; and SIU upgraders Daniel Stavron and David Stavron. Their instructor, Michael Smith, is second from left. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Upgrading students who completed this course June 16 are (in no specific order) Juan Castillo, Michael Sykes, Joel Fahselt, Arthur Saeli, Alexander Kepchar, Billy Hill Sr., Meili Seegers, Jonas Robinson, Glen McCullough, Paula Hopson, Scott Bowmer, Andrew Eastman, Endang Abidin, Richard Summers, Paul Van Aken, Martin Josephson and Carlos Bonilla. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is standing at far left. Specially Trained OS — Completing this course June 16 are unlicensed apprentices (in no specific order) Wayne Altoonian, John Galatioto, Mathew Alaniz, Jeffry Cesvet, Scott Bloomfield, Donald Desir, Nicholas Kempker, Thomas Jarrett and Jonathan Rodriguez; and SIU upgraders Marvin Smith, Jorge Lanas, Joseph Quitugua, Adiener Alfaro, Rommel Lopez and Larry Castaneda. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, is second from left in the back row. STCW — NCL, June 1: Zulma Gonzalez, Julio Perez, Rodel Rollo, Purisma Rosario, Leon Russell, Monique Sands, Catalina Sanga, Edina Scrantz, Leslie Sears, Robert Slaughter, Lizbeth Soto, John Steffens, Mark Stevens, Robert Tabasko, Shatila Thomas, David Tover, Benjamin Trusiak, Valentine Alloa, Janie Vera and Margo Waring. STCW — NCL, June 1: Jewel Abraham, Thelma Aguon, Cynthia Almo, Bobby Alyarado, Roel Arcala, Pariss Archie, Michael Ardolino, Rocklyn Arjona, Arturo Asenjo, Anthony Atkins, Romeo Baun, Imed Ben-Abid, Ricky Blount, Thomas Boudnik, Sharon Boyers, Oliver Brewer, Frankie Brown, Norma Castil, Michael Chappell, Aimee Christensen, Michael Clarke, Jean Dorcely, Antoine Dorismon, Mario Escobar, Jesus Estrella, William Flynn, Brandi Gallegos and Arturo Geigel. (Note: not all are pictured.). STCW — NCL and SIU, June 16: Victoria Lee, Marquis Manuel, William Martin, Marinell Martinez, Pauline Masley, Anthony Mastroianni, James McChrystal, David McKaig, Max McKee, Jerome McKinney, Brandon Mellstrup, Eric Montressor, Timothy Mulligan, Lovina Ngiramdelmang, Christian Olaes, Greg Orara, Ricardo Ortega, Alphonso Owens, Travis Parker, Danielle Parolini, Paul Penny, Elpidio Punu Jr., Monica Ramos-Mediavilla, Geraldine Ravelo, Kimberly Redmond, Gregory Repka, Rafael Rios DeJesus, David Rivera, Jeremiah Rowley and Joseph Palomo. August 2006 STCW — NCL and SIU, June 30: Mark Adams, Malcolm Holmes, Lamont Robinson, Juan Steward, Tengku Sukarno, Tiffany Taylor, Sean Theodis, LaMar Thomas, Carla Thompson, Reynaldo Tinay, Lauran Walker, Terrance Weary, James Webb, Zachary Wery, William Wetherell, Joshua White, Cortrell Wigglesworth, Morgan Williams and Lamarr Winston. STCW — NCL, June 1: Rebecca Gramm, Fountain Green, Nakana Haili, Peter Hamm, Katie Haughey, Raymond Hernandez, Flora Jackson, Mark Jadwick, Charity Jobe, Liberti Kimball, Steven Kluchi, Pedro Leal, Lana Lindsey, Anna Mahony, Bryten Manuel, Angela McClure, Mark McEachren, Diego Melendez, Jeffry Milian, Douglas Montalvo, John Morris, Janaree Nagel, Minh Nguyen, James Nicholas, Rifani Obaseki, Michelle Oliver and Sidney Pesch. Seafarers LOG 23 �37484_P8,10,11,14_16,18,20_24.qxp 7/27/2006 5:13 PM Page 24 Volume 68, Number 8 August 2006 The Slop Chest: Check out the exclusive online source for Seafarers International Union merchandise at www.seafarers..org. MS S P SShip hii p D ell ivv err s MSP Delivers . S.. Mi i lii taa ry y For U.S. Military F orr U. Alliance New York Transports Materiel Home T he SIU-crewed Alliance New York recently transported materiel for the United States military back to America from overseas, discharging its cargo in Philadelphia. The vessel then sailed to Baltimore to take on new cargo. (The photos of crew members on this page were taken in Baltimore on June 21.) Operated by Liberty Global Logistics, the Alliance New York reflagged under the Stars and Stripes late last year and then enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). The roll-on/roll-off ship, built in April 2005, is 656 feet long, has a beam of 105.8 feet and can AB Anthony Pace, left, and Chief Steward Ron Lupinacci sail at greater than 20 knots. The MSP originated as a 10year program that was part of the Maritime Security Act of 1996. Originally signed into law by President Clinton, the program supports in the international shipping trades a fleet of militarily useful U.S.-flag commercial vessels crewed by American citizens. Participating vessel operators are required to make their ships and other commercial transportation Chief Cook Felipe Reyes, left, and resources available to the Chief Steward Lionell Packnett Department of Defense during times of war or national emergency. Through the enactment of the Maritime Security Act of 2003—signed into law by President Bush—the MSP expanded to include 60 vessels (compared to the 47 ships in the original program) and was extended for 10 more years. During the reflagging ceremony for the Alliance New York last November, Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), noted that the expanded MSP helps augment the pool of well-trained, reliable, U.S. citizen mariners who sail aboard AB Felsher Beasley, left, and GUDE Tirso Cruz SA Anthony Clemons UA Montree Nakwichet The Alliance New York (pictured in 2005) reflagged under the Stars and Stripes last fall and then enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. civilian-crewed military support ships. He credited those mariners for their performance during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom and stated, “We rely heavily on our commercial partners and associated labor organizations. We cannot do business without you. That’s a reality that’s not about to change.” Schwartz’s predecessor at TRANSCOM, Gen. John Handy (who retired last October), also spoke highly of the MSP. A year before the new program was approved, Handy testified before the Merchant Marine Panel of the House Armed Services Committee. “I wholeheartedly support reauthorization of MSP beyond expiration of the UA Corey Overbeck current authority on September 30, 2005,” Handy told the panel. “The MSP is a vital element of our military’s strategic sealift and global response capability. As we look at operations on multiple fronts in support of the war on terrorism, it is clear that our limited defense resources will increasingly rely on partnerships with industry to maintain the needed capability and capacity to meet our most demanding wartime sceBosun Craig Amison narios. That makes MSP reauthorization even more important as we look toward the future.” As previously reported, the new MSP which took effect in October 2005 increases the number of participants to 60 ships; provides financial assistance to construct five newly built tankers in the United States that are capable of carrying military petroleum products during a war; establishes a 30-month period to replace older ships with newer Defense Departmentapproved and militarily useful ships; and increases the annual payment to ship operators. GUDE Ahmed Ghaleb � 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 August 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU WEIGHS IN ON TWIC, MMC UNIONS OFFER SENSIBLE SOLUTION: MODIFY CURRENT MMD SEAFARERS APPROVE STANDARD CONTRACTS MATSON’S MAUNALEI CHRISTENED IN PHILLY SHBP ELGIBILITY CHANGE ANNOUNCED 2ND T-AKE SHIP CHRISTENED SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES EARN ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDS LABOR ICON EVY DUBROW DIES AT 95 ‘ALL AVAILABLE BOATS’ EXAMINES NEW YORK EVACUATION ON 9/11 MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT LAUNCHES WEB SITE UNION PROVIDED SOLID FOUNDATION, GREAT MEMORIES SIU CREWS HONORED FOR RELIEF OPERATIONS INDUSTRY ‘PIONEER’ BILL SAUL DIES AT 80 SEAFARERS TO VOTE ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS MSP SHIP DELIVERS FOR U.S. MILITARY ALLIANCE NEW YORK TRANSPORTS MATERIAL HOME Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log 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 08/01/2006 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. 8 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/d6f0d6016dc6edc135526e590318960c.pdf bb4bc44aa444e73c68a2a9c472747f14 PDF Text Text 36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:14 PM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 7 July 2006 President Praises Mariners President Bush on June 19 delivered the commencement address at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and he offered strong words of support not only for the graduates but for the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole. In photo at left, en route to Washington, D.C. after attending the graduation ceremony in Kings Point, N.Y., President Bush poses with SIU President Michael Sacco after their meeting in the president’s office on Air Force One. Below, President Bush addresses the audience at the academy (the SIU president is seated sixth from President Bush’s left). In his column on page 2, President Sacco reflects on the experience. White House photos by Kimberlee Hewitt Philly Tankers Reach Construction Milestones Union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard recently announced two milestones in its “Veteran Class” tanker construction program. The keel was laid for the second vessel in the U.S.-flag series (far left photo)—a ship scheduled for completion in 2007. A week earlier, the shipyard started production on the third of the 10 doublehulled tankers. Construction also continues on the first ship in the series, pictured at immediate left. Page 3. New Cruise Ship Arrives in Hawaii Christened May 20 in Los Angeles, the SIUcrewed Pride of Hawaii is the newest addition to NCL America’s fleet. The ship arrived in Kauai’s Nawiliwili Harbor early May 28 to dock in Hawaii for the first time. Before that, the vessel traveled a long route beginning at a shipyard in Germany. We’ve got lots of photos of that journey on pages 12 and 13. Moment of Remembrance On May 29 a number of SIU members participated in Memorial Day observances at sea and ashore. Those events included the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. and shipboard ceremonies conducted for the National Moment of Remembrance. At left, crew members and military personnel on the USNS John McDonnell do their part for the National Moment of Remembrance. Page 4. Standard Contract News Page 3 SIU Family Photos Page 11 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 1:45 AM Page 2 Unions Adopt Key Resolution President’s Report SIU Statement Focuses on Mariners’ Rights Our Commander-in-Chief Both personally and professionally, June 19 is a day I’ll always remember. On that date, I had the great opportunity to travel with President Bush, Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta and other dignitaries aboard Air Force One as the president flew to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy to deliver the commencement address. So many things stand out about that day it’s Michael Sacco hard to know where to start. But I want every Seafarer to know that President Bush definitely understands and appreciates the absolute necessity of maintaining a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. In particular he knows that America must have a strong U.S.-flag presence in the commercial sector, partly because such action helps guarantee the ongoing presence of a pool of well-trained, loyal, U.S. citizen seafarers. His appearance at the academy, where he spent several hours, says a lot about the president’s view on our industry. As he said during his formal remarks, “America is a great maritime power, and our merchant marine has a vital role to play. In times of peace, the merchant marine helps ensure our economic security by keeping the oceans open to trade. In times of war, the merchant marine is the lifeline of our troops overseas, carrying critical supplies, equipment, and personnel.” It’s tough to imagine a stronger endorsement than that one. Behind the scenes on the airplane, President Bush was equally enthusiastic about our nation’s mariners. Simply put, he gets it. He knows we’re the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and that we remain ready to deliver the goods—anytime, anywhere. That is no small achievement when you think about how generally overlooked our industry sometimes seems. It is recognition and an approval at the highest level, and it obviously must not be taken for granted. As mentioned, other strong supporters of the U.S. Merchant Marine also made the trip from Washington to Kings Point and back. They included Secretary Mineta, as articulate a spokesman as our industry has ever had, and recently retired White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card, a huge figure in advancing both the original and the expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program. For our industry, the entire day was a home run. I also want to share with the membership how warm and welcoming President Bush was throughout the entire experience, both aboard Air Force One and at the school. He could not have been any more generous with his time or any more willing to listen when we had a chance to discuss the U.S. Merchant Marine. His friendliness toward me felt genuine, and I believe 100 percent that it also reflects his appreciation for the sacrifices made by SIU members and other mariners in defense of this great nation. On a much lighter note, if you’re wondering about the perks of the presidency and what it’s like to travel with our commanderin-chief, let’s just say you never have to wait in line. The security and the overall flow from point to point were very impressive throughout the day, a true credit to all concerned. On the other hand, it’s not as easy as it looks to keep your balance when ducking underneath whirling helicopter blades, as I discovered when President Bush moved from Air Force One to Marine One, the presidential helicopter. Brothers and sisters, on June 19 I couldn’t have been happier to answer the question, “How was your day?” It was a real thrill and a real honor, not just for me but for the whole Seafarers International Union. Volume 68, Number 7 The SIU and the Seafarers International Union of Canada last month approved a joint resolution aimed at protecting mariners’ rights while respecting the modern-day realities of port security requirements. During mid-June meetings in Montreal between the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU and the SIU of Canada—affiliated through the Seafarers Interational Union of North America—officials from both unions carefully put together a statement that will serve as a guidepost for the SIU in the months and years ahead, particularly with respect to impending new requirements for mariner credentials. Among other points, the SIU asserts that the United States and Canada should recognize and accept the two countries’ respective mariner identifications. This is an important and fair step in light of the elimination of crewlist visas, which have been utilized for many years to facilitate shore leave for merchant mariners. Passed on June 16, the joint resolution notes that tighter security requirements inevitably have evolved since September 11, 2001. “The Seafarers International Union and its members, by the very nature of the work we do, have been at the forefront of these efforts to resist and to prevent acts of terrorism from spreading through international and domestic trade routes,” the unions declared. “However, mariners have also been among the most profoundly affected by the international focus on frontier and border security. For these reasons, the Seafarers International Union has determined that it is Among the meeting participants last month in Montreal were (from left) SIU General Counsel Leslie Tarantola, VPs Kermett Mangram and Charlie Stewart, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, VP René Lioeanjie, President Michael Sacco, SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz and Executive VP Michel Desjardins, UIW National Director John Spadaro, and SIU VPs Joseph Soresi and Dean Corgey. essential in the best interest of its members and mariners worldwide and in order to further the battle against international terrorism to adopt the present resolution.” The resolution notes that the International Maritime Organization (IMO), through recent amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, “has reviewed measures and procedures to prevent acts of terrorism which threaten the security of passengers and crews and the safety of the ships by issuing revised measures specifically designed to enhance maritime security.” The unions further point out that the implementation of the ISPS Code in July 2004 requires ships and ports to apply a series of specific measures to ensure the security of vessels and port facilities and to provide a standardized, consistent framework for evaluating security risks. This standardized framework is designed to permit governments to respond to perceived threat levels and vulnerability for ships and port facilities through determination of appropriate security levels and corresponding security measures. Providing additional important background, the resolution notes “that in addition to the revision of the ISPS Code, various governments expressed an urgent need to revise ILO Convention C108, Seafarers Identification Documents (SID), first adopted in 1958 and ratified by 64 countries. As a result of this expressed need, in its Conference held in London in December 2002, the IMO adopted a series of amendments to update and reinforce the security value of the SID; that the revised SID will clearly demonstrate that the holder is a genuine Seafarer and ensure that a Seafarer’s identity can be verified positively and that adoption of the revised SID would, if widely adopted by Contracting Governments, permit Continued on page 7 New Oakland Hall Opening Soon As previously reported, the SIU plans to relocate its San Francisco-area operations to a new union hall in nearby Oakland, Calif. this month. At press time, the tentative date for the new hall’s opening was Monday, July 26. The new building is located at 1121 7th Street. The phone number is (510) 444-2360 (a different area code and number than at the old San Francisco hall). By mid-June the new building had been undergoing modifications to prepare for the opening and to suit the membership’s needs. The new hall is two stories, not including a basement, and is approximately 17,000 square feet. It offers more than 30 parking spaces next to the building, with additional parking available nearby. The Oakland hall is 9 miles from the union’s current San Francisco hall, which is located at 350 Fremont Street. The “Seafarers” letters are being moved from the San Francisco hall (top photo) to the new facility in Oakland (below, left and right). July 2006 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2006 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817_P03x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:12 PM Page 3 Std. Freightship/Tanker Contracts Due for Vote In an effort to protect and ensure the continued job security of the SIU membership, the contracts department has negotiated tentative new standard freightship and tanker agreements that will be effective from June 16, 2006 through June 15, 2011, pending ratification. The contracts will be voted on at SIU halls and aboard ship beginning this month (July). In negotiating the new fiveyear pacts, the union carefully reviewed recommendations made by Seafarers in minutes of shipboard union meetings, in minutes of monthly mem- bership meetings at the various halls, in communications to the contracts department and in sessions with Seafarers attending upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Not surprisingly, health care costs dominated the negotiations—and offsetting those costs was a huge challenge, according to SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. (See related story, page 5.) Nevertheless, the standard agreements maintain medical benefits at the top level offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (known as the Core Plus level). Also, despite the looming specter of insurance costs, the SIU negotiating team secured wage increases in each of the contracts’ five years. More details of the new agreements and the ratification votes will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG. Also, a number of other SIU contracts—many of which in part are patterned after the standard agreements—were expected to be finalized late last month or in early July. Bulletin Secretary Mineta Submits Resignation As this edition of the Seafarers LOG was going to press, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta, an outstanding supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, submitted his resignation to President Bush, effective July 7. The entire text of the letter is available through a link at www.seafarers.org and also may be accessed via the Transportation Department web site (www.dot.gov). SIU President Michael Sacco described Mineta as “a tremendous ally through his years of public service in both the Congress and the Clinton and Bush Administrations. We will miss his friendship and his leadership.” SIU Studies TWIC, MMC Rules Proposed Regulations Call for New Maritime Credentials Officials from the SIU and its affiliated training center participated in all four public meetings recently conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Coast Guard after the government issued proposed regulations for documenting mariners and port personnel. At press time, the union was preparing formal comments on the seemingly inevitable Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC) and the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). The deadline for comments was July 6, though efforts were under way to secure an extension. “The union is monitoring and participating in this process with the utmost care and energy,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “We will use every resource necessary to make sure that our input is fairly considered by the appropriate agencies. Meanwhile I would ask that the membership remain patient and stay informed as this situation unfolds in the coming months and years.” Generally, the upshot for Seafarers is expected to be as follows, though this may change once the final regulations are issued by the Department of Homeland Security: The TWIC and the MMC together eventually will replace the merchant mariner document (z-card) and STCW certificate. In other words, whereas today an SIU member may be required to carry a merchant mariner document and an STCW certificate, within a few years those credentials will have been phased out and supplanted by a TWIC (currently envisioned as a card similar in size to a z-card or driver’s license) and an MMC (projected to be a larger, paper document). However, as with the rest of the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) issued on May 22, nothing has been finalized. SIU members are asked to keep in mind that the final regulations likely won’t be finished for at least a few months. Understandably, the proposed details for issuing the new credentials—including time-frames, July 2006 content and costs, among numerous other considerations—are under intense discussion throughout the industry. Some of those discussions took place at the public meetings which quickly were arranged after the NPRM was released. The meetings took place from May 31-June 7 in Newark, N.J.; Tampa; St. Louis; and Long Beach, Calif., respectively. Besides requesting additional time to review the NPRM and asking for additional public meetings, among the most common points and questions raised at last month’s sessions included the following: „ The new credentials were mandated in the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) of 2002. „ As currently written, the new regulations would require that the TWIC program is fully in place 18 months after the final rules have been published. The MMC program would follow and be completely in place no later than 18 months after the TWIC is implemented. However, where the MMC is concerned, a mariner may continue to serve under the authority of his or her license, zcard, certificate of registry and/or STCW certificate until the first renewal or upgrade of that credential, but not later than five years after the effective date of the final rule. „ There is great concern among ship operators regarding a requirement for a TWIC reader on every vessel. Those machines are estimated to cost $10,000 apiece. „ Mariners and their unions are asking for one credential for shipboard personnel—either a TWIC or an MMC, but not both. „ Mariners and their unions also declared that because the TWIC is a security requirement, the government should pay for it. The NPRM spells out total individual TWIC fees ranging from $95 for mariners with a z-card issued after Feb. 3, 2003 to $149 for all other applicants. „ Port workers said that excessive background checks might decimate their manpower pool. „ The recordkeeping requirement for vessels and port facilities is burdensome to execute and per- haps even more difficult to enforce. Everyone entering a port facility or vessel would have to be logged in and out, and the records would have to be maintained for at least two years. „ Numerous attendees suggested TWIC applicants should not be required to travel to an enrollment center twice (once to apply for the credential and once to pick it up), although the TSA is proposing mobile enrollment centers. (The MMC would be obtainable via mail service, basically because the TSA will share information collected from TWIC Secretary Mineta addresses the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board earlier this year in San Diego. applicants with the Coast Guard. A person would need to possess a TWIC before acquiring an MMC.) Technically there are three separate NPRMs to bring the TWIC and MMC on board. Each has its own docket for comments, with the same July 6 deadline. The proposed regulations would incorporate the new credentials into the Code of Federal Regulations (46 CFR, Parts 10, 12 and 15, covering, respectively, licensing of maritime personnel, certification of seamen, and manning requirements); authorize and explain the TWIC system; and authorize and explain the MMC program. As previously reported, the TWIC would be required for mariners and for people needing unescorted access to secure areas of a regulated port facility or vessel. The document itself is an identification card utilizing various technologies designed to make it secure and tamper-proof. It is expected to contain two electronic chips, fingerprints and a photograph, and would be valid for five years. The TSA envisions having 125 enrollment centers covering approximately 300 ports. Roughly 750,000 individuals are expected to need a TWIC, although foreign-flag vessels are exempt. The MMC would appear in certificate form with many fraud protection measures. Its format hasn’t been finalized, but the credential is expected to resemble an STCW certificate. Philly Tanker Updates: Keel Laid for 2nd Ship, Construction Starts on 3rd Union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard recently reported two more milestones in its current 10-ship tanker build program. On May 15, the keel was laid for the second vessel in the U.S.-flag series—a ship scheduled for completion in 2007. A week earlier, the shipyard started production on the third of the 10 double-hulled tankers, cutting steel for the vessel which also is scheduled for completion next year. The 10 tankers will be owned by American Shipping Corporation, a subsidiary of Aker American Shipping, and chartered to SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). They are expected to sail in the Jones Act market. Part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act (named in honor of its author, the late Senator Wesley Jones, R-Wash.) mandates that cargo moving between United States ports is carried on U.S.crewed, U.S.-flag, U.S.-owned and U.S.-built vessels. The tankers being built in Philadelphia are categorized as “Veteran Class.” Each will be 600 feet long and capable of transporting 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. Each vessel will weigh 46,000 deadweight tons (dwt). The first ship is slated for completion later this year. Dave Meehan, president and CEO of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, said, “Keel laying for our second tanker just days after start of production on our third tanker signifies another important step in advancing our yard and the 10-ship build program to new levels of efficiency and sophistication. For the first time in its history, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard now has four ships currently under construction, including three tanker vessels of the exact same design.” As part of the ceremony, coins were placed under the keel block in a practice which recreates a longstanding tradition whereby shipbuilders hide special coins in the keel section of a ship as a permanent symbol of good fortune and safe travels. Aker American Shipping CFO Jan Ivar Nielsen represented Aker in the ceremony, with Theo Mandopoulos, OSG’s site The keel-laying for the second tanker at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (above) signaled another milestone for a program in which 10 U.S.-flag tankers will be built. manager at the yard, participating from the Seafarerscontracted company. The tanker program was announced in April 2005. At that time the company pointed out that in the U.S. commercial shipbuilding sector, the order for 10 tankers is believed to be the largest of its kind. Also at that time, OSG President and CEO Morten Arntzen stated, “The 10-ship program is OSG’s first giant step to building a world-class U.S.-flag shipping business.” More recently and as previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, OSG Senior Vice President Captain Robert Johnston stated that his company is exploring the possibility of investing in as many as 17 new additional U.S.-flag ships. “We believe we can deliver,” Johnston stated. “We believe you can build the ships in the United States. We also believe you can crew and maintain the ships in the United States.” Formerly known as Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Aker Philadelphia earlier this year launched the final containership in a four-ship series being built for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company. The 681-foot long CV 2500 containership will be named the Maunalei and upon delivery this year will join three similar vessels in Matson’s fleet also constructed at the yard and delivered between 2003 and 2005. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is located on the site of the former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Seafarers LOG 3 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 4 Crews Observe National Moment of Remembrance On May 29, a number of SIU members took part in Memorial Day observances at sea and ashore. Those events included the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. and shipboard ceremonies conducted for the National Moment of Remembrance. Aboard the Freedom, while the RO/RO vessel was at sea headed for New York City, Unlicensed Apprentice Timothy Dougherty read a tribute he had penned on behalf of the entire crew. In part, he stated, “Today, we honor those heroes (our family members—fathers, brothers, uncles, sisters) fallen and present who have given us the freedom we take for granted today…. As multi-tasking Americans, we need days like this one to bring us back to reality. Our busy schedules don’t give us that time, but we have it today, and this bell ceremony with each ringing can remind us that we can strive to behave like those servicemen and women with virtues that are instilled during intense periods of military training from the very beginning of their service careers.” Freedom Captain Shawn M. Hagerty thanked Dougherty for Crew members and military personnel aboard the USNS John McDonnell take part in the National Moment of Remembrance. Following the observance aboard the Freedom, pictured from left to right are 3rd A/E J. Barto, Chief Steward Anthony Brown, Bosun Daniel Bratta, QMED Charles Bennett, AB Joseph Laine, UA Keith Parsons, SA Marcelo Alicea, UA Timothy Dougherty, Cadet B. Gilbert, Captain Shawn Hagerty, 3/M W. Payne, 1st A/E T. Hibl, Chief Cook Charles Davis, Cadet P. Wolfinger, Chief Engineer G. Benson, 2nd A/E E. Stone, and OMU Joseph Yamson. sharing his sentiments with the crew. On the hopper dredge Wheeler (SIU Government Services Division) in New Orleans, crew members gathered around the ship’s bell. After a moment of remembrance, a statement from the U.S. Maritime Administration was read, along with a reading of names of Wheeler mariners who have passed on since commissioning of the dredge in 1982. Additionally, aboard the hydrographic survey ship USNS John McDonnell, crew members met at the ship’s bell. They also rang eight bells and observed a moment of silence. “We shared a few words about those we were remembering from all branches of the armed services, the merchant marine, and the civilians who gave their lives throughout the nation’s history,” noted McDonnell Master Bob Mattsen. “We spoke of those who are continuing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.” Writing from the containership Maersk Maryland, Richard Hoey, the ship’s master, noted that crew members “paid tribute to the heroic men and women who have courageously served our country in times of war with special emphasis on the departed sailors of the United States Merchant Marine. The crew mustered on the bow to pay their admiration to those who have and continue to serve the United States. “Before the moment of silence, the crew was reminded of the historical sacrifices made by the merchant marine while gaining and maintaining our nation’s freedom. At 1500 hours, there was a moment of silence as the ship’s bell was rung eight times. Completing the ceremony, the chief cook (Benjamin A. Brooks) led the crew in a moving invocation in remembrance to those who came before us, to those in the present, and to those that will serve in the future.” Pictured aboard the Wheeler are (from left) Chief Steward Morrell Jones, Chief Engineer Brian Kavanagh, Electrician Clifford Farmer, 3rd Engineer William Kicklighter, 1st Engineer Brian Grover, Bosun Alton Dawkins and Administrative Technician Belinda Cannon. Crew members aboard the Maersk Maryland paid tribute to those who have served America in times of war, including fellow mariners. Other SIU-crewed vessels also participated in the National Moment of Remembrance. In the nation’s capital, students from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education helped represent the U.S. Merchant Marine in the National Memorial Day Parade. The annual event is organized by a coalition of military, veteran and civic groups in association with the White House Commission on Remembrance. Panel Weighs Maritime Convention Students from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education joined other mariners in representing the U.S. Merchant Marine at the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. As part of the National Maritime Day events that took place May 22 in venues around Washington, D.C., the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) hosted a panel discussion of the newly crafted Maritime Labor Convention under discussion for national ratification. The panel met at the Convention Center of the Washington Navy Yard. The Maritime Labor Convention, adopted in February of this year, was designed to update and consolidate approximately 60 earlier agreements dating back to the 1920s. The Convention applies to all oceangoing ships with few exceptions, and is expected to take three to five years for ratification by maritime nations. Participating were (from left) Rev. Lloyd Burghart, interim executive secretary, NAMMA; Alfred “Fred” Kuffler, partner, Montgomery McCracken Walker & Rhoads LLP; Clay Maitland, managing partner, International Registries, Inc.; Bruce Carlton, associate administrator for policy and international trade, U.S. Maritime Administration; Joe Cox, president and CEO, American Chamber of Shipping; and U.S. Coast Guard Captain Frank Sturm. 4 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:15 PM Page 5 AFL-CIO Announces Gulf Coast Revitalization Program Billion Dollar Effort Aims to Create Good Jobs, Housing, Economic Development AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, flanked by New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, Building and Construction Trades Department President Edward Sullivan, International Longshoremen’s Association Local 3000 President James O. Campbell, AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust CEO Steve Coyle and a broad contingency of New Orleans labor, civic, religious, financial, and academic leaders on June 14 announced the AFLCIO Gulf Coast Revitalization Program, a seven-year, $1 billion housing and economic development initiative. The program is designed to produce affordable housing, promote homeownership, and create good jobs with good wages in construction and other industries for New Orleans and other coastal communities ravaged by Hurricane Katrina last year. “Labor is in solidarity with the citizens of New Orleans,” stated Sweeney. “We are here to do our part to rebuild and reunite this great city. I am proud to stand with my brothers and sisters to announce this very first significant investment by labor in the rebuilding of this city. We hope business and financial institutions will follow our lead as they did when we stepped forward after 9/11 in New York City.” “Thousands of our people have been scattered by the wrath of Katrina,” said Nagin. “We want them back home and we must provide the affordable housing, jobs and community services to make that happen. Labor is stepping forward in a big way to help us make this difficult job an attainable reality.” Adding to the announcement, Sullivan said that his organization is establishing a Gulf Coast Workforce Development Project to meet the anticipated demand for skilled workers. It is anticipated that this project will create new employment and training opportunities in the construction industry for Gulf Coast residents. The project will build a stronger union presence in the New Orleans and Gulf Coast region, while providing job skill training for residents wishing to return to the area. Joining Sweeney, Nagin, Sullivan, Campbell and Coyle in announcing the Gulf Coast Revitalization Program were AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka; AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson; Greater New Orleans AFL-CIO President Robert “Tiger” Hammond; Southeast Louisiana Building and Construction Trades Council President Donald Denese and Executive Secretary Joseph Bertucci; Louisiana AFL-CIO President Louis Reine; Mike Arnold, secretary-treasurer of the AFLCIO Investment Trust Corporation; James R. Kelly, CEO of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans; Charlotte Bourgeois, chief operating officer of Catholic Charities of New Orleans; Phil Thompson, associate professor of urban politics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Reed Kroloff, dean of Tulane School of Architecture; and Rev. Michael P. Jacques of the Society of St. Edmund, pastor of St. Peter Claver Church. The billion dollar investment plan will be carried out by three labor-backed investment and financial service organizations—the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust (HIT), the AFLCIO Building Investment Trust (BIT) and the AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation (ITC). Both the HIT and BIT invest Taft-Hartley and public employee pension funds in housing and economic development projects nationwide to seek competitive returns for their participants. The ITC provides marketing, investor relations and investment development services for the BIT. All construction projects financed by the HIT and BIT are built with 100 percent union labor. Key components of the AFLCIO Gulf Coast Revitalization Program include the following: „ Multifamily Housing: $250 million in direct financing to be provided by the HIT for the production or rehabilitation of housing. This significant finan- Penn. WWII Mariners Eligible for $500 Bonus Applications for the Pennsylvania Merchant Marine World War II Veterans bonus now are available at each county’s Veterans’ Affairs Office. The legislation, which was sponsored by Pennsylvania State Rep. John A. Maher (R-Allegheny/Washington) and signed into law April 12 by Pennsylvania Gov. Edward Rendell, calls for a one-time, $500 cash bonus to qualified veterans. To be eligible, an applicant must be a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Merchant Marine between Dec. 7, 1941 and Aug. 15, 1945; be in possession of a DD Form 214 evidencing honorable service; and be a legal resident of Pennsylvania on April 12, 2006. The benefits will be paid from July 2006 a U.S. Merchant Marine World War II Veterans’ bonus fund, a restricted receipt account in the general fund. Money for the fund will be appropriated from the General Fund by the General Assembly, and any money remaining in the fund on June 30, 2007, will be returned to the General Fund. Applications for this bonus must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2006. All applications will be reviewed, and payments will be made by next summer. For application forms or additional information, call 1-800547-2838 or write to the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs, Bureau for Veterans’ Affairs, Ft. Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003-5002. Their web site is located at: www.dmva.state.pa.us. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney cial investment will seek to build or renovate 5,000 to 10,000 housing units, both in New Orleans and other Gulf Coast communities, and is expected to leverage an additional $150 million from other public and private sources. Special emphasis will be given to affordable housing, and workforce and special needs housing, as well as worker training programs in the building and construction trades. „ Commercial and Economic Development: $100 million in direct investment by the BIT for commercial real estate development in New Orleans and other Gulf Coast cities. BIT investments will seek to focus on hotels and other economic development projects that create jobs in construction and services. These investments are expected to leverage an additional $150 million. The ITC will also explore the feasibility of alternative housing solutions, such as manufactured and modular housing. „ Health Care and Hospital Facilities: In conjunction with other partners, the HIT will seek to invest $100 million in health care facilities and hospital construction. These investments will help reduce the significant shortage of health care facilities in the region. „ Home Ownership: $250 million will be designated through the HIT’s successful HIT HOME mortgage program to enable union members and public employees to purchase homes throughout the region. In addition, HIT will work with local community development corporations on innovative home ownership programs for low-income families such as limited equity co-ops and the Section 8 program. „ A Long-term Commitment: Demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region, the ITC has leased office space at 1100 Poydras Street, Suite 2870, in downtown New Orleans. Experienced staff will work with the city and other labor, financial and community organizations throughout the Gulf Coast region to carry out the investment program. Since September 2005, HIT, BIT and ITC staffs have spent thousands of hours in the region assessing the critical housing needs of local communities and developing ties with local governments and community organizations. As part of the commitment to the region, the ITC last month joined with Providence Community Partners—a group that includes the Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, Christopher Homes, and three community development corporations (Reconcile New Orleans, Tulane/Canal Community Development Corporation and UJAMAA Community Development Corporation)—to submit a proposal to the city of New Orleans for redevelopment of 196 abandoned adjudicated properties in Tremé and Tulane/Gravier that are available for single and multifamily development. “Labor plays a vital role in the social and economic life of our community” said Hammond, president of the New Orleans AFL-CIO. “What Katrina destroyed, we will help to rebuild. Our neighborhoods have been destroyed, our citizens scattered, but our spirit and resolve are strong. This is a great program for this city, our communities and our workers.” Hammond mentioned that the local AFL-CIO will also play a role in supporting the labor-sponsored training programs for people seeking jobs in the building and construction trades. Continued Increases in Health Care Costs Affect All Sectors of American Economy The high cost of health care in this country has received lots of publicity lately. Employers are seeing double-digit premium increases annually, resulting in skyrocketing out-of-pocket expenses for their employees, including increased co-pays for office visits and prescriptions as well as high deductibles for insurance benefits. American automobile makers are one of the hardest hit segments of the population. Health care costs for General Motors Corp. (GM) workers and its retirees add $1,500 to the price of every car. Toyota’s health care costs are figured to be half that amount, still a substantial figure. In recent remarks, the president of the United Automobile Workers union (UAW), Ron Gettelfinger, told his members that they cannot ride out the automobile industry crisis and should be prepared to make tradition-breaking decisions to help rescue the industry. While U.S. companies have been moving overseas, foreign automakers have been increasing their investments in the United States, and sales of their American-made products have been increasing even faster than those of imports. As foreign-owned final assembly plants opened in the United States, foreign-based parts suppliers also expanded here. This has resulted in a reduction in the union share of the auto industry—from roughly 60 percent of the workforce in the early ’80s to about 30 percent today (even less for parts workers like GM’s spinoff Delphi Corporation, whose members were to decide by June 23 whether to accept buyouts and other retirement incentives to leave their jobs). Gettelfinger—long a proponent of national health care coverage—pointed to many reasons for the industry’s extensive health care expenditures. Bad management, coupled with Detroit’s fading fortunes, helped create a health cost crisis that has become “unsustainable” in the face of the auto companies’ declining sales. This, he said, was one reason why the UAW agreed to substantial health care concessions last year. Jobs in the UAW, which were once considered to be the envy of the labor movement for their contracts with high wages and extensive benefits, are now experiencing the same demands for givebacks that have swept other workers across the United States. In Quincy, Mass., for example, exploding health care costs for the city’s public employees was considered to be a major topic as city hall begins negotiating new contracts for its nearly 2,000 workers. The city currently covers 90 percent of the health care costs for most of its employees—a high percentage even among traditionally generous packages for public employees—but union officials fully expect the new contract to reflect a shift in how health care costs are split between the city and employees. School districts also are affected. In San Francisco, the school district faces declining student enrollment (and the resulting loss of state funds) and is seeing its worker health care costs skyrocket. The district has lost about 1,000 students every year for the past several years, and each departing student means $5,000 less in state revenue based on student attendance. That means the district will take in $5 million less next year and $10 million less in two years and therefore will have to make unpopular decisions to close more schools, lay off staff or further cut programs. But the fastest-growing financial strain, according to the district’s director of policy and planning, is the retiree health benefits. Until three years ago, teachers working in San Francisco Unified had to have just five years in the district to retire with lifetime health care benefits. In 2004, because of escalating costs, the teachers union renegotiated longer vesting periods. Teachers already in the district at that time now have to work 12 years to earn the same benefits, while new teachers must work 20 years. Policymakers and government officials agree that health care costs need to be controlled, but there has been no consensus as to the best way to go about it. The National Coalition on Health Care stated that while there appears to be no agreement on a single solution to health care’s woes, a continuing escalation in health care spending and health insurance premiums will severely affect the quality of life for employees—as well as the bottom line for many employers. Seafarers LOG 5 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 6 Engine Dept. Training Gets an Upgrade Following exhaustive efforts to logically restructure and improve its curriculum in the engine department, officials in the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s vocational department recently announced revised matrixes designed to help Seafarers advance their careers. Members currently holding any classification QMED 4 through OMED 1 are not impacted by the revised system and do not have to “retrain.” However, if they want to advance from a current classification, they will do so through the new system. The fresh career tracks consist of updated courses along with some old ones. Students may follow the paths all the way from entry ratings to licensed positions in the engine department. “The career path revisions mainly are due to Coast Guard requirements stemming from the STCW convention,” said J.C. Wiegman, Paul Hall Center assistant director of training. “Under STCW, advancement depends on practical demonstrations of skills. The training matrixes reflect those requirements.” Training essentially begins with the equivalent of “phase 3” of the unlicensed apprentice program. After completing the first three modules (and accumulating enough sea time), students may choose from among four avenues leading to certifications as QMED machinist (QMED dayworker), QMED watchstander, QMED pumpman, and QMED electrician, respectively. Simulator training—which will be used to help students in the completion of their assessments— will be a key component of this new career track. Those interested in pursuing an engine department license may continue on another track (“officer in charge of an engineering watch”) culminating in any one or more of several licenses. Simulator training will be a key component of the new career track. Students will utilize the new Haven steam simulator, the Transas electric plant simulator, the Transas slow and medium speed diesel simulator and others to assist them in completing their assessments. More information may be obtained by contacting the admissions department at the school at (301) 994-0010, extension 5202. Union, School Mourn Instructor Larry Malone The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education were saddened when Lawrence Patrick Malone, formerly an instructor at the Southern Maryland school and a highly decorated U.S. Navy officer, died May 26 in California, Md. following a long battle with cancer. He was 65. Malone, who worked at the school from January 1997 until just a few weeks before his death, coordinated many of the Paul Hall Center’s classes in addition to teaching vessel familiarization and other deck department courses. He particularly embraced the challenge of instructing unlicensed apprentices as they first entered the program in Piney Point, Md. He made a powerful, lasting impression on students, school officials and fellow instructors. “He was one of the most unique individuals I ever met,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “He was an ex-Navy chief and he didn’t take no [stuff] from anybody. When he handled scheduling classes we never had a problem—ever. He was a great guy, and he had no tolerance for complainers.” J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the school and also a Navy veteran, said he and Malone were friends in addition to colleagues. “Larry and I met each morning at the school and discussed the plan for each day,” he recalled. “Privately, I called him captain and he called me chief. This was a mutual understanding of naval tradition and my respect for him as a mustang commander who earned the distinction of having command at sea (similar to going up the hawsepipe and becoming a ship’s master). We argued, we laughed and we tried to keep our days on an even keel over the last six or seven years. “When he was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago, he was determined to beat it even though he wasn’t given much of a chance,” Wiegman continued. “He fought the battle through many ups and downs. He never forgot the school and came back frequently, as he would say, to check in on us—and finally even to say goodbye. Fair winds and following seas, captain.” Director of Training Bill Eglinton remembered Malone as “not shy. He would tell it like it was. Larry’s main crusade was trying to jump-start or motivate those kids with good potential who wouldn’t engage in class. He did a tremendous job.” Instructor David Martin knew Malone both in the Navy and at Piney Point. “Larry was an amazing man,” he said. “I can remember him when I was 20 years old and he was the gravelly voiced LTJG Bosun on the USS Kiska. We all very much respected Bosun Malone, and I remember how well he took care of his troops—us—even though we had a lot of underway commitments. He was always in my corner. “Twenty-one years later,” Martin added, “I was 6 Seafarers LOG Larry Malone (left) helped students at the Paul Hall Center to stay motivated to do their best. taking a lifeboat class at Piney Point as a retired BMCS (senior chief bosun’s mate), and lo and behold, who walked in to administer the test but Larry Malone…. I always loved working for him, and we all will miss him.” Instructor Jim Shaffer said Malone “was one of a kind, a straight shooter. I think that’s what everybody liked about Larry—he didn’t beat around the bush…. He was proud of his military career, having worked his way up through the ranks, but he wasn’t a braggart.” Shaffer said that although Malone could be demanding of students, he always treated them fairly and was quick to lend support. “If you had a job to do, he expected you to do it right,” Shaffer noted. “But if anyone needed anything, Larry was there for them. He was respected and admired by everyone here at the school and maybe feared by a couple. He’ll be missed by a lot of people.” A native of Dickinson, N.D., Malone served in the Navy for 29 years. Among other honors, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy “E” Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal (two Bronze Stars), Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. Malone is survived by many family members including his wife, three children, three stepchildren, five siblings and six grandchildren. A memorial Mass was conducted June 2 at St. George’s (Md.) Catholic Church; inurnment followed at Charles Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to OPIS, St. Mary’s Hospital, P.O. Box 527, Leonardtown, MD 20650; and/or American Cancer Society, St. Mary’s County Unit, P.O. Box 1032, Lexington Park, MD 20653. Engine department curriculums at the Paul Hall Center have been updated to help students advance their maritime careers while challenging them with the latest technology. Veitch and Richardson Chosen for AOTOS Awards Colin Veitch and Paul F. Richardson have been selected to receive one of the maritime industry’s most prestigious honors, the 2006 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award (AOTOS). The honorees on May 22 were announced by John Bowers, chairman of the United Seamen’s Service AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association. Veitch is president and CEO of SIU-contracted NCL America; Richardson is a container shipping pioneer and president of Paul F. Richardson Associates Inc. They led the field of nominees sought from more than 150 maritime labor, management and government officials. The duo is slated to receive their awards Nov. 3 during an industry dinner and dance in New York City. All proceeds from the event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries. The recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea. “Colin Veitch, in commencing brand new passenger services flying the American flag, has shown a renewed faith in a U.S. presence on the international seas and will provide muchneeded employment for our seafarers,” noted Bowers. “We are saluting his vision and actions. “With this being the 50th anniversary year of containerization, it is significant that we recognize a true pioneer, Paul F. Richardson,” continued Bowers. “He was with Malcolm McLean, the father of containerization, even before this momentous revolution began in 1956 and today remains a vital force and participant on the worldwide transportation scene.” “Our recipients have been selected by those who know them best, international transportation leaders who understand very well the challenges and issues which confront United States shipping and the American seafarers and recognize their leadership in this area,” Bowers added. Under Veitch’s direction, NCL America placed into service the Seafarers-crewed Pride of Aloha, NCL’s first U.S.-flag vessel, in June 2004. It was the first deep sea passenger ship to join the American fleet in 50 years. A year later NCL America welcomed the Pride of America; the Colin Veitch, left, and Paul F. Richardson have been selected to received the 2006 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award. company’s third U.S.-flag ship, the Pride of Hawaii, entered service last month. As U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta said, “Raising the Stars and Stripes over more ships raises our maritime strength and raises jobs.” NCL America’s three U.S.flag ships are expected to generate more than $828 million in U.S. economic activity and 20,400 jobs, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers study. Besides serving as president and CEO of NCL America and Norwegian Cruise Line, Veitch also is president of Orient Lines and a member of the boards of NCL Holding ASA and Star Cruises, Ltd. Richardson’s experience in transportation has been as a specialist in containerization, company management and labor. He held a key leadership role in the dynamic growth of Sea-Land Service, Inc., forging its development and serving as president and vice chairman of the innovative steamship company. In 1977, he established Paul F. Richardson Associates, Inc., an international maritime and transportation consulting firm serving various segments of the maritime industry including carriers, ports, shipbuilding companies, inland carriers, labor and labor-management groups. Today, Richardson serves on numerous boards, councils and committees including the American Bureau of Shipping, U. S. Coast Guard Foundation, Council of the Americas and other significant government commissions and committees. Established in 1942, the United Seamen’s Service operates centers in nine foreign ports in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 7 Cape Decision Delivers in High-Profile Mission Brigadier General Bivens Commends Crew, Cites Support and Teamwork An SIU-crewed vessel under the operational jurisdiction of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command recently completed a high-visibility mission in Poland. The cargo ship Cape Decision from April 19-20 was in Szczecin, Poland, returning combat equipment used by that country’s military forces in Iraq. Seafarers aboard the 681-foot roll-on/roll-off vessel off-loaded more than 49,000 square feet of cargo belonging to members of the Polish army. Off-loaded items included more than 160 trucks, six helicopters, tanks, trailers and in excess of 100 containers of supplies. Brig. Gen. Nolen V. Bivens, in a letter to the Decision crew following its mission, in part said: “Thanks for all you do to support America’s fighting men and women. I look forward to our continued teamwork.” General Bivens is assistant chief of staff, C-3, Coalition Forces Land Component Command, Third U.S. Army. He visited the Cape Decision and its crew in December 2005. SIU-crewed MSC ships have been a familiar sight in Szczecin and other Baltic seaports since 2003 when MSC vessels began using them to load U.S. and coalition force cargo bound for the Middle East and for use in Operation Iraqi Freedom. An important partner in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Polish military forces took part in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Poland had 2,500 soldiers deployed to the region at the height of its engagement in the newly-democratized country. MSC ships since 2003 have moved nearly 430,000 square feet, or seven-and-a-half football fields’ worth, of combat equipment for these troops. “This is indicative of the enduring relationship the U.S. military has with Poland and our coalition partners in Europe,” said Capt. David K. Wright, Mariners’ Rights Resolution Continued from page 2 Seafarers to maintain a fair and essential freedom of movement in the normal conduct of their profession, while contributing to the maintenance of heightened security norms.” The General Conference of the ILO adopted the revised Convention during its Ninety-first session in June 2003 as C185, but very few countries have ratified it, including the United States, Canada and Great Britain. The SIU joint resolution continues as follows: “Considering the continuous and difficult struggle of both American and Canadian Seafarers to cross the U.S.-Canada border in this era of heightened border security; and given that the barriers have become so great that in numerous instances Seafarers are being completely denied access to the neighboring territory, and this simply because there is no generally accepted and easily available set of identity documents; “Considering that as long as seafarers have gone to sea, shore leave has been a cherished right; that vessels could not be manned should shore leave not be granted; and given that the livelihoods of many American and Canadian seafarers are presently at stake as a result of the absence of an agreed and efficient system of providing identity documents; “Considering that there have been important revisions to passport and visa requirements for Seafarers in North America and elsewhere; that there is not presently an all-encompassing maritime worker identity verification and background check system that is generally recognized by both Governments; and that neither the SIU AGLIWD nor the SIU of Canada is favorable to the present obligation imposed on their members to obtain passports and visas in order to have access to shore leave; “Considering that the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) may be the solution to the problem of estab- July 2006 lishing generalized and systematized identification criteria; “The Seafarers International Union, representing both its American and Canadian districts, hereby: “RESOLVES through each District to lobby their respective Governments in order to secure the establishment as rapidly as is reasonably possible of uniform North American regulations governing Seafarer identification, whether through the North American implementation of TWIC rules or some similar protocol; that these uniform regulations would involve a collateral agreement between Washington and Ottawa with the objective of permitting Seafarers secure access to North American ports and the territory of both the U.S. and Canada based on this uniform identity documentation; “RESOLVES that whatever form this uniform identity document will take, whether as a TWIC document or otherwise, that it will conform to the following principles: (a) that it be recognized and accepted throughout the United States and Canada; (b) that it establish uniform requirements and conditions for Seafarers, whether based in the U.S. or Canada; (c) that it impose fair and reasonable requirements on Seafarers who seek to obtain the identity document in question; (d) that the document respect, to the extent consistent with security needs, the fundamental rights, liberties and privacy of the holders of such identity document; and (e) that the document in question ensure the freedom of movement, including complete shore leave access to those Seafarers who obtain the documentation in question. “RESOLVES to undertake all actions consistent with the law, to ensure that the maritime union movement takes its proper and essential role in the protection of transport security worldwide and participates fully, together with government and industry in the war on terrorism.” commander, Sealift Logistics Command Europe. SEALOGEUR is MSC’s European area command and is responsible for overseeing the movement of U.S. Navy cargo and logistics ships in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. “It is also a great example of the important role Military Sealift Command plays in the U.S. and coalition forces’ efforts in Iraq.” Since the beginning of the global war on terrorism and operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, MSC has moved more than 88.6 million square feet of combat equipment for troops in theater worldwide—with much of it carried on SIU-crewed ships. Seafarers-crewed vessels have also helped deliver more than 8.8 The Seafarers-crewed Cape Decision recently completed a key mission in Poland. billion gallons of fuel. That is enough fuel to fill the Empire State Building nearly 32 times. Operated by Seafarers-con- tracted Marine Personnel and Provisioning, the Cape Decision is 681 long with a beam of 97 feet. It can sail at more than 16 knots. Union Plus Rolls Out Two More Programs No-cost accidental death insurance and voice broadband phone service are the latest offerings in an ever growing list of programs for union members through Union Plus. Because the SIU participates in Union Plus, Seafarers and their family members are eligible for both programs. The insurance program, UnionSecure Accidental Death, is designed to help protect the future of union members’ families and is available at no cost to union members. The Union Plus Voice broadband phone service can help union families save on phone calls—up to $400 per year depending on the plan they choose. Insurance Program Union members can enroll in the no-cost UnionSecure program simply by calling 1-800-3930864, or by visiting www.UnionSecure.com. No medical exams are needed and members are not required to purchase anything, according to Union Plus. By calling the former number or visiting the web site provided, union members’ families can get up to $5,000 worth of coverage in the event of accidental death from covered motor vehicle/ pedestrian accidents, or $1,000 of coverage for death due to any other type of accident at home, at work or while commuting or traveling anywhere in the world. Union members who already have insurance may supplement it with this coverage—at no cost to them. UnionSecure was created through a partnership between the Union Labor Life Insurance Company and Union Privilege, established by the AFL-CIO to provide Union Plus benefits. To help working families gain security, UnionSecure has developed a broad range of insurance plans that union members and retirees can afford. It chose Hartford® to provide the plans because of that company’s outstanding record. All UnionSecure plans are subject to strict oversight by the trustees of the AFLCIO Mutual Benefit Fund, who have a legal obligation to protect the interests of union members. Union Plus Benefits for SIU Members If you are a member or retiree of SIU, you and your family are automatically are eligible for Union Plus benefits associated with the following programs. For more information visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-800-452-9425. Money & Credit „ Credit Card „ Union-Made Checks „ Credit Counseling „ Your Credit Score „ Loans „ Online Tax Service Insurance Deals „ Accident Insurance „ Auto Insurance „ Life Insurance „ Pet Insurance Health & Well Being „ Health Club Discounts „ Health Savings Education Services „ Education Services Phone Service With Union Plus Voice broadband phone service, union members get all the features of normal phone service plus those offered through this program. To use the service, members need broadband internet access through a cable or DSL internet connection. Union Plus Voice offers the following benefits and more, according to promotional material sent to the SIU: „ Save up to 85 percent compared to normal phone bills „ Unlimited calling, one monthly rate „ Quick installation, easy to use Auto Advantages „ Goodyear Tire & Service Discount House & Home „ Mortgage & Real Estate „ Moving Discount „ Home Heating Oil Discounts Everyday Savings „ ConsumerReports.org Discount „ Flower Discount „ Powell’s Bookstore „ Music Discounts „ Clothing Discounts Travel & Recreation „ Entertainment Discounts „ Car Rental Discounts „ Worldwide Vacation Tours „ Cruise Discounts „ Travel Center Computers & Tech „ Broadband Phone Service „ Dell Computer Discounts „ Cingular Wireless Discount „ Internet Service Discount „ No activation fees A variety of plans are available under the program, including unlimited outbound and inbound calling across the 48 contiguous states and Canada for $22.89 per month. Other plans are available for as low as $11.89 per month. Union Plus card holders can get additional savings with unlimited calling for $199 a year or less than $17 a month. Some plans are as low as $8.33 per month and affordable international plans are also available. To sign up visit www.UnionPlus.net/Voice or call 1888-868-6818. Notice SHBP Booklets Posted, Mailed The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has posted separate, updated booklets on line at www.seafarers.org in the “Member Benefits and Resources” section. One booklet is a “Guide to Benefits” for active Seafarers; the other is a benefits guide for retirees. On the web site, the guides are in PDF format. Printed copies of those same booklets were being mailed last month to eligible members and retirees. The mailings were scheduled to be finished by early July. Seafarers LOG 7 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 8 ALWAYS READy Bosun Lynn Mallis ABOARD THE USNS SODERMAN The men and women aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Soderman continue to stand ready on a daily basis in support of the U.S. military. As one of the Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) large, medium-speed roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessels, the Soderman made multiple trips between the United States and the Middle East during the height of Iraqi Freedom to deliver urgently needed combat equipment and later to bring back military materiel that was no longer required in the theater of operations. Operated by Maersk Line Limited, the Soderman is one of the vessels in MSC’s Afloat Prepositioning Ship Squadron Four. The 950-foot Soderman is now forward deployed to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, loaded with Army equipment and supplies and ready for a rapid response at any given time. The photos on these two pages were sent to the LOG by Ron VonDrachek, chief engineer aboard the Soderman. The USNS Soderman in Diego Garcia OS German (Max) Maximo QMED Tristum Beeks AB Dale Harrison OS Kosar Iqbal Supply Officer Edwin (Dino) Coleman The photo at left of Chief Steward Kimberly Strate and Chief Cook Efren Matias was taken as the two were preparing for the lagoon-wide “Compsron Two Iron Chef” competition. The fact that the crew won a trophy for “Most Original” didn’t surprise anyone on the Soderman. At right is the “Best of the Best” galley gang. From the left are Chief Cook Matias, Chief Steward Strate, SA Margaret Young and SA Sarah Canon. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 9 ALWAYS READy ABOARD THE USNS SODERMAN OS Enrique Defendini QMED Rutland Gale checks readings on the #2 A/C chiller. QMED Adnan Nasser and Wiper Nabil Nasser prepare for a lathe project. OS Kyle Hudson Electrician John Hunt does some troubleshooting. AB Timothy Dunn Electrician Ousmane Ka performs preventive maintenance on the generator. AB Nathan Carr AB Terrell Poole July 2006 AB Josh Wilson Seafarers LOG 9 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 10 Seafarer Weil Gets Revved Up About U.S. Merchant Marine Custom Chopper Honors Union, School, Industry When Seafarer Paul Weil decided to help publicize his industry, he did it in style. The QMED-electrician picked an unusual, eye-catching way to raise the profile of the U.S. Merchant Marine when he ordered a custom-built chopper adorned with spectacular artwork promoting the industry in general and the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education specifically. The project took longer than expected and it hasn’t come cheap. By the time Weil adds custom rims and exhaust pipes, the price tag will push $60,000. Nevertheless, Weil, a 1999 graduate of the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program, said he was very pleased with the chopper when he picked it up in late May. He certainly found an appreciative audience at the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., where Weil brought the motorcycle to share with fellow members, SIU officials and school staff. “I figured it would help bring attention to the merchant marine,” said the 32-year-old Seafarer. “It’s also a way of giving back to the union and the school,” which together helped him find his niche. In 2003, Weil (pronounced, as he says, “Like wait a while”) sailed for about nine months in Operation Iraqi Freedom aboard the Maersk Constellation. In the following months, he rekindled an old idea for the custom chopper as he met more and more people who knew little or nothing about the U.S. Merchant Marine. A longtime motorcycle enthusiast, Weil said the chopper features a 1500cc Super Sport engine and a hydraulic clutch and brake system that helps maintain “a clean look.” It has Seafarer Paul Weil says the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education helped put him on the right path—a big motivation behind his custombuilt chopper. Instructor Makes Point at Piney Point six gears and—theoretically— would top out at around 160 mph or more. Outlaw Customs of Prince Frederick, Md. built the chopper (topped off with an alligator-skin seat), while Pro Artworks of Upper Marlboro, Md. did the painting. The latter component is breathtaking in its detail. The fuel tank bears the U.S. Merchant Marine slogan, “In Peace and War,” along with the industry seal and a finely illustrated eagle seemingly perched above it. The rear fender carries the SIU motto, “Brotherhood of the Sea.” Beneath the seat is a ship’s wheel with “SIU” and “Class 584,” Weil’s apprentice group. Despite the monetary cost, in many ways the chopper has been a labor of love for Weil, a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. A quick look at his background helps illuminate his passion for the maritime industry. Weil grew up in a tough part of Washington, D.C. and as a teenager admittedly struggled to find his direction. He earned his GED but didn’t have the time or money for college. Eventually, at the urging of a friend, he enrolled in the apprentice program, a staple of the Paul Hall Center since the school opened in 1967. Piney Point offered new challenges, but Weil eventually settled into the program and made the most of the opportunity. “Shipping was the big key” in helping him onto the right path, he said. “At the school, it all worked out for the best. Since then I’ve never had a bad ship.” As evidenced by the chopper Weil, a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, plans to sail “forever” even while pursuing other business interests on the beach. The chopper’s finely detailed artwork pays tribute to the SIU, the Paul Hall Center and the industry in general. (Note: Larger, color versions of these photos are available on line at www.seafarers.org, in the Heard at Headquarters section.) project, Weil is ambitious. He operates his own shoreside business (offering catering, construction and cleaning services, among others) and plans to earn a third engineer’s license. “The sky’s the limit, but I plan to sail forever,” stated Weil. “And I already plan to design another custom chopper.” Help Keep America Secure Paul Hall Center Instructor Eric Malzkuhn (standing in top photo and at right) last month accommodated the needs of a hearing-impaired student who enrolled in the school’s EPA refrigeration certification technician course. The student was part of a group of contractors from the nearby Patuxent River Naval Air Test Center. Malzkuhn, a longtime engine department instructor at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., had previously learned sign language due to family members who also are hearing impaired. 10 Seafarers LOG ATTENTION SEAFARERS: Contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 11 Below: Eli and Alethea Rantanes with their granddaughters Chelsie (right) and Cecily stopped off at the SIU headquarters on their way home to Canton, Ohio, where Eli is on the executive board of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. Right: Eli, 81, sailed deep sea from 1943-53 and then on the Great Lakes for 29 more years. He shipped with the SIUNA-affiliated MFOW and later with MEBA and AMO in the engine department. He is holding a framed photograph of the WWII Merchant Marine Memorial located in Canton, which he gave to President Michael Sacco to thank him for his support over the years for merchant marine vets. Seafarers and their families: These are some of the images we all look forward to seeing—and sharing with our brothers and sisters of the sea. If you have a family-related photo you would like to be included in the next family photo page, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photos will be returned, if so requested. If e-mailing digital images, please send them to dhirtes@seafarers.org. The higher the resolution, the better. Right: Bosun Kervin Velazquez visits the SIU hall in San Juan with his new baby, Amaury. Right: Feb. 4, 2006 was visitors’ day at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Thomas Hampshire, a member of the unlicensed apprentice program, was visited by his wife, Mary Ellen, and their daughter Chelsea (who put on a uniform just for fun). Michael Thomas and his 12-year-old son, Matt, recently toured “Old Ironsides”—the USS Constitution, docked in the port of Boston. Thomas, who has a second mate ticket, is an SIU hawsepiper and AMO full book member who enjoys reading the LOG. SIU San Juan Port Agent Amancio Crespo joins his family at honors day for daughter Amanda (right) at her school, Christian Military Academy. Next to Crespo is daughter Cristina and wife, Maria de los Angeles. July 2006 Left: QMED Joseph Benavente, who ships out of Guam, recently brought his family to the hall. With him are his wife, Millie, 4-year-old daughter, Shainne, and newest addition, Vinitia, who was born May 17. Right: QMED Christian Rosado and his wife, Melissa, drop by the San Juan hall with daughter Keyshla. Seafarers LOG 11 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:19 PM Page 12 GERMANY SHIPYARD The ship was floated out on Feb. 19 and then underwent sea trials before sailing for the United States in April. MAKER BALTIMORE PORT of CALL PANAMA CANAL TO MARKET Thou of Ne f Seaf ATLANTIC to PACIFIC Officials from the SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers turned out to greet the ship when it sailed through the Panama Canal on May 11. Pictured from left to right are Omar Velarde, José F. Amador, Francisco González, Lidia Gómez, SIU VP At Large René Lioeanjie, Fernando Williams, UIW VP Orlando Diaz, Alcides Ulloa, María E. Vergara and Fernando Duran. 12 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:51 PM Page 13 LOS ANGELES CHRISTENING SIU President Michael Sacco was one of the featured speakers at the christening. He noted that the NCL America ships mean thousands of new jobs and a boost to America’s national and economic security. The SIU-crewed Pride of Hawaii, NCL America’s newest cruise ship, traveled an extensive route from the shipyard to its home port in Hawaii, where it arrived May 28. Before its christening May 20 in Los Angeles, the vessel stopped in Baltimore and later transited the Panama Canal (among other stops). Photos from throughout the journey, beginning with the Pride of Hawaii’s construction in Germany (it was floated out on Feb. 19) are shown on these two pages. Extensive coverage of the christening was included in the June issue of the Seafarers LOG and also may be found online at www.seafarers.org. housands New Jobs for eafarers NCL America’s ships—the Pride of Hawaii, Pride of America and Pride of Aloha—offer cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. HAWAII HOME PORT July 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:04 AM Page 14 Health and Research Groups Trying to Tackle Avian Flu The World Health Organization (WHO) on June 15 confirmed that a young Indonesian girl who died on June 1 was infected with bird flu, taking the country’s total deaths from the virus to 38. The newly confirmed case pushed the cumulative total in Indonesia to 50 including the 38 fatalities. Bird flu has spread rapidly since late 2003 from Asia to Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Earlier last month Djibouti reported its first human case of H5N1, the first confirmed human case in the Horn of Africa. Following are some facts about the H5N1 avian flu virus and its spread around the globe: „ Since the virus re-emerged in Asia in 2003, outbreaks have been confirmed in more than 48 countries and territories, according to data from the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). „ Since the beginning of January 2006, more than 30 countries have reported out- „ „ „ „ „ breaks, in most cases involving wild birds such as swans. The virus has killed 129 people since 2003, according to the WHO. Countries with confirmed human deaths are: Azerbaijan, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam. In total, the virus is known to have infected 226 people since 2003, according to the WHO. Many of those who died are children and young adults. Vietnam and Indonesia have the highest number of cases, accounting for 80 of the total deaths. The H5N1 virus is not new to science and was responsible for an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Scotland in 1959. Britain confirmed a new case in Scotland on April 6. H5N1 is not the only bird flu virus. There are numerous strains. For example, an outbreak in 2003 of the H7N7 bird flu virus in the Netherlands led to the destruction of more than 30 million birds, around a third of the country’s poultry stock. About 2.7 million were destroyed in Belgium and around 400,000 in Germany. In the Netherlands, 89 people were infected with the H7N7 virus, one of whom (a veterinarian) died. „ The H5N1 virus made the first known jump into humans in Hong Kong in 1997, infecting 18 people and killing six of them. The government ordered the immediate culling of the territory’s entire poultry flock, ending the outbreak. „ Symptoms of bird flu in humans have ranged from typical influenza-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat and muscle aches, to eye inflammations (conjunctivitis), pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, viral pneumonia, and other severe and life-threatening complications. Meanwhile, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) early last month announced a $5 million award to support the development of a global network to track avian influenza, with the aim of monitoring the role of migratory birds. According to a USAID release, the Global Avian Influenza Network for Surveillance (GAINS) will enhance international efforts to collect and analyze laboratory samples from wild birds and identify genetic changes in the virus. The entire award package totals $6 million, including a $1 million contribution from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Spearheaded by the Wildlife Conservation Society, GAINS will work in countries situated along key migratory routes to improve the collection, coordination, and laboratory evaluation of samples from wild birds. The goal of this effort is to enhance understanding of the role wild birds play in the movement of the avian flu virus around the world. In addition, GAINS will create, update, and make data available to researchers related to avian influenza surveillance and migratory bird activity. IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. 14 Seafarers LOG “The United States is already supporting efforts to develop animal surveillance and build diagnostic and laboratory capacity in at least 25 countries,” said Dr. Dennis Carroll, director of USAID’s Avian and Pandemic Influenza Response Unit. “The GAINS program is an extension of our important work. The information GAINS produces will feed into systems to warn people about the movement of avian influenza. This network will significantly bolster our ability to support the international community in response to the virus.” The announcement supports the successful outcome of the second meeting of the International Partnership for Avian and Pandemic Influenza, held in Vienna, Austria, June 6-7. The U.S. delegation, headed by Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs Dr. Paula J. Dobriansky, also included representatives from USAID, and the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services. “Leaders must continue to encourage their colleagues at home and abroad to be forthcoming with information critical to global response efforts,” Dobriansky said at the meeting. “Providing accurate information to international partners can significantly limit both the human and economic impacts of an outbreak.” To date, USAID has allocated $158.4 million to fight avian influenza. The agency also collaborates with other U.S. government agencies, international partners, and local governments and organizations to provide support in 46 countries. Vaccine Tested In a related development, several sources on June 14 reported that a laboratory-produced bird flu vaccine protected ferrets against several strains of H5N1 avian influenza during a study. The ferrets were immunized with a vaccine based on an H5N1 avian influenza virus isolated in Hong Kong in 2003. Injections they received protected them against a newer variant of the virus, according to researchers at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis and the University of Tennessee. The study was published on the web site of the Journal of Infectious Diseases, the sources reported. Vaccine makers may not have to wait until the H5N1 virus evolves to become more contagious among people before producing inoculations for a worldwide outbreak, said the work’s authors, who include Elena Govorkova and Richard Webby. Earlier vaccine production may save lives and reduce the severity of illness, they said. “An effective influenza vaccine is urgently needed as H5N1 viruses continue to spread in Asia, not only causing an increasing number of human infections and high mortality rates, but also showing evidence of probable human-to-human transmission,” the authors wrote. Experts say a pandemic of some kind of influenza is inevitable and that H5N1 looks closer than any other virus to causing such a global wave of disease. A vaccine would provide the best protection. But flu vaccine technology is slow and unwieldy and a new vaccine has to be formulated every year to match the current circulating strains. Vaccine experts fear that they would have to wait until H5N1 changes into a human pandemic strain before they can make a vaccine against it. By then it could have infected millions. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:22 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2006 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 2 0 7 14 2 7 40 46 2 7 12 40 22 6 0 8 29 2 24 28 298 0 0 5 6 2 7 15 22 0 8 9 18 9 4 3 1 15 0 13 17 154 1 0 2 5 0 11 22 16 1 4 9 20 11 1 4 4 25 1 19 26 4 8 4 22 7 3 29 27 0 12 13 20 18 1 9 10 17 9 29 11 253 1 1 5 7 4 4 11 19 1 7 8 11 12 4 1 2 11 5 20 7 141 1 0 2 7 3 6 5 8 0 5 3 2 15 1 2 2 6 0 5 8 1 2 2 2 2 1 15 9 1 2 3 18 6 1 0 4 2 2 11 9 93 0 0 2 3 1 3 4 6 0 0 0 7 7 3 0 1 3 0 8 3 51 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 2 4 1 0 1 2 2 4 3 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 4 10 1 4 31 25 1 7 9 16 10 1 1 5 20 0 25 23 193 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 3 5 15 3 6 23 15 0 9 3 13 11 2 15 5 11 4 21 9 175 1 2 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 1 1 8 2 0 0 0 1 2 8 7 41 0 1 1 6 0 2 20 22 0 9 3 17 8 0 1 6 11 1 22 11 141 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 4 3 0 6 7 10 0 6 5 7 4 2 2 2 9 2 13 11 93 1 0 3 8 1 3 7 8 0 5 3 9 5 4 0 2 4 1 18 10 92 0 0 1 2 0 3 5 2 0 0 0 2 4 2 0 1 2 0 3 2 29 1 0 2 4 0 1 7 9 0 3 4 8 4 1 0 3 3 0 6 9 65 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 3 4 2 4 19 11 0 3 3 12 6 2 1 0 19 0 22 21 182 81 30 133 1 0 0 0 0 3 6 0 0 2 2 5 1 0 1 0 6 0 7 2 0 1 5 6 2 8 19 17 0 5 5 40 13 0 10 5 14 0 17 9 4 2 3 5 1 3 18 19 1 1 4 22 17 1 33 0 7 2 16 14 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 0 1 6 1 5 3 10 0 4 1 2 10 0 3 2 4 1 4 9 67 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 15 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 2 4 5 1 4 10 3 0 3 1 21 6 0 8 1 14 1 10 2 0 0 0 6 4 1 11 6 1 1 2 6 9 0 37 0 5 1 6 2 1 0 2 4 0 1 8 13 0 2 0 4 8 2 0 2 5 1 9 11 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 2 0 10 18 5 16 76 64 1 22 21 79 30 8 1 15 37 2 51 50 3 3 3 8 5 3 34 18 1 2 9 25 8 2 1 4 4 2 14 16 508 414 165 0 0 6 14 2 10 33 34 0 12 19 32 17 3 4 3 15 0 18 22 2 2 5 10 6 7 18 29 3 13 9 20 26 2 3 6 14 6 28 14 1 0 2 6 1 5 8 11 1 0 1 12 12 2 2 1 3 0 8 9 244 223 85 1 0 5 7 1 18 37 23 1 8 10 41 17 1 8 5 37 2 26 46 0 0 3 8 5 6 12 10 0 4 6 11 18 3 1 2 2 0 7 10 1 0 1 4 0 0 4 4 0 2 2 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 5 8 73 294 108 46 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 5 10 5 0 3 2 8 1 0 0 2 9 0 8 2 2 1 4 6 3 17 32 30 1 10 6 78 19 0 17 6 16 3 27 16 6 5 4 9 3 10 34 37 1 2 7 41 30 1 17 0 13 1 25 24 36 176 173 12 96 98 0 56 294 270 670 651 347 431 430 183 279 1,102 1,039 566 *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2006 3 12 9 34 13 6 38 41 4 18 17 37 27 7 11 13 20 12 56 36 Piney Point .............Monday: August 7 ................................Tuesday: September 5* .................................(*change created by Labor Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: August 11, September 8 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 10, September 7 Boston.....................Friday: August 11, September 8 Guam ......................Thursday: August 24, September 21 Honolulu .................Friday: August 18, September 15 Houston ..................Monday: August 14, September 11 Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 10, September 7 Joliet .......................Thursday: August 17, September 14 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 16, September 13 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 15, September 12 New York................Tuesday: August 8, September 5 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 10, September 7 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 9, September 6 Port Everglades.......Thursday: August 17, September 14 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 17, September 14 San Juan..................Thursday: August 10, September 7 St. Louis..................Friday: August 18, September 15 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 25, September 22 Wilmington ...........Tuesday: August 22* ..............................Monday: September 18 .................................(*change created by Paul Hall Day holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals MC&S PICNIC CANCELED David Cunningham, reunion chairperson, would like to announce that this year’s Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) annual reunion has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances TALAMA MOEGA Please contact John Brown at 1-800-828-1110, ext. 1341. Inland Career Opportunities – Immediate Job Openings The SIU has immediate openings in the inland division. Interested individuals who possess either a 1,600-ton master’s license (with near coastal or ocean endorsements) along with an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) STCW certificate; or a designated duty engineer (DDE) 5,000 hp or greater license are encouraged to contact Bart Rogers at the union’s manpower office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5317 for additional information. In Texas, the SIU has immediate openings aboard harbor tugs. Interested individuals who possess either a mate or master’s license (inland) greater than 200 GRT, or are licensed as a chief or assistant engineer (6,000 hp or greater) are encouraged to contact Jim McGee at the SIU hall in Houston, (713) 659-5152. Seafarers LOG 15 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:04 AM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Port Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 9 2 3 10 0 0 2 29 0 4 2 0 4 1 1 0 12 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 1 6 Port 4 13 3 0 6 0 0 3 29 0 1 2 0 5 1 1 0 10 0 1 1 0 2 2 0 1 7 0 9 3 0 5 2 1 1 21 13 27 1 15 38 0 1 1 96 3 9 2 9 25 0 0 0 48 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 4 1 0 2 0 0 0 7 6 14 0 5 17 0 0 3 45 1 7 0 1 10 0 0 0 19 1 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 5 2 0 2 1 0 3 15 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 Port 2 5 2 0 2 1 0 2 14 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 2 1 1 7 0 1 2 16 1 2 1 0 6 0 1 0 11 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 4 2 3 1 1 3 0 0 2 12 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 6 0 1 2 0 0 2 0 1 6 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 4 16 2 4 16 2 1 0 45 1 7 0 2 14 0 0 0 24 1 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 5 Totals All Departments 60 27 13 55 19 16 32 186 91 17 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner William L. Nihem of Jacksonville, Fla. It was taken in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1947 on Sugarloaf Mountain. In a note accompanying the photo, Brother Nihem states that the crew members were on the SIU-contracted Liberty ship James R. Randall, making a five-month trip to four continents. Nihem is on the left; Blackie Smith is in the center. He can’t remember the name of the other shipmate. Brother Nihem joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of New York. Born in Michigan, he retired in 1982 as a chief steward. SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ANDREW BALASH, 65, joined the union in 1995 in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Balash, who sailed in the engine department, upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Balash was born in New York but calls Dania Beach, Fla. home. JAMES BLANCHARD, 65, launched his seafaring career in 1964. Brother Blanchard’s first ship was the Commander. The deck department member is a native of Mississippi. Brother Blanchard attended classes on numerous occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed on the USNS Henson. Brother Blanchard lives in Mobile, Ala. RUBEN CASIN JR., 67, embarked on his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Casin’s first voyage was aboard the Brooks Range. He was born in North Carolina and sailed in the steward department. Brother Casin upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Before retiring, he shipped on the Comet. Brother Casin settled in Nevada. FAUSTINO CASTILLO, 65, was born in Honduras. Brother Castillo started shipping with the Seafarers in 1991. He first worked on the Independence. Brother Castillo attended the Paul Hall Center in 1997, 2000 and 2001. He sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the P&O Ned Lloyd Buenos Aires. Brother Castillo now makes his home in Houston. HENRY COLAR, 65, became an SIU member in 1963. Brother Colar’s first voyage was aboard the Cathy. He was born in New Orleans and shipped in the deck department. Brother Colar’s last trip to sea was on the Carolina. He is a resident of Marrero, La. CATALINO DIAZ, 65, hails from Puerto Rico. Brother Diaz began shipping with the SIU in July 2006 1970 in New York. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Diaz upgraded his seafaring skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. His first ship was the Halcyon Panther; his last was the Horizon Producer. Brother Diaz makes his home in Caguas, PR. FAITH DOWNS, 65, joined the SIU in 1979. Sister Downs first shipped in the inland division aboard a Delta Queen Steamship vessel. She was born in Baltimore and worked in the steward department. Sister Downs was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. Most of her career was spent aboard deep sea vessels such as the Gemini. Sister Downs calls Virginia Beach, Va. home. CHARLES FINCHER, 69, launched his SIU career in 1991. Brother Fincher’s first ship was the Overseas Chicago. The California-born mariner upgraded his seafaring skills in 1996 and 2000 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Fincher last sailed aboard the Long Lines. He is a resident of Volcano, Hawaii. HOWARD GIBBS, 71, started shipping with the SIU in 1959 in New York. Brother Gibbs first sailed on the Steel Artisan in the deck department. He upgraded his skills on a number of occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gibbs’ most recent voyage was on the Horizon Spirit. Born in Pennsylvania, he calls Fairfield, Calif. home. RICARDO SEBASTIAN, 65, became an SIU member in 1988. Brother Sebastian worked primarily aboard the Independence in the engine department. Born in the Philippines, Brother Sebastian enhanced his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He currently lives in Honolulu. EDWARD WINNE, 66, is a New York native. Brother Winne began shipping with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Seattle. His first ship was the Santa Mercedes. Brother Winne enhanced his skills often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Arkansas. Brother Winne continues to make his home in New York. Wilmington, N.C., Boatman Todd worked aboard Cape Fear Towing vessels. He continues to make his home in Wilmington. INLAND RUSSELL COGNEVICH, 58, joined the union in 1974. Boatman Cognevich worked primarily aboard Crescent Towing of New Orleans vessels. He upgraded in 1984 at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Cognevich settled in his native state, Louisiana. LONNIE GAMBLE JR., 62, began sailing with the union in 1967. Boatman Gamble worked in the steward department, sailing in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He most recently worked on the Delta Mariner. Boatman Gamble attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He resides in his native Alabama. JOHN SPARKS, 57, embarked on his seafaring career in 1979 in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Sparks was born in South Carolina. He last worked aboard a Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville vessel. DONALD TODD, 62, became a union member in 1975. Born in GREAT LAKES ALLAN JOHNSON, 64, joined the union in 1963. Brother Johnson worked in the deck department. His first trip to sea was on a Rockport Steamship Company vessel. Brother Johnson enhanced his seafaring abilities on three occasions at the Piney Point school. Born in Frankfort, Mich., he last sailed aboard the Indiana Harbor. He continues to live in Frankfort. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. EUSEBIO AMAYA, 70, joined the union in 1982 in Chicago. Brother Amaya was born in Honduras. His first ship was the Amoco Indiana. Brother Amaya worked in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the Liberator. PAUL BORG, 65, became an NMU member in 1967, initially sailing from the port of San Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The Seafarers International Union rocked the maritime industry this week with the dramatic announcement that the union hiring hall will be retained in its contracts with member companies of the Atlantic and Gulf Ship Operators Association. Agreement between the union and the association, representing nine major companies, came after almost three weeks of negotiations during which the SIU committee firmly refused to discuss any other issue until its demands for retention of the hiring hall had been recognized. With the central issue settled to the union’s satisfaction, discussions on other contractual issues are now in progress. Francisco. Brother Borg was born in San Pedro, Calif. Prior to retiring, he worked aboard the Adm. William Callaghan. LYNN BOYD, 68, hails from Los Angeles. Brother Boyd started sailing with the NMU in 1969 from the port of Seattle. His most recent voyage was on the Chesapeake Bay. KENNETH DELANCEY, 56, joined the NMU in 1968 in San Pedro, Calif. Brother Delancey’s first ship was the Keystone State. The steward department member was born in Torrance, Calif. Brother Delancey’s last trip to sea was on the Fredericksburg. MAHFOUD FAYED, 55, was born in Yemen. Brother Fayed joined the NMU in 1977 in San Pedro, Calif. His first ship was the Texaco Minnesota. Brother Fayed last sailed on the Argonaut. JAIME PABON, 56, began his seafaring career in 1974 in New Orleans. Brother Pabon’s first voyage was on the Baldbutte. He was born in New York. will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. 1982 Construction on the SIU’s brand new six-story headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. is nearing completion. The building is located just minutes by car from downtown Washington, D.C. All of the exterior work has been completed, and interior work is moving along rapidly. The building should be ready for occupation in the next few months. The opening of this structure gives the SIU a very visible presence in Washington, where the fortune of the U.S. maritime industry is decided on a daily basis. This Month In SIU History 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership during the regular July membership meeting at headquarters, President Paul Hall told the members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28-acre site at Piney Point, Md. to train young men for entry-level jobs aboard American-flag ships. This 1996 Deployed on its first assignment, the SIU-crewed USNS Shughart is operating out of Newport News, Va., where it is participating in a series of military exercises. The U.S. Army support ship, operated by the Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), recently sailed from San Diego to the East Coast. The vessel also will undergo some minor work at Newport News Shipbuilding. Earlier this year, the Shughart was converted in a San Diego shipyard. Seafarers LOG 17 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JOSEPH BILLOTTO Pensioner Joseph Billotto, 77, died March 21. Brother Billotto began sailing with the SIU in 1951. Born in Italy, he initially shipped on the Steel Fabricator as a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 2000, Brother Billotto worked on the Horizon Challenger. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. SALVATORE FRANK JR. Pensioner Salvatore Frank Jr., 84, passed away March 24. Brother Frank began his seafaring career as a charter member in 1939. The deck department member first sailed aboard a Doric Shipping Company vessel. Brother Frank was born in Connecticut. His last voyage was aboard the Independence. Brother Frank went on pension in 1984. He made his home in Barnstable, Mass. ANTULIO GARCIA Pensioner Antulio Garcia, 82, died March 9. Brother Garcia was born in Puerto Rico and joined the SIU in 1966. A member of the engine department, Brother Garcia began sailing aboard a Debardeleben Marine Corporation vessel. His last voyage was on the OMI Charger. Brother Garcia started collecting his pension in 1986. He was a resident of Land O’ Lakes, Fla. RAYMOND O’DOWD Pensioner Raymond O’Dowd, 78, passed away Jan. 6. Brother O’Dowd joined the SIU in 1946 in New Orleans. His earliest trip to sea was aboard an A.H. Bull company vessel. Brother O’Dowd was born in Utica, N.Y. He worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Achiever. He retired in 1992 and lived in Manlius, N.Y. LANIX REED Pensioner Lanix Reed, 89, died Feb. 27. Brother Reed joined the union in 1952. His first ship was the Ft. Hoskins, on which he sailed in the deck department. Brother Reed was born in Louisiana. Prior to retiring in 1982, he shipped on the Over Anchor. Brother Reed called Evangeline, La. home. FRED TIERNEY Pensioner Fred Tierney, 61, died Feb. 21. Brother Tierney joined the SIU in 1968. He first sailed on a Manhattan Tankers Corporation vessel. Brother Tierney was born in New York and shipped in the engine department. His most recent journey was aboard the Gopher State. Brother Tierney, who made his home 18 Seafarers LOG in Brooklyn, N.Y., became a pensioner in 2000. WILLIAM SISTO Pensioner William Sisto, 77, passed away Feb. 13. Brother Sisto became a Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) member in 1973. His maiden voyage was aboard the President Polk. Brother Sisto was a native of Pennsylvania. He worked in the steward department, last sailing on the Kaimoku. He went on pension in 1995 and settled in Torrance, Calif. INLAND CLARENCE LANCASTER Pensioner Clarence Lancaster, 84, passed away Feb. 24. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Lancaster embarked on his seafaring career in 1962. He was first employed aboard vessels operated by Gulf Atlantic Transport. Boatman Lancaster last shipped on an Allied Towing Company vessel. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1993. Boatman Lancaster was a resident of his native state. NORMAN SAWYER Pensioner Norman Sawyer, 72, died Feb. 21. Boatman Sawyer began sailing with the SIU in 1956. He shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Boatman Sawyer first worked aboard a Sinclair Oil Corporation vessel. He was born in Virginia but called Harbinger, N.C. home. Boatman Sawyer retired in 1995. GREAT LAKES WILLIS CAMPBELL Pensioner Willis Campbell, 79, passed away March 16. Brother Campbell launched his seafaring career in 1951 in Detroit. He initially sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel in the deck department. Brother Campbell was born in Michigan. He most recently shipped on the Susan Hannah. Brother Campbell, who went on pension in 1995, lived in Cleveland. GLOUCESTER FISHERMEN SEBASTIAN SCOLA Pensioner Sebastian Scola, 87, died March 17. Born in Massachusetts, Boatman Scola joined the union in 1980. He primarily worked aboard fishing boats in the Gloucester Fisherman’s union. Boatman Scola retired in 1982. He resided in Essex, Mass. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. RUPERT ALEXIS Pensioner Rupert Alexis, 80, passed away Nov. 21. He joined the NMU in 1947, initially sailing from New Orleans on the St. Mary. Brother Alexis was born in Honduras and worked in the steward department. His last voyage was on the John Lykes. Brother Alexis went on pension in 1987. sailed from New York aboard a Liberty ship. Prior to retiring in 1968, he sailed on the United States. Luckenbach. Brother Niles started receiving his retirement compensation in 1968. CLYDE LANTRIP WALTER POLLARD JOSE APONTE Pensioner Clyde Lantrip, 93, died Nov. 3. Brother Lantrip started his seafaring career in 1937. His first vessel was the Coppename. Brother Lantrip worked in the steward department and was a native of Mississippi. He became a pensioner in 1976. Pensioner Walter Pollard, 71, died Dec. 10. Brother Pollard was born in Newport News, Va. He began sailing in 1955 aboard the James Bowdoin. Brother Pollard shipped as a member of the steward department. He became a pensioner in 1983. HAROLD LUKE JACK RUSSELL Pensioner Jose Aponte, 81, died Dec. 4. Brother Aponte launched his seafaring career in 1945, first sailing from the port of New York on the Nicholas Gilman. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Aponte was a member of the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the African Rainbow. Brother Aponte began receiving his retirement stipends in 1969. MARIO AYUSO Pensioner Mario Ayuso, 77, passed away Nov. 7. Brother Ayuso donned the NMU colors in 1951 in New York. His first voyage was on the Kettle Creek. Brother Ayuso was born in Puerto Rico and shipped in the steward department. He retired in 1987. TORIBIO BLANCO Pensioner Toribio Blanco, 74, died Dec. 13. Brother Blanco became an NMU member in 1965 in New York. His first ship was the Constitution; his last was the Green Harbor. Brother Blanco was a native of Honduras and sailed in the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1998. EUGENE CAUVIN Pensioner Eugene Cauvin, 94, passed away Nov. 21. Brother Cauvin began working with the NMU in 1951 in the port of New York. The steward department member last sailed on the Brazil. Brother Cauvin began receiving his retirement compensation in 1971. CHARLES EIFFERT Pensioner Charles Eiffert, 82, died Dec. 14. He initially shipped from the port of New Orleans aboard the Jack Carnes. Brother Eiffert was born in Louisiana and sailed as a member of the engine department. His last voyage was on the Joseph Lykes. Brother Eiffert went on pension in 1967. RESTITUTO GARCIA Pensioner Restituto Garcia, 88, passed away Dec. 24. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner joined the NMU in 1945. Brother Garcia first Pensioner Harold Luke, 78, passed away Nov. 5. Brother Luke embarked on his NMU career in 1964, first shipping from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. The engine department member was born in Florida. Brother Luke’s last voyage was on the Marine Princess. He started collecting his pension in 1989. Pensioner Jack Russell, 82, passed away Dec. 13. Brother Russell became an NMU member in 1942 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He first sailed on the Lewis Luckenbach in the steward department. Brother Russell was a native of Portsmouth, Va. Before retiring in 1995, he sailed aboard the Marine Princess. CONSTANTINOS MENDRINOS EDUARDO SANTANA Pensioner Constantinos Mendrinos, 84, died Dec. 7. Brother Mendrinos joined the NMU ranks in 1943 in New York. His first ship was the Stephen F. Austin. Brother Mendrinos was born in Greece. He began his retirement in 1971. Pensioner Eduardo Santana, 90, died Dec. 4. Brother Santana started shipping with the NMU in 1945. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner worked in the steward department. Brother Santana’s first ship was the Helen Whittier; his last was the Santa Elena. He began his retirement in 1966. RICHARD MONROIG Pensioner Richard Monroig, 88, passed away Oct. 5. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Monroig began sailing with the NMU in 1951 in the port of New York. He worked in the steward department. Brother Monroig went on pension in 1971. His last voyage was aboard the Argentina. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. Name Age DOD Alexis, Nelson 75 Apr. 24 Anglada, Carlos 80 May 12 Baker, Robert 68 Apr. 6 Bentick, Ronald 92 Apr. 13 JASPER NICHOLS Cole, Sam 90 Apr. 2 Pensioner Jasper Nichols, 92, died Nov. 3. Brother Nichols began his NMU career in 1937 in New York. His first trip to sea was on the Pennsylvania. Brother Nichols was a steward department member. He last worked aboard the United States. Brother Nichols retired in 1970. Coleman, Curtis 76 May 30 Evans, Aaron 73 May 15 Eylders, Gerritt 82 May 5 Ghany, Solomon 88 May 2 Leggington, John D. 79 May 4 Lemkuil, Norman 81 May 21 McBride, James 88 Mar. 15 Phillips, James 77 May 11 Pope, Rubin 79 May 9 Ritchie, Elmer 79 May 14 Romer, Albert 102 Apr. 6 Rosado, Pablo 80 May 17 Stankewicz, Zigmund 83 Apr. 21 Stewart, Freddie 81 Apr. 24 Turner, Noble 76 May 23 Veino, Robert 75 Apr. 25 Wellington, John 73 Apr. 24 Zuloaga, Lucio 88 May 11 WILLIAM NILES Pensioner William Niles, 86, passed away Dec. 19. Brother Niles joined the NMU in 1946 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Thomas F. Cunningham. A member of the steward department, Brother Niles was born in the Virgin Islands. His last voyage was on the Audrey July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. CAPE KENNEDY (Keystone Shipping), May 1—Chairman Donald Byrd, Secretary Eddie W. Taylor, Educational Director Tran P. Luu, Deck Delegate Leandro A. Cacho, Engine Delegate Joseph Shepard Jr., Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Chairman advised all members to keep documents current. “You can’t sail without them.” He also encouraged them to contribute to SPAD for job security. Secretary reminded crew that safety comes first, no matter what the task is. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Those in need of applications should see the electrician. Beef noted in steward department; no disputed OT. Crew requested new TV antenna system for lounge, 10 fold-away cots and copies of health and pension plans booklets. Vote of thanks given to all three departments for job well done and working well together. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. COMMITMENT (Maersk Line Limited), May 24—Chairman Edward J. O’Connor, Secretary Thomas W. Milovich, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Engine Delegate Keithley L. Andrew. Chairman announced May 28 payoff in Newark, N.J. He asked crew members to clean rooms and see patrolman before departing vessel. Secretary suggested Seafarers clean up after themselves in pantry area and make new pot of coffee if they take the last cup. Educational director informed crew they can renew z-cards up to a year in advance, and it’s a good idea to do so because of the long waiting time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to separate old batteries and aerosol cans from plastics. Suggestions made regarding pension plan. Members requested new recliners in crew lounge. Four new mattresses are on order. Recommendation made to reduce seatime needed for pension benefits. Thanks given to steward department for excellent job. DENALI (Alaska Tanker Company), May 8—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Sean O’Malley, Educational Director John C. Henry, Deck Delegate Dee Poitevien, Engine Delegate Corey P. Hann, Steward Delegate Dennis Skretta. Chairman stated he was anticipating new tanker agreement next month; hoping for substantial gains. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from headquarters read and discussed. Suggestion made to eliminate vacation pay and have it incorporated into base pay. Crew members were happy to have Steward O’Malley back aboard ship. They also thanked Chief Cook Skretta for job well done. Request made to keep crew deck doors dogged and not to perform chipping by house from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Clarification requested on whether pumpmen are required to operate winches during mooring operations. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska; Cherry Point and Port Angeles, Wash. EL MORRO (Interocean American Shipping), May 28— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Monroe G. Monseur, Deck Delegate Janaro N. Jackson. Chairman announced June 1 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked all departments for helping keep ship clean and working safely. Secretary thanked Chief Cook Antonio Mendez, SA Terence Bennett and UA Darrell Taylor for their outstanding work. Educational director urged mariners to keep all documents current and upgrade at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next ports: San Juan, P.R.; Jacksonville. Bosuns on the Brittin Recertified Bosuns Stanley Daranda (left) and Ronald Charles are pictured aboard the USNS Brittin last month in New Orleans. The ship is in ROS status and recently hosted a ceremony conducted by the U.S. Military Sealift Command honoring crew members from several SIU-crewed vessels who sailed in support of hurricane relief operations along the Gulf Coast. July 2006 HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), May 21— Chairman Joel G. Miller, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn. Chairman announced May 23 payoff after arrival in Oakland, Calif. Secretary asked that everyone clean room before departing vessel; this has been a bit of a problem on past voyages. Educational director advised crew to have documents ready when patrolman boards ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like information about upcoming contract. Next ports: Oakland; Los Angeles; Honolulu. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), May 15—Chairman Steven L. Bush, Secretary Robert P. Moseley, Educational Director Donald D. Williams Jr., Deck Delegate Augustus C. Udan, Engine Delegate Haven M. Iussig, Steward Delegate Regalado M. Bayan. Bosun informed crew that ship run will change in January. He stressed importance of donating to SPAD and how it will benefit union and membership. Those getting off ship should leave room clean and supplied with linen for next person. Everyone should check with Customs and Immigration and with the patrolman. Secretary advised Seafarers to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $291 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain thanked crew for great job on sanitary inspection. All crew members were asked to keep noise down while watch stander is sleeping. Thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam; Taiwan. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), May 28—Chairman Weldon J. Heblich, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Deck Delegate Wilfredo G. Caidoy, Engine Delegate Rey D. Farinas, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman announced payoff at sea prior to arrival in Tacoma if there are no beefs or disputed OT. He stated that current contract expires June 15 and that negotiations for new agreement are in process. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and watch expiration dates on MMDs. He also suggested that those retiring should keep z-cards updated or they’ll eventually lose their ratings if they decide to rejoin. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated $750 in ship’s fund. Footwear issue was discussed: slippers or open toe shoes should only be worn in rooms. Next port: Tacoma. ITB MOBILE (USS Transport), May 14—Chairman Joshua A. Mensah, Secretary Virgilio A. Donghit, Educational Director Jose M. Ramirez, Deck Delegate Carlos A. Arauz, Engine Delegate Adam M. Williams, Steward Delegate Duane K. Washington. Secretary informed mariners of pumpman course available at Piney Point school. He thanked crew members for separating wet and dry garbage. Educational director spoke about the benefits of upgrading skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification on status of crew. Members also requested written answers to questions about health insurance and deductibles. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. MAERSK RHODE ISLAND (Maersk Line Limited), May 16— Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary Army L. Leake, Educational Director Christopher J. Kirchhofer, Deck Delegate Seth Ruckwell, Engine Delegate Ronnie L. Day Jr., Steward Delegate Frank D. McCreary. Chairman asked members to keep all doors locked and secured in port at all times. Educational director explained new z-card renewal policy (one can apply 360 days in advance of expiration). No tion made pertaining to medical benefits and union dues. Next ports: Houston; Philadelphia. USNS RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships), May 16—Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Eric A. Kjellberg, Engine Delegate Tracy L. Hanson, Steward Delegate Thomas K. Gingerich. Bosun read letter from company pertaining to 4 percent base wage bonus to members who complete their tours of duty without sickness or injury. Bonus will be added to Lending Their Expertise Seafarers (from left) Gil Manipon, Tom Wybo and Woodrow Brown recently volunteered their services for the Seattle Port Maritime Council’s annual labor-management awards luncheon. The event took place May 18 at the Catholic Seamen’s Club in Seattle. The port council is part of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department. beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on travel pay in the U.S.A. or its territories. Members requested new TV and short wave radio for crew lounge. Seafarers were asked to report anything that needs to be repaired to the 1st assistant engineer. Next port: Sasebo, Japan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), May 14—Chairman Mohammed S. Ahmed, Secretary Douglas A. Hundshamer, Educational Director Randy D. Clark, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidji, Steward Delegate Alexander Cordero. Chairman announced May 20 payoff in New Jersey. Coast Guard and security checks will take place in Charleston, S.C. May 16. He encouraged gangway watches to stay alert when being questioned on procedures by Coast Guard officials. Secretary reported he was left with a good, organized steward department from previous steward. Remembrance held for late Assistant Vice President Steve Judd. He was an asset to the SIU and will be missed. Condolences went out to his family and friends. Treasurer reported new TVs and DVD players recently purchased for crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new pillows. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Charleston; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J. OCEAN TITAN (Pacific Gulf Marine), May 20—Chairman Kyle F. Schultz, Secretary Norman S. Bush, Deck Delegate Charles B. Collins. Chairman announced May 23 payoff in Houston. He reminded those crew members getting off ship to place dirty linen in laundry bags and clean room for next person. Educational director urged Seafarers to make sure all documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommenda- vacation check. To receive bonus, crew members must receive form from captain at payoff to be turned in when applying for vacation benefits. Secretary requested clarification on Article V Section 7(e) and Article V Section 12(a) of contract regarding additional personnel aboard ship. Educational director encouraged everyone to contribute to SPAD for job security. He also recommends mariners watch necessary shipping documents for expiration dates. Treasurer stated $135 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested information on how much company is contributing to SMPPP in new contract and whether it will increase over next four years. Bosun reminded crew to sign out DVDs and only take one at a time. Steward department given vote of thanks for great food, especially with 15 extra people aboard. Vessel is scheduled for Operation Pacer Goose in July—the annual resupply mission for Thule, Greenland. Next ports: Wales; Rota and Cartagena, Spain. USNS SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Ships), May 14— Chairman Aristeo M. Padua, Secretary Randy A. Stephens, Educational Director James G. Sloan, Deck Delegate Christopher J. Keshlear, Engine Delegate Steven M. Haver, Steward Delegate Randy A. Stephens. Chairman announced May 21 payoff in Houston. He talked about the 4 percent base wage bonus for completing a tour with no injury or illness. Treasurer stated $300 in ship’s fund. Secretary talked about short training course in personal awareness available for which certificates of completion are given. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to put 4 percent vacation incentive into next contract. No injuries reported in any department; everyone has been participating in all drills and meetings. Next ports: Houston; Key West, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 20 Letters to the Editor Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Former Seafarer Recommends New NCL America Cruise I retired from the SIU and then joined the Masters Mates & Pilots in 1951 after receiving my third mate’s license. As an unlicensed quartermaster, I sailed on the Alcoa Clipper and then as an officer on the Alcoa Corsair. They were good jobs. We carried 98 passengers on 16-day Caribbean cruises. It was such a pleasure for me and my lady friend to take a cruise on the Pride of America last April around the Hawaiian islands. I was able to get acquainted with the captain, officers, crew and other personnel. It Darley C. Bodden included a copy of his SIU retiring card, dated Sept. 27, 1951. was so much different from the foreign-crewed ships I’ve been on since I retired in 1984. I think it is great that NCL America has two ships and another coming soon to cruise the around the Hawaiian islands. I think everyone on the Pride of America is doing a great job, and they all seem to be happy. I would recommend the Pride of America to anyone who would like to take a good cruise. Darley C. Bodden Port Neches, Texas Bon Voyage to the Seafaring Hoggies The last of the “Hoggie” brothers, George Hatgimisios, died May 14, 2006. Kosta (Gus) was the first to start shipping in the 1940s. He was on ships going to Russia and was torpedoed twice. Then “Hoggie” (John) joined and became a union official in Baltimore. Peter shipped as chief steward, and George joined them when he came out of the Army after serving four years in World War II. This was truly a seafaring family. All the brothers were cremated when they passed away, and were buried at sea. Bon voyage to the Hoggie brothers as they sail the celestial seas. Anna (Mrs. George) Hatgimisios Coconut Creek, Fla. Thank you and congratulations on a fine performance. Franklin Gary King President, 3PSC From the left: Peter, John, Gus and George Hatgimisios, taken around 1950. Bravo Zulu for Gordon Transition to FOS I would like to express my personal appreciation to the Seafarers International Union, and particularly to Georg Kenny and Sam Spain in the Norfolk hall for the excellent effort and outstanding performance of the union in the recent activation of the USNS Gordon. The ships were fully crewed and transitioned to FOS about one day early. The ship not only transitioned to FOS timely but also departed the pier on mission before the end of the 96-hour transition period. This outstanding performance demonstrates the union’s dedication to the security and defense of the United States and solidifies the value of the unions to the nation’s security. I would like to thank you and the other members of the SIU leadership team for your outstanding support. Bravo Zulu. Thanks from Scholarship Winner - I My name is Allison Barra and I am a 2002 recipient of the Seafarers scholarship (dependent of Louis D. Barra). I just wanted to express my sincere gratitude to the SIU for all of its help and support over the last four years. I graduated first in my class at the University of Florida a semester early and have been working at a law firm until this August when I will begin Law School at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. The scholarship money I received from the SIU allowed me to focus on my studies and perform service in my community while in college. I was able to volunteer with many organizations such as the Red Cross, St. Francis Homeless Shelter, Project Mascot Youth Mentoring Programs, Keep Alachua County Beautiful and Domestic Violence Shelters as a Service Ambassador. I also had the opportunity to intern with a circuit court judge as part of my curriculum and write a senior honors thesis. Without the support of this scholarship, I wouldn't have had as much time to truly engage in active citizenship and fully appreciate the “college experience.” I am forever grateful to the generosity of this institution and I hope that this year's recipients are able to fully utilize this resource. Thank you for your time, and I hope that you we will be able to share my thanks through the Seafarers LOG. Sincerely, Allison Barra Thanks from Scholarship Winner - II The support that the Seafarers Union has provided me has allowed me to graduate without having to take out any school loans in four years. On April 29, I received my bachelor of science in cell and molecular biology at Grand Valley State University. I have decided to continue my education and have been accepted into the University of Wisconsin at Madison to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry and cancer research. Additionally this summer, I will be interning at a cancer research institute until I attend graduate school this fall. My parents joke that I am a “professional student.” Again, the scholarship has been so helpful in lifting an incredible financial burden, and I am thankful to have been so lucky to have been selected to receive it. Sincerely, Brittany Stropich (2002 scholarship recipient, daughter of Steve L. Stropich) Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political pur- 20 Seafarers LOG poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The LaborManagement Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safe- guards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for July through the end of 2006. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Junior Engineer July 24 October 13 Marine Electrician October 23 December 15 Welding July 17 September 11 October 9 August 4 September 29 October 27 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* (one week) July 10 August 7 September 25 July 14 August 11 September 29 Basic Safety Training - AB July 3 August 14 September 25 November 6 July 7 August 18 September 29 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT July 24 September 18 November 13 July 28 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels - FOWT July 17 August 7 September 11 September 18 July 21 August 11 September 15 September 22 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* July 31 September 18 November 27 August 11 September 29 December 8 August 7 October 16 August 11 October 20 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 10 August 21 October 2 November 13 August 4 September 15 October 27 December 8 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) August 21 August 25 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 7 September 18 October 30 August 18 September 29 November 10 Radar August 7 August 18 Radar Renewal (one day) August 28 (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Steward Upgrading Courses (*must have basic fire fighting) Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning July 3, 2006. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops July 17 September 11 November 13 August 11 October 6 December 8 Fast Rescue Boat July 17 July 21 FOWT July 17 September 11 September 8 November 3 � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ Recertification Bosun October 9 November 6 Steward July 10 August 7 Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2006 SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:06 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 674 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 674. They include (in no specific order) Troy Lord, Billie Marshall, Harlan Alonzo, Hospicio Lupisan Jr., Jose Nieves, Jason Manion, Sean Fletcher, Jeff Cesvet, Jerome Liles Jr., Ernest Britt, Wilbur Torres, Jesse Willard, Jack Hill III, Edwin Pagan II, Michael Donovan, Robert Noble, John Chaney, Stephen McGruder and Sargent Anderson. AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending May 12 are (in alphabetical order) Ruben Aguirre, David Bennett, Glenard Chaney Jr., Allan Coloyan, Stephen Cooper, Fred Forsythe, James Gano, Nicole Geideman, Jay Jones, Linsey Knight, Timothy Littles, Marc Maffia, Elmer Marko, Kyle Parson, Renaudo Pierce, Abebe Reda, James Ruffin, Luis Segui, Michael Sherman, Jon Silveira, Alexander Ward and Bruce White. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — May 25 graduates of the lifeboatman/water survival course include (in alphabetical order) Norman Adler, David Barber, Larry Castaneda, Byron Collins, Isaac Diaz, Jay Jones, Martin Krins, Zlatko Lucic, Malek Mohamed, Juan Palacios, Howard Vick, Eric Vieira and David Warner. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. FOWT — Graduating from this course May 19 are (in alphabetical order) Heather Bushey, Hanah Cain, John Cox, Jose Deoferio, Roger Dillinger Jr., Justin Jarmalowicz, Stravon Jordan, Roy Martinez, Jimmy McCall, Mario Moralita, Timothy Johnson Jr, Lloyd Riddick, Franklin Rodgers, Devin Savoie, Harry Smith, Jo-Vanii Sprauve, Drandon Tanton, Sanjay Waidyarachchi, Philandar Walton, Richard Wright and Herman Fleischman. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is at far right. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given May 25 to (in alphabetical order) Steven DeLuca, Arthur Marshall, Rudolph Miller and Barbara Trahan. Their instructor, Buzzy Anderew, is in the back. Chief Cook — Under the instruction of Instructor/Chef John Dobson (third from right) are students who completed the course for chief cooks April 20. From the left are Cesar Santos, Arthur Peoples, Marcia Mossbarger, Alfonsa Eligio, Jermaine Robinson, Dobson, Suyapa Marin and Robert Austin. Computer Lab Classes Left: Holding their certificates of achievement for courses completed May 19 in the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center are (from left) John Daniels, Ruben Aguirre and Louis A. Segui. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, stands in the back row. Right: With instructor Rick Prucha (center, back row) are students who completed their computer courses June 2. They are (front row, from left) Arthur Marshall, David A. Warner, (back row) Joh Phillips, Byron A. Collins and Eric Vieira. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:06 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineer — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the junior engineer course June 23 are (in alphabetical order) Tawrence Abrams, Marcos Almazon, Rigoberto Beata, Felix Johnfinn, Melissa Leon Guerrero, Douglas Lowry, Forrest McGee, Lamont Robinson, Timothy Sexton, David Simpson, Thomas Swayne Jr. and Kelly Woolford. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far right. Government Vessels — Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed the government vesssels course June 2. They are (in no specific order) Algernon Reed, Jesse Willard, Taufiq Wasel, Wayne Altoonian, Greg Simmons, Jeff Cesvet, Stephen McGruder, Gregory Brown, Edwin Pagan, Antoine Best, Henry Callahan, Gregory Brunson Sr., Allan Coloyan, Bruce White, Fred Forsythe and Robert Waren. Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) — Another group of Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course May 12 are Morgan Tury, Brendan O’Brien, John Galatioto, Jeffery Novak, Ricardo Former, Scott Bloomfield, Nicholas Gattuso, Jonathan Rodriguez, Gregory Brown, Lawrence Stanley-Dalton, Ronald Byrd, Nicholas Kempker, Orien Nelson, Detrell Lambey, Mathew Alaniz, Aaron Carson and John Chaney. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course May 12 are Jeff Cesvet, Shawana Mills, Antoine Best, Lawanda Thornton, Algernon Reed, Wayne Altoonian, Thomas Jarrett, Lester DeSheers, Claytain Carr, Taufiq Wasel, Jesse Willard, Greg Simmons, Edwin Pagan and Steve McGruder. STCW — STCW — NCL, May 25: Marc Alwine, Sidney Babula, Edna Bactad, Elizabeth Bonanni, Gladys Bostic, Marvais Bowers, David Boyce, Jennifer Boyd, Sharon Boyers, Matthew Bruischat, Jennifer Bulin, Rebecca Burns, Todd Cash, Alfonso Castro, Ricardo CastroRangel, Paulo Choinski, Andrew Christensen, Paul Clinkscales, Fabio Cristiano, Krista Daigle, Jeremy Darling, Candace David, Juan DeLao, Ryan Deese and Eduardo Diaz. STCW — NCL, May 25: Terisa Marinos, Eduardo Martinez, Ashley Mihelich, Randy Milan, Tifani Obaseki, Nathan Ojeda, Stephen Palmer, Matthew Parker, Robert Patman, Karen Pedicini, Julio Perez, Amanda Perez, Rosario Perez, Natasha Pettigrew, Linda Pierce, Bernard Punu, Armando Quindo, Henry Quizon, Desiree Rafel, Joshua Regala, Andrew Reinhardt, Lindsey Reinig and Kimberly Retuyan. July 2006 NCL, May 25: Rodney Dixon, Robert Dougherty, Haley Anne Dunn, Thomas Ettenborough, Amorita Garcia, Andrew Garcia, Edgardo Gonzales, Chanice Guitang, Hebert Gutierrez, Justin Gwaltney, Mary Hays, Joy Hermann, Christine Jacinto, Danniele Johnson, Tara Jones, Melissa King, Jessie Littlejohn, Luz Lopez, Joetta Lopez-Garcia, Kenneth Lutz, Michael Mandigo, Kelly Manley and Abdellatif Marfouk. STCW — NCL, May 25: Jon Perry Corinna Richter, Loni Rosario, Mary Schluck, Kelly Shirey, El Roy Simmons, Melody Sinclair, Jason Skill, Oleg Solovyev, David Taxer, Tifani Thibodeau, Reuben Tobier, Rusty Tolson, Anthony Torres, Filippo Travisany, Andy Wilkerson, Brittany Willard and Donald Zimmerman III. Also included were SIU members Amy Atterbury, Gregory Brunson Sr., Saleh Eladari, Jose Figueroa and Robert Mason. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:06 AM Page 24 July 2006 Volume 68, Number 7 HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY JULY 4, 2006 At Home in the Port of San Juan After completing a tour of duty on the Horizon Hawaii, Chief Cook Jorge Salazar is ready for 60 days vacation. Jesse Cintron takes the oath of allegiance to the union and receives his deep sea full book. A general basic awareness course was held in May at the San Juan hall. Conducted by Mitch Oakley, an instructor from the Paul Hall Center, and VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, members found the course material very interesting. Victor Rios (right) shows Port Agent Amancio Crespo his certificate of achievement from a course he took at the Paul Hall Center. Safety First on the Capt. Hagen When not shipping out, the San Juan hall is a great place to stay in touch with fellow Seafarers. From the left are AB Abel Vasquez, AB Larry Castaneda, Bosun Ilya Ledesma, Bosun Jaime Baretty and QMED Armando Garayua. Penn Maritime’s ATB tug Capt. Hagen, with its barge Key West, anchored in the river just north of New Orleans last year after the hurricane. The 6,000 horsepower tug is 123 feet long. Together with its barge, the unit carries petroleum products and has a 140,000 barrel capacity. Juan Rebollo shows off his first inland pension check at the SIU hall in San Juan. With him is Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Receiving their first pension checks from Port Agent Amancio Crespo are . . . . . . Angel Garcia . . . Bosun Wilson Garcia Receiving their books from Port Agent Amancio Crespo are . . . Each crew member had an opportunity to practice handling all the equipment during a recent fire and boat drill. From the left are AB Steve Thompson, Mate Lou Barra (who sent these photos to the LOG) and AB/Tankerman Archie Bodden. . . . Chief Steward Juan Vallejo . . . Bosun Jaime Baretty � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PRESIDENT PRAISES MARINERS PHILLY TANKERS REACH CONSTRUCTION MILESTONES SIU STATEMENT FOCUSES ON MARINERS’ RIGHTS NEW OAKLAND HALL OPENING SOON STD. FREIGHTSHIP/TANKER CONTRACTS DUE FOR VOTE SIU STUDIES TWIC, MMC RULES PHILLY TANKER UPDATES: KEEL LAID FOR 2ND SHIP, CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 3RD CREWS OBSERVCE NATIONAL MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE AFL-CIO ANNOUNCES GULF COAST REVITALIZATION PROGRAM CONTINUED INCREASES IN HEALTH CARE COSTS AFFECT ALL SECTORS OF AMERICAN ECONOMY PENN. WWII MARINERS ELIGIBLE FOR $500 BONUS ENGINE DEPT. TRAINING GETS UPGRADE VEITCH AND RICHARDSON CHOSEN FOR AOTOS AWARDS UNION, SCHOOL MOURN INSTRUCTOR LARRY MALONE CAPE DECISION DELIVERS IN HIGH-PROFILE MISSION UNION PLUS ROLLS OUT TWO MORE PROGRAMS SEAFARERS WEIL GETS REVVED UP ABOUT U.S. MERCHANT MARINE HEALTH AND RESEARCH GROUPS TRYING TO TACKLE AVIAN FLU AT HOME IN THE PORT OF SAN JUAN Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2006 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 68, No. 7 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/776047c80d193b100980b36c0a22599b.pdf 6f1d15513930edd82665026a471784e2 PDF Text Text 36210p01_24X2.qxp 6/1/2006 9:20 AM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 6 June 2006 Aloha, Pride of Hawaii! Newest NCL America Ship Signals More SIU Jobs Seafarers welcomed the third ship in NCL America’s fleet—the Pride of Hawaii —at the vessel’s christening May 20 in Los Angeles. SIU President Michael Sacco (far left) was one of the featured speakers at the event. U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) (left in photo at immediate left, with Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay) sponsored and named the SIU-crewed ship at the pierside event. The official naming is shown in photo at upper left—pictured from left to right are NCL President and CEO Colin Veitch, Father Kahu Kordell Kekoa, Senator Inouye, Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay and Pride of Hawaii Capt. Kjell Nesheim. Pages 3, 12, 13. Seafarers Honored on National Maritime Day SIU members were honored during National Maritime Day ceremonies May 22 in Washington, D.C. In the nation’s capital, the union participated in events hosted by the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration, the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the Propeller Club. The SIU also took part in other Maritime Day ceremonies elsewhere across the country, including in San Pedro, Calif., where SIU President Michael Sacco was the keynote speaker. Pictured above, SIU officials and apprentices from the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education are joined by Rear Admiral Robert Reilly Jr., MSC commander, and Acting Deputy Maritime Administrator and Chief Counsel Julie Nelson. At right, SIU Bosun Thomas Moore (center) receives recognition for sailing in hurricane relief operations from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta and Acting Deputy Administrator Nelson. At left, U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao reinforces her support for a strong U.S.-flag fleet. Coverage starts on page 24 and continues on page 10. It’s also mentioned in President Sacco’s column on page 2. Scholarship Winners Announced USNS Spica in Rescue Operation Pages 2, 7 Page 9 �36210p01_24X2.qxp 6/1/2006 9:21 AM Page 2 Labor Secretary Announces Training Grant President’s Report Mariners’ Heroism, Then and Now For National Maritime Day this year I was invited to speak in San Pedro, California before members of the American Merchant Marine Veterans and others who support the U.S. Merchant Marine. As usual, I appreciated the opportunity to formally discuss our industry’s proud past and bright future. Also as usual, it was even more enjoyable afterward, when I informally met with a number of old salts in the audience. Those types of meetings are the best kind, especially when they involve U.S. Merchant Mariners from the “greatest generation.” One of the points I emphasized to the entire group Michael Sacco is that the passage of time tends to sanitize parts of our history. We simply cannot let that happen to U.S. Merchant Mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. When we memorialize our mariners, we should consider not only their fates, but also the incredible challenges they faced, most notably during World War II. For younger generations, those challenges probably seem distant and maybe even limited on the pages of history books, or in the grainy footage that was shot more than 60 years ago. But for the mariners of World War II, the odds weren’t good. The fear was real. The enemy was deadly. And yet the mission was essential. In San Pedro, some of the audience members knew from experience that the seafarers of World War II were attacked from every angle. They were bombed from enemy airplanes, fired upon by enemy ships and torpedoed by enemy submarines. Many did not survive. They died in blazing explosions, in icy waters, in lifeboats that drifted away to nothing. They died defending their country. Yet the mariners of that era also pulled off the greatest sealift operation in history. They sailed in every theater, regardless of the danger. They moved more than 300 million tons of materiel. They absolutely earned the title of America’s fourth arm of defense. Simply put, they delivered when their nation and indeed the rest of the free world needed them the most. As General Dwight 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.” Of course, the U.S. Merchant Marine’s heritage covers much more than World War II. Our mariners have been there literally since Revolutionary times, right up to today as we sail in support of our troops in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The seafarers’ names and faces have changed, and the ships look a lot different nowadays too, 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! Equally important is the fact that America still needs to maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet to help protect national and economic security. History has taught us, again and again, that when America is involved in conflicts, it depends on the sealift provided by a strong merchant marine. There is no other reliable, practical alternative. Before the Maritime Day events in San Pedro, I spent time at the christening of NCL America’s new cruise ship, the Pride of Hawaii. As you would expect, it’s a beautiful ship. It offers every luxury a passenger could want. But when I look at a ship like the Pride of Hawaii, I tend to look past the bells and whistles. What I see is the American flag flying proudly from the stern. What I see are American men and women working aboard that ship. What I see is one more reason why the U.S. Merchant Marine has a bright future. The deep sea cruise industry is a newly revitalized part of the merchant marine, but it most definitely is an important part. In fact, thousands of new jobs have been created aboard NCL America’s three U.S.-flag cruise ships— a development that helps maintain a pool of well-trained American mariners who can sail on military support vessels when needed. So in a way, I think the Pride of Hawaii pays tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine of years past. I also believe it symbolizes the ongoing truth that the best way we can honor the mariners of yesterday and confirm that they did not die in vain is to keep the American flag flying on the high seas. For all the right reasons, the SIU continues helping lead the fight to maintain and revitalize all segments of the U.S.-flag fleet. It’s a battle we are winning, as evidenced by the recent and current construction of new cruise ships and tankers, new containerships and RO/ROs and ATBs. It’s also evident in the continued strong support from the administration, Congress and the military for key programs including cargo preference, the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program, which are nothing short of vital to the U.S. maritime industry. As I said in San Pedro, the U.S. Merchant Marine has a lot to be proud of. We also have a lot to look forward to, and you better believe the SIU will continue living up to the high standards of our brothers and sisters throughout history who never failed to deliver. Volume 68, Number 6 June 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 U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao early last month announced a grant of almost $2.5 million to train workers for maritime occupations within the transportation industry. According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), “The grant to the education and training affiliate of the Seafarers International Union is part of almost $6.3 million invested to date in the transportation sector through the President’s High Growth Job Training Initiative, a strategic plan to prepare workers for jobs in vital industries.” “There are many career opportunities in the maritime industry for workers with the right skills,” said Secretary Chao. “This $2.5 million grant under the President’s High Growth Job Training Initiative will help thousands of new and incumbent workers to acquire or upgrade their skill-sets and knowledge base to access and retain good paying jobs on board merchant vessels.” In announcing the grant, the Labor Department noted that the Paul Hall Institute of Human Development (a component of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md.) “Will take on this nationwide project to develop curriculum and learning tools for a variety of seafaring occupations, including the various logistical skill sets required of military sealift command storekeepers, as well as those needed in shipboard security and sanitation. Also an Apprenticeship Certificate of Training Program for cruise ship hospitality will be created. Some 4,000 new workers will be trained for positions as entrylevel mariners, and 1,000 incumbent workers will receive training The school features state-of-the-art equipment including a full mission bridge simulator. to upgrade their skills.” Paul Hall Center Director of Training Bill Eglinton stated, “This grant is going to advance our technology to improve apprenticeship training, including competency-based training. It will give students a jump-start in their vocational education and training.” Eglinton also noted that in 2003, Secretary Chao reported that she along with the Seafarers International Union and Paul Hall Institute leadership developed and approved the first-ever National Apprenticeship Standards for the maritime industry. This led to new programs offered for mariners in all three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Without exception, those programs meet U.S. Coast Guard certification requirements. Eglinton concluded, “I believe this grant is an investment in America’s national and economic The Paul Hall Center offers comprehensive training for mariners. security. The U.S. Merchant Marine continues to serve as our nation’s fourth arm of defense in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, just as they have done throughout American history.” The DOL reported that “industry partners in this project include Alaska Tanker Company, American Steamship, Crowley Liner, Horizon Line, Liberty Maritime, NCL America, OSG Ship Management, and Pacific Gulf Marine. Additional partners include workforce investment boards, One-Stop Career Centers, Job Corps Centers, faith-based and community organizations, community colleges and high schools.” “As the seafaring sector evolves, maritime occupations demand workers with greater skills,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco. “This nearly $2.5 million grant under the President’s High Growth Job Training Initiative will train thousands of workers across the country for successful careers in the water transportation sector.” In a press release, the DOL pointed out, “The President’s High Growth Job Training Initiative is a strategic effort to better prepare workers to take advantage of new job opportunities in high growth sectors of the American economy. Through executive forums with leaders of expanding industries, critical workforce gaps and issues are identified. Solutions are then created in cooperation with employers, educational institutions and the public workforce system.” 4 Seafarers, 5 Dependents Selected for Scholarships The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has announced this year’s scholarship recipients. Selected by a panel of professional educators last month were four Seafarers and five dependents of SIU members—for a total monetary value of $132,000. Rahul Bagchi of Ansonia, Ct. is the Seafarer selected for a $15,000, three-year scholarship. Receiving $6,000 stipends are Ken Stathos of Hollywood, Fla. and Karen Domerego of Mesa, Calif. Brian McLarnon of Wilmington, N.C. has been awarded a $5,000, one-year scholarship. The five dependents of SIU members are Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. This year’s selection committee, meeting in St. Croix, V.I., was appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The panel was composed of the following scholars and academicians: Dr Michael Glaser, St Mary’s College of Maryland; Dr. Gayle A. Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Charles County (Md.) Community College (retired); Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities; Father David A. Boileau, Ph.D., Loyola University; Dr. Keith Schlender, Medical College of Ohio; and Professor Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president of academic affairs, California State (San Bernardino). See page 7 for brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the nine collegebound students. June 2006 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:08 PM Page 3 Great Day for the American-flag Cruise Ship Industry Pride of Hawaii Christened Amid much fanfare and celebration, the Seafarers-crewed Pride of Hawaii—the largest and most luxurious U.S.-flagged passenger ship ever built—was christened May 20 at a pierside ceremony in the port of Los Angeles by Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii). Inouye, who was selected as the first-ever “godfather” of a contemporary cruise ship, “is the father of this project and its most steadfast supporter,” stated NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch in announcing the selection earlier this year, “and the introduction of the Pride of Hawaii is its crowning event. So there can be no one more fitting than he to name our newest U.S. flagship.” (The senator’s wife, Margaret, who passed away earlier in the year, christened the Pride of Aloha in 2004.) “The christening of Pride of Hawaii is the capstone of America’s return to the passenger cruise industry,” noted the senator at the official ceremony. “In addition to the significant economic benefits to the visitor industry in my state of Hawaii, Pride of Hawaii and her sister ships will have a broad economic impact throughout the United States by creating as many as 20,400 direct Crew members and guests enjoy the ceremony as SIU President Michael Sacco conveys the union’s enthusiasm for the NCL America fleet. and indirect jobs, including thousands of U.S. seafarer jobs and nearly $1 billion in annual U.S. economic activity. I am very proud to serve as Pride of Hawaii’s sponsor.” Inouye was joined by six female crew members from the vessel—all Hawaiian natives— who christened the ship with the traditional bottle of champagne. In addition to Veitch and Inouye, also addressing the audi- The christening in Los Angeles is celebrated by (from right to left) SIU President Michael Sacco, NCL President & CEO Colin Veitch, U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Paul Wiedenhoeft (Commander of Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach), U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye (DHawaii), Acting Deputy Maritime Administrator and Chief Councel Julie Nelson, Star Cruises Chairman Tran Sri Lim Lok Thay and his wife, Puan Sri. ence were Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay; U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Paul Wiedenhoeft; Julie Nelson, Acting Deputy Maritime Administrator and Chief Counsel of the Maritime Administration; and SIU President Michael Sacco. “What a great day for the American-flag cruise ship industry,” Sacco stated. “We are proud to be here today with NCL America to celebrate this historic event. These U.S.-flag cruise ships create thousands of American seafaring jobs and represent a real partnership between NCL America, the shipboard workers and their unions.” Sacco congratulated NCL America for its confidence, commitment and partnership in the cruise ship project. “Most of all,” he continued, “I want to thank Senator Inouye and the entire Hawaii delegation for their strong leadership and their complete support of the NCL America fleet. In particular, Senator Inouye has been an extraordinary ally and a determined, powerful voice in leading the effort to deliver the Pride of Hawaii along with the Pride of America and the Pride of Aloha….Like Colin (Veitch) has said, Senator Inouye truly is the father of this project.” Sacco stated, “You all see the results: New ships. New Jobs. A boost to the United States economy. Brothers and sisters, I’d call that a win-win situation.” In concluding his remarks, Sacco said, “Last but not least, I want to offer a special welcome to the union members who are working aboard the Pride of Hawaii. That goes for the members of my union—the Seafarers—as well as the officers from the MEBA. Brothers and sisters, keep up the great work. Aloha!” Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay said, “Today marks the culmination of our effort. This is the third and largest ship in a planned threeship U.S.-flagged fleet. We have invested over $1.2 billion building these three world-class mega ships, purposely built for our unique Freestyle Cruising and outfitted to reflect the spirit and Aloha of the Hawaii Islands.” See pages 12-13 for photos of the crew and ship when the vessel docked in Baltimore. Bosun Victor Mariano signed aboard the ship in March when it was still being completed in Germany. Mariano has sailed with the SIU for 15 years, including voyages on the old cruise ships, the Independence and Constitution. He found sailing on a brand new cruise ship a totally different experience, even though most of the initial work consisted of cleaning and maintenance. “Things are going pretty well. We’ve been very busy,” he noted. Carpenter Scott Paxton agreed that the crew had been extremely busy getting the vessel Little room was left on either side of the Pride of Hawaii as the vessel went through the Panama Canal. The new U.S.-flag cruise ship has a beam of 105 feet. The largest the canal can accommodate is 108 feet. Veitch added his pride in honoring the development of the latest SIU-crewed vessel. “I’m very proud to celebrate the completion of a daring project to convert a large part of our business from the traditional model of the international cruise industry to the The pierside ceremony May 20 in Los Angeles officially signaled the entry of the Pride of Hawaii into NCL America’s SIU-crewed fleet. June 2006 much more challenging and less developed model of U.S-flag cruising,” he said, noting that NCL has consistently been at the forefront of innovative developments and breaking with tradition. ready for its debut as the newest U.S.-flag cruise ship, but said that spirits were good and everyone was doing their part. The voyage has been a “dream come true” for Colette DiMarco, a waiter from Glenwood Springs, Colo. “Not only was I being paid to learn [in Piney Point], but I’ll also be spending my birthday traversing the Panama Canal. How exciting is that!” she exclaimed in late April, when the ship stopped in Baltimore, its first U.S. port following the transatlantic voyage from Europe. After a week in Baltimore, the Pride of Hawaii set sail for Miami (NCL headquarters), through the Panama Canal, and on to San Francisco and Los Angeles for the christening. Its first port of call in Hawaii (at LOG press time) was scheduled for Nawiliwili, Kauai and then on to Hilo, Kahului and Kona before arriving in Honolulu June 3. The vessel is expected to enter service Monday, June 5, where it will join its SIU-crewed sister ships, the Pride of Aloha (which began sailing in 2004) and the Pride of America (christened last summer) in offering seven-day interisland cruises. Seafarers LOG 3 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:09 PM Page 4 Legislature Honors Alaska Tanker Co. SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) recently added to its well-earned collection of safety awards when the Alaska State Legislature honored the organization for its consistently outstanding record. Alaska State Rep. Vic Kohring, State Senate President Ben Stevens and Speaker of the House John Harris presented ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur with a declaration commending the company for its safety-related efforts and achievements. Joining them at the May 4 ceremony in the Territorial Senate Chamber in Juneau, Alaska were Alaska Commissioner of Labor Greg O’Claray, Alaska House Minority Leader Ethan Berkowitz, SIU Representative Tracey Mayhew and representatives from the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial The double-hulled tanker Alaskan Legend is under construction in San Diego. It is scheduled for delivery to ATC later this year. Association (MEBA). Based in Beaverton, Ore., ATC operates six Seafarers-crewed vessels including three of the four new Alaska Class tankers built in San Diego (the Alaskan Frontier, Alaskan Explorer and Alaskan Navigator). The fourth of the new ships is scheduled for delivery near the end of this year. The commendation from the legislature “honors ATC and its employees for achieving the highest levels of safety and environmental performance while carrying Alaska North Slope crude oil from Valdez, Alaska to refineries in Washington, California and Hawaii. This outstanding record is unsurpassed,” notes the certificate. The document also points out, “ATC is the first tanker operator in the Alaska trade with its fleet comprised entirely of doublehulled ships…. ATC has also strongly supported an Alaskan hire policy since its inception in 1999. Abercrombie Receives ‘Salute to Congress’ Propeller Club Award Recognizes Maritime Advocate U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), a passionate and outspoken friend of the U.S. Merchant Marine, recently received the 2006 “Salute to Congress” award, presented by the Propeller Club of the United States. Abercrombie garnered the 22nd annual award during a dinner ceremony May 2 in Bethesda, Md. “This is the maritime industry’s premier award, and I’m honored to receive it,” said Abercrombie. “When everything is said and done, the U.S. maritime industry is a critical component of U.S. national security. I’m very grateful for this recognition of my efforts on behalf of the working men and women who make up the backbone of our nation’s merchant marine in peace and war.” The SIU was well-represented at the ceremony, as President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Assistant Vice President Ambrose Cucinotta attended on behalf of the union. Overall, an estimated 400 people were in the audience, including a number of U.S. senators and congressmen. The Propeller Club of the United States is a grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement and wellbeing SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (left) congratulates U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) on receiving this year’s Salute to Congress Award. 4 Seafarers LOG Pictured at the presentation in Juneau, Alaska honoring SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company are (from left) Commissioner of Labor Greg O’Claray, Senate President Ben Stevens, House Minority Leader Ethan Berkowitz, SIU Representative Tracey Mayhew, ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur, State Representative Vic Kohring, MEBA Representatives Joe Geldhof and Ben Goldrich, and Speaker of the House John Harris. “Since 2002, ATC ships have 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 award text continues. “Furthermore, ATC has completed nine million man-hours of operation without anyone being so hurt that they were unable to return to work the next day (zero lost time injuries). This covers the period from January 2002 through February 2006 and is based on OSHA reporting standards. “The United States Coast Guard recognized ATC’s outstanding performance in 2004 when the company was awarded the Benkert ‘Osprey’ Gold Award. This award was given in recognition of ‘outstanding achievement in marine environmental protection that goes beyond mere compliance with industrial and regulatory standards.’ The Osprey is the highest environmental award given by the Coast Guard. “ATC maintains a single focus on operational excellence and for this has been recognized by its stakeholders including BP, its unions, the Prince William Sound Citizens Advisory Council, and every environmental regulatory agency in the State. “The members of the Twentyfourth Alaska State Legislature extend their appreciation to Alaska Tanker Company for its superb record of safe operation, environmental stewardship, and its community outreach program in Alaska.” Harris, Stevens and Kohring signed the document, while dozens of additional cosponsors’ names also are listed. Amendment Aims to Maintain RRF U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) uses a local newspaper to make a point during Maritime Trades Department meetings earlier this year in San Diego, as MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco listens along with the rest of the audience. of all interests of the maritime community, nationally and internationally. The organization aggressively promotes the maritime industry through many of its programs and partnering with similar organizations. Abercrombie first served in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986 and has backed the U.S. maritime industry throughout his career. He was a member of the now-defunct Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee and currently serves on both the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Resources as well as several subcommittees. In accepting the award, Abercrombie noted that he is a strong supporter of the Jones Act. He also pointed out that he helped secure House passage of legislation in 2003 that facilitated the successful efforts of Norwegian Cruise Lines to launch a U.S.-flag component (SIU-contracted NCL America). Abercrombie also has backed programs which provide loan guarantees and other forms of support for the U.S. shipping and shipbuilding industries. In a news release announcing the 2006 award, the Propeller Club noted that Abercrombie “is being honored for his consistent and strong support of the United States maritime industry.” Frank Baptista Sr., international president of the Propeller Club of the United States, said, “Being from Hawaii, Congressman Abercrombie knows the importance of trade and supports those that work in the maritime industry both ashore and at sea.” Past recipients of the Salute to Congress award include Senator Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.) and Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) and Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska). During the most recent meetings of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board earlier this year in San Diego, Abercrombie pointed to the Jones Act as a potential foundation for an expanded national maritime policy. He said he is carrying the message in Congress that “maritime has to be the number one security interest of this nation. Not just port security, but shipbuilding and a merchant marine owned and operated under the Jones Act must become a fundamental premise of American policy.” An amendment contained in the House version of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2007 calls for fully maintaining the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Jointly sponsored by U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii) and U.S. Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.), the amendment stipulates that the “Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall submit to Congress by not later than March 1, 2007, a report describing a five-year plan for maintaining the capability of the Ready Reserve Force of the National Defense Reserve Fleet necessary to support Department of Defense wartime missions and support to civil authority missions.” The amendment requires that the RRF be maintained at a minimum of 58 vessels until the aforementioned report is submitted. The House passed the National Defense Authorization Act on May 11, by a vote of 396–31. The legislation now moves to the Senate. Before the AbercrombieMiller amendment had been introduced, the maritime industry newspaper Trade Winds published a story indicating that the RRF unexpectedly may face significant cuts of up to 26 vessels. It wasn’t immediately clear how those potential cuts would be in accord with the government’s stated plans from earlier this year to possibly begin a reserve fleet for the Federal Emergency Management Agency. One thing that is readily apparent, however, is the RRF’s key role in America’s national and economic security. The U.S. Maritime Administration, which owns the RRF fleet, describes those vessels as having greatly aided U.S. military operations along with relief efforts following last year’s devastating hurricanes in the Gulf. “The RRF made a major contribution to the success of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm from August 1990 through June 1992, when 79 vessels were activated and operated to meet military sealift requirements,” the agency notes on its web site. “The RRF has rightfully been called ‘American Seapower’s Reliant Partner.’ “During Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, the combined strategic sealift operation provided more than 80 percent of all cargo transportation to the theater of operations. Led by the U.S. Transportation Command, this joint effort included the Military Sealift Command, the Military Traffic Management Command, and the Maritime Administration. Forty RRF vessels supported Army and Marine missions during the operations providing up to 20 percent of the total combined surge sealift capacity.” June 2006 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:09 PM Page 5 Proposed Rules Issued for New Credentials Union Examining Potential Content, Methods for Issuing TWIC The implementation of the highly anticipated Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) now is one step closer to becoming reality. Two Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Agencies—the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the U.S. Coast Guard—on May 10 issued proposed regulations for a biometric-based identification credential for port workers. The notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which lays out specific details on the program, will be published in the Federal Register in the coming days. The public will have 45 days to comment, and four public meetings will be hosted by the TSA and Coast Guard to solicit input. In a closely related matter, the Coast Guard also will publish a proposed regulation that works in conjunction with the TWIC to streamline the current credentialing process for merchant mariners. It will publish on the same day as the TWIC NPRM. The publication of these two rulemakings follows an an- nouncement last month by DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff that his agency will begin conducting name-based background checks on approximately 400,000 port workers within the United States. These checks are being presented as an immediate measure to safeguard the nation’s ports while the DHS expedites the rollout of the TWIC. “TWIC is designed to ensure that individuals posing a security threat do not gain access to our nation’s ports,” said Kip Hawley, TSA assistant secretary. “Today’s Dept. of Homeland Security Issues Maritime Infrastructure Recovery Plan The U.S. Department of Homeland Security on May 1 released a 63-page Maritime Infrastructure Recovery Plan (MIRP). The plan provides a standardized procedure for the restoration of maritime transportation systems following an incident of national significance. It includes a readiness plan aimed at promoting and maintaining preparation in the U.S. maritime community. What is the MIRP? „ The MIRP is intended to protect the American economy by facilitating the restoration of passenger and cargo flow, specifically container cargo, in the event of an attack or similarly disruptive event. Container cargo is more likely to hold perishable items in immediate need of unloading, or items that are key components in the production of consumer goods. „ The MIRP includes an exercise plan to maintain a level of preparedness within maritime field. This plan recommends periodic tabletop and field exercises, which align with existing related plans such as the National Response Plan and the Top Official program. What the MIRP is not: „ The MIRP does not address long-term interruptions for conveyances that carry primarily non-perishable cargo. In addition, certain commodities, such as liquefied natural gas and oil offer very limited options for cargo diversion, as there are just four LNG ports, and oil refineries are already operating at 97 percent capacity. „ The MIRP is not a plan for the physical recovery of a port that has been impacted by a natural or man-made incident. Rather, the MIRP protects the economy by providing guidance for redirecting container cargo traffic away from the impacted port to an appropriate alternate port. Hurricane Katrina and the MIRP The eight supporting plans to the National Strategy for Maritime Security were submitted— depending on ownership of each plan—to the White House, the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of Defense for approval in June 2005, 180 days after National Security Presidential Directive 41 was signed. While the plans were in review, Hurricane Katrina struck. Although the National Strategy for Maritime Security was approved for release on Sept. 20, after which the supporting plans would be releasable at the discretion of their departments, the MIRP was held back for an additional 90-day review for lessons learned after Katrina. Katrina Findings According the DHS, New Orleans is not currently a key player in the nation’s container cargo trade since it handles just 1 percent of the nation’s container cargo. However, it represents 18 percent of the nation’s reserve cargo capacity. In the short term, Hurricane Katrina compromised the nation’s ability to divert container traffic in the event of a transportation security incident on the East Coast. To address disruptions similar to Katrina, which do not affect nationwide cargo or passenger flow to a great extent, the MIRP must either be expanded to an all-hazards recovery plan or a sister plan to the National Response Plan must be created in June 2006 the form of a National Recovery Plan, according to the DHS. Key Elements of the MIRP Within the context of container cargo and passenger vessels, the MIRP’s primary goal is to protect the U.S. economy from the effects of a maritime transportation security incident (TSI). In support of this goal, the MIRP will guide individuals designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security to help make decisions on maintaining or restoring transportation capabilities, in the event of a TSI. „ The MIRP will be activated when a TSI occurs in or near U.S. waters. The MIRP is employed when the Secretary of Homeland Security declares that an actual or threatened TSI under, in, on, or adjacent to waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction is an “Incident of National Significance,” in accordance with National Response Plan criteria. „ The MIRP reflects National Response Plan organizational structures and incident command system and unified command procedures. As such, the plan can be used for other similarly disruptive incidents requiring maritime infrastructure recovery management. „ The MIRP describes public- and private-sector roles according to relevant functional responsibilities. Recovery management takes place at the national, regional and local levels. Therefore, the plan describes recovery management considerations for the incident site and non-incident support sites, as well as for the national maritime transportation system. „ The MIRP provides for private-sector participation in decision making at all levels. The private sector owns and operates the vast majority of maritime transportation infrastructure assets, and it will decide whether to repair, replace or rebuild privately owned physical assets after a TSI. However, federal assistance may be needed to help restore critical cargo-handling infrastructure. Critical Issues Seven critical issues were identified as the MIRP was developed, which must be addressed. The following are considered high priority, according to the DHS: „ Port cargo-handling capacity information is unknown or not readily available for use in deliberations regarding recovery of the maritime transportation system following a national TSI. „ There is no national communications network or information exchange between the federal government and the private sector focused on maritime recovery management. „ The Area Maritime Security (AMS) Plans do not adequately and uniformly address critical MTS recovery management planning elements. „ Salvage capability specific to national and regional recovery is unknown. Section VI of the MIRP offers recommendations for further evaluation or implementation of these and the remainder of the seven issues of concern. The MIRP and other plans under the National Strategy for Maritime Security are available to the public and may be found on the Department of Homeland Security website. Feedback on this plan, as well as the Commerce Security and Transportation Systems Security plans may be submitted through the website or by e-mailing maritimesecurity@dhs.gov. proposed rulemaking represents a significant milestone towards putting TWIC on the fast track.” The TWIC rule proposes the following: „ TSA would collect worker’s biographic information including 10 fingerprints; name; date of birth; address and phone number; alien registration number, if applicable; photo; employer; and job title. „ All individuals with unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities and vessels regulated under the Maritime Transportation Security Act would be required to have a TWIC. This includes longshoremen, port operator employees, truck drivers and rail workers. U.S. Merchant Mariners who hold an active Merchant Mariner’s Document (MMD), Merchant Mariner’s License, Certificate of Registry or an STCW Endorsement also would be required to obtain a TWIC. „ Background checks would include a review of criminal history records, terrorist watch lists, legal immigration status and outstanding warrants. „ The TWIC would utilize socalled “smart card” technology and include a worker’s photo, name, biometric information and multiple fraud protection measures. The card would be consistent with Homeland Security Presidential Directive-12 and Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 201-1. It would be interoperable with other federal credentials built to those standards. „ The program is expected to cover 750,000 workers and would be funded through user fees. TSA anticipates workers would pay approximately $139 to receive a TWIC. Workers with current, comparable background checks would pay approximately $105 for the credential. A TWIC card would be valid for five years. „ Port facility and vessel owners and operators would be required to implement the TWIC into their existing access control systems and operations, purchase and utilize card readers, and update their approved security plans. The Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) rule proposes the following: „ A new MMC would combine the elements of the Merchant Mariner’s License, MMD, Certificate of Registry, and STCW Endorsement into one qualification credential. „ Although the format in which the mariner’s qualifications and the application process itself would change, the training, experience and other requirements necessary to obtain a mariner’s service qualifications would not change. „ Merchant mariners would no longer be required to visit a Regional Exam Center to submit fingerprints and identification or to take an oath when they obtain or renew their credentials, potentially resulting in substantial time and travel savings. „ The MMC would appear in certificate form with many fraud protection measures. Although the actual format of the MMC is still in development, it is expected to look much like the recently released STCW Endorsement, as well as contain many of the security features used in that new certificate. TSA laid the foundation for the establishment of the universal credential through a technology evaluation and prototype test. During the prototype test of the credential last year, TSA issued more than 4,000 TWICs to workers at 26 sites in six states. All Seafarers are reminded that the foregoing points about the TWIC and the MMC are proposals only; nothing has been finalized with respect to either credential. A great many issues have to be addressed and resolved by all stakeholders, including the SIU, which currently is examining the 277-page advanced copy of the NPRM to ascertain its input on behalf of merchant mariners. Therefore, it would be premature to speculate on what the final regulations will entail. Future editions of the Seafarers LOG, as well as the union website (www.seafarers.org) will carry this information as it becomes available. Lewis and Clark Set for Delivery The USNS Lewis and Clark (above), the first ship in the T-AKE class, completed sea trials April 25-29 off the San Diego coast and is slated for delivery to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command by the end of June. Crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the Lewis and Clark is a dry cargo and ammunition ship. It is 689 feet long, has a beam of 106 feet and can sail at 20 knots. The vessel was built at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company yard in San Diego. Seafarers LOG 5 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 1:02 PM Page 6 12 SIU Bosuns Complete Recertification Mariners Say Course Will Help Them Hone Work Aboard Ship A dozen SIU members on May 8 realized significant milestones in their respective careers when they earned status as recertified bosuns. The mariners completed the highest level of vocational education available to members of the deck department at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. During the month-long course, the 12 Seafarers—Bosuns Reginald Watkins, Rufino Giray, Daniel Teichman, Richard Barnes, Winfred Itima, Robert Natividad, Mike Shappo, Amante Gumiran, Scott Palen, Paul Wade, Timothy Jackson and William Richards—learned more about the industry in which they work. Each now is better equipped to assume leadership roles by taking this knowledge back to their shipmates at the hiring halls and aboard individual vessels. The course included a mixture of classroom and practical training as well as visits to the union’s headquarters building in Camp Springs to meet with representatives of the various departments and to the Maritime Trades Department at the AFL-CIO building in Washington, D.C. After being presented with their graduation certificates during the May membership meeting at Piney Point, the recertified bosuns approached the podium to address union officials, members and guests in attendance. All gave a few words of thanks for the opportunities they were afforded at the Southern Maryland-based school and emphasized that the class will help enable them to do a better job at sea. They also imparted a few personal words of insight to the unlicensed apprentices who are following in their footsteps. Watkins sails out of the port of Mobile. Ala., and has been going to sea since the early ’80s. The course was a lot of fun and very informative for Watkins, who “really enjoyed the small arms, CPR and firefighting classes.” “I joined the union in 1980 when I was 22 years old,” Watkins told those in attendance. “The union has changed my life a great deal, and I thank all of the union officials for the tremendous job they have done over the years in keeping our jobs secure. “A winner never quits and a quitter never wins,” he continued. “I wanted to be a bosun for a long time. A lot of people told me that I could not, but I did not quit because I knew if I kept knocking then the door would be opened. Well that door has opened for me today,” Watkins said. “To the trainees, work hard and pay attention while you are here so that you can learn,” he concluded. “When you go to sea, always be sure that you are loyal, hard-working and dedicated to your jobs. That way, you’re sure to be successful.” Giray proudly has worn the SIU colors for some 20 years. He sails out of the port of Honolulu, 6 Seafarers LOG SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive VP Augie Tellez join other SIU officials and members of the recertified bosuns class aboard the Seafarers-contracted Pride of Hawaii when the vessel docked in Baltimore in late April. Hawaii and initially went to sea aboard an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. “In addition to working as a mariner in the cruise industry, I also have sailed as a bosun aboard commercial ships, cable ships and container ships,” he told his union brothers and sisters. “I learned a great deal during the course, and it is an honor to be a part of this class,” Giray continued. “I’m very grateful to the people who made it possible for me to have this opportunity— President (Michael) Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez and the other members of the staff….thank you all very much.” He also expressed his gratitude to Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz and Patrolman Frank Iverson for their unwavering support. Giray applauded the school’s vocational department and its instructors for “a job well done” and expressed gratitude “to the entire Paul Hall Center staff for their accommodations and superior service while I was here.” “Study hard and ask questions,” Giray told the trainees. “You should always listen, pay attention to your superiors and work as a team. Go out there and do the very best you can, and no matter what, never give up.” Teichman is a highly seasoned veteran of the seas, having sailed for more than 43 years—the last 18 or so with the SIU. He noted that in addition to working as a member of the unlicensed crew, he previously had sailed as a mate and a chief engineer. He lauded the officers and staff of the school and throughout the SIU, as well as those at the various ports “for their work and consistent efforts to keep union jobs going here in the United States. Going to sea has enabled me to enjoy complete financial independence. “I learned a lot during this class,” continued Teichman, who sails out of San Francisco. “My eyes were opened to a great many facts about the work that goes on behind the scenes. I’d especially like to thank (SIU Vice President Contracts) George Tricker who used to be my port agent in Los Angeles and Augie Tellez who gave me an awful lot of information in the time we had together. And to Mike Sacco, thank you very much.” Turning to the trainees, Teichman said, “You need to remember all of those who have gone before you and always think of those who will come after you and take care of you. Just do your jobs when you go to sea and everything will be fine for you.” Spending time at the Paul Hall Center is becoming a regular occurrence for Barnes, who has upgraded his skills at the institution twice in the past. He sails out of the port of Tacoma, Wash. and is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. “I joined the SIU in 1992 and have seven years in the U.S. Navy and a stint in the oil patch,” Barnes said. “I’ve sailed with various companies on tankers, bulkers, containerships and in capacities from AB to bosun. “I’ve been to three different countries during my career,” he continued, “but my most memorable was South Africa where I met my wife of seven years.” Commenting on his recertification instruction, Barnes offered, “I gained good insights about contracts and benefits during my training. This was a real help to me because on the ships, you don’t want to give wrong answers to questions. “The instructors were very knowledgeable and just great to be around,” he continued. “I’d like to thank the school staff for a very memorable stay here and I salute the union’s officials for their hard work during the 2006 negotiations. “To the trainees, as a bosun, I want to tell you to always be ready to give 100 percent without a squabble,” Barnes said. And when you are at sea, “there’s never a wrong question, so don’t be afraid to ask it. We’re all out there to make a living for our families, ourselves and to safeguard the future of the SIU. So always give your best,” he concluded. Itima, who previously upgraded in 2001, sails out of the port of Houston and has been going to sea for more than a quarter-century. He joined the NMU in 1989. Reflecting on his recent training, Itima stated that small arms training and other safety-related components of the course will help him do a better job aboard ship. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have attended this bosun recertification course,” he continued. “The school is well-organized and well-staffed, and the course content was thoroughly explained.” To the trainees, Itima said, “You must listen, respect those above you, study hard and work together.” Natividad sails out of San Francisco and previously has upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. “I have been shipping for 28 years, three years with the Navy, seven years MSC SIU Government Services Division,” Natividad shared during his turn at the podium. “I’ve sailed 18 years in the deep sea division as an OS, AB and bosun. I’ve sailed to Australia, Japan, India and South Africa.” He said that the course was very informative and beneficial and recognized several individuals who played key roles in his career to date. “I’d like to thank the SIU and its officers, my friend (SIU Assistant Vice President) Nick Celona, and the late SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco for their support,” Natividad said. “I also thank the Paul Hall Center and its staff for their education, training, jacket, hat and briefcase.” “To the trainees,” said Natividad, “study hard, ask questions and always have a reference book handy, or know where you can get the correct information that you will need. During phase two when you are at sea, listen to your supervisors and be proud to work together as members of the SIU team.” Natividad concluded his remarks by encouraging those present to contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation and the Maritime Defense League. “Through your donations, our union leaders will remain strong in their ongoing fight for political success for the merchant marine.” Shappo thanked the union leadership for its hard work over the years and the Paul Hall Center staff for outstanding accommodations and providing superb training during his classes. “I was a trainee here back in 1971,” said the newly recertified bosun, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. “I got a job out of here and they sent me to San Francisco on a containership that took me to Honolulu and then back to Oakland.” Shappo over the years has sailed to many foreign countries including Egypt where “I got to go to the Pyramids and to the Cairo Museum. I also saw King Tut’s treasures and the mummies. That was very rewarding. “When you go on the ship, the old-timers can tell you a lot,” Shappo told the trainees. “Don’t think you know everything; instead, listen to them because these guys have been at it a long time and they worked hard to learn what they have. Pay attention and try to learn from them. You can make some money out there, have plenty of time off and see the world.” Gumiran thanked the vocational staff for providing him and classmates with a very informative training experience. A member of the SIU since 1990, he sails out of the port of San Francisco. He lauded union officials for the fine job they are doing in leading the organization. Gumiran was direct and extremely matter-of-fact in his remarks to the trainees. “Do what you are told and do not be lazy, lazy and lazy.” Palen is no stranger to the Paul Hall Center. Prior to entering bosun recertification training, he upgraded his skills twice at the institution. He joined the SIU in 1992 and sails out of the port of Norfolk, Va. Palen thanked the union for providing him with the opportunities he has had so far in his career. He indicated that his training was very beneficial, and he praised the school and its vocational staff for their professionalism. He told the trainees, “The SIU will supply you with the skills you need succeed.” “I joined the SIU in 1979 when I was 18 and have been shipping for 28 years,” said Wade. “It seem like it was just yesterday that I was in Bungalow 9 getting my head shaved (as part of the entry requirements for the trainee program).” He sails out of the port of Houston and has visited ports in Africa, Northern Europe, the Philippines and Japan, among other places. Commenting on his training, Continued on page 10 June 2006 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 1:02 PM Page 7 9 Scholarships Awarded to Seafarers, Dependents SEAFARERS Rahul Bagchi of Ansonia, Ct., who joined the SIU in 1996, is the recipient of a $15,000, three-year scholarship for SIU members. His goal is to attend SUNY Maritime College in New York or the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and become a marine engineer. Born and raised in India and completing high school there, he relocated to the United States and served in the U.S. Navy for two years, sailing on SIU’s Government Services Division ships and retiring with an honorable discharge and numerous awards. He then graduated with a 3.54 GPA from a 9month certificate program in marine engineering offered by the Maritime Training Center in Seattle, which is a branch of Seattle Central Community College. For the past 10 years with the SIU, Bagchi has sailed as a QMED. He has furthered his education by upgrading at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. while continuing to learn as much as possible on the job. He received the United States Merchant Marine Expeditionary Award for his contributions supporting American and international coalition military forces in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom while working on the Cape John and Gus Darnell. Bagchi hopes his scholarship winnings will allow him to complete the education he wants for the career he loves. Ken Stathos of Hollywood, Fla. has been a member of the SIU since 1993, graduating at the top of his class from the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center. His first ship was the Sealift Arctic. After sailing in all three departments, he upgraded to AB in 1998. Stathos graduated from Evergreen Park High School in Illinois and also has a certificate from Sheridan Technical in Hollywood, Fla. and a number of credits from Governors State University and Moraine Valley Community College (both in Illinois). He now has been accepted into an 18-month program at Sanford-Brown Institute in Ft. Lauderdale, and will use his $6,000 scholarship to earn an associate’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography. In an autobiographical statement accompanying his scholarship application, Stathos states he will always be grateful to the SIU for enabling him to do and see so many things. But now with a wife and new baby boy, he feels it’s time for him to come ashore and spend more time with his family. Stathos put a lot of thought into his new career and is excited about going to school to be an ultrasound technician. For AB Karen Domerego of Costa Mesa, Calif., the $6,000, two-year scholarship award will take her into the nursing field at Goldenwest College in Westminster, Calif. Domerego graduated in 1987 from Silverado High School in Mission Viejo, Calif. She got a receptionist job straight out of high school and proceeded to learn the job from top to bottom—everything from accounting, filing, benefits administration, customer service, payroll and union submittals. With that experience, she became controller at another company and then moved to Hawaii at age 30, where she took a job on the Independence, an American Hawaii Cruise Ship. That was her introduction into the merchant marine. She has upgraded numerous times since then at the Paul Hall Center, and most recently sailed as an AB aboard the Sea-Land Lightning. At a 2003 Maritime Day ceremony in Washington, D.C., Domerego received a Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta and a certificate from U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert for her service as an AB aboard the Cape John during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Domerego wants to continue her education, aspiring to earn a degree in nursing. She believes a nursing degree would be a wonderful career move, especially with her love of helping people. But, she notes, she intends to keep sailing, and expressed her gratitude to the SIU for all it has done for her. June 2006 F our SIU members and five dependents of Seafarers were selected by a panel of professional educators to receive scholarships provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. A total of $132,000 is being offered in this year’s program. One Seafarer was awarded a $15,000 scholarship for study at a four-year college or university; two were given $6,000 stipends; and one was presented with $5,000 to complete his mate’s license. The five dependents each were awarded a $20,000, four-year scholarship. One this page are brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the nine collegebound students. Brian McLarnon of Wilmington, N.C. is passionate about his seafaring career and is thankful to the SIU for the opportunities he has been given. He believes, however, he could advance his career and better represent the union and the maritime industry as a licensed officer. His $5,000, one-year scholarship will help him attain that goal by studying for his mate’s license at the Pacific Maritime Institute in Seattle, Wash. With a bachelor of arts degree in history from the University of North Carolina in 1995 and a 1999 honorable discharge from his two years in the U.S. Navy Reserve, McLarnon has been sailing as a tankerman with the SIU since 2000. Since then, he has upgraded his skills a number of times at the Paul Hall Center, and is now ready to go the extra step to further his career. DEPENDENTS It’s been a long and somewhat difficult road for Renee Dunham-Jones of Jacksonville, Fla., but today she knows what she wants, and her $20,000, four-year scholarship will help her get it: an undergraduate degree and then a master’s degree in human services, so she can continue to counsel teenagers and young adults. As a child growing up in the inner city, Dunham-Jones aspired to be a journalist. After losing out on an opportunity for a scholarship, she dropped out of high school (although she later earned her GED) and had four children by the time she was 26. She worked her way up in a law firm to the position of supervisor of the deposition department (from which she is now retired), but along the way got mixed up in the drug scene. With a lot of hard work and self-reliance, she pulled herself up and began going out on street ministry, talking to people about God, faith and life, in general. She started college in 2004 in the field of human services, counseling and addictions and will earn her A.S. degree this summer from Florida Community College in Jacksonville. She then will continue her higher education in the fall at Springfield College in Tampa, working toward her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Dunham-Jones is the wife of Raymond Jones, a recertified steward, who has been an SIU member since 1969. He most recently worked on the Richard G. Matthiesen. Ryan Kirby, 18, graduated this month from Paul VI High School in Haddonfield, N.J. Inducted into the National Honor Society in 2004, Kirby also played soccer and baseball throughout his high school career, earning varsity letters in both. He also was a member of the Spanish Honor Society, the Spanish Club, Ambassador’s Club and Hospitality Club. Along with his rigorous academic and extracurricular activities, Kirby also found time to volunteer outside of school, including involvement with the Knights of Columbus and other charitable works. In the fall, Kirby plans to use his $20,000 scholarship to pursue his studies in civil engineering, heavily favoring the University of Maryland at College, Park, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. or Drexel University in Philadelphia. After getting his engineering license, he hopes to go into business with his brother, who is currently studying for his master’s degree in architecture. Kirby is the son of Lois and Michael Kirby, a deep sea member since 1970, who presently is working as a second pumpman aboard the Seabulk Power. Her love for school has led Suci Madjidji to consider a career in education, and she would like to have the same impact on others through teaching that her teachers had on her. Madjidji’s parents, who always stressed to her the importance of education, moved to the United States from Indonesia when she was a year old. As the 17-year-old graduates this month from Pocono Mountain West High School in Pocono Summit, Pa., she has definitely taken their words to heart. In addition to her heavy academic load, she was a member of the student council for three years, a member of the public relations committee, helped write a student council newsletter, among other activities, and was considered “a valuable team player.” Madjidji understands how fortunate she is to be able to attend college and hopes to use her $20,000 scholarship to earn a degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She is the daughter of Cut Zurnita and Sjamsidar Madjidji, a QMED who joined the SIU in 1981. It has been quite an adjustment for Shaval Stewart this year, graduating from Apopka High School in Apopka, Fla. after she and her family were forced to move from New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina at the beginning of her senior year. But she kept her spirits high and did not allow the Katrina disaster to prevent her from achieving her goals in life, foremost of which is to attend college. At her school in New Orleans, Stewart had participated in the marching band, concert band and New Orleans all star marching band. While at Apopka, she was in Junior ROTC and a member of the National Honor Society. The 17-year-old would like to be the first person in her family “to attend college and to make a difference in the world.” She plans to use her $20,000 grant to study business administration and finance, and has applied to Xavier University in New Orleans, Northwestern State University in Louisiana, and Jackson State University in Jackson, Miss. Stewart is the daughter of Tracy and Mark Stewart, an inland member since 1987, who currently is working as an AB aboard Crowley Marine Service’s tug Gauntlet. Having just graduated this month from D.H. Conley High School in Greenville, N.C., Kayla Watson is now ready to tackle the demands of college. Her four-year, $20,000 scholarship will certainly help her as she pursues a career in the nursing field at East Carolina University in Greenville. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in nursing, she hopes to further her education by obtaining a master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner. Watson has always been interested in a career in the medical field and believes she has the compassion, loyalty and dependability needed to be successful in her chosen profession. The 17-year-old has an exceptional high school academic record and was one of the top students in her class. She was involved in many school and community events, including participation in the Beta Club, Latin Club and numerous honor societies. She also received several outstanding awards such as being named a Health Science Academy Ambassador, National Society of High Schools Scholar and National Honor Roll Inductee. Watson also was a member of the volunteer program at Pitt County Memorial Hospital. She volunteered at a local therapeutic horseback riding program and participated in community volunteer work with her church youth group. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, tap dancing and water skiing. Watson is the daughter of Candace and AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. Her father, an inland member, joined the SIU in 1978. He currently works aboard Maritrans’ tug Navigator. Seafarers LOG 7 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:09 PM Page 8 Union Industries Show Attracts 200,000 Guests Annual Event Showcases Union-Made Goods and Services More than 200,000 visitors from the Great Lakes region recently converged on Cleveland’s I-X Center to see and hear how the nation’s union workers produce the goods and services that make life better for all Americans on a daily basis. The event was the 2006 AFLCIO America at Work Show. Sponsored by the AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department, the May 5-7 event showcased the latest in unionmade-in-the-USA products including autos and accessories, motorcycles, hardware, clothing, sporting goods and furniture. Also featured were baked goods and groceries, appliances and housewares. Visitors had an opportunity to interact with airline pilots and travel professionals, air traffic controllers, makeup artists, cake decorators, heavy equipment operators and others from a myriad of different professions. The SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) shared a booth promoting both organizations as well as their respective contracted companies. Overall, hundreds of exhibits— which together covered more than 400,000 square feet of floor space—were available to afford visitors an up-close look at a wide range of union occupations and the skills and training required to perform those jobs. Show-goers also talked with skilled workers in various crafts and trades along with the men and women who serve as instructors in dozens of union apprenticeship and training programs. More than $1 million in products and services were given away during the three-day show. Among big-ticket products and services that were handed out to visitors as prizes was the SIU/UIW grand prize—an allexpense-paid seven-day Hawaii cruise for two, which was donated by SIU-contracted NCL America. Other high-priced prizes included a top-of-the-line Harley Davidson motorcycle; new cars from Ford and DaimlerChrysler; groceries, tools, household goods and refrigerators, freezers, washers and dryers. UIW-contracted companies that provided products to be placed on display and for giveaways during raffles were: Bron Shoe and Franklin International of Columbus, Ohio; Church and Dwight from London, Ohio; Kroger of Delaware, Ohio; Sealy Mattress of Williamsport, Md.; Juanita’s Foods of Wilmington, Calif.; Cott Beverages, USA of San Bernardino, Calif.; The Queen Mary Hotel of Long Beach, Calif.; La Victoria Foods of Rosemead, Calif. and Del Monte of Terminal Island, Calif. “In my view, the show was a total success,” said UIW National Director John Spadaro, who worked the event from start to finish. “Turnout was impressive each day and the people were Members of the SIU/UIW booth crew, right and behind tables, keep the guests happy as another raffle takes place. extremely friendly and courteous. “A lot of visitors stopped by our booth and asked questions about the unions and the SIU- and UIW-contracted companies where many of our brothers and sisters work,” Spadaro continued. “Hopefully the responses we provided someday might influence them to become involved in the union movement.” “It was truly an extraordinary show,” said Charles Mercer, president of the AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department. “Attendance was good all three days, but we really were surprised by the turnout we had on Sunday. It was a beautiful day in Cleveland, the NBA playoffs were on television, but throngs of people still came out. We all were very pleased.” Mercer added that the event’s exhibitors were amazed by the high level of interest visitors displayed at this year’s event. “The exhibitors I spoke with said this show was perhaps the best we’ve had in recent years,” Mercer said. “According to them, visitors really got involved in the activities this year. They stopped by booths, asked exhibitors thoughtprovoking questions and generally demonstrated a keen interest in what was going on. This made for a unique experience for the exhibitors.” Just as in years past, the SIU/UIW booth was very popular among show visitors. Ohio gubernatorial candidate Ted Strickland (D), fourth from left, joined the SIU/UIW contingent for a photo. With Strickland are (from left) AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex; UIW West Coast Region VP Herb Perez; UIW Great Lakes Region VP Bill Ellis; UIW National Director John Spadaro and UIW Great Lakes Asst. VP Bob Love. UIW National Director John Spadaro, right, calls out the name of a winner, while UIW Great Lakes Asst. VP Bob Love, left, draws another ticket. Looking into the crowd to spot the previous winner, center, is UIW Great Lakes Region VP Bill Ellis. St. Louis PMC Honors 4 Aloha from Aboard the Aloha Chief Carpenter Dennis Remetio (center) submitted this photo of crew members aboard the Seafarers-contracted NCL America cruise ship Pride of Aloha. Also pictured are (from left) Assistant Carpenters Arturo Orcino Jr., Wilfredo Lansangan, Mike Tadlip and Carlos Velasquez. Remetio included a note thanking the LOG staff and encouraging fellow mariners to stay up-to-date on the latest SIU news. (We would have published the photo anyway. Honestly.) 8 Seafarers LOG Four pro-worker individuals were honored May 6 at the St. Louis Port Maritime Council’s 26th annual dinner. Pictured in the top photo are Jack Martorelli, vice president of the port council; Vergil Belfi, president of Operating Engineers Local 2 and the port council’s Labor Man of the Year; Mark Lamping, president of the St. Louis Cardinals (Management Man of the Year); The Honorable Charlie Dooley, St. Louis County executive (Government Man of the Year); Angelo Russo, retired vice president, Chemical Workers (Joseph Sacco Friend of Labor); Jerry Feldhaus, executive secretary-treasurer, St. Louis Building & Construction Trades Council; and Michael Sacco, president, AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department as well as president of the SIU. Pictured at right (from left) at the event are Lt. Col. Todd Robbins of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez; Lt. Gen. Robert Dail, deputy commander, TRANSCOM; and Captain Robert Johnston, senior vice president of SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group. June 2006 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:09 PM Page 9 Spica Locates Downed Marine Helicopters The U.S. Military Sealift Command recently reported that the combat stores ship USNS Spica—crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division—conducted search and rescue operations off the coast of Djibouti, Africa on Feb. 17 after two U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 heavy transport helicopters crashed. The accident occurred during a routine training mission off the coast of Djibouti, a small east African country bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, between Eritrea and Somalia. The two Marine helicopters were carrying 12 people. Two individuals survived. Both the Spica’s master and its officer-in-charge credited CIVMARS for their professional, brave response throughout the mission. From the Spica’s perspective, the ordeal began at 10:20 p.m. while the vessel was about 53 nautical miles from the reported crash site. At that time, Spica Capt. Michael Flanagan received the call to help. “We turned around and headed at maximum speed to Bab el Mandab on the Djibouti side,” Flanagan said. The Spica’s Puma helicopter pilots Dari Khosrovschahi and Wade Huddleston got airborne right away, scouring the ocean for any sign of survivors. The Puma relieved a French helicopter that had arrived earlier. The Spica was the first coalition ship to arrive on site, MSC reported, anchoring about two miles off shore. Flanagan learned that Djiboutian military members near the impact site pulled two survivors from the water. “The entire crew came alive on this. I mean the entire crew,” Flanagan added. “Everyone wanted to find these young Marines.” Shortly after 1 a.m., the Spica’s rigid hull/inflatable boat (RHIB) was launched with Deck Machinist Keith M. Larsen, Cargo Mate Raymond D. Barnett and SK3 James K. Stiles aboard. At the time, it was unclear whether the helicopters had crashed on land or at sea. They approached the peninsula very cautiously using night vision equipment. Within 20 minutes, they located a large piece of wreckage, rotor blades and the main body of one aircraft. No survivors were found. Puma pilots Don Willey and Greyson Morrow flew the second search and rescue mission. Additionally, another RHIB got under way to look for more wreckage, which again included Barnett as well as the Spica’s Radio Electronics Technician Brian Cottle and Deck Machinist Jose Rodriguez. The guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg arrived next along with an Italian vessel. U.S. Navy divers then entered the water and pulled the victims from the wreckage. “The crew members’ ability to stay calm under pressure and act professionally and courageously on short notice and in darkness, in a fast and furious operational tempo, was second to none,” said the Spica’s Officer-in-Charge Cmdr. Sidney J. Kim. “The list of heroes that night on the ship is essentially everyone,” Flanagan said. “I saw Boatswain Vergilio Dizon, exhausted, sleeping next to the RHIB cradle waiting for the crew members to return.” Chief Steward Wojciech “Ski” Wiatrowski stayed up to ensure all crew members involved had a late-night meal. The Spica carries a crew of 103 civilian and 26 military personnel and is one of MSC’s five combat stores ships. These vessels provide underway replenishment of supplies to U.S. Navy combat ships at sea. The ship is 524 feet long, has a beam of 72 feet and displaces 16,792 tons. Cooperative Efforts Result In NOAA Wage Gains Pay Schedules Announced for Mariners The SIU Government Services Division has been informed by the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration that new pay schedules for NOAA unlicensed mariners have been calculated and forwarded to the National Finance Center (NFC) for approval and implementation. This means that NOAA unlicensed crew members will soon receive significant wage increases. The pay for federal service mariners is established by federal law Title 5, Sec. 5348. It is a system unique to the Federal Service and basically calls for the federal Union Plus Offers Discount for Consumer Reports Web Site Group also Promotes Union-Made Checks, Other Services Because of the SIU’s participation in Union Plus, Seafarers and their families are eligible for a new discount program offered through the non-profit organization which was founded by the AFL-CIO. The new program applies to Consumer Reports.org, the online presence of the Consumers Union. By signing up for an online subscription through Union Plus, union members and their families save 27 percent off the usual price. The discounted rate for an annual online subscription is $19; the normal price is $26. According to Union Plus, an online subscription to ConsumerReports.org includes web access to all of the content of the current issue of Consumer Reports magazine; all Consumers Union product reports; online discussions with Consumer Reports.org representatives; and side-by-side comparisons of various product models. The Consumers Union itself is a union shop—its employees are represented by the Communications Workers of America. In announcing the Consumer Reports discount program, Union Plus described the Consumers Union as “the nation’s most trusted source of consumer advice. Consumers Union operates the largest nonprofit educational and consumer product testing center in the world. With over 100 testing experts—and feedback from consumers like you— ConsumerReports.org gives you impartial buying recommendations that have helped millions of consumers protect their families from shoddy products and get the most for their money.” For more information, visit the following web address: www.unionplus.org/ConsumerReports. Through the main Union Plus web site (www.unionplus.org), Seafarers may view the numerous other discount programs and services for which they are eligible. One such program offers competitively priced union-made checks June 2006 The combat stores ship USNS Spica participates in an underway replenishment with aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. (www.unionplus.org/checks) bearing pro-labor messages. The checks are part of a larger service called the Union Shop, which offers many other union-made items including notepads, tote bags, mugs, shirts and more. “One of the best parts of the offer is that you gain the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping to protect American union jobs,” noted Union Plus Representative Valerie Lilja. “All the products are union-made, and workers at Union Shop are members of the Communications Workers of America.” Union Plus was founded by the AFL-CIO as Union Privilege in 1986. It is a non-profit entity which develops and manages programs that utilize the combined buying power of America’s union members to obtain top quality goods and services at competitive prices. Among many others, Union Plus programs open to Seafarers include those covering car rentals, education services, Dell computers, credit cards, online tax services, life insurance, Cingular Wireless phone service, and mortgage and real estate services. government to review private industry pay practices when establishing pay rates for the crews of the NOAA and the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleets. Every year, U.S. maritime unions including the SIU, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) provide MSC with private-sector contracts to demonstrate the pay adjustments made by various U.S.-shipping companies. MSC reviews this information and then submits the changes to the Navy Wage Fixing Authority for approval. By regulation, NOAA follows MSC’s lead in establishing pay practices. This process takes a lot of time in a normal payroll year and in 2005 took longer than usual. The SIU’s Government Services Division worked diligently and engaged in ongoing discussions with NOAA to implement a different methodology for establishing wages that better reflects modern shipboard conditions and duties. The SIU’s formal proposal and a detailed wage analysis were sent to Rear Admiral Richard R. Behn, director of NOAA’s Marine and Aviation Operations Centers, and to other NOAA staff in late August 2005. During this process SIU Government Services Repre- sentative Kate Hunt and Rear Admiral Behn and his staff (especially Dale North, Mary Berklund and Capt. Jack McAdams) conducted several highly productive meetings. The meetings supported development of a very cooperative relationship between NOAA allowing the parties to reach an outcome benefiting all NOAA unlicensed crew members. Admiral Behn reviewed the submission and indicated his initial approval of the proposal to increase unlicensed wages across the board by 10 percent. Once that approval was made, the wage submission began making its way through the NOAA’s authorizing process. SIU representatives believe the result has been worth the wait. Within the next few pay periods, NOAA mariners will be receiving an approximately 3.6 percent (depending on locale) increase on base wages and overtime, retroactive to July 10, 2005 (this is the FY05 adjustment) and a 10 percent increase on base wages and overtime retroactive to Jan. 8, 2006. The union’s initiatives regarding all aspects of pay policies and work rules are meant to support improvement in the economic lives of unlicensed mariners and their families. The union believes that NOAA will benefit from these wage adjustments because competitive earnings in this fleet will result in NOAA becoming a premier employer in the maritime industry—and more shipboard personnel will be willing to consider positions with this agency. Full Book for Seafarer Dumlao Union Plus For general information about Union Plus programs, union members may call 1 (800) 452-9425 or (202) 293-5330 in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Detailed program information is available online at www.unionplus.org. Firsttime visitors to the site will be prompted to select their union from a list so that they may view all programs for which they are eligible. Seafarer Dominic Dumlao (center) received his SIU full book during the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Dumlao, who sails in the steward department, was given the oath by SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (left) and was congratulated by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) along with other officials. Dumlao first sailed with the SIU in 2003. Seafarers LOG 9 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 1:03 PM Page 10 Seafarers Honored on Maritime Day Continued from page 24 luncheon sponsored by the Propeller Club, saluted the accomplishments of merchant mariners and paid tribute to numerous sacrifices over the years. In making the appearance, Secretary Chao became the first secretary of labor to address the Propeller Club’s National Maritime Day luncheon. The secretary emphasized the merchant marine’s critical support role in the war on terror and for U.S. Armed Forces throughout history. “Today we reflect upon the tremendous contributions merchant mariners have made to ensuring that our country is strong, safe and free,” said Secretary Chao. “When the history of the war on terror is written, the U.S. Merchant Marine will be remembered—as it has been in every war—as vital to our victory.” In her remarks, the labor secretary noted that 8,000 merchant mariners—including members of the SIU—are crewing auxiliary vessels for the U.S. Navy that supports American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Seventy-six million square feet of cargo have been delivered by the merchant marine to American troops serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “As they have in every war in our nation’s history, merchant mariners are delivering the troops and supplies needed by our armed forces. The cargo they transport is precious— some of the most expensive and complex equipment in the world,” Secretary Chao said. “It takes the tremendous skills of our country’s merchant mariners to protect and transport this cargo, especially when it is at risk on the high seas.” Commenting on the future of the merchant marine, Secretary Chao said, “The 21st century holds many challenges for the maritime industry including an anticipated doubling of cargo and passenger traffic within the next two decades. Training and the collaborative partnership between management and labor will become even more important than ever before. And recently I announced a grant under the President’s High Growth Job Training Initiative to the [Paul Hall Center] to train workers in MSC’s traditional wreathlaying ceremony drew a large crowd to the Washington Navy Yard. the maritime industry. “The Paul Hall Training Center in Piney Point which I visited will develop curriculum and learning tools for a variety of seafaring occupations,” Secretary Chao said. “The DOL and Seafarers also will create an apprenticeship training program for cruise ship hospitality jobs.” In the commercial arena, Secretary Chao noted the three new U.S.-flag cruise ships that will cruise Hawaii. She pointed out that the Pride of America, one of those ships, “is the first brand new U.S.-flag, oceangoing passenger ship in 50 years.” Another vessel, the Pride of Hawaii, recently was christened in Los Angeles. “Together they will create about 20,000 American jobs, of which about 3,000 to 4,000 will be seafarers’ jobs,” Secretary Chao said of the three NCL America vessels. “Let me conclude by expressing our country’s gratitude for the critical role that the U.S. Merchant Marine plays in serving our country during times of war and times of peace. They do so at great personal risk and with great distinction,” the secretary said. “Their contributions are immeasurable. Even during times of peace the life of a merchant mariner is one of sacrifice—long and lonely days at sea, separated from family and loved ones.” Secretary Chao also issued a statement recognizing the contributions of the U.S. Merchant Marine. It reads in part: “I urge all Americans to pause on National Maritime Day 2006 to reflect on the service of the brave men and women who serve in 12 Recertified Bosuns Graduate Continued from page 6 Wade said, “I’d like to thank the SIU, the school and staff for this opportunity. A special thanks goes to (SIU Assistant Vice President) Jim McGee and (SIU Vice President Gulf Coast) Dean Corgey down in Houston for being good friends. “To the trainees, do the best you can and try to follow directions,” Wade added. “Bosuns are not out there to pick on anyone; they’re just trying to get the job done. Be a part of the team and help them.” Jackson thanked the union officials for their continued support and expressed his gratitude to the Paul Hall Center and vocational staff for their accommodations and academic expertise. He has been a member of the SIU for 16 years. “I have been around the world many times, seen a great deal of things and have had plenty of fun,” said the mariner who sails out of the port of Mobile. “Always listen to your department heads and veteran seamen,” 10 Seafarers LOG Jackson advised the trainees. “They will teach you the best and safest way to get a job done. Work hard, learn your job well and always be willing to be a part of the team.” Richards has been sailing with the SIU since 1991. “I have sailed around the world several times and talked to everyone twice,” he told his fellow union members. “I have never wanted for anything as an SIU member,” Richards, who sails out of the port of New York, continued. “The union has allowed me to pursue my dream of seeing the world, owning a home and becoming a productive member of society.” Richards expressed his thanks to the SIU and its officers as well as the Paul Hall Center and its staff for the opportunity to attend the bosun recertification course. “This had been a memorable time,” he said. “Take advantage of this opportunity,” Richards advised the trainees. “You have made the right choice. Remember to study hard, ask questions and always remember it is a team effort.” the United States Merchant Marine and to remember those merchant mariners who have made the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives in the service of our country. “This was a nation founded and built through the contribution of merchant mariners. They have served in every American war since the American Revolution. In every conflict, America’s merchant mariners have stood by this great nation. They continue to inspire their fellow Americans. “The nation is grateful for the United States Merchant Marine’s support of our Armed Forces. Today, more than 8,000 brave merchant mariners serve in the Military Sealift Command, crewing auxiliary vessels for the United States Navy. These ships support our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. They deliver our troops and the combat gear, fuel, and other supplies all that they need to complete the liberation and reconstruction of Iraq. All told, merchant mariners have delivered more than 76 million square feet of cargo. “In war, and in peace, the men and women of the Merchant Marine serve their nation today with the same professionalism as they have in the past. “The contributions that merchant mariners make to this nation are immeasurable, and we all recognize the sacrifices they make so we can enjoy our freedom here at home and abroad. So on National Maritime Day 2006, a grateful nation gives its thanks to the merchant mariners who sacrificed for us in the past and who honor us today with their committed service.” Wreath-Laying Ceremony Joshua M. Smith, Ph.D., assistant professor, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, served as the guest speaker at the National Maritime Day ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard. In his remarks, Rear Adm. Robert D. Reilly, Jr., commander, Military Sealift Command, welcomed those in attendance and expressed his appreciation for the large turnout. Paying tribute to past and present mariners, the MSC commander said, “Merchant mariners have been a crucial part of our security and prosperity since the beginning of our nation, part of a tradition of service and patriotism, an unbroken circle of heroes. From the veterans and the fallen that we honor today, to the cadets who represent those that we will honor in the future, each and every mariner, from the able seaman standing watch to the CEO of the ship operating company—all are a vital part of that circle of service.” Admiral Reilly said that for more than half a century, the Military Sealift Command has benefited from the professionalism and expertise of America’s merchant mariners. “Whenever, wherever, when duty called, they delivered. “They’ve been out there, and are still out there today,” Admiral Reilly continued, “standing strong behind our war fighters, out at the pointed end of the spear, where combat readiness means survival as well as success, and where combat readiness depends on us and our promise to deliver; wherever, whenever. “MSC’s merchant mariners are delivering today, aboard more than 110 Military Sealift Command ships around the world,” he concluded. “We’re proud of our mariners, so it is fitting that today we express the great debt of gratitude we owe to them, the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Bosun’s Newsletter a Welcome Distraction When Recertified Bosun Daniel Teichman first wrote and distributed a shipboard newsletter, he had a simple goal. “I started it years ago, on a tanker,” Teichman recalled. “There was a lot of stress among the crew, so I wrote a newsletter to bring everybody together and give them something to talk about other than each other. That’s really the reason I still do it.” Teichman normally circulates his missives every other week when he’s sailing. The newsletter’s content usually is a mix of practical tips and observations. The formatting is very basic, along the lines of a business memo, and the title is equally to the point: “Bosn’s Newsletter.” He gives copies to unlicensed and licensed mariners alike and gets “good feedback, including requests and suggestions. Some are indifferent but most enjoy it. It does cause a lot of conversation.” The newsletter’s length varies—sometimes it’s a single page, other times it’s much longer. Below is the content of Teichman’s most recent holiday edition. (They aren’t always this sentimental. The other sample he gave the LOG covered some of the intricacies of real estate transactions.) Bosn’s Newsletter A CHRISTMAS STORY “I Believe in Santa Claus” Every trip to sea I write this newsletter to maybe lift your spirits with a little trivia, to cause conversation and debate. Whether you agree with me or disagree, it will cause you to interact with those you otherwise may not have. Here in this microcosm of society we occasionally must reach out for each other. In my family on Christmas Eve we don’t open presents (that is for the morning). Instead, for just 10 minutes we shut off the TVs and stereos, and with just the season’s warm lights we all close our eyes and try to hear the angels sing. We try to remember that it is not what you take with you when you leave this world, but what you leave behind. Yes, even in my advanced years, I believe. I must, for I am a man of the sea. I like the idea, I love the feeling and I liken this to the man for which one celebrates Christmas. You cannot see Recertified Bosun Daniel Teichman him, but you can talk to him and certainly if he lives in the hearts of man then perhaps there is a little room in there for old Chris Cringle, too. We who go to sea must believe at this time of year, and indeed at all times when we leave our loved ones, that we are there with them always. We are the sunlight in their hair to keep them warm, we are the whisper of the wind through the trees to guide them and give them comfort. We are their eagle to make their spirits soar. We must find our own comforts in what we believe, and I believe for every drop of rain that falls, a flower blooms and even in the darkest night, a candle burns for me somewhere to light my way home. It is my wish for each of you now and in the New Year that you find joy, in both your personal and professional lives. Seek this: demand of yourself first and not of others. Be the best friend, the best fountain of understanding, the essence of courtesy. Live your lives in a manner so when you close your eyes, you do not see any ghosts. From myself and my family, the best holiday wishes, and may your New Year be bountiful and all your dreams be fulfilled. — BOS’N June 2006 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:10 PM Page 11 SA Catalino Diaz (right) receives his first pension check from Port Agent Amanacio Crespo at the hall in San Juan. Chief Steward Juan Vallejo, who just got off the El Yunque, is ready for a vacation with his wife, Odaliz. Following a recent payoff in San Juan aboard the El Morro, Chief Cook Nelson Morales (left) and AB Roger Plaud get a jazz practice session going. Spotlight on Puerto Rico Ready for another voyage are AB Sergio Gonzalez (left) and AB Hector Serrano. They will be flying out to join the Cleveland in Poland. Chief Cook Antonio Mendez (right) shows Port Agent Amancio Crespo the diploma he recently was awarded for completion of a chief cook course at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. After 40 years as a merchant mariner, SA Americo Garayua receives his first pension check from Port Agent Amancio Crespo at the SIU hall in San Juan. Garayua noted that the maritime industry has been a big part of his life for all these years, and if he were to be reborn, he’d do it all over again! Luis Roman (left) chats with Port Agent Amancio Crespo at the hall. Roman is assistant port agent and a former crane maintenance electrician for Navieras de Puerto Rico. Relaxing in the San Juan hall are QMED Orlando Herrera (right) and Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Prior to payoff and the union membership meeting aboard the El Morro, Recertified Bosun Robert Grubbs (left) and the ship’s third mate perform a routine inspection of the life boats. Recertified Bosuns (from the left) Patrick Ray, Eric Perez and Tony Mercado have a lot in common to discuss. Chief Cook Nelson Morales prepares lunch on board the El Morro prior to payoff. June 2006 Left: Port Agent Amancio Crespo is flanked by QMED/Electrician Manuel Quinonez Cardona (left), who was in the hall filing for his pension, and Capt. Felix Aguilar, an inland pensioner. Seafarers LOG 11 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:10 PM Page 12 Baltimore Welcomes F Above: A conch shell blower is painted on one side of the ship’s hull. ollowing its transatlantic voyage in April, the SIU-crewed Pride of Hawaii was presented to the public for the first time in the port of Baltimore. Nearly 400 Seafarers were aboard the 93,500-ton vessel during the crossing. They worked in all three departments, practicing for the required fire and life boat tests, assisting in getting furniture in place, setting up the bars and generally helping clean up the areas and readying them for the ship’s first passengers. Approximately 600 more crew members, who completed their training at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., joined the ship in Baltimore, where the vessel also underwent inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard. SIU officials and guests had an opportunity to board the cruise ship in Baltimore and get a closer look at the magnificent vessel. It also was the first time many of the waiters and bartenders got to do the jobs for which they have been well prepared and trained. From Baltimore, the ship headed to Miami and then through the Panama Canal on its way to San Francisco and inaugural ceremonies in Los Angeles before joining its sister ships, the Pride of Aloha and the Pride of America on their seven-day cruises around the Hawaiian islands. Left: Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and Waiter Vittoria Rodgers Below (from left): SIU Atlantic Coast VP Joe Soresi, Bosun Victor Mariano, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan and SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram Wiper Isaac Jackson Luxuries Abound On Board Vessel There are a lot of windows on the ship. Keeping them clean are (from left) AB Todd Peden and AB Tirso Sarmiento. The food is great, according to (from left) Asst. Reefer Engineer Romeo Ochavillo, Wiper Fidel Pascua, Engine Repairman Severino Culajara Jr., OS Carlos Navarro and Engine Repairman Emilio Ordaniel. 12 Seafarers LOG While not the largest ship on the seas, at 93,500 tons, and with 1,100 crew members and a passenger capacity of 2,146, the Pride of Hawaii comes close and, in fact, enters the history books as the largest U.S.-flagged passenger ship ever built. There are more than 1,000 cabins within the 15 decks, each of which features cherry wood finishing, refrigerators, tea and coffee makers, and large bathrooms. Two garden villas (with their own private gardens, sun decks, whirlpool, concierge service) and 10 courtyards villas (that share a courtyard, pool and sun deck) as well as one top-of-the-ship owner’s suite are options for Pride of Hawaii passengers. Additionally, some of the standard cabins can interconnect to create two, three, four or five bedroom areas suitable for small or large families. NCL’s unique “freestyle” options allow passengers to take advantage of the vessel’s 10 restaurants. Plasma screens show the status of each eatery (full, moderately busy, empty) which eliminates the need to wait for service. Food for every taste is available—from steak and pasta to elegant French bistros or sushi and tapas bars, among others. “Bar Central” is a connected martini bar, champagne and wine bar, and a beer and whisky pub. Other amenities include a spa and state-of-the-art fitness center, an internet café and large theater as well as an expansive Keiki (Kids) Club and the surf-themed Wipe Out Teens’ Club. There also is a golf pro shop, sports deck complete with basketball, volleyball and tennis courts and a photo old photographs of which is owned by The Pride of Ha leave Honolulu eve day each in Hilo an each in Kahului (on (on Kauai) before h Honolulu. Color and comfo Pride of Hawaii. courtyard pools. well appointed lib ing old photograp States, and at ri mills, set up in th user has a great June 2006 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:11 PM Page 13 s the Pride of Hawaii Left: Bosun Victor Mariano (second from right) welcomes SIU officials aboard the cruise ship in Baltimore, its first port of call in the United States. From the left are VP Contracts George Tricker, SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Mariano and Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz. At work and in the messhall are (from left) Deck Repairman John Nersten; AB Bill Cornelius; AB Rigo Boggeano and Carpenter Scott Paxton. Preparing hors d’oeuvres are (from left) Chef Tournant Noel C. Mok and Executive Sous Chef Patrick Clarke (in blue) and Cook Morgan Maestas. gallery. Shore excursions are available at each port, and other activities (e.g., art auctions, health and wellness program, cooking demonstration) are offered—or passengers can simply relax and enjoy not having any schedule to follow. The interior design highlights Hawaii’s rich history and culture. The exterior hull art depicts a hula dancer on one side and a conch shell blower on the other joined by a colorful hibiscus lei. The library, named in honor of the S.S. United States (which entered service in 1952 and won the title as the fastest ocean liner when it smashed transatlantic speed records on its first two crossings) has a wide selection of reading material and some interesting hs of the S.S. United States, d by NCL. of Hawaii is scheduled to u every Monday and spend a lo and Kona and two days ui (on Maui) and Nawiliwili fore heading back to omfort abound aboard the awaii. At left is one of the ools. Above is part of the ted library with its interestographs of the S.S. United at right is a row of treadin the exerise room so the great view of the ocean. June 2006 When the cruise ship first docked in Baltimore, some of the waiters were lined up, ready to greet the guests. From the left are Katy Flint, Patti Morgan, Shannon Wright, Colette DiMarco, Jennifer Hastings, Michelle Campbell and Ryan York. Right: Junior Waiter Jamie Knaebel gets practice helping serve during the crew’s lunch. Seafarers LOG 13 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 2:21 PM Page 14 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SEAFARERS MEDICAL CENTER FUND This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2005. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Plan, EIN 942430964 for the year ended June 30, 2005. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $11,130,361. These expenses included $884,922 in administrative expenses and $10,245,439 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,382 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 $138,101,966 as of July 31, 2005, compared to $135,749,137 as of August 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,352,829. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $13,483,190, including employer contributions of $33,071, losses of $456,204 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $13,904,788 and other income of $1,535. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the administrator’s office of the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107; telephone (415) 7644990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $17.75 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, a trust fund. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(216,505) as of June 30, 2005, compared to $(453,765) as of July 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $237,260. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $620,489 including employer contributions of $595,753, earnings from investments of $128 and other income of $24,608. Plan expenses were $383,229. These expenses included $275,167 in administrative expenses and $108,062 in benefits paid to or for participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; and 3. Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Plan, P.O. Box 191086, San Francisco, CA 94119; telephone (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.75 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 100, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2005. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a trust fund. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $1,282,960 as of July 31, 2005, compared to $1,618,698 as of August 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $335,738. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $8,717,763, including employer contributions of $8,669,159, losses of $20,109 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $67,894 and other income of $819. Plan expenses were $9,053,501. These expenses included $484,559 in administrative expenses and $8,568,942 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 14 Seafarers LOG 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107; telephone (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $6.75 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 June 2006 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 2:37 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July & August 2006 Membership Meetings APRIL 16 — MAY 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 2 0 5 11 5 11 45 20 0 16 10 33 15 4 1 9 17 0 32 33 2 5 5 24 6 10 29 22 3 10 9 26 14 10 26 3 10 3 36 24 3 2 0 7 3 0 13 7 0 2 7 11 4 0 1 0 1 0 7 12 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 2 0 3 9 1 7 27 18 0 9 9 20 11 4 0 4 12 0 21 21 269 277 80 178 0 0 3 6 0 6 20 13 1 9 12 14 7 1 2 3 7 1 13 15 1 2 3 9 3 2 12 17 2 6 4 7 15 2 3 6 4 0 15 9 0 0 1 3 1 1 10 7 0 0 0 5 13 1 0 0 2 0 3 7 0 0 3 4 0 4 14 13 1 2 4 4 4 1 3 5 5 1 11 8 133 122 54 1 0 4 3 3 9 23 11 0 5 3 20 6 1 5 1 20 1 19 29 0 0 1 4 2 3 8 10 0 2 2 6 8 2 2 1 3 1 5 10 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 2 2 6 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 2 Trip Reliefs 187 1 0 1 1 0 0 9 3 1 2 1 8 5 0 0 0 2 0 7 2 43 0 0 7 9 0 4 24 11 0 2 3 6 16 1 1 4 6 3 13 14 124 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 87 0 1 4 4 0 1 12 14 0 2 4 5 10 1 3 0 5 1 7 4 78 0 0 2 0 0 1 6 5 0 2 0 3 8 0 0 1 0 0 2 5 35 0 0 3 1 0 1 9 9 1 2 0 6 5 1 1 2 5 0 4 6 56 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 4 3 1 8 18 15 0 1 2 12 5 3 2 1 20 2 11 9 164 70 28 117 0 0 0 0 0 5 4 4 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 2 0 4 1 0 1 2 4 2 9 21 11 1 4 3 38 17 0 24 1 13 3 16 8 2 4 1 9 4 7 16 19 2 0 5 16 22 0 20 0 12 0 9 9 0 0 0 0 0 4 3 1 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 1 5 0 4 1 0 0 0 6 2 3 3 9 0 3 2 4 7 0 1 1 9 2 7 7 66 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 3 4 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 14 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 2 2 3 2 2 16 8 0 4 3 14 14 0 11 1 7 0 5 3 0 2 1 2 2 4 9 3 1 0 2 3 10 0 13 0 3 0 6 6 Piney Point .............Monday: July 3, August 7 Algonac ..................Friday: July 7, August 11 DECK DEPARTMENT 1 2 7 15 5 4 25 20 1 3 7 14 15 3 13 4 6 4 25 13 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 5 2 0 3 6 5 0 2 2 8 5 0 0 2 9 0 8 2 0 0 8 17 5 14 79 54 0 20 24 72 21 5 2 12 30 1 64 53 2 11 10 33 11 18 44 39 4 17 9 44 26 9 20 11 17 7 57 42 3 4 1 13 5 2 31 18 0 2 9 20 10 2 1 0 5 2 15 20 Baltimore ................Thursday: July 6, August 10 Norfolk ...................Thursday: July 6, August 10 481 431 163 0 0 5 13 2 8 27 30 0 13 16 27 12 1 4 4 12 2 25 21 2 1 4 14 7 7 18 24 2 13 4 21 20 3 3 6 13 4 30 17 1 0 1 6 1 5 13 9 1 2 1 11 11 1 2 1 4 0 3 10 222 213 83 1 0 6 7 3 21 40 22 1 9 4 38 12 2 7 2 36 2 32 51 0 0 2 8 3 9 11 18 0 4 6 15 19 2 5 3 1 1 7 12 0 0 3 5 0 0 4 6 1 4 3 6 4 0 1 0 1 0 4 9 59 296 126 51 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 8 6 0 1 2 6 0 0 0 1 5 0 4 2 3 2 7 10 2 17 34 21 1 8 5 78 19 0 24 4 20 4 31 14 3 5 1 19 8 13 35 34 2 4 7 39 26 0 22 1 15 0 23 20 25 178 157 26 97 67 0 37 304 277 591 647 319 408 428 159 239 1,036 1,074 574 Boston.....................Friday: July 7, August 11 Guam ......................Thursday: July 20, August 24 Honolulu .................Friday: July 14, August 18 Houston ..................Monday: July 10, August 14 Jacksonville ............Thursday: July 6, August 10 Joliet .......................Thursday: July 13, August 17 Mobile ....................Wednesday: July 12, August 16 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: July 11, August 15 New York................Wednesday: July 5* .................................Tuesday: August 8 .................................(*change created by Independence Day holiday) Philadelphia ............Wednesday: July 5, August 9 Port Everglades.......Thursday: July 13, August 17 San Francisco .........Thursday: July 13, August 17 San Juan..................Thursday: July 6, August 10 St. Louis..................Friday: July 14, August 18 Tacoma ...................Friday: July 21, August 25 Wilmington ...........Monday: July 18 ..............................Tuesday: August 22* .................................(*change created by Paul Hall Day holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals DAVID BALLARD Mickey Noble, a shipmate from aboard the Steel Executive, would like to get in touch with you and catch up on old times. Call him at (415) 235-1432. RUSSELL LEE and AMERICUS BELL Leo Castro would like to hear from you. Call him on his cell phone at (713) 443-1301. Correction A photo caption in the May issue of the Seafarers LOG listed an incorrect title for Coastal Maritime CFO Kathy Wiley. The LOG regrets the error. *“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. June 2006 Seafarers LOG 15 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:11 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report APRIL 16 — MAY 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 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 6 4 1 11 1 0 3 33 0 4 0 1 12 1 1 1 20 0 2 4 0 1 0 0 3 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 8 6 1 14 1 0 3 10 1 2 0 0 2 1 1 1 7 0 2 4 0 1 0 0 4 11 0 9 4 1 5 0 0 2 21 17 30 1 14 38 0 1 1 102 9 10 2 10 27 0 1 0 59 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 3 1 0 4 0 1 1 10 5 18 1 5 20 0 0 3 52 2 6 0 2 10 0 0 0 20 1 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 9 1 1 6 0 0 1 22 0 3 1 0 2 1 0 1 8 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 4 Port 4 4 2 0 5 0 0 1 16 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 3 2 2 5 1 0 0 15 0 3 1 0 6 0 0 1 11 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 6 0 2 1 5 1 0 0 15 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 1 5 4 19 3 4 11 2 0 0 43 2 7 0 2 9 0 0 0 20 1 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 6 Totals All Departments 70 39 16 68 17 15 36 197 99 18 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Alfred Porcari of Howard Beach, N.Y. They were taken aboard the old Liberty ship Lewis Emery Jr. in 1954. The vessel was carrying coal from Japan to Korea on a 6-month trip. In the photo at right, ABs are tying up the ship in Japan. The Seafarer in the center is Agustin Tellez, father of SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. Below left: Crew members “shoot the breeze on the #4 hatch. That’s what we used to do in the old days,” wrote Porcari in a note accompanying the pictures. Below right: “The wheelhouse had portholes, so when we had to steer in tight places, like the Panama Canal, as in the picture, we had to steer on the open flying bridge.” Porcari joined the SIU in the port of New York in 1947 and retired in 1991. SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG June 2006 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 3:13 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 KENNETH ADAMCZAK, 66, joined the union in 1977. Brother Adamczak initially sailed on the J.T. Hutchinson. The Michigan native worked in the engine department. In 2000, Brother Adamczak attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the El Morro. Brother Adamczak is a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. HERMAN BERGERON JR., 62, became an SIU member in 1964. Brother Bergeron was born in Louisiana. He worked in the engine department. Brother Bergeron’s first ship was the Penn Sailor. He lives in Harvey, La. RAYMOND COOLEY, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1989. Brother Cooley first shipped on board the PFC James Anderson Jr. The deck department member, who was born in Georgia, last sailed aboard the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. He now makes his home in Beaumont, Texas. WILSON GARCIA, 65, joined the SIU in 1969. Brother Garcia, a member of the deck department, first shipped on the Geneva. The Puerto Rico-born mariner upgraded his skills in 1976 and 2006 at the training school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked aboard the Horizon Mayaguez. Brother Garcia calls Penuelas, P.R. home. WALTER HARRIS, 65, joined the SIU in 1978. Brother Harris was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. His first ship was the Bradford Island. Brother Harris was a member of the deck department. He most recently worked aboard Tyco’s Decisive. Brother Harris resides in Baltimore, Md. ROBERT HINES JR., 66, embarked on his seafaring career in 1967. Brother Hines’ first ship was the Steel Voyager. He worked in the engine department and upgraded often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hines was born in Mississippi. His most recent voyage was on the Sgt. Matej Kocak. Brother Hines continues to live in Mississippi. TYRONE MATTHEWS, 66, began his seafaring career in 1965. The Louisiana native, who worked in all three departments, enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. June 2006 Brother Matthews last sailed aboard the El Morro. He is a resident of New Orleans. GARY PETERSON, 61, joined the union in 1971. In 1993, the deck department member upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Peterson was born in California. He makes his home in Fall City, Wash. TERRY RYAN, 67, launched his SIU career in 1990. Brother Ryan first sailed on the Presque Isle. Born in Minnesota, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 2000 and 2002. Brother Ryan last worked aboard the Horizon Trader. He calls St. Paul, Minn. home. RANDOLPH TANNIS, 65, became an SIU member in 1970, first shipping on the Western Clipper. Brother Tannis was born in Wisconsin and sailed in the engine department. He enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Tannis’s most recent voyage was on the Maersk Missouri. He settled in Staten Island, N.Y. WILLIAM TURNER, 59, began shipping with the SIU in 1977. Brother Turner’s first voyage was aboard the Overseas Vivian. He attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. in 1967, 1982 and 2001. Brother Turner worked in the engine department, most recently aboard the San Juan. Born in New York, Brother Turner calls Jacksonville, Fla. home. MIGUEL VINCA, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1990 from the port of New York. Brother Vinca’s first ship was the USNS Capella; his last was the Cleveland. The Philippine-born mariner worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills in 2001 and 2004 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Vinca now makes his home in Corpus Christi, Texas. INLAND PETER GOTTSCHALK, 65, joined the union in 1990. During his SIU career, Boatman Gottschalk shipped primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels. He was born in Germany and went to the Piney Point school on three occasions to upgrade his seafaring skills. Boatman Gottschalk is a resident of Houma, La. JOHNNY O’FERRELL, 58, hails from Rhode Island. Boatman O’Ferrell joined the SIU in 1965. He first sailed on board the Hanover in the deck department. Boatman O’Ferrell upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent voyage was on the Delta Mariner. Boatman O’Ferrell resides in Chickasaw, Ala. ERNEST PARKS JR., 62, first sailed aboard a vessel operated by Southern Carriers Corporation. The Virginia-born Parks upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, he worked on the Express Marine. Boatman Parks continues to live in his native commonwealth. CHARLES TELLER, 62, became a union member in 1973 in the port of Houston. Boatman Teller first sailed aboard a G&H Towing vessel. The deck department member attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Teller last shipped with Tampa Tugs. He resides in Hitchcock, Texas. ANDREW VEAL, 62, began his seafaring career in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Veal was born in North Carolina. He worked primarily with the Association of Maryland Pilots. Boatman Veal calls Crab Orchard, W.Va. home. GREAT LAKES DONALD BINKOWSKI, 65, joined the SIU in 1970. Brother Binkowski first sailed on the Kinsman Enterprise. The engine department member hails from Wisconsin. Brother Binkowski, who last shipped aboard the Saint Clair, settled in his native state. BAISEL KUVSHINIKOV, 64, began sailing with the union in 1971. Brother Kuvshinikov, who was born in Russia, worked in the engine department. He attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 2003 and most recently shipped on the Sam Laud. Brother Kuvshinikov is a resident of Thomasville, N.C. LEVI SANFORD, 64, joined the SIU in 1979. Brother Sanford sailed as a member of the deck department. He was born in Covington, Ga. and upgraded his skills in 2003 at the Piney Point school. Prior to retiring, Brother Sanford shipped on the St. Mary’s Challenger. He makes his home in Sweetwater, Tenn. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. 1940 In spite of claims by outsiders that it was impossible to get increases from the coastwise operators, the SIU negotiated with the coastwise companies and won increases of $10 per month plus an increase in the overtime rate of ten cents per hour for all departments. Companies covered by this agreement were Seatrain Line Inc., Range Lines, Canadian and Gulf Lines, Fall River Navigation Company and Waterman Steamship Corporation (for their coastwise ships). BENITO BONILLA, 66, became an NMU member in 1966 in New York. Brother Bonilla first sailed on the United States. He was born in Honduras. Brother Bonilla’s most recent voyage was aboard the Endeavor. NORMAN BUSH, 70, hails from Honduras. Brother Bush joined the union in 1984. His first ship was the Nancy Lykes. Brother Bush worked in the steward department, most recently aboard the Green Harbor. AHMED HAMID, 65, joined the NMU in 1966. Brother Hamid was born in Yemen. He first shipped on the Texaco Montana. Brother Hamid most recently worked aboard the Denali. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME HERMAN BEASLEY, 64, embarked on his NMU career in 1969 in the port of New Orleans. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. Brother Beasley was born in Louisiana. His first ship was the Zoelle Lykes; his last was the Lykes Explorer. AGE EDP Eldridge, Shirlie 65 May 1 Erazo, Roberto 66 April 1 Major, Alvin 62 April 1 Runyan, Ronald 70 April 1 Vargas, William 70 April 1 1970 Three SIU members who risked their lives by jumping into heavy seas to rescue two downed Air Force pilots have been awarded the Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal in Seattle. The Seafarers, sailing aboard the Anniston Victory, jumped into icy seas with safety lines to help the exhausted airmen aboard ship. The rescue occurred on Feb. 26, 1968. Gale conditions made launching of a lifeboat too risky. This Month In SIU History 1955 Full protection of Seafarers and their rights, including their right to the union hiring hall, is assured under the terms of a resolution on merger of the AFL and CIO which was approved by SIU of NA convention delegates. The resolution orders the SIU of NA to set up a committee which will represent the international and it affiliates in any discussions relating to merger questions. The committee, in turn, will report back to the respective affiliated unions and the international officers at an emergency convention if such becomes necessary. Medals were presented by Maritime Administration Representative Frank I. Huxtable to Ordinary Seamen James B. Harrington and Theodore Zieser and AB Morgan L. Jones in the Seattle union hall. 1985 It was a busy time in Newport News Shipyard in June as Seafarers readied theI PFC Dewayne Williams for a military career with the Maritime Preposition Fleet. Later in the month when the Williams steamed from the Newport marine terminal to the Pacific Coast to take part in her first military exercise, SIU members were on board. Seafarers LOG 17 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 3:14 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA RAYMOND ALLEN Pensioner Raymond Allen, 71, passed away Feb. 15. Brother Allen was born in Pennsylvania and joined the Seafarers in 1952. He first worked in the deck department aboard an Ore Navigation vessel. Brother Allen’s last voyage was on board the Del Brazil. He retired in 1990 and called Windsor Mill, Md. home. ARTHUR AUSTIN Pensioner Arthur Austin, 82, died Jan. 3. Brother Austin joined the SIU in 1966. The engine department member was a native of Honolulu. Brother Austin’s first trip to sea was on the Eagle Voyager. Prior to retiring in 1990, he sailed aboard the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Austin made his home in the state of Washington. JAMES BARNETT Pensioner James Barnett, 78, passed away Jan. 17. Brother Barnett embarked on his seafaring career in 1945. He first shipped on a Sprogue Steamship Company vessel in the steward department. Brother Barnett was born in Alabama. His last journey was aboard the Seabulk Power. Brother Barnett began his retirement in 1990 and called Mobile, Ala. home. ERNIE BODDEN Brother Ernie Bodden, 41, died Oct. 19. He began his SIU career in 1996. Brother Bodden initially shipped on the Robert E. Lee. He was born in New Orleans and most recently sailed aboard the Green Point. Brother Bodden was a resident of Louisiana. GEORGE BRANNAN Pensioner George Brannan, 80, passed away March 14. Brother Brannan became a Seafarer in 1944 in the port of Baltimore. He first sailed aboard the Robin Kettering. Born in North Carolina, Brother Brannan worked in the engine department. His last ship was the Adonis. Brother Brannan started collecting his pension in 1985. He resided in Upper Chichester, Pa. ALVIN CARPENTER Pensioner Alvin Carpenter, 79, died Feb. 9. Brother Carpenter joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. The Missouri native worked in the steward department. Brother Carpenter’s first ship was the Timothy Dwight; his last was the Leader. He settled in Rhode Island and began receiving his retirement compensation in 1984. GEORGE CONNELL SR. Pensioner George Connell Sr., 91, passed away Jan. 6. Brother Connell commenced his seafaring career in 1963, initially 18 Seafarers LOG sailing aboard a vessel operated by Intercontinental Transportation. He was born in Alabama and worked in the engine department. Brother Connell last shipped on the Cove Spirit. He lived in his native state and went on pension in 1981. JOHNNY CRINER Pensioner Johnny Criner, 65, died March 7. Brother Criner joined the SIU in 1986, initially sailing aboard the USNS Assurance. The steward department member was born in Oklahoma. Before retiring in 2002, Brother Criner worked on the USNS Impeccable. He called Altoona, Wis. home. MARTIN FOX Pensioner Martin Fox, 60, passed away March 25. Brother Fox joined the SIU in 1965. His first trip to sea was aboard the Kenmar. Brother Fox was born in Baltimore and shipped in the engine department. He last worked on the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Fox retired in 1994 and made his home in Dundalk, Md. GEORGE GIBBONS Pensioner George Gibbons, 78, died Dec. 25. Brother Gibbons launched his seafaring career in 1947. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Gibbons first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. His last voyage was on the Horizon Challenger. Brother Gibbons was resident in his native state of New York. He became a pensioner in 1990. ROBERT HOLT Pensioner Robert Holt, 83, passed away March 29. Brother Holt became an SIU member in 1951 in New York. His first ship was operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. Brother Holt was born in Pennsylvania. His last trip to sea was aboard the Santa Isabel. Brother Holt started receiving his retirement stipends in 1984. He lived in Pottstown, Pa. CHARLES JOHNSON Pensioner Charles Johnson, 84, died March 19. Brother Johnson was born in Kennett, Mo. He became a Seafarer in 1951, joining in the port of San Francisco. Brother Johnson initially sailed with Sprogue Steamship Company in the deck department. His last voyage was on the USNS Denebola. Brother Johnson went on pension in 1982. He called St. Louis home. JENNINGS LONG Pensioner Jennings Long, 90, passed away Dec. 17. Brother Long started shipping with the SIU in 1947. His first trip was with Martis Steamship Corporation. A native of North Carolina, Brother Long worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard a CSX Lines vessel. Brother Long went on pension in 1980. He resided in Burlington, N.C. RICHARD McCALL Pensioner Richard McCall, 76, died Feb. 6. Brother Long joined the union in 1951 in New York. He initially sailed on a Delta Steamship Lines vessel as a member of the deck department. Brother McCall was born in Louisiana. Prior to retiring in 1986, he shipped aboard the Long Lines. Brother McCall was a resident of Mobile, Ala. JUAN OSARIO Pensioner Juan Osario, 67, passed away Oct. 23. Brother Osario became a Seafarer in 1978, first sailing on board the Santa Mercedes. The steward department member was born in Puerto Rico and continued to live there. Brother Osario last shipped aboard the Borinquen. He started collecting his pension in 1986. HIRAM PAYNE Pensioner Hiram Payne, 77, died Jan. 9. Brother Payne joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Savannah, Ga. He first sailed aboard a vessel operated by Sprogue Steamship Company. Brother Payne was born in Georgia and shipped in the steward department. His last voyage was on the Monticello. Brother Payne became a pensioner in 1978. He made his home in Winder, Ga. ANTHONY PERRY Pensioner Anthony Perry, 80, passed away Nov. 1. Brother Perry was born in Rhode Island and joined the SIU in 1973, initially sailing on the Mohawk. Working as a member of the deck department, he last shipped aboard the Horizon Navigator. Brother Perry began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1991. He was a resident of Pahrump, Nev. JOHN WATERS Pensioner John Waters, 66, passed away Jan. 14. Boatman Waters became a Seafarer in 1976 in the port of Houston. He was born in Charleston, S.C. Boatman Waters sailed primarily aboard Marine Contracting & Towing Company vessels. After retiring in 2001, he continued to live in South Carolina. GREAT LAKES RANSOM EHRENBERG Pensioner Ransom Ehrenberg, 86, died Dec. 28. Brother Ehrenberg was a Michigan native. He joined the union in 1963, first sailing aboard an American Steamship Company vessel. His last voyage was with Great Lakes Associates. Brother Ehrenberg went on pension in 1985 and resided in Palmer, Mich. MASOOD ELGIRSH Pensioner Masood Elgirsh, 71, passed away Oct. 14. Brother Elgirsh started sailing with the SIU in 1961 in Detroit aboard a Seatrain Lines vessel. He was born in Yemen and worked in the engine department. Brother Elgirsh’s last voyage was on the Saint Clair. He retired in 1997 and made his home in Dearborn, Mich. DAVID HUBBARD Pensioner David Hubbard, 68, died Dec. 28. Brother Hubbard joined the SIU in 1970. The Michigan-born mariner shipped in the deck department. Brother Hubbard initially sailed aboard the Hennepin. Prior to retiring in 2002, he worked on the Richard J. Reiss. Brother Hubbard was a resident of New Mexico. INLAND HENRY IRVINE PETER LOVASCO Pensioner Peter Lovasco, 84, died Jan. 18. Boatman Lovasco embarked on his seafaring career in 1980. Born in Massachusetts, Boatman Lovasco last sailed on the St. Joseph. He started collecting his pension in 1984 and made his home in Essex, Mass. ISAIAH NOTTINGHAM Pensioner Isaiah Nottingham, 88, passed away Jan. 19. Boatman Nottingham joined the union in 1971. During his seafaring career, he sailed primarily on vessels operated by Penn Central Transportation. Boatman Nottingham continued to live in his native Virginia. He went on pension in 1982. JOHN TAYLOR Pensioner John Taylor, 78, died Oct. 5. Boatman Taylor joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. He initially worked aboard an Interstate Oil Company vessel. Boatman Taylor was born in Maryland. Prior to retiring in 1988, he shipped with Maritrans Operating Company. Boatman Taylor called Princess Anne, Md. home. Pensioner Henry Irvine, 84, passed away Dec. 1. Brother Irvine joined the Seafarers in 1961. He sailed in both the inland and Great Lakes divisions. Brother Irvine first worked aboard a Price Brothers McClung vessel and last sailed on a Great Lakes Towing vessel. Born in Ogdensburg, N.Y. Brother Irvine began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1984. He called Michigan home. JUNIOR LARSON Pensioner Junior Larson, 77, died Oct. 6. Brother Larson began his seafaring career in 1977. His first vessel was the Henry Steinbrenner; his last was the Indiana Harbor. Brother Larson was a member of the engine department. He settled in his native state of Wisconsin. Brother Larson started receiving his pension in 1995. MARK SCOTT Brother Mark Scott, 47, passed away Jan. 17. He became a union member in 1999 in Seattle. Brother Scott’s first trip was on the USNS Sisler. The engine department member was born in Minnesota and most recently sailed on the Alpena. He made his home in Wisconsin. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. EVANGELISTA CRUZ Pensioner Evangelista Cruz, 92, died Oct. 19. Brother Cruz joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of San Juan, P.R. He first sailed on the Glenpool; his last ship was the Export Champion. Brother Cruz went on pension in 1976. SOLEM GREFALDIA Pensioner Solem Grefaldia, 87, passed away Oct. 19. Brother Grefaldia, who was born in the Philippines, became an NMU member in 1957, initially shipping aboard the Atlantic Trader. He worked in the steward department. Brother Grefaldia’s last voyage was on the Ashley Lykes. He retired in 1984. WELDON HAMILTON Pensioner Weldon Hamilton, 83, died Oct. 3. Brother Hamilton began his seafaring career in 1946, sailing from the port of San Francisco, Calif. The steward department member’s first ship was the Brazil. Prior to retiring in 1968, Brother Hamilton shipped aboard the Constitution. EVANGELISTA QUINONES Pensioner Evangelista Quinones, 89, passed away Sept. 8. Brother Quinones started his NMU career in 1947. His first voyage was on the Santa Rosa. Brother Quinones came ashore in 1954 as a patrolman in the port of San Juan, P.R. He retired in 1969. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE DOD Adams, Raven 63 Banker, Orett 86 Bauernfeind, Jane 69 Butler, Alex 86 Cruz, Estanislo 94 David, Monico 79 Efre, Jose 95 Figueroa, Modesto 80 Foster, Bender 82 Kokoszka, Valentine 89 Padilla, Jose 92 Perez, Eligio 79 Peterson, Carl 81 Sang, Jim 99 Smith, Gordon 71 Tatum, Courtney 78 Wise, Shelton 79 April 15 March 3 Jan. 10 April 19 April 1 April 21 April 15 Jan. 31 April 6 April 15 April 1 April 2 March 25 March 21 April 13 April 17 Feb. 20 June 2006 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:11 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. COAST RANGE (Crowley Liner Services), April 30—Chairman Marvin P. Zimbro, Secretary Tran Nee, Educational Director Carlos A. Perez Jr., Deck Delegate Travis Stringer. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Garyville, La. and urged everyone to read president’s report in April Seafarers LOG. Secretary reminded crew members getting off to clean rooms and leave fresh linen for next mariner. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. and contributing to SPAD. Treasurer stated $2,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made concerning pensions. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tampa, Fla. CP LIBERATOR (Marine Transport Lines), April 8—Chairman Zeki Karaahmet, Deck Delegate Manuel A. Uy, Engine Delegate Adelmo Giusti, Steward Delegate Eusebio V. Amaya. Bosun announced April 12 payoff upon arrival in Houston. He discussed importance of education. “Democracy is based on an educated population not just people that can read and write but people that ask questions and read between the lines.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Houston; Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Antwerp, Belgium. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cableship Company), April 10—Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Educational Director Lothar Wick, Deck Delegate John C. Bumgarner, Engine Delegate John W. Carson, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Chairman noted Tacoma patrolman visited ship last week to talk about new contracts. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for excellent meals. Ship’s internet connection still being worked on. Once it is up and running, crew members will have an opportunity to sign up for service. This service will be separate from company e-mail. Discussion was held pertaining to current contract negotiations. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), April 29—Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Donald B. GaNung, Educational Director Clive A. Steward Sr., Deck Delegate Wilfredo Velez, Engine Delegate Marshall J. Sanford, Steward Delegate Simone J. Solomon. Discussion held concerning five new Horizon Lines ships coming out in the next year. Treasurer stated $200 in captain’s safe to be used to purchase DVDs. Clarification requested on box girder. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made to regarding next contract, including raising pension amounts due to cost of living increases and lowering medical plan’s deductible. Crew members were in agreement that recent barbecue was the best ever. Next port and port of payoff: Houston. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), April 30—Chairman Sailing on the Hauge Working aboard the CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. are SA Naziruddin Patankar (top left), ACU Shanita Daniel (top right) and (below, from left) Electrician John Brantly and AB Edward Rockinger. June 2006 Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Joseph J. Gallo Jr., Educational Director Jorge L. Falero, Deck Delegate Isaac Vega Mercado, Engine Delegate Michael A. Watkins, Steward Delegate Jorge R. Salazar. Chairman announced May 5 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. and asked crew to have union books and dues payments ready for patrolman. He thanked all three departments for working well together and advised everyone to keep passports and all other required shipping documents current or risk losing a job. Secretary thanked crew for great trip and reminded them to “be alert—don’t get hurt.” Educational director urged mariners to attend upgrading classes at Piney Point school. Treasurer said captain is maintaining stewardship of joint funds and will give report of totals at next crew meeting. The money currently is being used for satellite TV, among other items. Refrigerators for crew state rooms are also to be ordered with treasury funds. Crew extended thanks to Brothers Tony Rosario and Mo Ahmed for recovery of misplaced money. Sympathies of crew members went out to Brother Ray Fernandez on loss of his beloved father. Job well done by Chief Cook Salazar and SA Chucha Rodriguez. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla.; San Juan, P.R.; Port Elizabeth, NJ. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), April 19—Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary William J. Bunch, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Cleofe B. Castro, Engine Delegate Pablo Albino, Steward Delegate Fernando L. Vega. Crew discussed newly implemented ID requirements for entry into port of Jacksonville. Question arose as to required payment for additional background check. Bosun encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD, particularly in an election year. Unlicensed Apprentice C.J. Curran complimented for his easy adaptation to shipboard life. His work has been excellent and he learns very quickly. Educational director advised everyone to allow significant time when applying for required shipping documents. Treasurer stated $2,235 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Condolences extended to family of former New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd. Crew advised that new washing machine does not work properly in rough seas. Chief engineer has been informed and will take care of it soon. Steward department thanked for clean ship as well as good food and excellent barbecues. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Trader), April 1—Chairman Ali A. Saleh, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Hiawatha J. Williams, Steward Delegate Efren P. Aguirre. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage and job well done. He announced April 1 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. and congratulated crew on achieving the one-year mark without a lost-time injury. Educational director reminded members of the many classes available at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $425 in ship’s fund. Money used this trip for picnic and movies. Suggestion made to purchase new chess set and backgammon set and to check contract regarding TV sets in each room. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested broken VCR in crew lounge be replaced. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line Limited), April 23—Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Robert A. Ott. Chairman announced April 29 payoff in Newark, N.J. He thanked crew members for smooth, safe voyage. He also advised them to check expiration dates on all documents and renew early, if necessary. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew inquired as to availability of shoregang while in Newark and to have payoff on arrival in New York instead of following day. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J.; Spain. charge, ship will sail for Valdez. Bosun and steward requested union official in San Francisco to collect dues payments and take care of ship business. Secretary asked for assistance in keeping mess hall and lounges clean. Educational director reminded everyone to upgrade at union-affiliated school and keep documents current in order to avoid having to take exams over. He also urged crew members to donate to SPAD; it’s vital in the union’s fight for beneficial legislation. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. Crew requested review of medical benefits. New Charleston Pays Off in Savannah Union Rep Thornton Elliott (second from left) was aboard the Charleston when it held a payoff recently in Savannah, Ga. From the left are AB Silas Sam, Elliott, Recertified Bosun Elkanah Ladia, Chief Steward Peter William and Pumpman Clarence Verdun. As each man made sure his dues were paid up, William also was thanked for his generous contribution to the Maritime Defense League (MDL). OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG Ship Management), April 16—Chairman Abdulkarim F. Mohamed, Secretary Jack A. Hart Jr., Steward Delegate Carlos L. Olascoaga. Chairman announced April 24 payoff in Long Beach, Calif. following run to Portland, Ore. Secretary read letter from Executive VP Augie Tellez pertaining to future contract negotiations. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center to better themselves, their jobs and their income potential. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to President Sacco and VP Tellez for job well done on getting new ships and better contracts. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Ship Management), April 30—Chairman Samuel Duah, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director Larry F. Phillips, Engine Delegate William P. Stone. Chairman encouraged Seafarers to participate in union meetings while ashore. He also noted that copies of the contract are available at union hall. Educational director talked about educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. Recommendation made to raise pension benefits. Suggestion also made to put penalty meal hour back into contract. Next port: Tampa, Fla. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk International), April 16—Chairman Juan Castillo, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Salome Castro, Deck Delegate Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Engine Delegate Hernando Basilan, Steward Delegate Orlando Hill. Chairman announced April 17 arrival of ship in Kenai, Alaska. Following dis- ice machine received; still awaiting new laundry machine. USNS DAHL (Maersk Line Limited), April 1—Chairman Herman L. Reynolds, Secretary James H. McLeod. Chairman urged all mariners to read Seafarers LOG for current information about union and maritime industry and recommended everyone keep z-cards, passports, etc. up to date and contribute to SPAD. Secretary thanked crew for helping separate trash and keeping ship clean. He reported April sanitation inspection went very well and gave special thanks to bosun and deck department for helping with vessel’s stores. Educational director encouraged crew members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities and courses available at Piney Point facility. Treasurer stated $2,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested more information on Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Everyone looking forward to ship’s gathering for departing and newly arriving crew members. Next port: Saipan. CAPE KENNEDY (Keystone Shipping), May 1—Chairman Donald Byrd, Secretary Eddie W. Taylor, Educational Director Tran P. Luu, Deck Delegate Leandro A. Cacho, Engine Delegate Joseph Shepard Jr. Chairman advised all members to keep documents current. “You can’t sail without them.” Secretary reminded Seafarers that whatever job you are doing, safety comes first. Educational director suggested members upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Applications are available on board ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new TV antenna system for lounges, 10 foldaway cots, and copies of pension and welfare plans booklets. Thanks given to all departments for working well together. Special thanks given to Mark (radio officer) for daily news and e-mails. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:12 PM Page 20 Letter to the Editor Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Important Message Dear Brothers and Sisters of the SIU: Recently, I was admitted to the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (known as “The Farm”). This came about due to bad choices that I made concerning drugs and alcohol. I had the choice to enter rehab or quit sailing. I have been sailing for quite some time with the SIU, and quitting was not the option. I entered the program reluctantly and learned how serious my problem was. I was a functioning alcoholic and was on the slow path to ruin and death. The SARC has shown me literally how to save my career and my life. I will be clean and sober and able to make the Know Your Rights right decisions in the future. The SIU and SARC care about us and will help us overcome the scourge of alcohol and drugs that can ruin our lives. If you or a shipmate has a substance abuse problem, please talk with someone about it. You will be treated with confidentiality and respect. You need not feel alone because, believe me, you are not. The Brotherhood of the Sea can save your life. A grateful SIU member LOG-A-RHYTHMS To the Old Timers by Paula Werfel Here’s to you old timers whose blood, sweat and tears Have brought this industry through many tough years. I stare at the sea and wish she would tell All the stories she has in each formidable swell. As a boy you set sail seeking adventure and spice. A man you became with many a sacrifice. The heartaches, the victories, the making of men. I’ll bet there’s not one of you who wouldn’t do it again. Missed weddings, anniversaries, births, deaths and many an event, “Job call” was hollered and off you went. Here’s to you old timers for whom I have great respect. I’ll listen with awe and wish I was ’board deck. Not for glory or medals or “hats off” from anyone. But because there was a job that needed to get done. You supplied soldiers and allies with provisions for the “fray,” Dodging torpedoes or bullets and learning quickly how to pray. Sometimes the dodge was not quick enough, A lost shipmate and friend, now that was quite rough. Aching muscles, sunburn, ornery engines and callused hands, Tight places, no sleep and rules of foreign lands. The fun that you made was “creative” for sure. The poker games, the jokes and oh ... pranks by the score. The time passed, sometimes too slowly, sometimes too fast. Each voyage with memories to tuck away with the last. Wine, women and song in some foreign port. Hard work and loneliness was more like the sort. There must be some future “old timers” among these young men, But it’ll never be for them like it was for you then. Please when you set feet on dry land and plan to retire, Pass on those good truths, the need is quite dire. I thank you for your sacrifice, hard work and the pain Through salty spray, ice, snow, gales and miserable rain. For me there’s no greater pleasure or prize Than to learn of the sea through an old timer’s eyes. This poem is dedicated to all retired seafarers. Your sea stories are awesome. I never get tired of hearing of your shipboard antics, quite arduous times, personal victories and defeats. I’ve always said I was born too late. You have brought a world to me that cannot be found anywhere else. Being a landlubber all my life, I had no idea what I was missing until you opened and shared your treasure trove of priceless booty!! For this I thank you. Paula Werfel works at SIU headquarters in the pension benefits department. 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 6/06 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. June 2006 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 3:15 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. for June through the end of 2006. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Junior Engineer July 24 October 13 Machinist June 5 June 23 Marine Electrician October 23 December 15 Welding July 17 September 11 October 9 August 4 September 29 October 27 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* (one week) June 5 July 10 August 7 September 25 June 9 July 14 August 11 September 29 Basic Safety Training - AB July 3 August 14 September 25 November 6 July 7 August 18 September 29 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT July 24 September 18 November 13 July 28 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels - FOWT June 26 July 17 August 7 September 11 September 18 June 30 July 21 August 11 September 15 September 22 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* June 5 July 31 September 18 November 27 June 16 August 11 September 29 December 8 August 7 October 16 August 11 October 20 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Courqse Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 10 August 21 October 2 November 13 August 4 September 15 October 27 December 8 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) August 21 August 25 Lifeboatman/Water Survival June 26 August 7 September 18 October 30 July 7 August 18 September 29 November 10 Radar August 7 August 18 Radar Renewal (one day) August 28 (*must have basic fire fighting) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning June 12, 2006. Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Recertification Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun October 9 November 6 Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops July 17 September 11 November 13 August 11 October 6 December 8 Steward July 10 August 7 Fast Rescue Boat June 5 July 17 June 9 July 21 FOWT July 17 September 11 September 8 November 3 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 _____________________________ Academic Department Courses 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 ________________________________________________ June 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. 6/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �36210p01_24X.qxp 5/31/2006 6:12 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending March 31 are (from Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 673 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 673. They include (in alphabetical order) Antoine Best, Gregory Brown, Ronald Byrd, Marion Cruzat, Mervin Cruzat, Lester Desheers, Thomas Jarrett, Nicholas Kempker, Detrell Lambey, Aaron Larson, Jesse Lewis, Robert Miskel, Orien Nelson, Derrick Norfleet, Jeffery Novak, Brendan O’Brien, Kevin Robinson, Michael Sanders Jr., Kyle McClellan, William Thomas and Penny Williams. left, kneeling) Christopher Bean, Patrick Guertin, Kemer Rojas, (second row) Adrian Cockerell, Robert Morrison, Christopher Doucet, William Devers, William Little, Jason Boyer, Keyon Kidd, Abigail Maki, Audania Bomar, John Yi, Bernabe Pelingon (instructor), (third row) Saleh Mothana, Graham Jones, Brian Saba, Timothy Eide Jr., Scott Jones and Greg Martineau. Not pictured is John Springer. Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) — Completing this course April 14 are (in no specific order) Karen Suzuki, Frank Zoumakpe, Victor Rios, Xavier Alfaro, Milton Hollis, Eufracio Arzu, Keith Jasmine, Mark Wyn, Rudolph Miller, Mark Leman, Angel Carrillo, Carlos Valdes, Derrick Lott Sr., Roger Saxon, Robert Warren, Lamont Robinson, Melvin Smith, Francisco Palacios and Samuel McDaniel. (Note: not all are pictured.) ARPA — Under the instruction of Mike Smith (second from right) are students who completed the ARPA course April 21. They are (from the left) Jeffrey Titco, Bill Hewett and Michael Sykes. Radar — Graduates of the recent radar course are (from left) Arthur Price, Bill Hewett, Jeffrey Titco and Michael Sykes. Mike Smith (center) was their instructor. Galley/Advanced Galley Operations — Graduates of recent galley operations and advanced galley operations classes are (from left) Jay Ashun, Willie Frink, Kay Kalua, Irina Shubov, Tammy Brown, Ismael Garayua, Abdulsattar Nasser, Edvaldo Viana, Brittany Lewis, Jermeka Williams, Cheryl Lynch and Cresencio Gonzalez. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — April 14 was graduation day for the six students in the water survival course. They are (in alphabetical order) Allan Coloyan, Fred Forsythe, Rene Gil, Jaber Jaber, Patrick Thompson and Bruce White. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is seated third from left. Computer Lab Classes Any student who has registered for a class and finds— Holding their certificates of achievement for courses recently completed in the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center are (from left) Jeff Leman, Alyxi Alexander, John Frey and Anthony Alibah. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, is in the center. for whatever reason— that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. 22 Seafarers LOG June 2006 �36210p01_24.qxp 5/26/2006 3:25 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Small Arms — Seafarers in the bosun recertification program completed the small arms training course April 21. They are (in no specific order) Richard Barnes, Daniel Teichman, Rufino Giray, Amante Gumiran, William Richards, Timothy Jackson, Mike Shappo, Robert Natividad, Paul Wade, Scott Palen, Iima Winfred and Reginald Watkins. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Small Arms — Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed the small arms training course April 28. They are (in alphabetical order) Joseph Bianchi, Steven Blair, John Davis, MacGregor Davis, Jeremy Finley, Ernest Frank, Dallon Garnett, Maxine Howard, Jesse James, Raul Morales, Winston Rankin, WilmaJoy Smith and Akia Wilcox. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Specially Trained OS — Thirteen unli- censed apprentices from Phase III of their training completed this evening course April 27. They are (in no specific order) Casey O’Brien, Ryan Vandergrift, Reid Bland, Joseph Ward, Joseph Bianchi, Wilma-Joy Smith, Abner Torres, Maxine Howard, Sean Fox, Shawn Orr, Eddie Flood, Michael Sedita and John Davis. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. Specially Trained OS — Included in the April 27 graduating class are Phase III unlicensed apprentices (in no specific order) Francisco Palacios, Dominique Calvy, Jeremy Finley, Jesse James, Karel Cain, Steven Blair, Tim Kauble, MacGregor Davis, Raul Morales, Tyrell Blackburn and SIU upgraders Patrick Tucker, Mohamed Khodeiri, Atanacio Bernardez, Gary Hirsch and Alexander Rodriguez. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. STCW — NCL, April 7: Rachid Aboulwafa, Luis Ahumada, Robert Alway, Edward Anderson, Wanda Anderson, Laura Archer, Manuel Arsenio Jr., Charles Austin, Elizabeth Ayiku, Richard Bailey, Antonio Barleston, Michael Basak, Lissa Bates, Margaret Bauras, Rachid Beldi, Nicole Belmont, Amber Benjamin, Toufik Benjeddi, Charles Bennett, Joseph Bentley and Jordan Beswick. STCW — NCL, April 20: Aurelien d’Anglejan, Chanel Daniels, Terronce DeBarros Freeman, Pedro Diaz, Alycia Distefano, Teag Drabik, Novelette DuCasse, Timmy Ducut, April Durbin, Rebekah Dykhorst, Rachid Fahmi, Paula Fanjoy, Nicholas Fernandez, Jose Figueroa Seary, Cory File, Victor Garza, Brenda Giles, Robert Glynn, Reynante Gonzales, Derijah Goss, Yukari Hadde, Kathy Hancock and Troy Hankerson. June 2006 STCW — NCL, April 20: William Bloom, Johnnie Booth, Lucette Breitenkam, Matthew Brice, Fabian Brooks, Anthony Bruce, Riffany Burd, John Burns, Shasta Byrd, Dennis Calhoun Jr., Dimitri Chenin, Ulysses Church, Llewlyn Clarke, James Collins, Felipe Colon, Jay Cook, Nicole Cordero, Maristella Cordova, Michael Crowley, Nancy Cummings and Joseph Czelusniak II. STCW — NCL, April 7: Jared Hauck, Donald Hawk, Rebecca Henckel, Joseph Henry, Diane Higginbottom, Matthew Hollis, Belinda Hoyt, Roy Jackson Jr., Mary Juszczak, Leonardo Kalesaran, Daishawn Keith, Garth Kennedy, David Kim, Christopher Klein, James Kubalanza, Donald Langwell, John Laquidara, Jessica Leati, Steven Lienhart and Tasha Lindsay. Seafarers LOG 23 �36210p01_24X.qxp 6/1/2006 8:56 AM Page 24 Volume 68, Number 6 June 2006 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS SIU Pacific District Pension Plan SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. SIU PD Seafarers Medical Center Fund — page 14 Seafarers Honored on National Maritime Day S eafarers, union officials and a large troop of unlicensed apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. on May 22 joined scores of dignitaries who witnessed and participated in four National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. The events included a Maritime Day observance and medal ceremony, a Mass commemorating National Maritime Day, a Propeller Club luncheon and a wreath-laying ceremony. A forum on mariners’ welfare also took place that day. The respective events took place at the U.S. Department of Transportation, St. Dominic Catholic Church, and the Washington Navy Yard. They were sponsored by the Department of Transportation’s U.S. Maritime Administration, the Apostleship of the Sea and the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America, the Propeller Club (Port of Washington, D.C.) and the Kings Point Club of Washington D.C., the U.S. Military Sealift Command and the North American Maritime Ministry Association. National Maritime Day Observance U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta, a battle-tested champion of the U.S. Merchant Marine, was the principal speaker during the National Maritime Day Observance. Following his keynote address, the transportation secretary presented U.S. Merchant Marine Medals to 28 mariners and to representatives of ship management companies for their respective efforts and contributions made during the aftermath of last year’s hurricanes in the Gulf. Nine of the medal recipients were SIU members. “I extend a special welcome to veterans of the merchant marine who served in World War II, the Korean Conflict, Vietnam, and in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom,” said Secretary Mineta upon taking the podium. “The nation is grateful for your service.” Focusing on the purpose of the day’s gathering, Secretary Mineta noted, “Like the military veterans who we will honor on Memorial Day, the National Maritime Day recounts the history of the sentries of our seas and their contributions to our great country. Today, we honor the achievements and sacrifices of those seafarers in times of war and in time of peace. “From our nation’s founding to the present day,” he continued, “the legacy of our nation’s merchant Left: U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao tells a Washington, D.C. Maritime Day audience that the nation continues to rely on a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Right: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta (right) presents the Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement to SIU Chief Cook Jack Curry for the mariner’s efforts in recent hurricane relief missions. mariners is woven through the fabric of American history, creating a vibrant tapestry that tells the tale of exceptional character and uncommon valor.” Recounting history, Secretary Mineta said when America’s 13 colonies declared their independence from Great Britain over 200 years ago, they had only 31 ships comprising the Continental Navy. “So the colonists commissioned privately owned merchant marine ships to be outfitted as war ships to add to the fleet,” he said. “These ships and their crews successfully interrupted the British supply chain supporting the defeat of the redcoats and contributing to the birth of our great nation.” Moving to the 20th century, Secretary Mineta told those in attendance of the merchant mariners’ consistent tradition of service to country. “When our country was again in need, during World War II,” he pointed out, “the merchant marine provided critical logistical assistance and carried out the greatest sealift in history. Whether in the seas of the Pacific, or the waters of the Atlantic, the support and sacrifice of these seafarers were vital to the victory of the allied forces. “This legacy of remarkable service lives on today with the outstanding efforts of the maritime industry in the global war on terror,” the transportation secretary continued. “More than 5,000 merchant mariners voluntarily put themselves in harm’s way to transport much-needed equipment and supplies to our troops serving in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.” Secretary Mineta noted that the same brand of noble service which merchant mariners exhibited overseas during armed conflict also flourishes in the domestic arena. “Here at home, the merchant mariner has proven himself invaluable as well,” he said. “Immediately following the horrific terrorist attacks of September 11, American Merchant Nine Seafarers were honored by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration at a May 22 ceremony in Washington, D.C. Those SIU members are pictured after the event with SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (third from right) and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (second from left). Mariners were among the first to answer the call for assistance by transporting emergency personnel and needed supplies to ground zero. That day, more than a half-million people were safely evacuated from lower Manhattan … [by] ferry boats, tour boats and government vessels. And in the days that followed, merchant mariners stayed the course, providing rescue and recovery support and ferrying responders into and out of lower Manhattan. “More recently, following Hurricane Katrina, merchant mariners provided critical rescue relief and recovery support as part of the hurricane response team,” he noted. Secretary Mineta said that immediately follow- Rear Admiral Robert Reilly Jr., commander of MSC, welcomes Unlicensed Apprentice James Burton and other trainees to the agency’s Maritime Day ceremony. ing Katrina, “I took the unprecedented step of activating the Ready Reserve Fleet for service to help more supplies and personnel into the Gulf Coast Region and move people out of harm’s way. The Ready Reserve ships brought in emergency cargo, generated electricity, helped to restore port activity and provided shelter and meals to relief workers. Their (merchant mariners’) hard work was nothing short of extraordinary. Teamwork was vital to these efforts, so today we would like honor this spirit of cooperation by awarding the Merchant Marine Medal for outstanding achievement to 28 seafarers for their leadership following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.” Other speakers at the Maritime Administration ceremony included Acting Deputy Maritime Administrator and Chief Counsel Julie Nelson; U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Tom Atkin, assistant to the Coast Guard chief of staff; and Federal Emergency Management Agency Acting Director of Response Division Michael W. Lowder. Maritime Day Mass After the morning observance and medal presentation, many of the event’s attendees, including SIU officials and the contingent of trainees from the Paul Hall Center, departed Department of Transportation grounds and made their way across the street to the St. Dominic Catholic Church. In that venue, Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, Archbishop, Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., conducted a special Mass observing National Maritime Day. Among the ministers assisting in the Mass was Rev. Sinclair Oubre, president, Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America (and an active SIU member). Maritime Day Luncheon U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, during her keynote address at the annual National Maritime Day Continued on page 10 NATIONAL MARITIME DAY 2006 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America The United States Merchant Marine plays an important role in ensuring our national security and strengthening our economy. As we celebrate National Maritime Day and the 70th anniversary of the Merchant Marine Act, we pay tribute to merchant mariners and their faithful service to our Nation. Since 1775, merchant mariners have bravely served our country, and in 1936, the Merchant Marine Act officially established their role in our military as a wartime naval auxiliary. During World War II, merchant mariners were critical to the delivery of troops and supplies overseas, and they helped keep vital ocean supply lines operating. President Franklin D. Roosevelt praised these brave merchant mariners for persevering "despite the perils of the submarine, the dive bomber, and the surface raider." Today's merchant mariners follow those who courageously served before them as they continue to provide crucial support for our Nation's service men and women. America is grateful for their commitment to excellence and devotion to duty. In addition to helping defend our country, merchant mariners facilitate commerce by importing and exporting goods throughout the world. They work with our Nation's transportation industry to share their valuable skills and experience in ship maintenance, navigation, and cargo transportation. This past year, the good work and compassion of merchant mariners also played an important role in hurricane relief efforts. Ships brought urgently needed supplies to the devastated areas, provided assistance for oil spill cleanup, generated electricity, and provided meals and lodging for recovery workers and evacuees. In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by joint resolution approved on May 20, 1933, as amended, has designated May 22 of each year as "National Maritime Day," and has authorized and requested that the President issue an annual proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2006, as National Maritime Day. I call upon all the people of the United States to mark this observance by honoring the service of merchant mariners and by displaying the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirti- eth. GEORGE W. BUSH � 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 June 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES LABOR SECRETARY ANNOUNCES TRAINING GRANT 4 SEAFARERS, 5 DEPENDENTS SELECTED FOR SCHOLARSHIPS PRIDE OF HAWAII CHRISTENED LEGISLATURE HONORS ALASKA TANKER CO. ABERCROMBIE RECEIVES ‘SALUTE TO CONGRESS’ PROPELLER CLUB AWARD RECOGNIZES MARITIME ADVOCATE AMENDMENT AIMS TO MAINTAIN RRF PROPOSED RULES ISSUES FOR NEW CREDENTIALS UNION EXAMINING POTENTIAL CONTENT, METHODS FOR ISSUING TWIC DEPT. OF HOMELAND SECURITY ISSUES MARITIME INFRASTRUCTURE RECOVERY PLAN 12 SIU BOSUNS COMPLETE RECERTIFICATION UNION INDUSTRIES SHOW ATTRACTS 200,000 GUESTS ANNUAL EVENT SHOWCASES UNION-MADE GOODS AND SERVICES SPICA LOCATES DOWNED MARINE HELICOPTERS COOPERATIVE EFFORTS RESULT IN NOAA WAGE GAINS UNION PLUS OFFERS DISCOUNT FOR CONSUMER REPORTS WEB SITE SEAFARERS HONORED ON MARITIME DAY BOSUN’S NEWSLETTER A WELCOME DISTRACTION BALTIMORE WELCOMES THE PRIDE OF HAWAII SEAFARERS HONORED ON NATIONAL MARITIME DAY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/2006 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. 6 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/3e470feff7aff8e6e9afb34dc420daf4.pdf 383759d2d4464968c0186dd8592f53fa PDF Text Text Volume 68, Number 5 May 2006 Pacific Reliance Joins SIU Fleet New ATB Christened In Mobile The SIU participated in ceremonies March 30 in Mobile, Ala. as Crowley Maritime Corporation christened the tug Pacific Reliance and its accompanying barge 650-1 (both pictured below). Together the new units form an articulated tug-barge (ATB) with a capacity of 185,000 barrels. The tug is 127 feet long, while the barge is 587 feet. Pictured before the ceremony are (inset, from left) SIU Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly, Engineer Joe Kadak, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Deckhand Willie Allen, AB Kevin Schroder and Engineer Wallace “Scooter” Ashwood. Page 3. Union Opening Hall in Oakland Vocational Training Available to Seafarers Upgrading Remains A Key to Advancement The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers dozens of U.S. Coast Guard-approved upgrading courses to mariners interested in advancing their careers. Courses are available for students in the deck, engine and steward departments, as reflected in these recent handson training photos taken at the Piney Point, Md. facility. For more information (and many more photos), see pages 12-13. The SIU is relocating its San Francisco operations to a roomy, conveniently located building in nearby Oakland, Calif. The new building, pictured above, is being tailored to the union’s needs; a tentative move-in period is set for early July. The Oakland facility has numerous advantages over the old hall on Fremont Street. Page 3. Claims Department Reopens in Piney Point Seafarers Prepare Pride of Hawaii Page 4 Page 6 �President’s Report Great Start, but Work Remains We are barely a third of the way through 2006 and already it has been a great year for the SIU. Near the end of April, there was a lot of excitement at SIU headquarters and at our affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as members, officials and employees anticipated the arrival in Baltimore of NCL America’s newest cruise ship, the Pride of Hawaii. This is the third SIU-crewed ship we have welcomed into NCL America’s fleet since 2004, and needless to say, it doesn’t get old. Michael Sacco The Pride of Hawaii is a big headline-grabber, but it’s not the only recent story signifying new and future jobs for Seafarers. This year alone we have crewed up a new ATB on the Gulf Coast and applauded the announcement of an order to build a ninth T-AKE ship that will be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. We’ve kept an eye on the ongoing construction in Philadelphia where new tankers are being built, and on the West Coast where the fourth Alaska-class tanker and another Government Services ship are being completed. In case you missed it in last month’s LOG or at the April membership meetings, during the recent conference of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board, Captain Robert Johnston, senior vice president of SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), announced that his company is primed to invest in 17 new U.S.-flag ships for the Jones Act trades. Brothers and sisters, that is news that’s worth reporting at least twice! Around that same time, SIU-contracted Horizon Lines announced an agreement to charter five new American-flag ships beginning early next year. We’ve made progress this year in other areas, too. On the West Coast, work is being done to help us move from our old hall in San Francisco to a better facility in nearby Oakland. This isn’t a new trend: Since 1988 we have opened or relocated to new halls in Baltimore, Boston, Brooklyn, Ft. Lauderdale, New Orleans, Anchorage, Joliet, Tacoma and Guam. We have refurbished several of our other halls. I’m very proud of the recognition Seafarers have received this year for their efforts assisting hurricane relief missions along the Gulf Coast. Once again, the SIU delivered when called upon. Even though the rebuilding process in the Gulf of course is far from finished, it was fitting that our members and other mariners were acknowledged for pitching in during the critical earliest stages. Those are just some of the highlights from the first four months of this year. We have plenty more to look forward to—and plenty of challenges to meet. No challenge—or responsibility—may be more important than our grassroots participation leading up to Election Day in November. This year, the entire U.S. House of Representatives and one-third of the U.S. Senate are up for election. There are a number of state and local elections as well, including those for about three-dozen state governors. It’s no exaggeration to say that most Seafarers understand the great impact that politics has on our livelihoods. SIU members know that our industry was heavily regulated long before September 11 and before the unrelated, amended STCW convention. Since then, you could say, we have to jump through a few more hoops before climbing the gangway. Seafarers also understand that our political efforts never end. There is regular turnover at every level of government. With those changes comes the need to educate newly elected representatives about the tremendous importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Of course, it’s also necessary from time to time to remind even the most seasoned legislators about our role in boosting America’s national and economic security. That’s true not just during election years. Once again, I appreciate SIU members’ support of the voluntary fund known as the Seafarers Political Action Donation. SPAD is nothing short of essential in helping deliver the right message to the right people. At the same time, SPAD isn’t the only way that members can pitch in to help elect pro-maritime representatives. That’s why I’m confident that you will answer the call when your local SIU representatives ask for your time to assist in grassroots campaigning between now and November 7. The greater the success we have in politics, the more good news we’ll report each month. Volume 68, Number 5 May 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 Coast Guard Authorization Bill Clears Conference Committee Early last month, House and Senate conferees agreed to an $8.7 billion authorization for the U.S. Coast Guard for fiscal year 2006. The conference report to accompany H.R. 889, the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006, includes provisions intended to allow the agency to perform its missions involving homeland security, illegal drug and migrant interdiction, search and rescue, and fisheries enforcement. Commenting on the overall conference report, U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, stated, “This agreement provides the good men and women of the Coast Guard, who performed so well in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the resources to carry out their vital missions.” Young also chaired the conference committee. The conference report to accompany H.R. 889 includes the following provisions: „ Authorizes the Coast Guard to temporarily extend the expiration of licenses and documents for mariners that were affected by Hurricane Katrina and certificates of inspection and compliance for vessels that are inspected by marine safety offices that are located in the impacted region. The Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006 features components aimed at allowing the agency to perform its missions involving homeland security, among other directives. Above, Coast Guard personnel from Station New York on Staten Island patrol the waters surrounding the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor earlier this year. „ Defines (in the U.S. Code) a riding gang member on a U.S.-flag vessel as a non-U.S. citizen or permanent alien who is used to perform certain limited repair functions on the vessels. A riding gang member also is defined as someone who isn’t part of the crew; doesn’t possess a z-card or license; doesn’t perform watchstanding, automated engine room duty watch or personnel safety functions; doesn’t do longshore work; isn’t a member of the steward department; and doesn’t come from a nation named by the U.S. as a sponsor of terrorism. „ Stipulates that no ship may carry more than 12 riding gang members at once, and that companies employing foreign riding gangs must certify that they first tried to hire U.S. citizens to do the work (and that no U.S. citizens are available for the jobs). „ Provides a $1.6 billion funding level for the Integrated Deepwater Systems (Deepwater) Program, the Coast Guard’s program to replace or modernize the ships and aircraft used in the Coast Guard’s deepwater missions. „ Authorizes the Coast Guard to establish Naval Vessel Protection Zones up to 12 nautical miles offshore. „ Authorizes the Coast Guard to conduct international training and to provide technical assistance to international navies, coast guards and maritime authorities during regular Coast Guard operations. „ Authorizes the Coast Guard to inspect ferries for maritime safety purposes; „ Requires the Coast Guard to detail adequate personnel to assure that Great Lakes pilotage rates are adjusted annually. „ Requires the Coast Guard to develop a long-term plan to recapitalize the service’s polar icebreakers. „ Promotes the transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) on U.S.-flag vessels; „ Establishes a long-range vessel tracking system pilot project. „ Adjusts oil spill liability limits for tank and nontank vessels to reflect changes in inflation. „ Authorizes the federal government to purchase any property that was the principal residence of a member or related employee of the Coast Guard that was damaged by Hurricane Katrina in the States of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, or Texas. „ Requires the Coast Guard to report to Congress on the additional costs associated with the Coast Guard’s response to Hurricane Katrina. Rep. King Pledges Support For U.S. Maritime Industry The House Homeland Security Committee chairman recently told a Washington, D.C. audience that he supports the U.S. maritime industry and that he is committed to protecting U.S. ports without losing jobs, hurting the economy or neglecting labor interests. “I stand by your industry,” said U.S. Rep. Peter King (RN.Y.) during an appearance at the Washington, D.C. Propeller Club on March 30. He said it would take cooperation throughout the maritime spectrum to secure ports and U.S.-bound cargo. “Coming from New York, we have many vulnerable areas, but none more so than our ports,” he continued. The congressman reminisced on the friends, acquaintances and constituents he lost on 9/11 and said that for many, the controversy over the Dubai Ports World deal brought home the importance of port security. King was speaking to the audience just after H.R. 4954, the Security and Accountability for Every Port (SAFE) Act, passed out of the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection and Cyber Security by voice vote. The House bill is the companion to the Senate version (S. 2459) introduced by U.S. Sens. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine). King called for more radiation portal monitors and increased inspections overseas before cargo reaches U.S. ports. He also said he wants to work throughout the maritime industry on the Transportation Worker Identification Credential or TWIC card. The committee chairman told the audience that he believes there should be separate funding for port security grants, and said he believes U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Ky.), who sits on the House Appropriations Committee and chairs its Subcommittee on Homeland Security, supports this position as well. Addressing a question from former Congresswoman Helen Bentley, King said he’s taking an active role in reforming processes involving the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). He asserted that the secretary for Homeland U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) Security should co-chair it along with the Treasury Secretary. King also noted that when CFIUS was formed in 1988, it was more concerned with foreign investment than it was about homeland security. He said some level of secrecy still needs to stay in the process, but suggested that Republican and Democratic leadership in the House be kept informed on matters before CFIUS. The congressman also agreed with another questioner who said that not all fixes to port security can be legislative ones, and that the entire supply chain has to be examined. May 2006 �Crowley Christens New ATB Seafarers and SIU officials were on hand March 30 in Mobile, Ala. as Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation christened the first of six new 185,000-barrel articulated tug-barge (ATB) tank vessels that the company plans to take delivery of during the next two-and-ahalf years. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and SIU Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly represented the union along with a number of rank-and-file members. The vessels christened were the 9,280-hp tug Pacific Reliance and barge 650-1. The event took place at the Mobile Convention Center. Constance Crowley Peabody, aunt of Tom Crowley Jr., company chairman, president and CEO, christened the 127-foot Pacific Reliance while Janet Bishop from ConocoPhillips christened the 587-foot barge 650-1. “This is state-of-the-art equipment and it represents a great addition to the SIU-contracted fleet,” noted Corgey. “I’m sure I speak for all of our other officials in saying that we’re completely confident that SIU members will do a fantastic job aboard the new ATB and the ones that follow.” According to the company, Crowley’s Petroleum Services group will charter the VT Halter Marine-built ATB from Crowley’s vessel construction and naval architecture subsidiary, Vessel Management Services, and operate it for ConocoPhillips under a three-year agreement. “We are thrilled to be expanding our ATB fleet with these new, larger, state-of-the-art vessels,” said Tom Crowley. “Our existing ATBs have performed extremely well for our petroleum customers, and we’re confident that this new ATB will provide ConocoPhillips with many years of safe, reliable and efficient transportation for their products.” 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 SIU Contract Honored In Delta Queen Sale The Seafarers-contracted Delta Queen Steamboat Company has been purchased by Ambassadors International, Inc., and the new owners are honoring the SIU collective bargaining agreement. “Effectively there is no change where the membership is concerned,” noted SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “All SIU jobs are maintained and the SIU contract remains in place.” Delta Queen itself apparently will remain as the operator of the Seafarers-crewed paddlewheel steamboats Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen, but the company’s headquarters will be consolidated to Seattle. Bruce Nierenberg, president of Delta Queen, told the Associated Press that Ambassadors probably will move sales and financial operations to Seattle while keeping the marine and hotel operations in New Orleans. Ambassadors, which acquired Delta Queen from the Delaware North Companies, operates the 163-passenger Queen of the West and the 235-passenger Empress of the North in the Pacific Northwest through its subsidiary American West Cruises, based in Seattle. According to Delaware North, Ambassadors will acquire the three Delta Queen vessels and associated operating assets of Delta Queen for $3 million in cash, the assumption of approximately $9 million of customer deposits and the assumption of approximately $35 million of fixed-rate debt payable through 2020. The deal also includes stock considerations. The Delta Queen Steamboat Company operates historical cruise itineraries on many of America’s best known rivers, including the Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, Cumberland and Arkansas rivers with stops at many of America’s most historic cities, battlegrounds and estates. The Delta Queen Steamboat Company is America’s oldest cruise line, with its history dating back to 1890. The Delta Queen can carry 174 passengers, the Mississippi Queen 416 and the American Queen 436. The American Queen recently completed a special mission under charter to energy companies in support of disaster relief efforts in the Gulf Coast area. Joe Ueberroth, president and CEO of Ambassadors International, Inc., noted that Delta Queen and American West would combine to create “a national, American cruise company.” He also expressed confidence in the fleet’s “dedicated American crews.” The SIU-crewed American Queen, pictured in New Orleans, assisted in hurricane relief missions after Katrina struck last year. May 2006 The new ATB features all the latest equipment and double-hull construction. tank vessel. The barge 650-1 was built at Halter’s shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss., and the Pacific Reliance 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 also can carry heated cargoes and certain 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. According to Crowley, 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 Seafarers welcome the new tug Pacific Reliance in Mobile, Ala. Pictured from left to right are (kneeling) David Lane, William Davis, Willie Allen, David Nimmer, (standing) Leo Venegas, Joe Kadak, Darren Bates, John Quagliano Jr., Wallace Ashwood Sr., Kevin Schroder, Wallace “Scooter” Ashwood, William Palmer, Bob Hoffman, Marc Tomuschat and SIU Port Agent Ed Kelly. operations; and a vacuum system with three retention tanks to easily handle cargo changes. The ATBs also feature 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. An enhanced mooring system features 1,000-foot Spectratype lines on split drums with a high-speed 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 diesel engines; a noise reduction package; and other upgrades to increase crew comfort. The communication and navigation equipment is among the most technologically advanced in the industry today, according to Crowley. Union’s San Francisco Operations Moving to New Hall in Oakland Spacious Facility Offers Numerous Improvements The SIU plans to relocate its San Francisco-area operations to a new union hall in nearby Oakland, Calif. this summer. The new building is scheduled for various modifications to suit the membership’s needs. Pending completion of those alterations, the move tentatively is penciled in for early July. Located at 1121 7th Street, the new hall is two stories not including a basement and is approximately 17,000 square feet. It offers more than 30 parking spaces next to the building; additional parking is available nearby. The Oakland hall is 9 miles from the union’s San Francisco hall, which is located at 350 Fremont Street. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel said the move will provide several noteworthy improvements. The Oakland hall is based in a generally more attractive area near Jack London Square, a popular community. The new hall is located within easy walking distance of the Matson pier and also is near public transportation. Additionally, the building on 7th Street will offer a “media room” for rank-and-file members that includes a television and high-speed internet hookups. It will contain a classroom for off-site training, a meeting room, a conference room and other amenities. Ample parking is available behind the new hall on 7th Street, scheduled to open this summer. The facility is 60 years old but underwent major refurbishment a few years ago, including various structural reinforcements. The interior as of late April largely was wide open, which should facilitate its upcoming reconfiguration. The union has occupied its hall on Fremont Street since 1980. More details on the upcoming move will be reported in the Seafarers LOG as they become available. Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU-Crewed Hauge Honored for Safety The crew and captain of the SIU-contracted CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. on March 24 formally were recognized for their impressive achievements in the area of safe ship operations during 2005. The recognition itself, which came in the form of the 2005 Jones F. Devlin Award, originally was bestowed on the Hauge and its crew last summer. It formally was presented to Capt. Paul Zubaly by Jerry Eker, director of maritime operations, Maersk Line Limited during recent ceremonies in Norfolk, Va. Officials from the SIU, including Vice President Government Services Division Kermett Mangram and Jacksonville, Fla. Port Agent Archie Ware were on hand for the ceremony as were representatives from the U.S. Military Sealift Command. As previously reported, in addition to the Maersk-operated Hauge, 10 other SIUcontracted companies along with their top performing vessels last year were cited by the U.S. maritime industry for safe ship operations. Like the Hauge, the other vessels and their crews originally were recognized during the presentation of the 2005 Jones F. Devlin Award and the 2005 Ship Safety Achievement Awards. The event took the form the Chamber of Shipping of America’s Annual Safety Awards Luncheon at the Hilton New Orleans Claims Office Reopens The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s claims office fully reopened April 3. The department is based at the Seafarersaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The claims office also includes a membership services department. More than 40 employees work in the claims office, which is reachable by phone at 800 252-4674. “We’re delighted to bring membership services back to the claims department,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “There is widespread confidence both within the department and the union that this move will result in an improvement in membership services.” Claims Director Pat Benoit stated, “We’re all very happy to be doing the job we know best and giving the members the quality service they deserve.” Employees took part in a brief but spirited re-opening ceremony following the April membership meeting. Oleta Copsey is a membership services representative. Pam Harris (left) and Tammy Smyth are among the 40-plus employees at the claims office. Riverside. The awards recognized individual ships and the women and men who crew them while performing accident-free operations. The prizes also served as incentives to promote safe ship practices aboard all American-flagged vessels. “It’s always great to see Seafarers receive this type of well-deserved recognition, especially when it has to do with safety,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Such awards are SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Archie Ware (center) met with tributes not only to the indi- Chief Steward Victorino Cruz (left) and Recertified Bosun vidual mariners, but also a James Foley prior to the presentation of the 2005 Jones F. reflection of the tremendous Devlin Award. jobs that the instructors and staff at our affiliated training crews for accident-free operations. school (the Paul Hall Center in Piney Twenty-six vessels representing seven Point, Md.) do in preparing students for companies received the Certificate of their careers.” Honor Award that year. Two years later, The Hauge is a roll-on/roll-off containthe award was renamed the Jones F. ership that is part of MSC’s prepositioning Devlin Award to honor the safety expert program. The vessel is 755 long and has a who thought the credit should go to the beam of 90 feet. It can sail at 16.4 knots. mariners who were achieving these In 1954, American Export Lines had a results. safety-at-sea expert who was in close assoFor more than 40 years, this award has ciation with the American Merchant been given to individual vessels that have Marine Institute. That year, he approached achieved at least two years of injury-free the AMMI board of directors requesting that an award for safety achievement at sea operation. The Chamber of Shipping of America be established. The board agreed to sponrepresents 25 U.S.-based companies that sor such recognition, and the first Ship Safety Achievement Awards were estab- own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships and other merchant lished (and four vessels were honored). In 1958, that same safety officer vessels engaged in both the domestic and approached the AMMI once again regard- international trades and other entities that ing sponsorship of an award that would maintain a commercial interest in the operrecognize individual vessels and their ation of such vessels. Claims office personnel are pictured with officials from the SIU and the Seafarers Plans as the department reopens in Piney Point, Md. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (ninth from left) and Jerry Eker, director of operations, Maersk Line Limited (seventh from left) join the crew and captain of the Hauge shortly after the award presentation. Port Official Edward Smith Dies at 79 “There wasn’t a day that went by where my father didn’t brag about the SIU and how it provided for all of us,” said Edward C. Smith about his father, Edward V. (Smitty) Smith of Severna Park, Md., who passed away March 27 of natural causes. He was 79. Brother Smith was born in Boston but moved to Prince Edward Island at a young age and served in the Canadian merchant navy during World War II. He returned to the U.S. and joined the SIU in 1947. Working in the steward department, Brother Smith served as a cook, chief cook and chief steward. He sailed from New York, New Orleans and then Baltimore. In Baltimore, he headed up the cafeteria in the union hall and later served as a port representative. Some of the SIU ships he worked on were the Boulder VicThis photo of Brother Smith was taken in the Baltimore union hall when he tory, Mankato Victory worked as a port representative there. and Robin Mowbray. 4 Seafarers LOG Brother Smith retired in 1982. “He would tell some great stories about working with Paul Hall and the Sacco brothers,” noted his son, “and he helped with the groundbreaking activities for the school at Piney Point in 1967.” Ben Wilson, who began shipping around the same time, but in the deck department, became good friends with Smith. Now retired from the union as an AB, Baltimore patrolman and port agent— and presently living in North Carolina—Wilson said the two got together whenever they could in recent years. He spoke with Smith just three days before he died. “He was a real good man and a good friend,” said Wilson. “He enjoyed his sea- Edward V. Smith in a photo taken in 1964. faring career and helping the members.” A graveside service celebrating Smith’s life was held March 31 at Glen Haven Memorial Park in Glen Burnie, Md. He is survived by his children Edward C. Smith and Tara Berman, brothers Earle and Fred Smith, and three grandchildren. SA Tiffany Thompson May 2006 �Massachusetts Health Plan Draws Federation’s Ire At a time when some 46 million Americans are uninsured, one state—the Commonwealth of Massachusetts—has unveiled a “universal health plan” which some are touting as a model for the rest of the country while others, including AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, call it bad deal for working families. Lawmakers in the Bay State’s House of Representatives on April 4 approved a health care bill making it the first U.S. state to require nearly all residents to either be insured or face consequences. House members voted 155-2 in favor of the 145-page plan; it unanimously was approved by the Senate. Under the plan, a combination of financial incentives and penalties will be used to expand access to health care over the next three years and extend coverage to the state’s estimated 500,000 uninsured residents. Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney (R), who may run for president in 2008, signed the bill into law April 12. The new regulation includes three key provisions meant to increase coverage. First, it is intended to modestly expand Medicaid eligibility. Second, it will offer subsidies for the purchase of private coverage to lowincome individuals and families, though the size of the subsidies has yet to be determined. Finally, those making more than three Push for ‘Belated Thank You’ Moves to House Subcommittee The House Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs conducted a hearing April 6 on proposed legislation calling for monthly payments to World War II-era merchant mariners. The SIU supports the bill, known as the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act. For last month’s hearing, the SIU submitted a joint letter with other U.S. maritime unions calling for its enactment. The legislation has strong bipartisan support in both the House (210 cosponsors as of early April) and Senate (28 cosponsors). Introduced by U.S. Rep. Bob Filner (D-Calif.), the Belated Thank You bill calls for a monthly payment of $1,000 to World War II mariners or their surviving spouses. In his testimony to the subcommittee (which is part of the House Veterans Affairs Committee), Filner said that the story of the U.S. Merchant Marine in World War II is one of “patriotism, of youthful exuberance, of dedication to duty, of pride in a job well done, of bravery in the midst of battle, and sadly, of a nation who forgot these heroes for over 40 years after the war’s end.” Filner noted that merchant mariners suffered a high casualty rate (by most measures, second only to that of the Marine Corps) but kept on delivering the goods. “Without them, we would not have been able to win the war. It’s as simple as that,” the congressman said. He also pointed out that in the war’s aftermath, the U.S. Merchant Marine “became the forgotten service.” They not only weren’t covered by the GI Bill, they weren’t formally acknowledged as veterans until 1988. (Even then the recognition was incomplete. It took another decade for the government to match the cutoff date for veterans’ status for mariners with that of the armed services.) “While it is impossible to make up for over 40 years of unpaid benefits, I propose that this bill will acknowledge the service of the veterans of the Merchant Marine and offer compensation for years and years of lost benefits,” Filner added. Ian Allison, who co-chairs the citizens’ group leading the grassroots effort to pass the bill, testified before the subcommittee and also submitted the maritime unions’ letter along with other supportive statements. A merchant marine veteran of World War II, Allison said that his group (the Just Compensation Committee) represents approximately 6,300 individuals. Allison said that passage of the Belated Thank You legislation “would be the final chapter of what has been a ragged response by the government to men who placed their lives in danger as they served their country. There might be some members in Congress who are not historically informed in what happened to some 230,000 seamen, both black and white, from the end of World War II to the present. The U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II was the only service that was not segregated…. “It has been said that when one dies, so dies one’s influence and power,” he continued. “And so it was that when President Franklin Roosevelt died, his directions to his advisors that the merchant seamen of World War II should be accorded benefits like veterans of other services also died. The influence of dissenting members (of Congress) and some of the animosities left over after the war from competing services and civilian service groups prevented benefits being given to merchant seamen. Many service people who might have dug ditches in Louisiana and never stepped outside the United States got the full GI Bill, GI loans, and much more; but those who sailed the Murmansk Run, were sunk in burning oil or frigid waters of the North Atlantic got nothing. In fact, their pay, which has been reviewed countless times, stopped the moment they went into the water.” Allison told the subcommittee that the youngest of the World War II mariners today are in their late 70s, “many in poor health. The majority are men in their mid-80s. I am 86 years old and dedicating 100 percent of my time to see the record set right by passage of H.R. 23. There is still time for a grateful nation to say ‘Thank You’ to a thinning rank of men. “Sixty years is a long time for any service person to wait for proper recognition. Sixty years is a long time to spend trying to correct history written to denigrate what we thought was service to our country.” Pennsylvania Law Stipulates $500 Bonus For WWII Mariners Pennsylvania-based U.S. Merchant Marine veterans who sailed during World War II applauded last month’s signing of state legislation that calls for a one-time, $500 cash bonus to eligible mariners from that era. The American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) had pushed for House Bill 58, which also was supported by the SIU. Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell signed the bill on April 12. Sponsored by Pennsylvania State Rep. John. A. Maher (R- May 2006 Allegheny/Washington), the bill calls for a $500 bonus to any U.S. Merchant Marine veteran who served during World War II and who is also a legal resident of Pennsylvania. According to the governor’s office, eligibility requirements include honorable separation from the U.S. Merchant Marine; having maintained U.S. citizenship during World War II; and not having “refused to be subject to military discipline on conscientious, political, religious or other grounds during World War II.” The adjutant general is charged with administering the act, issuing applications and reviewing applications for the bonus. Also, the adjutant general is to prepare, publish and distribute a pamphlet explaining the benefits under this act. The bonuses will be funded by a U.S. Merchant Marine World War II Veterans’ bonus fund, a restricted receipt account in the general fund. Money for the fund will be appropriated from the General Fund by the General Assembly and any money remaining in the fund on June 30, 2007, will be returned to the General Fund. The bill passed the House 1990 and the Senate, with amendments, 49-0. The House concurred 197-0. This bill becomes effective immediately, but will expire on June 30, 2007. times the poverty income (about $30,000 for a single person) will have to buy their own coverage or pay a fine. The new law is still largely a work in progress as some of its significant details—the exact definition of what it means to be able to afford insurance, as an example—will be finalized when the plan’s regulations actually are drafted. But Sweeney, the head of America’s largest labor organization, has seen enough to form a strong opinion. He and others took particular issue with Romney’s vetoing of one portion of the legislation: a $295 annual fee on businesses that don’t give coverage to their workers. “It is simply ridiculous that Governor Romney would try to solve Massachusetts’ health care problems by dumping them on the backs of working families and already stretched budgets, and then penalize them if they cannot afford it,” Sweeney said. “By vetoing language that would have required employers to pay into the health care system, he protected them from taking on even the slightest iota of responsibility. “An individual mandate to buy insurance can only work if it is paired with a guarantee of affordable, comprehensive coverage, and the language in [this] legislation falls dangerously short of that goal.” Sweeney noted that news sources including the Boston Globe have reported that the average plan cost for a single worker would be $350 a month. For someone earning $28,000 a year (the amount at which state assistance and subsidies become unavailable) that would mean paying 15 percent of his or her pre-tax income toward coverage. “For a working family that’s huge, and it’s a lot more than the meager annual assessment fee of $295 for employers who fail to provide coverage,” Sweeney stated. “But in Romney’s eyes, even that was too much to ask of his business friends. The provisions for families below 300 percent of the poverty level should be commended. But families above that 300 percent level will be forced to buy coverage they cannot afford, or accept cheaper, stripped down policies that provide coverage in name only.” The federation president concluded, “This legislation provides little hope for middle class famiContinued on page 6 Philadelphia’s Healthmark Incorporated Clinic has moved to a new building at the Navy Yard Corporate Center, a few minutes from the SIU hall on South 4th Street. Philadelphia Health Unit Parks in a Better Location The Seafarers-contracted Healthmark Incorporated Clinic has moved from Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia to a newly built facility at the nearby Navy Yard Corporate Center. The new building is located at the Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. The complete address is: Healthmark Incorporated Clinic Navy Yard Corporate Center 1 Crescent Drive Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19112 Telephone (215) 952-9901 SIU members will continue receiving the same comprehensive health services that have been offered by Healthmark since the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan first signed on with the clinic in 1991. Normally, it takes only a few minutes to drive to the new facility from the SIU hall on South 4th Street. Even before stepping inside the Corporate Center, Seafarers likely will notice one major advantage to the relocation. According to Healthmark employees, parking at the old building often proved challenging—patients sometimes ended up as far as six blocks away. The new building features plenty of on-site, free parking. The improvements don’t end there, however. Healthmark has installed a substantial amount of new, state-of-the-art medical equipment. “We offer the same services as before,” said a Healthmark worker, “but this building is brand new, beautiful and spacious. The access is great and there’s no hassle with the parking.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Pride of Hawaii Makes Its 1st Transatlantic Crossing The Pride of Hawaii officially was handed over to NCL America in a ceremony last month in Eemshaven, Holland. As the American flag was raised aboard the SIU-crewed vessel, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, chairman of Star Cruises (which owns NCL Corp.), was joined by NCL President and CEO Colin Veitch, and Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft, the shipyard that constructed the vessel at a cost of more than $500 million. “We are proud to take delivery of this beautiful new ship not only because she is our newest and largest U.S.-flagged vessel, but because she features the innovative design and tremendous consumer appeal,” said Thay. Although the delivery of the ship was initially slowed by an adjustment to its propulsion system, Veitch was pleased to welcome the company’s new addition. “We are thrilled to complete our ambitious plan of bringing three U.S.-flagged ships to Hawaii by 2006,” he said. “The Pride of Hawaii, along with Pride of America and Pride of Aloha and our one international ship, will bring around half a million passengers a year to the Hawaii islands.” Seafarers already are working aboard the Pride of Hawaii, which began its Atlantic crossing after the handover ceremony in Eemshaven. When it reaches Baltimore—its first port in the United States—it will undergo U.S. Coast Guard inspections and increase the number of crew members on board from 400 to 1,000. It then will travel to San Francisco and Los Angeles for a series of inaugural events before setting sail for Hawaii to join its sister ships, the SIU-crewed Pride MarAd Officials Tour Paul Hall Center Officials from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) toured the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education early last month. They are pictured in the left photo with students and SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left). Pictured at right are (from left) President Sacco, MarAd Chief Counsel Julie Nelson, Acting Maritime Administrator John Jamian, MarAd Director of Congressional and Public Affairs Shannon Russell, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. The school is based in Piney Point, Md. of America (christened last summer) and the Pride of Aloha (2004) in offering seven-day inter-island cruises. The vessel will leave Honolulu every Monday and will spend a day each in Hilo and Kona and two days each in Kahului and Nawiliwili before heading back to Honolulu. While not the largest ship on the seas, at 93,500 tons and with a passenger capacity of 2,400, the Pride of Hawaii comes close and will enter the history books as the largest U.S.-flagged passenger ship ever built. The new cruise ship offers many of the same amenities and “freestyle” options as the Pride of Aloha and Pride of America in its choice of restaurants and other shipboard and excursion activities. One of the differences, however, is the expansive suites aboard the newest vessel, each of which includes a private courtyard with pool and whirlpool, concierge service, and much more. Another innovation on the Pride of Hawaii is the library, which is named in honor of the United States. The United States, which entered service in 1952 and is owned by NCL, won the title as the fastest ocean liner when it smashed transatlantic speed records on its first two crossings. With assistance from the SS United States Conservancy, the library features original photographs, vintage advertisements and original lithographs from renowned marine artists, as well as wall-hanging annotations from Conservancy experts to help educate passengers about the vessel’s significance. “As one of the country’s most venerable ships from the glory days of transatlantic sea travel, the SS United States was revolutionary, faster and more technologically advanced than anything else afloat at the time,” said Veitch. The three SIU-crewed ships in the NCL fleet are creating thousands of American jobs and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in economic benefits to Hawaii and to the United States in general. Additionally, more than 3,000 students have successfully completed the Paul Hall Center’s three-week course given to prospective NCL America shipboard employees who fill hundreds of nonmarine positions. With distinctive artwork painted on both sides of its hull (a hula dancer on one side and a conch shell blower on the other), the SIU-crewed Pride of Hawaii was floated out of its dock in Germany Feb. 19 and then underwent sea trials before being handed over to NCL in Holland. The vessel late last month was en route to Hawaii with inaugural stops in Baltimore, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Mass. Unveils Health Plan CIVMARS Meet in Norfolk Continued from page 5 Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division met with representatives from the union in Norfolk, Va. earlier this year to discuss several hot topics affecting CIVMARS. The meeting took place Feb. 9 at the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s Customer Support Unit East. A number of the attendees are pictured above and below. SIU Government Services Representative Maurice Cokes (center) is flanked by deck department CIVMARS Abdul Rashid Yaquobe (left) and James Jones. Maurice Cokes (right) chats with CIVMARS Benito Lambert (left) and Lewis Hailey. Lambert works in the supply department, while Hailey sails in the engine department. 6 Seafarers LOG lies, choosing instead to penalize them for our nations’ failure to ensure affordable health care. This legislation sends the wrong message to other states looking for answers to their own health care crisis. Universal health care should mean just that—affordable health care for all, not just for the top and the bottom.” Under the plan, expected to take effect in July 2007, everyone who files a state tax return, beginning in 2008, will have to indicate if they have health insurance. The new law requires Medicaid and private insurers to turn over to the state lists of their enrollees each month. Anyone deemed able to buy insurance, but who is still uninsured, will face increasing penalties. During the first year, they will lose their ability to claim a personal exemption on their state tax returns. That would cost an individual about $189 and a couple filing jointly about $378. In the second year, they will be assessed half the annual cost of one of the new low-cost health plans that are supposed to be created by private insurers under the bill—a fine that would easily top $1,000. The poor and uninsured not making enough to afford the lowcost plans will be eligible for subsidies. The poorest—single adults making about $9,800 or less— will get access to insurance with no premiums and no deductibles. Those earning up to 300 percent of the federal poverty line (about $48,000 for a family of three) will have access to plans with sliding scale premiums. To help guarantee that the poorest residents of Massachusetts know about the new health care options, the bill also includes $3 million in outreach funds for hospitals, clinics and community groups. A new state agency will connect people with the private insurance plans that sell the coverage, and allow people to use pre-tax dollars to purchase coverage (a tax break that mostly helps affluent tax payers who are in high tax brackets). This new agency is also supposed to help design affordable plans. May 2006 �Service Commemorates Texaco Oklahoma Tragedy A catastrophic day in U.S. maritime history took place slightly more than 35 years ago off the coast of North Carolina. On the fateful day of March 27, 1971, the NMU-crewed tanker SS Texaco Oklahoma— fully loaded with a cargo of 200,000 barrels of oil—broke in two and sank some 120 miles northeast of Cape Hatteras, N.C. The 632-foot vessel, after leaving Texaco Dock 22 in Port Arthur, Texas, as it had on many previous occasions, was en route to Boston. Thirty-one U.S. mariners, including 24 NMU members, lost their lives in the tragedy. Thirteen others survived. A prayer service and luncheon marking the 35th anniversary of the event on March 31 was held at the Port Arthur International Seafarers Center. Jointly hosted by the center and the Apostleship of the SeaDiocese of Beaumont, the event was attended by Father Sinclair Oubre, director, Apostleship of the Sea-Diocese of Beaumont; Pumpman Willie Jacquet, one of 13 crewmen who survived the 1971 tragedy; Shwe Aung, SIU ITF inspector from the port of Houston who represented the National Maritime Union; relatives and friends of some of the Texaco Oklahoma crew who perished; and a host of others who are involved in the U.S. maritime industry. After prayer and the reading of scripture, Father Sinclair recited the names of the 31 seamen who met their fate on the Texaco Oklahoma. Seventy-eight-year- Retired NMU Pumpman Willie Jacquet, left, addresses those in attendance at the memorial service as Father Sinclair Oubre, director, Apostleship of the Sea-Diocese of Beaumont, listens. Jacquet is one of 13 survivors from Texaco-Oklahoma sinking. old Jacquet, who as a young man migrated to Port Arthur from Lafayette, La. to find work, then recounted some specifics of the sinking for those in attendance. Jacquet spent more than 20 years sailing as a member of the NMU “After the ship broke in two, the bow section was smashing up against the stern section,” Jacquet said, according to Port Arthur News staff writer Marilyn Tennissen. “We still had power in the back, so it was backed away. Then the bow began to drift off, there were still men on board. We just lost sight of them.” The official National Transportation Safety Board report on the tragedy was released July 26, 1972. In part, the report said “The ship was en route from Port Arthur Texas, to Boston, Massachusetts, and was proceeding at very slow speed in a severe storm when the casualty occurred. “The ship split in the vicinity of No. 5 tanks and submerged all of the crew asleep in the forward deckhouse. The forward section then reversed direction and drifted down on the stern section, destroying the starboard lifeboat before the stern section was backed safely away.” None of the 13 crew members on the forward section survived. The crew members on the stern section attempted to attract passing ships by firing flares, blinking white and red lights, and sounding the ship’s whistle. One ship responded to the light signals but no distress signals were identified and it departed. The crew also operated the portable lifeboat radio transmitter for at least 12 Ricky Koenig, far right, is the son the late chief engineer of the TexacoOklahoma who perished when the vessel went down. Also pictured are other family members and friends of some of the mariners who lost their lives 35 years ago when the ship sank. hours without knowing that the distress signals were not being received. The stern section sank at about 6 a.m. Sunday, March 28, which was the time the ship was scheduled to arrive in Boston and 27 hours after the vessel broke in two. “The crew members abandoned the stern using one 15-person inflatable raft and two rafts improvised from oil drums. About 10 hours later, a merchant vessel discovered the raft, rescued 11 survivors, and initiated an extensive rescue effort,” the report noted. “Subsequently, two more crew members that had been in the water about 32 hours were rescued. Thirty-one of the 44 crewmembers perished in this casualty.” Trainee Thornton Receives NCL Award Good training, hard work and dedication on Jan. 2 paid off for Unlicensed Apprentice LaWanda Thornton, when she was presented with the Most Valuable Player award by the captain of the SIU-crewed Pride of America. The citation was given to Thornton “in recognition of your special effort and outstanding achievements in implementing the S.T.Y.L.E. philosophy in the workplace” and was signed by the ship’s captain and Colin Veitch, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Lines. (S.T.Y.L.E. stands for Service, Teamwork and Yes Lead to Excellence.) This was the Holding a copy of her award, Unlicensed first time a most Apprentice LaWanda Thornton poses with the valuable player award captain and staff captain aboard the Pride of has been pre- America. sented to a we told by the cooks, chefs and utility galley staff, much our supervisors that we were the less to an SIU unlicensed best they had had in a long time, apprentice. Thornton gives much of but the captain, himself, even the credit to her training at smiled and thanked the both of the Paul Hall Center and to us when he saw how clean and her cousin, Shawana organized we kept our work Mills, who worked with area.” her at the school and Thornton wholeheartedly aboard ship. believes that without the Paul In a letter to Assistant Hall Center and her instructors Director of Manpower Pat there, none of this recognition Vandegrift, the member of would have been possible. She Unlicensed Apprentice noted that the classes, structured Class #672 wrote, “We environment, attention to detail, worked together as a team, and training in how to work just as you . . . and all of together as a class and a team our teachers at Piney Point contributed to her success. taught us. We took those “My award proves that the LaWanda Thornton (far left) was among teachings and many more many messages that our instrucother employees who won awards for tors were trying to deliver did their performance aboard the SIU- with us on that vessel and we shined. Not only were get through,” she concluded. crewed Pride of America. May 2006 The NMU newsletter reported on the sinking of the Texaco Oklahoma in its May-June issue in 1971. Happy Retirement to MarAd’s Krusa The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently said a bittersweet “farewell” to Christopher Krusa (pictured at right in Baltimore), who retired in late March after 34 years of federal work. Krusa was a maritime training specialist for the U.S. Maritime Administration. He often served as part of U.S. delegations participating in international maritime forums, and in that role he worked closely with SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel and Paul Hall Center Director of Training Bill Eglinton. In the early 1970s, Krusa worked as a navigational instructor at the Paul Hall Center. “Chris was totally professional and ‘by the book,’ but there’s no question he also was a true friend to the union and the school,” Heindel stated. “His retirement is a loss for the industry, but obviously I wish him the best.” Eglinton added, “Chris did great work on behalf of all U.S. mariners. He was sharp and reliable and he definitely will be missed.” Krusa received an SIU jacket (among many other mementos) at his retirement ceremony in Washington, D.C. Seafarers LOG 7 �John Lane (left) ties up the Gen. Oglethorpe in Jacksonville while (below) Ben Murphy and Heath Parker take on stores aboard the Crescent Towing & Salvage Co., Inc. tug. Seafarers At Sea and Ashore Tim Barnaby (left) and Chris Follmar stop by the Joliet hall to complete some paperwork. Both work aboard tugs operated by Great Lakes Towing. Left: With help from the local Navy League and Northwest Airlines, Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus has established a scholarship to enable students to attend the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center. The Navy League provided funding for clothing and documentation, and Northwest Airlines in Guam provided a round-trip ticket for the recipient. The first scholarship award was presented to Paul San Nicolas. Turkus hopes that four or five additional students each year will take advantage of this opportunity. Pictured with the check are (from the left) Tom Ahillen, president of the Navy League Guam; Jennifer Gauyan, sales representative for Northwest Airlines; Paul San Nicolas, the scholarship winner; Marie Lizama, sales manager for Northwest Airlines; SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus; and Larry Butterfield, Navy League board of directors and president of the Citizens Security Bank of Guam. Jacksonville-based Sea Star Line, LLC christened El Faro, the newest addition to its fleet on March 7. Formerly chartered to the Military Sealift Command under the name Northern Lights, the high-speed rollon/container vessel will be deployed as Sea Star’s third ship in the rotation between the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Capt. John Sparks (left) met with SIU officials at headquarters April 6 as he filed paperwork for his retirement. Sparks joined the NMU in 1972, then joined the SIU in 1979, sailing in both the inland and deep sea divisions. He also was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. He and his wife, Elizabeth (second from are retiring to right), Greenwood, S.C. His son Michael Freeman is an AB/tankerman with Penn Maritime. Brother Sparks discussed the Jones Act with SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left) and Executive VP Augie Tellez, as well as recent trends in the inland sector and how they might impact the union and the industry as a Above: The El Faro was docked at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal for the christening ceremony. On hand for the festivities were (from left) Sea Star Senior VP Operations Phillip V. Bates; SIU Port Agent Archie Ware; CEO Magnus Lindeback of Coastal Maritime Stevedoring; and Kathy Wiley, office manager at Coastal Maritime. At left are SIU Patrolman Joe Vincenzo and CEO Lindeback. 8 Seafarers LOG AB Rudy Harjanto (second from left) receives his full book at the April membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. With him are SIU officials (from left) Executive VP Augie Tellez, President Michael Sacco and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Retired SIU member Isaiah Gray (center) visits the Houston hall where he poses with VP Dean Corgey (left) and Assistant VP Jim McGee. Gray, whose nickname is “Tiger,” recently celebrated his 80th birthday. Aboard the Crescent Towing tug Bulldog, Randy Sikes (above) shows his new Training Record Book (TRB) while other crew members (below) stand on the deck. From the left are Hank Page, Jimmy Howe, Charlie Warren and Sean Keith. May 2006 �Agencies Offer Answers, Precautions for Bird Flu SIU-crewed vessels continued sailing in and out of countries where outbreaks of the highly publicized and dreaded avian influenza (bird flu)—especially among birds and domestic fowl—in recent months have become more commonplace. While Seafarers have continued to perform at the same high standard that has become their trademark in the worldwide maritime industry, they of course aren’t impervious to their environment or unscathed by events taking place around them. Public health officials and organizations from around the world—the Geneva, Switzerland-based World Health Organization (WHO) and the Atlanta, Ga.-headquartered Centers for Disease Control (CDC) among them—in recent months went to a state of high alert because of increasing concerns about the prospect of an influenza pandemic. As of press time for this edition of the LOG, bird flu—specifically the H5N1 strain—had been identified as killing 109 people in nine countries, mostly in Asia. Virtually all were infected through contact with poultry, according to the WHO. A 16year-old Egyptian girl became the latest victim April 6. The disease also killed or forced the slaughter of more than 200 million chickens, ducks, turkeys and other domestic fowl in Asia, Europe and Africa, the WHO said. During late 2003 and 2004, the poultry populations in eight Asian Countries (Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam) were hit especially hard. At that time, more than 100 million birds in the affected countries perished either directly from the disease or were killed in efforts to control the outbreaks. The virus has yet to turn up in the Western Hemisphere, but U.S. scientists and citizens alike are worried that migrating birds could spread it to the birds and domestic fowl of the United States. Their greater concern, however, is that the H5N1 strain could evolve and gain the ability to jump easily from human to human, at which point it could trigger a pandemic, resulting in millions of deaths worldwide. The following information— extracted primarily from various WHO and the CDC releases—is provided to inform and educate the entire SIU family on bird flu: What is avian influenza (bird flu)? According to the WHO, avian influenza is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza (flu) viruses. These flu viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. However, avian influenza is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, includ- SMPPP Statements Slated for Mailing The Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan is scheduled to mail annual statements to Plan participants in early May, according to SMPPP Administrator Maggie Bowen. Year-end reports from Morgan Stanley Dean Witter, SMPPP’s investment manager, indicate that the Plan continues doing well in the face of continuing market volatility. Interest earned on the accounts during 2005 was approximately 5 percent; the total amount in all accounts was more than $29.9 million. The SMPPP was founded in 1996 when the SIU successfully negotiated the new benefit into the standard freightship and tanker agreements. Since then, the SMPPP has been included in other SIU contracts. Approved by the Internal Revenue Service, the SMPPP is an individual interest-earning investment account funded by a daily contribution made by an SIU-contracted company on behalf of a Seafarer who is working for that employer. SIU members may make voluntary contributions to their respective accounts through a Vacation Plan deduction. The SMPPP is completely separate from a member’s de- May 2006 fined benefit pension. Under the SMPPP, a Seafarer is immediately vested from the first day money is received on his or her behalf. Unlike the Seafarers Pension Plan, there is no minimum amount of seatime needed to receive the money from an SMPPP account. Seafarers can collect the funds from their SMPPP account when they reach retirement age, become totally and permanently disabled, or leave the industry. Widows/widowers may collect the funds in the event of their spouse’s death. The annual statements include the following information: member’s name, address and Social Security number (which is also the participant’s account number); statement date; opening balance for 2005 (which was the year-end 2004 closing balance); interest earned and administrative expenses charged; any payouts made to the member in 2005; and the closing balance for 2005 (which will appear as the opening balance on next year’s annual statement). Participants who don’t receive their year-end statement by the end of May are asked to call 800 485-3703 to verify (and possibly correct) their address. ing chickens, ducks and turkeys, very sick and kill them. Infection with avian influenza viruses in domestic poultry causes two main forms of disease that are distinguished by low and high extremes of virulence. The low pathogenic form may go undetected and usually causes only mild symptoms (such as ruffled feathers and a drop in egg production). However, the highly pathogenic form spreads more rapidly through flocks of poultry. This form may cause disease that affects multiple internal organs and has a mortality rate that can reach 90-100 percent, often within 48 hours. How does avian influenza spread among birds? Infected birds shed the influenza virus in their saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Susceptible birds become infected when they have contact with contaminated excretions or with surfaces that are contaminated with excretions or secretions. Domesticated birds may become infected with avian influenza virus through direct contact with infected waterfowl or other infected poultry or through contact with surfaces (such as dirt or cages) or materials (such as water or feed) that have been contaminated with the virus. Do avian influenza viruses infect humans? Bird flu viruses do not usually infect humans, but more than 190 confirmed cases of human infection with bird flu viruses have occurred since 1997. The WHO maintains updates and cumulative reports of human cases of avian influenza A, also called H5N1. How do people become infected with avian influenza viruses? Most cases of avian influenza infection in humans have resulted from direct or close contact with infected poultry (domesticated chickens, ducks and turkeys) or surfaces contaminated with secretions and excretions from infected birds. The spread of avian influenza viruses from an ill person to another person has been reported very rarely, and transmission has not been observed to continue beyond one person. During an outbreak of avian influenza among poultry, there is a possible risk to people who have direct or close contact with infected birds or with surfaces that have been contaminated with secretions and excretions from infected birds. What are the symptoms of avian influenza in humans? Symptoms of avian influenza in humans have ranged from typical human influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat and muscle aches) to eye infections, pneumonia, severe respiratory diseases (such as acute respiratory distress syndrome) and other severe and life-threatening complications. The symptoms of avian influenza may depend on which specific virus subtype and strain caused the infection. How is avian influenza detected in humans? A laboratory test is needed to confirm avian influenza in humans. What are the implications of avian influenza to human health? Two main risks for human health from avian influenza are: the risk of direct infection when the virus passes from the infected bird to humans, sometimes resulting in severe disease; and the risk that the virus, if given enough opportunities, will change into a form that is highly infectious for humans and spreads easily from person to person. How is avian influenza in humans treated? Studies done in laboratories suggest that the prescription medicines approved for human influenza viruses should work in treating avian influenza infection in humans. However, influenza viruses can become resistant to these drugs, so these medications may not always work. Additional studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of these medicines. Does the current seasonal influenza vaccine protect me from avian influenza? No. Influenza vaccine for the 2005-06 season does not provide protection against avian influenza. Should I wear a surgical mask to prevent exposure to avian influenza? Currently, wearing a mask is not recommended for routine use (in public) for preventing influenza exposure. In the United States, disposable surgical and procedure masks have been widely used in health-care settings to prevent exposure to respiratory infections, but the masks have not been used commonly in community settings, such as schools, businesses and public gatherings. Is there a risk for becoming infected with avian influenza by eating poultry? There is no evidence that properly cooked poultry or eggs can be a source of infection for avian influenza viruses. For more information about avian influenza and food safety issues, visit the WHO website at http://www.who.int/foodsafety/micro/a vian/en/. The U.S. government carefully controls domestic and imported food products, and in 2004 issued a ban on importation of poultry from countries affected by avian influenza viruses, including the H5N1 strain. This ban still is in place. For more Continued on page 11 Admiral Seiberlich Begins Final Voyage The SIU and the U.S. Merchant Marine have lost a good friend with the March 24 death of Rear Adm. Carl J. Seiberlich, USN (Ret.), 84. Born in Jenkintown, Pa., Admiral Seiberlich graduated in 1943 from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y., completing a Bachelor of Science degree in marine transportation. He served on two merchant vessels before being commissioned in the U.S. Navy. Admiral Seiberlich served as a navigator on the USS Mayo during World War II and witnessed the surrender of the Japanese in the Pacific at the end of that conflict. In 1952, he was recognized for his work in the development of the world’s first operational, variable depth, towed sonar. During the Cuban Missile Crisis naval blockade in 1962, he had primary responsibility for surveillance, reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare. He was the only aviator in the Navy’s history qualified to land blimps, airplanes and helicopters aboard an aircraft carrier and was decorated with the Legion of Merit and the Air Medal, among other commendations. As commanding officer of the USS Hornet in 1969, he directed recovery of the astronauts, command modules and lunar samples for Apollo 11 and 12, the first two lunar landing missions. Admiral Seiberlich was the first Merchant Marine Academy graduate to achieve flag rank. His military record was exemplary. And although he retired from the Navy in 1980, following a career of more than 40 years, he continued to serve his country and its maritime needs in a civilian capacity. In 1983, Admiral Seiberlich joined American President Lines as director of military programs, and in 1994 was awarded the Vincent T. Hirsch Award for Rear Adm. Carl J. Seiberlich, USN (Ret.) Outstanding Leadership by the Navy League for his contribution in meeting the rapid, largescale sealift needs of Operation Desert Shield/Storm. He continued to participate in maritime affairs, including his work as a U.S. representative to the International Standards Organization committee, which seeks to improve worldwide security for inter-modal freight transportation. He also was a member of the National Defense Transportation Association Military Sealift Committee, where he was a tireless advocate for Americanflag military sealift capabilities. Seafarers LOG 9 �Seafaring on the West Coast . . . I Ali Saleh (center) is the bosun on board the Horizon Fairbanks. In the above picture, he is flanked by Executive VP Augie Tellez (left) and VP Nick Marrone. n late February, following the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting in San Diego, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and West Coast Vice President Nick Marrone helped service some of the vessels in nearby Oakland and Alameda. They had a chance to visit with the crews and answer any questions that were on the minds of the members. Piney Point Reunion! Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Nick Marrone meet an old friend, Freddie Reyes. All three were trainees together in 1975 at the Piney Point school. Reyes worked his way up the hawsepipe. He now holds a chief engineer’s license and sails under the AMO banner. Recertified Bosun Robert Trainor (left) and Executive VP Augie Tellez chat aboard the Maersk Lightning, which was docked in Oakland. During a shipboard meeting on the Horizon Fairbanks, Executive VP Augie Tellez responds to questions from the crew. Crew members from vessels in the RRF fleet (Gem State, Keystone State and Grand Canyon State) pose with Executive VP Augie Tellez in Alameda. Aboard the Horizon Trader are (from left) Bosun Jose Gomez, VP Nick Marrone, Executive VP Augie Tellez and QMED Joe Vasquez. Executive VP Augie Tellez poses with the Oakland shoregang while servicing the Maersk Lightning. Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Nick Marrone meet with steward department members on the Horizon Fairbanks—Chief Cook Susano Cortez (second from left) and Chief Steward Kevin Dougherty. . . . and in Puerto Rico Left: Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) and AB Jose Canales are on board the El Yunque following a payoff. Right: Bosun Luis Ramirez (left) and Chief Steward Juan Vallejo work aboard the El Yunque. Chief Cook Miguel Barbosa (right) receives his A seniority book at the San Juan hall from Port Agent Amancio Crespo. 10 Seafarers LOG Seated in the San Juan hall are (from left) Recertified Steward Rafael Cardenas, Recertified Steward Carlos Sanchez and Recertified Bosun Eric Perez. AB Carlos Castillo (left) meets with San Juan Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Castillo was in the hall to pick up the necessary paperwork to enable him to fly to Singapore to board his next ship. Recertified Steward Carlos Sanchez shows his support for the MDL campaign at the SIU hall in San Juan. During the March payoff meeting, the El Yunque crew stands ready for action. May 2006 �Snapshots from the Tacoma Hall Left: SIU Asst. VP Don Anderson works the service counter at the Tacoma hall. Right: Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner handles many inquiries from the membership. Agencies Offer Answers About Avian Flu Continued from page 9 information, see Embargo of Birds, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/outbreaks/embargo.htm. We have a small flock of chickens. Is it safe to keep them? Yes. In the United States there is no need at present to remove a flock of chickens because of concerns regarding avian influenza. The U.S. Department of Agriculture monitors potential infection of poultry and poultry products by avian influenza viruses and other infectious disease agents. What precautions can be taken to reduce the risk for infection from wild birds in the United States? As a general rule, the public should observe wildlife, including wild birds, from a distance. This protects people from possible exposure to pathogens and minimizes disturbance to the animal. Avoid touching wildlife. If there is contact with wildlife do not rub eyes, eat, drink, or smoke before washing hands with soap and water. Do not pick up diseased or dead wildlife. Contact your state, tribal, or federal natural resource agency if a sick or dead animal is found. What precautions can hunters take to reduce the risk for infection when hunting birds in the United States? Hunters should follow routine precautions when handling game, including wild birds. The National Wildlife Health Center recommends that hunters: „ Do not handle or eat sick game. „ Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning game, wash hands with soap and water (or with alcohol-based hand products), and thoroughly clean knives, equipment and surfaces that come in contact with game. „ Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling animals. „ Cook all game thoroughly. Top: Port Agent Bryan Powell (right) and Administrative Assistant Jim Ott talk about shipping and registration procedures. Middle: Recertified Stewards Muhammed Sani and Veronika Cardenas relax between job calls. Left: Safety Rep Joe Vincenzo prepares for a vessel servicing trip. Canada Cracks Down on Port Security Documentary Tells Port security remains a prominent topic in the United States, but Canada recently has made waves with its enforcement of entry requirements for nonCanadian-flag vessels and their crews. The Canadian regulations have been reexamined and recirculated within parts of the U.S.-flag maritime industry in an effort to comply. Also, the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System in mid-March issued a notice to mariners titled “Pre Entry Information Required from Foreign-Flag Vessels” that spells out Canada’s requirements. Essentially, Canada won’t allow anyone with a criminal record (including DUI/DWI convictions) to enter the country. Vessels carrying crew members with criminal records to Canadian ports may be subject to various penalties by the Canadian government. According to Canada’s Consulate General in New York, the following individuals are “inadmissible” to Canada. This information is taken directly from the organization’s web site: “Members of Inadmissible Classes include those who have been convicted of minor offenses (including shoplifting, theft, assault, dangerous driving, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of illegal substances, etc.), or of indictable criminal offenses (including assault with a deadly weapon, manslaughter, etc.). As well, those who have been convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) are considered Members of an Inadmissible Class. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is regarded as an extremely serious offense in Canada. “Those who have received traffic violations (including parking/speeding tickets, etc.) and other minor violations (i.e., littering, etc.) most likely will NOT be prohibited from entering Canada. Similarly, those who have juvenile convictions (convictions for crimes committed while under age 18) most likely will NOT be prohibited from entering Canada unless they could have been tried as an adult for their offenses.” The office goes on to report that those who have been convicted of an offense in Canada and who wish to return to that country must first apply for a pardon from the Clemency and Pardons Division of the National Parole Board. Those unable to obtain a May 2006 ‘Story of America’s Seafaring Women’ Canadian authorities are cracking down on port security. Pictured here is part of Deltaport, Vancouver’s largest container terminal. pardon may still apply for a temporary resident permit. More information from the consulate on this subject is available on the internet at: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/can-am/new_york/ visas/inadmissible-en.asp Additionally, the contact information for the New York office is as follows: Consulate General of Canada 1251 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10020-1175 Tel: (212) 596-1628, Fax: (212) 596-1790 e-mail: cngny@international.gc.ca The SIU executive board plans to meet with the SIU of Canada executive board in the near future to more closely study this situation and refine strategies for addressing it, since it impacts Seafarers. Meanwhile, masters on a number of U.S.-flag ships that sail to Canada have been reminded to send a crew list to the Canada Border Services Agency and request that it be reviewed as soon as possible to help prevent problems. Similarly, individual crew members having a criminal record or DUI/DWI conviction should notify the ship’s master prior to sailing to Canada. A new documentary, written and directed by the same person who produced the award-winning film “The Men Who Sailed the Liberty Ships,” looks at life aboard ship for women in the U.S.-flag industry. Maria Brooks’ newest production is an hour-long DVD titled “Shipping Out: The Story of America’s Seafaring Women.” The SIU assisted in the documentary by helping arrange shipboard interviews and also donating to the project. The show was broadcast on various PBS stations in March as part of Women’s History Month, and it has received several very positive reviews. One labor publication described “Shipping Out” as “a comprehensive, spirited look at the women of today who sail the seas for a living. The video documentary opens with striking images of intrepid women on tankers and tugs, climbing on board containerships, piloting through dangerous waters, and yes, even cooking up a gourmet meal in a ship’s galley. “Over the next 56 minutes, the viewer gets to know a dynamic, diverse group of women who have been drawn to the merchant marine, not just in the last 20 years since significant restrictions have been lifted on women’s access to these jobs, but as far back as the late 1800s, when women disguised themselves as men to be able to ship out.” Brooks said she found it “refreshing” to meet her interview subjects. “I was awed by their daunting, their daring. It’s as if they’ve tested themselves and proven something to themselves,” she said. “Shipping Out” is available on DVD for $24.95 plus $4 mailing. Make checks payable to: Waterfront Soundings Productions, 3252 Kempton Avenue, Oakland, CA 94611. An accompanying study guide (sporting a union bug) is available for $5.00 or can be downloaded for free at www.shippingoutvideo.com. For more information send email to WFSoundings@aol.com. Seafarers LOG 11 �DECK DEPARTMENT TRAINING SAFETY/SPECIALTY TRAINING 12 Seafarers LOG In an era when training for mariners is more important than ever, the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers cutting-edge courses designed to help students advance their careers. Based in Piney Point, Md., the school features upgrading classes in all three shipboard departments—deck, engine and steward. The Paul Hall Center also conducts safety and specialty courses for all mariners such as basic and advanced fire fighting, STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), oil spill containment and much more. Overall, the school runs more than 40 U.S. Coast Guardapproved classes. Named after an outstanding past president of the SIU, the Paul Hall Center opened in 1967. In addition to the upgrading courses, the school also is known for its unlicensed apprentice program, available to students just entering the industry. The center also provides academic support and boasts programs for a GED and college degrees. In addition, it features a program for military veterans who possess sea time that can help them transition into the U.S. Merchant Marine. For those already sailing, upgrading is the way to go. Combined with Coast Guardrequired sea time, upgrading courses such as AB, QMEDPumpman, Certified Chief Cook and many others help enable mariners to advance their ratings and earn a better living. ENGINE DEPARTMENT TRAINING May 2006 �STEWARD DEPARTMENT TRAINING For More Information on Upgrading „ Visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org for up-to-date course dates and class descriptions. „ Check page 21 of this edition of the LOG for upcoming course dates. Every issue of the LOG includes such a list. „ Contact the admissions office at Paul Hall Center Admissions Office P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674-0075 or by calling (301) 994-0010, extension 5220 May 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �Letter to the Editor Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Remembering the Luckenbach I was quite surprised when I saw the picture of the Katrina Luckenbach [February 2006 LOG, page 16] In 1945, I was aboard the J.L. Luckenbach and loading for the South Pacific. For the benefit of the younger brothers and sisters of today’s merchant marine, following are some of the conditions under which we worked: 1. There were nine watchstanders to a room—with one fan. 2. The shower was on the stern—with no door. 3. The showerhead produced lots of steam and very little water. 4. One day out to sea the refrigerator quit. My first thought was: this is going to be a long, hot, hungry trip. 5. Another day at sea, a fire broke out in the engine room. The crew had the fire out in 15 minutes, but damage was done. We bobbed around for two days. During this time, however, there was news that the war with Japan would be over soon. The engineers made some temporary repairs and we limped back to New Orleans on one screw (this was a twin-screw ship with 7 hatches). Upon arriving at the anchorage in New Orleans, a big party was going on in town. You could hear the hollering all the way out to the ship. Know Your Rights But guess what: they did not let us ashore. So the boys found out how to get beer out of the No. 6 hatch—and we had our own party. I would like to mention that I had my 17th birthday on this ship as well. The following day or so, the NMU pulled us off the ship and I thought to myself, good. I walked over to the SIU hall and caught the Waterman ship Antinous. My last ship was the Gopher State in 1991. Gene T. Lachappelle Big Bay, Mich. Above is a copy of Brother Lachappelle’s certificate of discharge from the J. L. Luckenbach, dated Aug. 27, 1945 in New Orleans. 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 14 Seafarers LOG monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. May 2006 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea June & July 2006 Membership Meetings MARCH 16 — APRIL 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 0 0 6 8 2 7 31 36 0 12 11 34 10 3 0 7 17 1 30 26 241 1 0 3 9 2 4 21 25 1 4 7 12 7 1 3 2 5 2 10 10 4 5 7 15 6 5 24 26 2 10 7 18 26 3 6 6 7 7 30 17 231 1 1 3 5 4 7 11 15 0 5 3 14 13 1 2 1 7 2 19 12 1 2 2 9 2 3 19 7 2 1 3 13 4 1 1 3 4 2 11 4 94 1 0 2 2 0 3 5 5 1 1 1 7 4 0 2 1 1 0 4 7 129 126 47 0 0 5 5 2 10 19 11 0 4 4 22 11 2 1 0 25 1 19 23 0 0 0 7 0 6 2 11 0 4 2 10 9 0 2 2 4 1 7 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 164 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 2 0 1 1 3 1 0 0 2 5 0 4 2 71 2 1 10 7 1 6 15 12 0 9 4 34 12 0 4 2 10 1 13 4 18 2 3 2 4 4 7 23 19 0 3 3 21 12 0 24 0 5 0 13 12 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 5 4 3 10 23 21 0 6 14 19 5 3 0 5 13 1 23 14 169 Trip Reliefs 161 0 3 2 4 1 1 9 3 1 2 2 3 4 0 1 4 3 0 5 4 52 1 1 0 1 0 3 14 18 1 1 7 10 7 2 2 4 11 0 19 7 109 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 3 3 1 8 11 14 1 5 3 9 6 1 2 0 4 0 8 12 92 1 1 4 4 2 4 4 9 1 3 2 6 3 3 0 4 3 2 13 8 77 0 0 1 1 0 0 5 2 0 0 0 5 3 0 0 0 1 0 5 4 27 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 9 0 4 2 7 4 1 0 1 2 1 7 7 49 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 2 0 8 7 6 0 4 7 13 6 0 0 2 16 0 11 18 101 0 0 0 3 1 2 2 5 0 4 0 3 6 1 2 0 1 0 7 3 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 4 0 0 2 2 3 1 3 11 10 0 2 4 10 4 0 14 1 8 0 8 4 0 2 2 5 0 4 2 7 0 2 0 7 11 0 26 0 2 0 9 7 0 0 1 2 0 6 6 3 0 3 2 4 5 1 2 0 6 0 6 8 0 0 7 19 4 11 71 55 0 19 28 76 20 5 1 9 29 1 59 50 4 10 12 35 12 12 51 45 3 14 14 42 33 6 7 10 15 11 58 37 2 2 2 9 2 4 36 19 1 4 8 23 12 2 1 1 6 4 24 16 464 431 178 0 0 4 13 2 7 23 33 1 7 10 23 12 1 4 6 13 3 23 15 1 0 7 12 6 7 23 32 0 8 6 23 19 6 4 1 15 6 27 12 3 0 2 4 0 7 10 9 1 4 1 11 8 0 3 2 5 0 4 13 200 215 87 1 0 5 6 3 23 38 27 1 6 6 35 14 4 5 1 45 3 32 42 0 0 1 13 4 12 8 24 0 9 6 19 22 0 4 4 7 2 11 12 0 0 1 5 0 1 7 7 1 2 3 5 7 0 0 0 0 1 3 9 55 297 158 52 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 3 9 4 0 1 3 6 1 0 0 2 8 0 6 3 3 4 10 12 2 15 36 23 0 10 7 68 22 0 12 3 17 2 27 11 5 5 2 17 7 13 39 26 1 5 7 37 23 0 15 1 14 1 21 22 29 147 157 15 87 86 0 47 284 261 563 575 316 377 365 169 213 1,008 1,088 578 *“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. May 2006 Piney Point .............Monday: June 5, July 3 Algonac ..................Friday: June 9, July 7 DECK DEPARTMENT 3 3 3 5 1 7 15 14 1 7 4 12 13 2 12 13 8 4 16 18 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Baltimore ................Thursday: June 8, July 6 Boston.....................Friday: June 9, July 7 Guam ......................Thursday: June 22, July 20 Honolulu .................Friday: June 16, July 14 Houston ..................Monday: June 12, July 10 Jacksonville ............Thursday: June 8, July 6 Joliet .......................Thursday: June 15, July 13 Mobile ....................Wednesday: June 14, July 12 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: June 13, July 11 New York................Tuesday: June 6 .................................Wednesday: July 5* .................................(*change created by Independence Day holiday) Norfolk ...................Thursday: June 8, July 6 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: June 7, July 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: June 15, July 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: June 15, July 13 San Juan..................Thursday: June 8, July 6 St. Louis..................Friday: June 16, July 14 Tacoma ...................Friday: June 23, July 21 Wilmington ...........Monday: June 19, July 18 ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals ARTIS GILMORE Please get in touch with Diane Murphy at 52 Heath Lane, Bath, Maine 04530. SDRF Contributions The last few editions of the Seafarers LOG included lists of individuals who have contributed to the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (DSDRF). Since then, additional contributions were received from the following individuals. Kevin Nolan Joshua McDaniel In addition, a contribution was made by the American Maritime Officers in memory of Brother Stephen Judd. HIPAA Privacy Notice The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is a comprehensive federal law which established standards and requirements for the electronic transmission of medical claims and mandated the adoption of privacy rules to protect the confidentiality of personal health information. The purpose of HIPAA’s privacy rules is to safeguard “Protected Health Information” that is shared between hospitals, doctors’ offices, and health plans. The HIPAA Privacy Rules give Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan participants more control over their health information, limit the use and release of health or claim records, and establish appropriate safeguards to protect the privacy of health information. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Notice of Privacy Practices is available on the seafarers.org web site or by requesting a copy of the notice from the Plan. If you wish to request a copy of this notice, you may write to: Privacy Officer, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MARCH 16 — APRIL 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT 8 17 1 4 15 0 3 2 50 2 2 0 0 8 2 1 0 15 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 3 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 17 2 5 9 1 3 3 44 0 1 1 0 2 2 2 0 8 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 2 5 0 4 1 0 4 2 1 0 12 17 33 2 15 46 0 1 1 115 11 10 2 9 19 0 1 2 54 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 2 1 0 3 0 0 1 7 7 16 2 4 19 0 0 4 52 2 7 0 3 8 0 0 0 20 1 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 6 1 1 7 0 0 0 18 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 6 Port 2 4 1 0 3 0 0 0 10 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 6 1 1 4 1 0 2 17 0 1 0 1 3 1 1 0 7 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 3 7 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 2 8 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 0 5 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 3 7 0 1 1 0 5 0 0 0 7 9 16 5 3 11 2 0 0 46 2 7 1 2 9 1 0 0 22 1 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 5 Totals All Departments 85 26 21 62 15 18 26 213 96 17 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Andrew Messana of Framingham, Mass. The picture at right was taken aboard the SS John Gallup, a Smith & Johnson Steamship vessel, in December 1947. The voyage was from New York to Lisbon, Portugal with a load of grain. In a note accompanying the photo, Messana, who sailed aboard the vessel as an FOWT, noted that the ship and its crew had just spent 18 days in Lisbon and that it was “one of the best crews I ever sailed with.” The John Gallup paid off that voyage in New York in January 1948 and then laid up. The photo at left shows mariners from the SS Steel Advocate, an Isthmian Steamship Co. vessel, in March 1948. This was a 4½month trip from New York to the Far East, the ship’s first trip under an SIU contract. While in Bombay, India (see Bombay’s most famous monument, the Gateway of India, in the background), the crew rented bicycles (complete with monkeys) for the day. It, too, was a good trip with a great crew, according to Messana, who continued to sail as an FOWT on that vessel. The Steel Advocate paid off in Philadelphia in June 1948. Brother Messana was a member of the SIU from 1946 to 1962. May 2006 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA KLAUS AHMELS, 66, joined the union in 1965 in New York. Brother Ahmels sailed in the deck department aboard vessels including the Maiden Creek and the Jacksonville. He upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Ahmels was born in Germany and makes his home in Neihart, Mont. PETER CZICHOMSKI, 65, became an SIU member in 1998 in New Orleans. Brother Czichomski first sailed on the Maersk Colorado. He was a deck department member and last worked aboard the Achiever. In 1999 and 2000, Brother Czichomski upgraded his skills at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The German-born mariner now calls Lafayette, La. home. LORIE CHRISTMAS JR., 67, embarked on his seafaring career in 1964 in New York. Born in New Orleans, Brother Christmas shipped in the engine department. His first ship was the Los Angeles. Brother Christmas attended the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. on numerous occasions. He is a resident of Marietta, Ga. JUAN GONZALEZ JR., 63, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of Houston. Brother Gonzalez’s first voyage was on the Windjammer Polly. Born in Progreso, Texas, he worked in the steward department. Brother Gonzalez enhanced his seafaring skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed aboard the Cape Trinity. Brother Gonzalez is a resident of his native state. NORMAN JOHNSON, 65, joined the MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Johnson first sailed on the Maunalei in the steward department. He upgraded his seafaring skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Johnson was born in California and last worked aboard the Kauai. He lives in his native state. ARVEL JONES JR., 65, joined the SIU in 1991 in Piney Point, May 2006 Md. Brother Jones first sailed on the Equality State in the engine department. He was born in Birmingham, Ala. Brother Jones’ most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Washington. He lives in Cherokee Village, Ark. WILLIAM KRATSAS, 64, became an SIU member in 1959 in the port of Baltimore, Md. Brother Kratsas first sailed on the Dorothy. The deck department member was born in Newport News, Va. Brother Kratsas attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 1982 and 2000. Prior to his retirement, he sailed on the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Kratsas resides in LaPlace, La. MOHAMED MUTHANNA, 71, launched his SIU career in 1982 in New York. Brother Muthanna was born in Yemen and shipped in the steward department. His first voyage was on the Aleutian Developer. Brother Muthanna last worked aboard a Bay Ship Management vessel. He upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Muthanna makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. OREN PARKER, 70, hails from Louisiana. Brother Parker began his seafaring career in 1993 in New Orleans, first shipping on the USNS Regulus. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills in 1995 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Parker last went to sea aboard the Liberty Glory. He makes his home in Mississippi. JAMES ROSE, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1970 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Rose first sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. The steward department member was born in New York. Brother Rose most recently shipped on the Dewayne T. Williams. He enhanced his skills in 1988, 2000 and again in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. Brother Rose resides in Pittsburgh, Pa. LAWRENCE ROSE, 71, joined the SIU in 1990. Brother Rose upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. His first ship was the Cape Horn. Brother Rose is a native of Brooklyn, N.Y. Prior to retiring, he worked on the 1st Lt. Harry Martin. Brother Rose now calls Melbourne, Fla. home. MOHAMED SALEH, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1970. Brother Saleh worked in deck department. Born in Arabia, his most recent voyage was on the Horizon Consumer. Brother Saleh makes his home in San Francisco, Calif. EFSTRATIOS ZOUBANTIS, 69, became an SIU member in 1966 in New Orleans. Brother Zoubantis sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He first sailed aboard a Gulf Canal Lines vessel. Brother Zoubantis was a deck department member. Born in Greece, he last shipped on the Sulphur Enterprise. Brother Zoubantis attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school in 2000. He makes his home in Slidell, La. INLAND HARRY BRYAN, 67, embarked on his seafaring career in 1984. Boatman Bryan shipped primarily on Crowley vessels. The New Jersey native currently resides in Hazleton, Pa. ALBEN WASH, 68, started sailing with the SIU in 1980 in New Orleans. Boatman Wash worked primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamship Co. vessels as a member of the steward department. He hails from Kentucky and resides in Natchez, Miss. GREAT LAKES PAUL ALLERS, 67, was born in Michigan. Brother Allers joined the union in 1963. He sailed pri- marily aboard vessels operated by Arnold Transit Company. The deck department member now lives in Mackinaw City, Mich. CICERO DOOLEY, 62, was born in Arkansas. Brother Dooley joined the NMU in 1967, initially sailing from San Pedro, Calif. His first ship was the Adelphi Victory; his last was the Cape Victory. Brother Dooley shipped as a member of the steward department. CARMEN POWELL, 66, became an SIU member in 1969. His first ship was the Del Valle. Brother Powell shipped as a member of the engine department in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. The Michigan-born mariner last sailed on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Powell calls Manistique, Mich. home. RAYMOND SHAFFER, 67, became an NMU member in 1995. Brother Shaffer’s first voyage was aboard the Cape Henry. He was born in Pennsylvania and worked in the engine department. Brother Shaffer most recently shipped on the Cape Decision. DONALD SAUSMAN, 58, joined the union in 1965 in the port of Duluth, Minn. In 2002, Brother Sausman attended the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. to enhance his seafaring skills. His first journey to sea was aboard the Huron Portland Cement. Brother Sausman shipped in the deck department, most recently on the Presque Isle. He continues to live in his native state of Minnesota. 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. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1941 The S.S. Robin Moor, an SIU ship, was the first U.S.-flag vessel to be sunk by the Germans (May 21). The crew was given 20 minutes by the German submarine commander to leave the vessel. After the crew launched the lifeboats, and were approximately one mile from the ship, the German submarine torpedoed the Robin Moor, sinking it. The attack eventually helped lead to all American-flag ships being armed and supplied with gun crews. ARNOLD SMITH, 70, began his employment with the NMU in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Smith first shipped on the Coastal Crusader. His most recent voyage was aboard the Argonaut. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME AGE EDP Frazer, Thomas 65 April 1 Linwood, Elwood 64 Mar. 1 Marcelle, Max 68 April 1 Thompson, Charles 65 Mar. 1 Waldron, Basil 70 April 1 Williams, Wilfredo 64 Mar. 1 man per working day. Each Seafarer will collect his vacation pay from the central fund on the prorated basis of the number of days worked during the previous 12-month period. 1961 Danish seamen, whose strike ended May 15, have thanked the SIU for its support. In a cable from Copenhagen to SIUNA President Paul Hall, the Danish seamen’s unions expressed appreciation for “your fraternal cooperation and demonstration of sympathy.” The strike of the Danish Sailors and Firemen’s Unions ended early this month when the Danish transport unions voted to go back to work. The Danish seamen here turned to May 15 after ratifying their new contract. The strike in U.S. ports was supported by American maritime unions including affiliates of the SIUNA and the International Longshoremen’s Association. This Month In SIU History 1951 Another smashing precedent was established in maritime this week when the SIU’s Atlantic and Gulf District won from a majority of its contracted operators agreement to a revolutionary, industry-wide plan which guarantees all Seafarers two weeks of paid vacations for each 12 months of service. Under terms of a memorandum agreement signed on May 15, the operators granted the union’s demand for a vacation plan that will assure Seafarers of an opportunity to collect their vacations on the basis of the time worked, regardless of how many companies they are employed by throughout the year. As a result of the precedent-making agreement, the operators will pay into a central fund an amount—as yet undetermined—for each 1971 The jobs of Seafarers are on the line in the renewed attack on the Jones Act, a body of laws that demands that all domestic shipping be moved on American-flag vessels. The heavy assault on the Jones Act is being led by the oil industry, which wants oil from the rich Alaskan fields carried in runaway-flag tankers…. The SIU is leading a campaign to muster Congressional support to strengthen the Jones Act. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA RESTITUTO BERNADAS Pensioner Restituto Bernadas, 84, passed away Oct. 2. Brother Bernadas joined the union in 1952 in New York. His first ship was the Arizpa, on which he worked in the engine department. Brother Bernadas, who was born in Philadelphia, last sailed aboard the Aurora. He retired in 1985 and lived in New Orleans. ROBERT BLACKWELL Pensioner Robert Blackwell, 74, died Dec. 24. Brother Blackwell began his seafaring career in 1967, first sailing on the Steel Vendor and most recently sailing aboard the Patriot. The engine department member was born in Idaho. Brother Blackwell retired in 1997 and made his home in Yreka, Calif. LEONARD CHING dence and later, when it was renamed the Independence. Brother Gibbons started receiving his pension in 1990. He made his home in Walden, N.Y. sailed on a Sea-Land Service vessel. Brother Jones was a native of Elizabeth, Pa. His last voyage was aboard the Overseas Arctic. Brother Jones lived in Trinity, Texas. ROBERT GOODSON PABLO LOPEZ Brother Robert Goodson, 58, passed away Jan. 16. He began his seafaring career in 1994 in the port of Houston. Brother Goodson first worked aboard Crowley Towing of Texas vessels. He was born in Texas and sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Goodson most recently shipped on the Florida. He settled in Pasadena, Texas. Pensioner Pablo Lopez, 83, passed away Dec. 17. Brother Lopez joined the union in 1951 in Seattle. He was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. Brother Lopez first sailed on a Bull Steamship vessel. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Overseas Harriette. Brother Lopez resided in King, Wash. MASON HALL ARTHUR MAILLET Pensioner Mason Hall, 83, died Oct. 16. Brother Hall began his SIU career in 1944 in the port of Norfolk. His first ship was the Golden City; his last was the Santa Magdalena. Brother Hall resided in his native California. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1983. Pensioner Arthur Maillet, 82, died Nov. 14. Brother Maillet became a Seafarer in 1951, first sailing aboard a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. The engine department member was born in Marksville, La. He last sailed on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Maillet started receiving his retirement stipends in 1984 and made his home in Destrehan, La. Pensioner Leonard Ching, 80, passed away Oct. 19. Brother Ching became a member of the MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) in 1960 in the port of San Francisco. He initially shipped aboard a States Steamship vessel. Brother Ching was a native of Hawaii. The U.S. Army veteran retired in 1988 after sailing on the Lurline. He called Honolulu home. Brother Robert Hall, 50, passed away Jan. 20. Born in Oakland, Calif., he joined the union in 1997 in San Francisco. Brother Hall shipped in the engine department, initially aboard the Sumner. His most recent voyage was on the Equality State. Brother Hall made his home in California. TOMMY CUFFEE DOLPH HOLM Brother Tommy Cuffee, 32, died Nov. 9. He joined the SIU in 1997 in Norfolk, Va. The Virginia-born mariner sailed as a member of the deck department, primarily on vessels operated by Interocean American Shipping, including the Flickertale State and Cornhusker State. Brother Cuffee was a resident of his native state. Pensioner Dolph Holm, 78, died Nov. 7. Brother Holm was born in Iceland and began sailing with the SIU in 1951 in New York. Brother Holm initially shipped with Isbrandtsen Company as a member of the deck department. His last voyage was aboard the Houston. Brother Holm retired in 1987. He called Babylon, N.Y. home. JOHN FEDIOW Pensioner John Fediow, 93, passed away Nov. 27. Brother Fediow was born in Plains, Penn. He joined the SIU in 1951 in New York, first sailing aboard the Trinity. He worked in the deck department. Prior to retiring in 1977, Brother Fediow shipped aboard a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. He continued to live Pennsylvania. ERNEST GIBBONS Pensioner Ernest Gibbons, 80, died Dec. 7. Brother Gibbons joined the SIU ranks in 1980. He was born in Cornwell, N.Y. and worked in the steward department. Brother Gibbons sailed on the Independence for most of his career, first when it was called the Oceanic Indepen- 18 Seafarers LOG ROBERT HALL CLEO JONES Pensioner Cleo Jones, 70, passed away Dec. 10. Brother Jones became an SIU member in 1957. Born in Alabama, he worked in the steward department. Brother Jones first sailed on the Alcoa Polaris. Before retiring in 1997, he shipped on the Overseas Valdez. Brother Jones was a resident of Houston. WILLIAM JONES Pensioner William Jones, 89, died Oct. 12. Brother Jones embarked on his seafaring career in 1944. The engine department member first DONALD MORGAN Pensioner Donald Morgan, 63, passed away Oct. 19. Brother Morgan began his SIU career in 1967. He was born in Baltimore and shipped in the engine department. Brother Morgan first sailed on the Steel Vendor; he last sailed on the Overseas Chicago. His home was in Brinnon, Wash. JOHNNIE OPRY Brother Johnnie Opry, 55, died Dec. 2. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and joined the union in 2001 in Houston. Brother Opry shipped aboard the Commitment and the Lawrence Gianella as a member of the deck department. He called Galveston, Texas home. PHILIP PARDOVICH Pensioner Philip Pardovich, 70, passed away Nov. 8. Brother Pardovich became a union member in 1958 in New York. He sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions as a member of the engine department. Brother Pardovich’s final voyage was on the Newark Bay. The New York native was a resident of Florida. FLOYD PAYTON Pensioner Floyd Payton, 78, died Nov. 11. Brother Payton joined the ranks of the SIU in 1966. His first voyage was on the Jefferson City, where he worked in the steward department. Brother Payton was born in North Carolina. Prior to retiring in 1992, he sailed on the Innovation. Brother Payton called Norfolk, Va. home. MICHAEL PIERCE Brother Michael Pierce, 56, passed away Nov. 20. He joined the union in 1990 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Pierce’s first voyage was aboard the Diamond State. The engine department member most recently worked on the USNS Bellatrix. Brother Pierce lived in his native state of Louisiana. RICHARD RIGNEY Pensioner Richard Rigney, 77, died Oct. 16. Brother Rigney started sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 from the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the Robin Hood. A member of the deck department, Brother Rigney was born in Maryland. He last went to sea on the Long Island. Brother Rigney, who made his home in Bel Air, Md., retired in 1993. JOHN RODRIQUEZ Pensioner John Rodriquez, 78, passed away Oct. 3. Brother Rodriquez joined the MC&S in San Francisco. The steward department member, who lived in California, retired in 1978. VINCENTE ROMAN first sailed aboard the Seagarden in the deck department. Brother Spears last worked aboard the Horizon Consumer. He began his retirement in 1996 and was a resident of New Orleans. SENETENARI TAEOTUI Pensioner Senetenari Taeotui, 75, died Dec. 12. Brother Taeotui became a member of the MC&S in 1978 in the port of San Francisco, first sailing aboard the Santa Mercedes. The steward department member, who was born in Samoa, last worked aboard the Constitution. Brother Taeotui lived in San Francisco and went on pension in 1983. WILLIAM TALBERT Brother William Talbert, 55, passed away Nov. 11. He embarked on his seafaring career in 1998 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Talbert first sailed aboard the Overseas Joyce in the deck department. He was born in Seattle. Brother Talbert’s last voyage was on the USNS Regulus. He made his home in Yorktown, Va. HEINZ ULRICH Pensioner Vincente Roman, 80, died Dec. 22. Brother Roman began his SIU career in 1966. His first voyage was aboard a Victory Carriers vessel. Born in Ponce, P.R., Brother Roman worked in the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Pioneer. Brother Roman, who continued to make his home in Ponce, went on pension in 1990. Pensioner Heinz Ulrich, 85, died Nov. 7. Brother Ulrich joined the SIU in 1949 in the port of New York. The German-born mariner shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Ulrich first went to sea aboard a Waterman Steamship vessel. His last trip was on the LNG Capricorn. Brother Ulrich made his home in New York. He started receiving his pension in 1990. CHARLES SHAW SR. JOSE VIOLANGO Pensioner Charles Shaw Sr., 80, passed away Sept. 26. Brother Shaw commenced his seafaring career in 1945 in the port of Baltimore. The deck department member was born in Maryland. Brother Shaw first sailed on the Oremar. Before retiring in 1987, he shipped on the Horizon Producer. Brother Shaw resided in Maurertown, Va. Pensioner Jose Violango, 82, passed away Sept. 6. Brother Violango was born in the Philippines and began his seafaring career in 1967. Brother Violango first sailed on the Eagle Traveler as a member of the deck department. His last vessel was the Horizon Tacoma. Brother Violango was a resident of Seattle. He went on pension in 1993. RUDOLH SHIELDS MAXWELL WADLINGTON Brother Rudolph Shields, 54, died Oct. 9. He started sailing with the union in 1970. Brother Rudolph’s earliest trip to sea was aboard the Steel King. He most recently shipped on the Overseas New Orleans. Born in Bartow, Fla., Brother Shields lived in Jacksonville. RICHARD SPEARS Pensioner Richard Spears, 67, passed away Oct. 19. Born in Louisiana, Brother Spears joined the SIU in 1955 in New Orleans. He Pensioner Maxwell Wadlington, 90, died Sept. 11. Brother Wadlington began his SIU career in 1953, first sailing on the Government Camp. The deck department member, who was a native of Henderson, Ky., last worked aboard the Seattle. He retired in 1981 and made his home in Eustis, Fla. BOBBIE WILLIAMS Pensioner Bobbie Williams, 76, passed away Oct. 13. Brother Williams joined the SIU in 1951. He Continued on page 20 May 2006 �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. ACHIEVER (Maersk Line Limited), March 20—Chairman Sherman Hudson, Secretary John G. Reed, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate Craig A. Pare, Engine Delegate Chromer W. Jefferson, Steward Delegate William Blees Jr. Chairman advised crew members to pay dues on time. Secretary reported previous steward would be returning soon and thanked Seafarers for great trip. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to take advantage of training available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested satellite radio and TVs for all rooms as well as computer in crew lounge to be used for emailing family and friends. New washer and dryer also needed. Suggestion made to have vacation payments set up for direct deposit. Vote of thanks given to steward department. CALVIN P. TITUS (APL Maritime Ltd.), March 3—Chairman Michael S. Sinclair, Secretary Adrian M. Reed, Educational Director Richard D. Hannon, Deck Delegate Duane Costello, Steward Delegate Mauricio M. Castro. Chairman informed crew of changes from current run (Singapore to Jakarta) to Red Sea run and noted that future changes are possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read e-mail regarding contract negotiations. Recommendations were made as to vacation pay and overtime wages. Heading to ports in Africa and the Middle East. CAPE DOUGLAS (Marine Transport Lines), March 12— Chairman Felsher Beasly, Secretary John D. Bukowski, Educational Director Rodolfo C. Cunanan, Deck Delegate Michael C. Penkwitz, Engine Delegate Abdallkerim Kassim, Steward Delegate Alfonsa Eligio. Chairman reported safe trip and said ship going into ROS. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean and working together efficiently. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade at Piney Point. He reminded them that the more skills they have, the better their potential for increased earnings. He advised them to fax the form in Seafarers LOG to speed up application process. Treasurer stated $2,400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding rotation rule. Crew members requested new furniture in crew lounge and cabins along with some mattresses and refrigerators. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), March 5—Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Howard H. Hendra, Steward Delegate Wiley C. Owens. Chairman noted smooth sailing. Educational director urged all mariners to upgrade seafaring skills at the Piney Point school. He requested copy of the constitution and any letters with suggestions from crew members for next con- May 2006 tract. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated that money in ship’s fund is going toward purchase of cell phone antenna to increase reception. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. EL FARO (IUM), March 5— Chairman Eric A. Berry, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Educational Director Keith L. Jordan Sr. Chairman discussed safety equipment and went over ship’s new run (Jacksonville, Puerto Rico, Port Everglades). He asked crew to report any needed repairs or other problems to department heads. He thanked everyone for safe, smooth trip. Secretary welcomed crew members aboard ship. Educational director advised members to upgrade at SIU-affiliated school, so the union can continue to put out good certified mariners and keep SIU strong. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. President’s report was read and discussed. Members expressed gratitude to President Sacco for all his hard work on behalf of the SIU. Crew requested satellite be installed. Recommendation made for union to review steward department needs aboard ship. EL MORRO (Interocean American Shipping), March 29— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Ivan R. Salis, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty, Deck Delegate Janaro N. Jackson, Engine Delegate Rafael Comesana, Steward Delegate Nelson F. Morales. Chairman announced March 3 payoff. He requested information on status of contract negotiations and copies of plans’ financial statements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication from VP Contracts George Tricker was read and discussed. Suggestions made regarding rotation time and pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent food. Interesting sighting: Seafarers aboard vessel reported spotting whales as they approached Puerto Rico. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), March 19—Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Joseph J. Gallo Jr., Educational Director Roy S. Frett Jr., Deck Delegate Isaac Vega Mercado, Engine Delegate Michael A. Watkins, Steward Delegate Jorge R. Salazar. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He advised crew members to be vigilant with z-cards and passports and to be sure to keep all documents current. He also reminded them to have union books and dues payments ready for boarding patrolman March 24. Secretary reported great voyage and stressed importance of safety at all times. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and to renew documents well before they are due to expire. Captain maintains joint funds and will give report at next crew meeting. No beefs or disputed OT noted. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), March 7— Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary William J. Bunch, Educational Director Douglas D. Greiner, Deck Delegate Cleofe B. Castro, Steward Delegate John Padilla. Chairman discussed importance of headquarters being located close to the seat of political power. It gives the SIU access to elected officials who pass legislation that affects our industry. He urged crew members to contribute to SPAD, which supports the union’s lobbying efforts. Educational director asked all mariners to renew all documents in sufficient time to prevent loss of work. Treasurer stated $1,502 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read February 2006 Seafarers LOG concerning retirement of Wilmington’s dispatcher, Jesse Solis. Suggestion made regarding rotary shipping. It was reported that a new deep fryer was installed in galley and a new washer in laundry room. Steward department was thanked for great living conditions they maintain on board vessel. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), March 19—Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Deck Delegate Geraldine B. Carter, Engine Delegate Gualberto M. Salaria. Chairman announced payoff March 25 in Tacoma, Wash. Port agent will be present. Secretary noted great crew and smooth trip. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. She reminded crew members that document renewal takes a long time, so start early. Treasurer stated $830.98 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report was posted on bulletin board. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Tacoma), March 19—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan, Engine Delegate Leo B. Bacall. Chairman announced payoff to take place Feb. 29 upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He thanked crew members for helping keep ship clean and urged them to keep dues paid and support SPAD. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Piney Point— it’s never too late to learn something new. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. INTEGRITY (Interocean American Shipping), March 18— Chairman Robert V. Bakeman, Secretary Frances Dvoroznak, Deck Delegate Carl H. Peterson, Engine Delegate Stephen J. Riccobene, Steward Delegate James C. Wadsworth Jr. Chairman expressed gratitude to fellow crew members for excellent job during clean-up following inclement weather. Members requested clarification on penalty time restrictions. Treasurer stated $1,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New gym equipment on order due to damage suffered during foul weather. Seafarers were reminded to clean up after themselves and empty lint catchers in dryers. Suggestions made for improving contract. Next ports: New York; Baltimore; Charleston, S.C. CPL LOUIS J. HAUGE (Maersk Line Limited), March 17— Chairman James J. Foley, Secretary David Vega, Educational Director John C. Brantly, Steward Delegate Richard Jefferson. Bosun stressed importance of safety (including wearing of hard hats and using proper walkways or shuttles) especially when downloading cargo and ammunition at the terminal. He also thanked crew for safe trip and recent transit through Panama Canal. Educational director offered assistance to anyone wishing to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), March 12— Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary Gerard L. Hyman, Educational Director Earl F. Ebbert, Deck Delegate Abdul Q. Gharama. Chairman thanked Seafarers for safe, smooth trip. Point, Md. Contact claims department to check status of bills. Piney Point is also the place to upgrade maritime skills. “It is your future.” No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. After reading President’s report in Seafarers LOG regarding sinking of Panamanian-flag ferry, crew members vowed continued commitment to safety. Suggestions made regarding pension benefits. Crew members requested satellite TV in each room. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tampa, Fla. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), March 5—Chairman George J. Diefenbach, Secretary Alexander Galley Gang on the Hauge Two of the steward department members on the CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. are (from left) SA Saleh Omar and Chief Cook Richard L. Jefferson. Read more about the Hauge on page 4. Secretary noted 60-day stores to be brought aboard in Virginia and thanked everyone for their help keeping the vessel clean. Educational director suggested members look into classes offered at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to raise pension amounts for all ratings. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Portsmouth, Va.; Newark, N.J.; Algeciras, Spain. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), March 26— Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Phillip R. Ayotte, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel. Chairman announced April 1 payoff in Newark, N.J. He reminded those departing vessel to leave cabins clean and supplied with fresh linen. He also noted the number of days since the last losttie accident: 1,112. Educational director urged members to enhance seafaring skills at Piney Point school. He also reminded them to keep MMDs current and allow plenty of time when renewing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer reported DVD players and TVs to be purchased for all rooms using money from movie fund. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Newark. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Ship Management), March 27—Chairman Samuel Duah, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director Larry F. Phillips, Engine Delegate William P. Stone. Chairman discussed safety while working on deck and said to watch out for yourself and your shipmates. He urged all mariners to read union contract and get clarification from delegates on any questions. Educational director advised crew that medical bills are once again being paid in Piney Banky III, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth. Chairman thanked everyone for doing jobs well and safely. He announced March 13 payoff in Newark, N.J. and suggested Seafarers check out tax tips on pages 12 and 13 of February 2006 Seafarers LOG. Secretary asked all crew members to donate to SPAD. “When you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters.” Treasurer stated $40 in ship’s fund and $800 in satellite fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. Suggestions included that showers be fitted for mixing valves. Request made for copy of communications between company and vessel regarding OT for SIU members, and repair or replacement of crew laundry sink faucet. Certificates of recognition were awarded to Steward/Baker Banky and Wiper Carlos Bonefont. No lost-time injuries reported. Next ports: Halifax; Newark; Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C.; Houston. SBX-1 (Interocean American Shipping), March 7—Chairman James D. Crate, Secretary William E. Bragg, Educational Director Frank G. Guenther, Engine Delegate Eric D. Vieira, Steward Delegate Larry D. Pugh. Bosun talked about state of health care crisis and possible impact on contract negotiations. He urged members to support SPAD and become involved in labor-related issues. Secretary reported lodging claim for all crew members being paid in accordance with agreement. Educational director advised mariners to stay abreast of changes that may affect benefits and earning power. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made pertaining to tour rotation and vacation benefits. Crew requested some form of on board entertainment system. Seafarers LOG 19 �Final Departures Continued from page 18 first sailed on the Steel Apprentice. Brother Williams was a member of the deck department. Before retiring, he worked on the Star of Texas. Brother Williams lived in his native Texas and began his retirement in 1991. JAMES WILSON Pensioner James Wilson, 66, died Dec. 8. Brother Wilson joined the union in 1968. He was born in Tulsa, Okla. and shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Wilson first sailed aboard the Overseas Anchor. His most recent trip to sea was on the USNS Mt. Washington. Brother Wilson, who lived in Port Bolivar, Texas, went on pension in 2003. CARLOS ZAMBRANO Pensioner Carlos Zambrano, 89, passed away Nov. 15. Brother Zambrano launched his seafaring career in 1955 in New York. He initially worked aboard a Bloomfield Steamship Company vessel as a member of the engine department. Brother Zambrano was born in South America. His last voyage was on the Boston. INLAND RICHARD BARALDI operated by Dixie Carriers. Boatman Dantin began receiving his pension in 1981. He made his home in Harvey, La. a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. Boatman Petrlak retired in 1992 and made his home in Jacksonville. JAMES FRAZEE JOSEPH PISCITELLO Pensioner James Frazee, 75, passed away Oct. 27. Boatman Frazee embarked on his seafaring career in 1963. Born in Crowley, La., he sailed mainly aboard vessels operated by Hvide Marine. Boatman Frazee started collecting his retirement pay in 1992. He called Groves, Texas home. Pensioner Joseph Piscitello, 89, passed away Oct. 23. Boatman Piscitello became an SIU member in 1980. He was born in Framingham, Mass. Boatman Piscitello’s last voyage was aboard the American Eagle. He started collecting his pension in 1981 and resided in Massachusetts. THOMAS GUIDRY MELVIN RAINIER Pensioner Thomas Guidry, 58, died Sept. 7. Born in Orange, Texas, he joined the SIU in 1979. Boatman Guidry first shipped aboard the Seabulk Tanker. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2005 and was a resident of Hemphill, Texas. Pensioner Melvin Rainier, 83, died July 15. Boatman Rainier was born in Virginia. He joined the SIU in 1960. Boatman Rainier last worked on a Penn Central Transportation vessel. He retired in 1982 and lived in his native state. FRANCIS HOPE CHARLIE RUPERTI Pensioner Francis Hope, 83, passed away Nov. 16. Boatman Hope joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Cape Charles, Va., he last sailed aboard a Penn Central Transportation vessel. Boatman Hope lived in Marionville, Va. and retired in 1982. Pensioner Charlie Ruperti, 74, passed away July 29. Boatman Ruperti embarked on his seafaring career in 1963. His first trip was aboard a Capital Transportation Corporation vessel. Prior to retiring in 1996, Boatman Ruperti shipped with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He was a resident in his native Virginia. JIMMY JACKSON Boatman Richard Baraldi, 61, died July 26. He joined the union in 1962 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Baraldi first went to sea aboard a ship operated by Meyle Towing Company. His last voyage was on a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Boatman Baraldi, who was born in Pennsylvania, made his home in Sickleville, N.J. Pensioner Jimmy Jackson, 73, died July 16. Boatman Jackson launched his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of San Francisco. He first worked on a P. F. Martin Company vessel in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1987, Boatman Jackson sailed aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation vessels. He resided in Kingsland, Texas. RICHARD CONNER STANLEY PAUL HARRY SMITH Pensioner Stanley Paul, 86, passed away Nov. 1. Boatman Paul started shipping with the SIU in 1962 from the port of Norfolk, Va. His last voyage was aboard a Moran Towing of Virginia vessel. Boatman Paul made his home in his native Beaufort, N.C. Pensioner Harry Smith, 78, passed away Sept. 19. Boatman Smith joined the SIU in 1962, working primarily aboard G&H Towing Company vessels. He was born in Arkansas and made his home in Texas. Boatman Smith went on pension in 1986. Pensioner Richard Conner, 87, passed away Nov. 20. Boatman Conner began sailing with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. His first voyage was aboard a Meyle Towing Company vessel, and he last worked on a vessel operated by American Towing & Transportation. Boatman Conner is a native of Conestoga, Pa. He retired in 1980 and lived in Boyertown, Pa. ORIS DANTIN Pensioner Oris Dantin, 83, died July 28. Boatman Dantin became an SIU member in 1962. He shipped primarily on vessels 20 Seafarers LOG ROBERT PETRLAK Pensioner Robert Petrlak, 81, died Jan. 3. Boatman Petrlak joined the union in 1981 in Jacksonville, Fla. The steward department member was born in New York. Boatman Petrlak last went to sea on CHARLES SHORES Pensioner Charles Shores, 90, died July 20. Boatman Shores began sailing with the union in 1961, first working on a Meyle Towing Company vessel. Born in Maryland. Boatman Shores last shipped on a McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessel. He settled in New Jersey and became a pensioner in 1988. JAMES TODD Pensioner James Todd, 66, passed away Dec. 3. Boatman Todd began sailing with the SIU in 1963. His first ship was operated by Gulf Canal Lines. Boatman Todd was born in Amite, La. Before retiring in 1993, he worked aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. Boatman Todd called Livingston, La. home. CALVIN WAGNER JR. Boatman Calvin Wagner Jr. died Sept. 1. He joined the union in 1975. Boatman Wagner began sailing aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing Company and most recently worked on the Cape Florida. The Texas-born mariner was a member of the engine department. Boatman Wagner made his home in Texas City, Texas. JOHN WARD Pensioner John Ward, 79, passed away Sept. 13. Boatman Ward was born in Missouri. He joined the SIU in 1972. Boatman Ward shipped primarily aboard Maritrans Operating Company vessels. The deck department member lived in Baltimore, Md. and went on pension in 1988. JOHN WISE Pensioner John Wise, 88, died Oct. 4. Boatman Wise joined the SIU in 1964 and sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. His first voyage was aboard a National Marine Service Inc. vessel. Born in Enterprise, Ala., Boatman Wise’s most recent trip to sea was on a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. He lived in Pensacola, Fla. and retired in 1979. 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 Alindato, Antonio 90 Jan. 20 Banner, Stewart 89 Jan. 16 Coulombe, Gerard 83 Mar. 7 Davis, William 79 Mar. 10 Desiderato, Nicola 80 Mar. 8 Dominguez, Lloyd 74 Mar. 1 Estay, German 76 Mar. 16 Holtz, Anthony 83 Feb. 26 Johnson, Clarence 83 Mar. 24 Johnson, Robbie 75 Mar. 6 Lindsay, Herbert 98 Oct. 25, 2005 Madarang, Felino 95 Feb. 14 Moore, William 63 Feb. 3 Nelson, Joe 71 Feb. 11 Parrilla, Juan 98 Mar. 21 Quiroga, Abilio 92 Feb. 13 Seck, Issakha 85 Feb. 26 Thompson, Isiah 82 Nov. 21, 2005 Valentine, Robert 69 Mar. 16 Varela, Alfredo 77 Mar. 10 Velez, Gilberto 93 Mar. 13 Williams, Levi 62 Feb. 12 Wyatt, Stanley 74 Mar. 7 ATTENTION SEAFARERS: STERLING SPENCER Pensioner Sterling Spencer, 58, died Sept. 14. Boatman Spencer joined the SIU in 1974. He shipped primarily aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. Boatman Spencer was a member of the deck department. He was born in New Orleans and lived in Harvey, La. Boatman Spencer started receiving compensation for his retirement in 2003. May 2006 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for May through September 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 Courqse Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman May 29 July 10 August 21 June 23 August 4 September 15 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) August 21 August 25 Lifeboatman/Water Survival May 15 June 26 August 7 September 18 May 26 July 7 August 18 September 29 Radar August 7 August 18 Radar Renewal (one day) August 28 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning May 1, 2006. Junior Engineer July 24 October 13 Machinist June 5 June 23 Welding May 8 July 17 September 11 May 26 August 4 September 29 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* (one week) May 8 June 5 July 10 August 7 September 25 May 12 June 9 July 14 August 11 September 29 Basic Safety Training - AB May 22 July 3 August 14 September 25 May 26 July 7 August 18 September 29 Basic Safety Training - FOWT May 29 July 24 September 18 June 2 July 28 September 22 Government Vessels - FOWT May 15 June 26 July 17 August 7 September 11 September 18 May 19 June 30 July 21 August 11 September 15 September 22 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* June 5 July 31 September 18 June 16 August 11 September 29 August 7 August 11 (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Engine Upgrading Courses Recertification Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops May 22 July 17 September 11 June 16 August 11 October 6 Fast Rescue Boat June 5 July 17 June 9 July 21 May 22 July 17 September 11 July 14 September 8 November 3 FOWT � 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 _____________________________ Bosun October 9 November 6 Steward July 10 August 7 Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ May 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. 5/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT — Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 672 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 672. They include (in alphabetical order) Scott Bloomfield, Nicholas Bridges, Claytain Carr, Donald Desir, Nicholas Gattuso, Phillip Lowe, Shawana Mills, Derrick Norfleet, Jonathan Rodriguez, Scott Smith, Lawrence Stanley-Dalton, LaWanda Thornton, Nicholas Vandergriff and Kevin Wimbley. Receiving certificates for completion of the FOWT course March 24 are (in alphabetical order) Miguel Abad, Anthony Alibah, Anthony Bartley, Robin Bourgeois, Robert Crosby Jr., Nicholas Dippel, Robert Hinkle, Kenneth Johnson, Timothy Johnson Jr., Arthur Kately III, Frank Lewis, Jay McGlone Jr., Christian Oding, Dean Parks, Oscar Pena, William Price Jr., Timothy Rieman, Shawn Sayers, David Spaulding, Abraham Straughter, William Wilson and Robert Young. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is at far right. Damage Control — Fast Rescue Boat— Chief Cook— Graduates of a recent chief cook class are (from left) Penny Pollard, Antonio Mendez, Jack Curry Jr., Chef John Dobson (instructor) and Vidal Vallesteros. Marine Electrician — With their instructor, Stan Beck (back row, far right) are seafarers who completed the fast rescue boat course March 24. They are (in no specific order) James Kruger, Simon McCarny, Mark Leman, John Frey, Peter Madden, Darrall Rabalais and Patrick Morse. Under the instruction of Jay Henderson (far left) are students who completed the marine electrician course March 10. They are (in alphabetical order) Rahul Bagchi, Jordan Cuddy, Ron Embody, Edward Fore, Samuel Garrett, Ashley Nelson, Francis Quebedeaux, Kenneth Ross and Hector Solis. March 24 was graduation day for those completing the damage control portion of the government vessels course. They are (in no specific order) Vincent Hamm, Kipling Wise II, Miguel Abad, Raymond Jones, Yjohnzail Mack, Nur Hois, Scott Paxton, Margaret Young, Nathaniel Carr, Carlos Gibbons, Natividad Zapata, Christopher Vincenzo, Arthur Kately III, Timothy Hell, Ricky Myers, Kelly Doyle, Eugene Edwards, James Roy, Oscar Catabay, Antonio Arizala and John McIntosh. Marine Refrigeration — Graduates of the marine refrigeration course March 10 are (in alphabetical order) Stephen Bradfute, Davon Brown, Alfonza Davis, Richard Huffman, Daniel Ramirez Jr., Jeffrey Roddy, Charles Sadler and Jome Zerna. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is standing, second from left. Welding — Completing the welding course March 10 are (in alphabetical order) Xavier Alfaro, James Cedeno, Elliott Del Aguila, Geoffrey Hall, Simon McCamy, Abraham Moreira, Eldon Palmer, Kyle Pillsworth and Karberto Ramos. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is standing, second from right. Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two groups of graduates of the tanker assistant class united for a photo March 17. They are (in no specific order) Anthony Berry, Alex-Stephen Amarra, Nicholas Bridges, Steven Blair, Catherine Clark, Wilma-Joy Smith, Gregory Simmons, Reid Bland, Karel Cain, Joseph Bianchi, Sean Fox, Tyrell Blackburn, Ernest Frank III, Ismael Gonzalez, John Davis, MacGregor Davis, Abdmutaali Muhammad, Dallon Garnett, Jesse James, Jeremy Finley, Timothy Hetz, Michael Iverson, Maxine Howard, Lee Patrick, Abner Diaz-Torres, Jayson Cottrille, Richard Guerra Jr., Michael Lais, Derek King, Winston Rankin, Ryan Vandergriff, Timothy Kauble, Lewis Coleman, Raul Morales, Akia Wilcox, Phillip Rhule, Eddie Flood, Dennis Rivard, Shawn Orr, Joseph Ward, David Meacham, Stephan Thompson, Michael Sedita, Pavis Whitley, Eutiquio Flores, Damion Vaughn, Chris Sahagon, Reylan Tendido, Casey O’Brien and Gil Lawrence. 22 Seafarers LOG May 2006 �Paul Hall Center Classes STCW — NCL, March 10: Gary Albers, Jessica Allen, Nancy Badawy, Kimberly Bascon, Cherie Bessette, Alison Boehm, Jenea Brown, Quentin Collins, Stephen Collins, Garnett Davis, Tanya Dominguez, Crystal Edwards, Carin Eisenmann, Jason Enriquez, John Ferrari and Magdalena Flores. STCW — NCL, March 10: Jesse Friendshuh, Victor Garcia, Alejandro Garcia, Hector Garcia, Andrew Haladay, Jennifer Hastings, Danny Hicks, Brian Horn, Jon James, Albert Jethanamest, Conrad Jones, Amber Lander, Brian Lewis, Virron Libranda, Allison Lippert, Joseph Marodix and Jason Marshall. (Note: not all are pictured.) May 2006 NCL, March 16: Araceli Alvarez, Tierra Arnold, Mike Barkl, Nicole Bennett, Jacqueline Billesbach, Corina Blas, Lloyd Brown, Christina Burton, Michael Cajiao, Sarah Calahan, Zachariah Campbell, Kristin Cannard, Christopher Castilow, Candice Chapin, Violeta Chillous, Leon Cominski, Alin Cordasco, Jennifer Cossette, Jessica Daubenmire and Marites Davidson. STCW — NCL, March 16: Shelly McCarroll, John McMeans, Jamie Mehr, Maria Mercado, Carolyn Michael, Linda Mizuno, Michael Moreno, Patti Morgan, Sean Morris, Sarah Morrow, Amber Myrick, Todd Neelis, Maureen Nelan, Elmer Nieveras, Isaac Osei-Asibey, Ryann Paquette, Michael Perez, James Petrean, Nam Pham and John Pine Jr. (Note: not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, March 16: Sharlene Davis, Sarah DeCamp, Maria Ebel, Kekoa Ehia, Shannon Espinosa, Michael Gaydosh, Terrence Hackett, Justin Hornberger, Chrystal Hosler, Kandice Hubbard, Stephanie Johnson, Joseph Kent, Steven Kiefer, Brenda Leggett, Misti Levijoki, Patricia Lewis, Joe Lorenzini, Jacqueline Lovejoy, Treshanna Martin, Mikia McBride and Alan Hemmati. (Note: not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, March 10: Natasha Smith, Robert Sousa, Christopher Stack, Laurel Stiles, Apryl Swhear, Jennifer Taft, Stephanie Taylor, Clarissa Tengco, Teah Turner, Michael Valente, Damien Vincent, Kathleen Wilkins, Christopher Williams, Christopher Wilson, Roger Woody, Tiana Wyatt and Danny Zapanta. STCW — STCW — NCL, March 10: Gregg Massey, Paul McClure, Jennifer Mosquedo, Mark Munholland, Tyler Olivier, Brandon Olivier, Andres Oropeza, Diana Pandolfini, Anthony Paproski, Cody Powell, Jovonda Powell, Stephen Richards, Rolando Rivera, Eric Rodriguez, Brian Rosario, Charles Sadler II, Stanley Seale, Jameson Sehl and Shawn Sisson. STCW — NCL, March 16: Arthur Piotrowski, Daymon Plowman, Shauna Rafferty, Kimberly Rhoden, Christopher Saenz, Hiram Santoni Jr., Shay Schofield, Monica Shearer, Brian Smith, Megan Smith, Kevin Snauko, Meredith Stevens, Vanessa VanVorst, Johnnie Whitiker, Todd Williams and Rex York. (Note: not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 68, Number 5 May 2006 National Maritime Day May 22, 2006 In memory of American seafarers who lost their lives in service to their country Seafarers Help Keep Curtiss Ready Prepositioning Ship Supports U.S. Marine Corps T The Curtiss has supported U.S. troops in OIF and Desert Storm. Left: AB Steve Gardner he SIU-crewed SS Curtiss is one of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s two aviation maintenance logistics ships and also one of three dozen vessels in MSC’s prepositioning program. Seafarers sailed aboard the Curtiss in support of U.S. troops during earlier stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom, transporting troops and materiel to key locations in the Middle East. They also sailed aboard the Curtiss backing U.S. troops during the Persian Gulf War. A visit to the vessel in late February in San Diego found SIU members among the reduced operating status crew helping ready the Curtiss for a safety inspection by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Bosun David Collins, who sailed on several other MSC ships during OIF and also during Operation Desert Storm, said that the Curtiss crew is very serious about keeping the ship in top condition so that it’s ready for the next activation, whenever that call comes. He also noted the positive interaction between mariners and troops that he has witnessed on various Seafarers-contracted ships. “The United States Marines have a sense of humor,” recalled Collins, whose father (Don) is an SIU retiree and whose two brothers (Donnie and Darren) also sail with the union. “They work hard, but they play hard, too.” Operated by Crowley, the Curtiss is 602 feet long and has beam of about 90 feet. The steam-powered ship can travel at 19 knots and has a five-day activation period. Chief Steward Vern Wilson Bosun David Collins, SIU Port Agent John Cox and GUDE Charles Alford Left: Electrician Gary Dahl The menu is posted daily aboard ship. GUDE Charles Alford Right: U.S. Marines aboard the vessel during earlier stages of OIF creatively logged their journey. Right: Bosun David Collins comes from an SIU family. In the background of this photo is NASSCO—with two more Seafarers-contracted ships (Alaskan Legend, right, and USNS Lewis and Clark) under construction. � 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 May 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION BILL CLEARS CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REP. KING PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY CROWLEY CHRISTENS NEW ATB SIU CONTRACT HONORED IN DELTA QUEEN SALE UNION’S SAN FRANCISCO OPERATIONS MOVING TO NEW HALL IN OAKLAND SIU-CREWED HAUGE HONORED FOR SAFETY CLAIMS OFFICE REOPENS PORT OFFICIAL EDWARD SMITH DIES AT 79 MASSACHUSETTS HEALTH PLAN DRAWS FEDERATION’S IRE PUSH FOR ‘BELATED THANK YOU’ MOVES TO HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE PHILADELPHIA HEALTH UNIT PARKS IN A BETTER LOCATION PENNSYLVANIA LAW STIPULATES $500 BONUS FOR WWII MARINERS PRIDE OF HAWAII MAKES ITS 1ST TRANSATLANTIC CROSSING SERVICE COMMEMORATES TEXACO OKLAHOMA TRAGEDY TRAINEE THORNTON RECEIVES NCL AWARD AGENCIES OFFER ANSWERS, PRECAUTIONS FOR BIRD FLU SMPPP STATEMENTS SLATED FOR MAILING ADMIRAL SEIBERLICH BEGINS FINAL VOYAGE CANADA CRACKS DOWN ON PORT SECURITY DOCUMENTARY TELLS ‘STORY OF AMERICA’S SEAFARING WOMEN’ SEAFARERS HELP KEEP CURTISS READY PREPOSITIONING SHIP SUPPORTS U.S. MARINE CORPS 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 05/01/2006 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. 5 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/baff9282d60bf2d13ec8d19d5ca85772.pdf 49a00f010f863ddbbb2a519361f67064 PDF Text Text Horizon Lines to Charter 5 New Vessels Volume 68, Number 4 — Page 2 April 2006 MTD Executive Board Meetings Military, Gov’t Leaders Reaffirm Merchant Marine’s Essential Roles Representatives from Congress, the administration, the military and the labor movement offered high praise for the U.S. Merchant Marine during the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting Feb. 24-25 in San Diego. Speakers pointed out that U.S. Merchant Mariners continue delivering the goods whether for hurricane relief operations, national defense mobilizations or routine but important commercial cargo runs. Pictured clockwise beginning at upper left are General Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command; Vice Admiral David Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta and MTD President Michael Sacco; U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.); executive board members and other audience members; and AFLCIO President John Sweeney along with President Sacco. Pages 3, 11, 12, 13. ITF Secures Back Pay For Crew of FOC Ship The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) recently secured more than $200,000 in back pay for crew members from a so-called flag-of-convenience (FOC) vessel that had been detained in Houston. Many of the mariners are pictured at right, aboard the runaway-flag Taxiarchis Sierra. SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Tun Aung helped lead the effort to assist the crew. Page 5. Union Mourns Steve Judd USNS Mercy Preps for Mission Page 4 Page 24 �Horizon Lines Charters New Ships President’s Report Support for Maritime Evident While it’s normal to hear from supportive guest speakers at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meetings, I found the most recent sessions exceptionally encouraging. Talk about good news! Captain Robert Johnston, senior vice president of SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), announced that his company is strongly looking into investing in 17 new U.S.-flag ships Michael Sacco that would sail in the Jones Act trades. OSG already is scheduled to operate 10 other new ships —the tankers being built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. General Norton Schwartz, the commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, talked in detail about the U.S. Merchant Marine’s outstanding performance in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. He also emphasized the excellent cooperation that exists between our industry and the military, and declared his full support for U.S. mariners. Vice Admiral David Brewer, who served as commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command until his recent retirement, offered similarly powerful and enthusiastic backing for the U.S. Merchant Marine. He said that we have been nothing short of indispensable in helping America fight the war on terrorism. U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta discussed another key role filled by U.S. mariners. Namely, supporting hurricane relief efforts along the Gulf Coast for victims of Katrina and Rita. Secretary Mineta couldn’t have been more appreciative or more genuine in commending the U.S.-flag industry. Of course, we were very fortunate to hear from other prominent speakers from Congress, the administration and the labor movement who also discussed not only the U.S. Merchant Marine but also various issues affecting all working families. When you put it all together, it’s obvious that the SIU and the U.S. maritime industry as a whole have done an outstanding job—and we’re looking at a bright, bright future. I’m especially glad that 20 or so rank-and-file SIU members, including members from our Government Services Division, attended the meetings. They heard for themselves the great impression that the MTD unions have made on our military leaders and elected representatives. They got a firsthand look at how grassroots campaigns, combined with their own outstanding work aboard ship, have helped revitalize an industry that some people never believed would flourish again. I’ve always been confident about what lies ahead anyway, but it was impossible to leave those meetings without feeling even more optimistic. We’ve come a long way and we have a lot to look forward to. As I said to the executive board, sometimes it may take longer than others to accomplish our goals, but there is no doubt that we ultimately will come out on top. Tragic Loss About a week after the meetings, we suffered a huge loss when SIU Assistant Vice President Steve Judd died in an accident. For those of you who knew Steve, you already understand that we could fill this whole newspaper with kind words about him and it still wouldn’t be enough. Steve was exceptional. He had such a bright future, and that’s one reason why his death hit us so hard. Steve had a lot of things going for him, but to me nothing stood out more than how hard he worked. He was totally, absolutely committed to this union and this membership. He didn’t take shortcuts. He never gave up and he never complained. We will move forward with heavy hearts—but we will move forward. I think it’s completely true to say that Steve Judd would have wanted nothing less than for us to continue giving our all for the betterment of the Seafarers International Union. He was the kind of guy who always put the union—our team, our SIU family—ahead of individual interests. We can honor his memory by doing the same. Volume 68, Number 4 April 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 Seafarers-contracted Horizon Lines on March 17 announced an agreement in principle to charter five new U.S.-flag ships for 12year terms from Ship Finance International Limited. The five vessels are expected to join Horizon Lines’ fleet beginning in early 2007. In a news release, Horizon Lines described the foreign-built ships as being “of a proven, international design” and noted that each will carry 2,800 20-foot equivalent containers and have 23-knot service speed. “The five new vessels will be deployed in Horizon Lines’ weekly service linking the U.S. West Coast with Guam and Asia, upgrading the current ‘TP1’ service that is being served with five Jones Act-qualified vessels today,” the company observed. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker described the charters as “certainly a very positive development for our union and for the U.S.-flag fleet. Bringing in new tonnage, whether in the form of replacement ships or outright new additions, is good for job security. In the bigger picture, it’s also good for our country’s national defense capabilities and for economic security.” Charles G. “Chuck” Raymond, CEO and president of Horizon Lines, said, “As we embark on our fleet enhancement strategy, this is a proud and historic day for Horizon Lines. The enhanced service will provide us with additional space and faster transit time ILO Adopts Innovative Maritime Convention The International Labor Organization (ILO) during its 94th International Labor Conference in Geneva realized a momentous achievement when it overwhelmingly adopted a new comprehensive work standard for the world’s maritime sector. In what ILO Director-General Juan Somavia labeled a landmark development in the world of work, the body during its Feb. 7-23 meetings agreed (by a vote of 314-0 with four abstentions) to establish the 2006 Maritime Labor Convention as the worldwide code for countries doing business in the international maritime trades. The vote evidenced the unwavering support by delegates from more than 100 countries representing seafarers, shipowners and governments. Following the vote, some hailed the Convention as a new “Bill of Rights for Seafarers.” “This is a big step in the right direction for our entire industry,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as vice chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s Seafarers’ Section. “An agreement like this will help ensure that the world’s seafarers are less likely to be exploited. The international maritime community is speaking with one voice and sending the message that government, shipowners and maritime unions will not tolerate substandard shipping... This Convention is an important part in raising the quality of life at sea and must be ratified by all governments, including the United States.” “We have made maritime labor history today,” Somavia said of the action taken by ILO. “We have adopted a Convention that spans continents and oceans, providing a comprehensive labor charter for between the U.S. West Coast and Guam, as well as the return voyage from Asia to the U.S. West Coast.” In its press release, the company added, “The introduction of this new tonnage also allows the carrier’s Jones Act vessels to be used as reserve capacity to meet seasonal and dry-dock needs, as well as to respond to potential new opportunities such as coastwise container service.” By July of next year, Horizon Lines plans to operate 17 ships and to have four vessels in reserve status. Currently, the company operates 16 U.S.-flag vessels on routes linking the continental United States with Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and Puerto Rico. the world’s 1.2 million or more seafarers and addressing the evolving realities and needs of a sector that handles 90 percent of the world’s trade. “What’s more, we have established a socioeconomic floor to global competition in the maritime sector,” he continued. “This initiative can also provide the impetus and support for similarly innovative and balanced approaches to addressing the need to make globalization fair in other sectors of the world of work.” In addition to ILO Director-General Somavia, the Conference also heard statements from four special guests: IMO Secretary-General Efthimios Mitropoulos; Jacques Barrot, vice-president for transport, European Commission; Zuyuan Xu, vice minister, Ministry of Communications, China; and Karin Yrvin, deputy minister of trade and industry, Norway. Each spoke highly of the new convention and its positive international implications. The new Convention clearly sets out, in plain language, a seafarers’ “bill of rights” while allowing a sufficient degree of national discretion to deliver those rights with transparency and accountability, according to the ILO. It also contains conditions which enable it to keep in step with the needs of the industry and help secure universal application and enforcement. The Convention’s specifications will help to meet the demand for quality shipping, which is crucial to the global economy and will apply to all ships engaged in commercial activities with the exception of fishing vessels and traditional ships (such as dhows and junks). The new Convention is designed to encourage compliance by operators and owners of ships and strengthen enforcement of standards at all levels, including provisions for onboard and onshore comContinued on page 8 Financial Committee Okays Records A committee of rank-and-file members, elected by their fellow Seafarers during the March union meeting in Piney Point, Md., has reviewed the SIU’s financial records for the year 2005 and found them in good order. Serving on the committee were Bosuns William Henderson and Norman Tourtellot, ABs Gerard Costello, Walter Harris and Raymond Henderson, Deckhand William Kelly and Oiler Michael Joel. In its report, the committee stated, “All records used in connection with the Union’s financial operations were reviewed fully…. We find that the Headquarters of the Union is taking all steps possible to safeguard Union funds and to see that the disbursements of the Union are in accordance with the authority delegated to them and that, at the same time, there is a striving effort to increase day-to-day efficiency of our operation.” The use of an annual financial committee is required by Article X, Section 15 of the SIU Constitution. It reads: “The Annual Financial Committee shall make an examination for each annual period of the finances of the Union and shall report fully on their findings and recommendations.” Members of the financial committee and an SIU official are pictured last month at union headquarters. Standing left to right in the front row are Bosun William Henderson, AB Gerard Costello, Oiler Michael Joel, Deckhand William Kelly and SIU Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta. In the back row are Bosun Norman Tourtellot, AB Raymond Henderson and AB Walter Harris. April 2006 �U.S. Fleet’s Progress, Value Emphasized MTD Speakers Credit Mariners for Defense, Humanitarian Missions Whether it’s in hurricane relief missions or the ongoing war on terrorism—or in routine commercial cargo operations—the U.S. Merchant Marine continues demonstrating its tremendous value to the nation. That message was delivered by many of the guest speakers during the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meetings Feb. 24-25 in San Diego. Representatives from Congress, the administration, the military and the labor movement all cited the merchant marine’s importance to America’s national and economic security. In addition, the guest speakers and MTD President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, covered other key issues including health care, political action, pension security, job safety, protecting workers’ rights, supporting our troops and more. The MTD is composed of 24 international unions and 24 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing 5.5 million working men and women. In order of appearance, the following individuals addressed the executive board: AFL-CIO President John Sweeney; United Mine Workers Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Kane; U.S. Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.); Capt. Robert Johnston, senior vice president, Overseas Shipholding Group; James McGregor, president, Ocean Shipholdings, Inc.; Eugene Magee, chief of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Reserve Fleet Division; Doug MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (right) listens as Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, commends the U.S. Merchant Marine. General Schwartz also noted the effective cooperation between the military and U.S. maritime industry. Dority, retired president of the United Food and Commercial Workers and current head of coalition America’s Agenda; Communications Workers of America Vice President Ralph Maly; U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta; Vice Adm. David Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii); Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command; and U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (DS.C.). Sacco opened the meeting by briefly reviewing some of the industry’s recent accomplishments along with ongoing challenges. He noted that the prior SIU Members Crew Up 3rd NCL America Ship Seafarers already are working aboard NCL America’s newest cruise ship—the Pride of Hawaii, which is scheduled to reach the United States in late April. The Pride of Hawaii—advertised as the largest U.S.-flag passenger ship ever built—is slated to stay in Baltimore for at least a week and then sail to Los Angeles for its christening. The vessel will join its sister ships, the SIUcrewed Pride of America (christened last summer) and Pride of Aloha (2004) in offering sevenday cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. The Pride of Hawaii was floated out of Germany’s Meyer Werft dock Feb. 19 and berthed at the shipyard’s outfitting pier for final touches before sailing along the River Ems to Eemshaven for sea trials March 11. After a series of initial voyages, the Pride of Hawaii will begin its regular inter-island schedule, probably in June. “This is another great development with more new jobs for our union,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “SIU members already are doing an outstanding job aboard NCL America’s other ships, and there’s April 2006 no doubt the tradition will continue aboard the Pride of Hawaii.” “Consumers will now have the choice between three different NCL America ships in Hawaii,” noted Colin Veitch, NCL America’s president and chief executive officer, “each with its own personality and style but all delivering incredible inter-island freestyle cruises.” At more than 93,000 gross tons and with a passenger capacity of nearly 2,400, the Pride of Hawaii and its sister ships are creating thousands of American jobs and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in economic benefits to Hawaii and to the United States in general. In fact, with this third vessel, NCL America is providing employment for some 4,000 shipboard personnel. While all three of the vessels offer seven-night cruises to Hawaii’s four main islands, the Pride of Hawaii will depart from Honolulu on Mondays. And like the Pride of Aloha, which departs Sundays, and the Pride of America, which departs Saturdays, the new ship offers many of the same amenities and “freestyle” options in its choice of MTD meetings had taken place right before the AFL-CIO convention last summer which saw several unions leave the federation. “I thought the disaffiliations were a mistake then and I’m even more convinced they’re a mistake now,” he stated. “Whether it’s a month from now or a year from now or whatever length of time, I hope that the AFL-CIO regains all of the unions that left. That’s the best course of action for everyone, most importantly the rank-and-file members. “But whether or not that happens, our federation will survive,” Sacco continued. “We’re already proving it. In particular, we scored quite a few victories during the elections in November. That was a big test, coming so soon after the disaffiliations, and we passed with flying colors.” He further pointed out that soon after the MTD convention last July, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita battered the Gulf Coast. In response, “Members of MTD unions were among the first on the scene in New Orleans, helping local hospitals and rescue workers even before Katrina was finished. Since that time, thousands of our union members have aided in relief operations. Many thousands more donated money Members of the MTD executive board and guests—including rank-andfile Seafarers—attend the department’s recent meeting in San Diego. restaurants and other shipboard and excursion activities. One of the differences, however, is the expansive suites aboard the newest vessel, each of which includes a private courtyard with pool and whirlpool, concierge service, and much more. Both the Pride of Aloha and the Pride of America have dramatic artwork painted on their hulls. The Pride of Hawaii features a distinctive and equally vivid look. To celebrate its name, the hull artwork features a hula dancer on one side and a conch shell blower on the other. Each is joined by a lei—a welcome symbol of Hawaii, made up of yellow, red and orange hibiscus blossoms. On all three NCL America ships, union members and their families can secure reduced fares through Union Plus, a nonprofit organization founded by the AFL-CIO. In fact, since NCL America and Union Plus first teamed up last summer, thousands of union members have taken advantage of the discounted rates. The toll-free number for this benefit is (866) 867-0593. As previously reported, NCL America faced some relatively brief growing pains in 2004, but since then has successfully refined its product—a fact not lost on professional and amateur critics alike. In the media and on or contributed clothing, food and supplies.” See pages 11, 12 and 13 for full coverage of the MTD executive board meetings. Other achievements and activities since the convention included the christening of new U.S.flag vessels and the continued support of U.S. troops involved in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. “When we’re called upon, we will deliver the goods any time, anywhere,” the MTD president said. Turning toward some of the key goals of not just the MTD but the entire labor movement, Sacco mentioned improving workplace safety, securing affordable health care for all citizens, and reinforcing the freedom to join a union. On the latter issue, the Employee Free Choice Act—proposed legislation with strong bipartisan support—remains a prime focus of the MTD along with the AFLCIO. The freedom to join a union “is a right that has been weakened under mountains of red tape and legal ploys, but it’s a right that must be truly and fully restored,” Sacco declared. “More than any other approach, giving workers a real opportunity to choose union representation may be the quickest and most effective way to organize new members. “It may take longer than we’d like, but we can and will accomplish all of these goals. Together, we won’t be denied.” The SIU-contracted Pride of Hawaii, ready for sea trials along the River Ems, is the newest NCL America vessel. internet message boards populated by passengers, the reviews these days are very favorable. Some of the magazine reviews point to the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center as one reason why things have improved. In 2005, more than 3,000 students successfully completed the Paul Hall Center’s three-week course given to prospective NCL America shipboard employees who fill hundreds of non-marine positions. NCL America Raises Money for Hawaii Charities SIU-contracted NCL America recently reported that the company last year raised $250,000 for local Hawaii charities via a special charity cruise on the Seafarers-crewed Pride of America. The money raised on the charity cruise (which took place last summer) benefits three Hawaii non-profit organizations, according to the company. Those organizations are the Child & Family Service; the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement; and the Kapi’olani Children’s Miracle Network. Nearly 1,200 people sailed on the charity cruise, according to NCL America. Guests enjoyed a full evening and morning of culinary delights at the Pride of America’s eight different restaurants and bars. NCL America donated the use of the U.S.-flag ship and all operational, food and beverage services and amenities for the cruise. Seafarers LOG 3 �Steve Judd: Remembering One of the Best New Orleans Official Served the Membership With Integrity, Energy The SIU suffered an enormous loss March 5 when Assistant Vice President Contracts Stephen W. Judd, one of the union’s most dedicated and well-respected officials, died unexpectedly in Metairie, La. He was 45. News of his death caused an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from SIU members and officials alike. Most emphasized Judd’s personal kindness and integrity along with his absolute dedication to rank-and-file Seafarers. Judd, who comes from a family of SIU members, joined the union in 1978 and sailed in the inland division with Crescent Towing. He started as a deckhand and AB, quickly earned a U.S. Coast Guard license and then sailed as an SIU captain before eventually coming ashore as a patrolman in 1991. He served as the union’s port agent in New Orleans beginning in 1997 and was promoted to the assistant vice president’s post late last year. He was a key figure in the SIU’s organizing victory at E.N. Bisso culminating in 1994—a protracted battle and clearly one of the union’s most noteworthy SIU Assistant VP Contracts Steve Judd (left) joins Mobile, Ala. Port Agent Ed Kelly at the SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Md. in 2002. At the time, Judd served as the union’s New Orleans port agent. organizing wins in recent memory. SIU President Michael Sacco said Judd’s dedication, talent and loyalty were second-to-none within the union. “He was devoted to his work and he loved what he was doing,” Sacco stated. “He dedicated his whole life to the SIU. He was appointed as assistant vice president because of the great work he’s done and his leadership qualities. He was trustworthy—it was easy to have confidence in him.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez recalled that Judd stood up for every member, regardless of circumstance. “He wanted to make sure everybody got representation,” Tellez said. “A company guy once questioned why he was pushing on behalf of a member whose situation looked like a lost cause, and Steve said, ‘Everybody needs a chance to be heard.’ He was as tenacious as a pit bull in those situations.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel pointed out that Judd “was born and bred in the SIU. He grew up on the boats and was always a true believer in the union. He was always looking out for the other guy and never was one to back down…. He was a great boatman, and when he came ashore he carried those same qualities servicing the members. Obviously he’s going to be missed. My sympathies go to his wife and the rest of his family.” Dean Corgey, vice president of the SIU’s Gulf Coast Region, said Judd’s death “is the greatest tragedy I’ve seen since I’ve been with the SIU, losing such a standup guy at such a young age. He had so much promise, such a great future. It was an honor to work with him. He had the heart of a lion and unquestioned integrity. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for the membership.” Seafarer John Bilich, currently sailing aboard the Delta Mariner, knew Judd since 1979. They sailed together and later served on negotiating committees when Judd worked as a union official. “Steve was immediately respected by all his peers when he started as a deckhand,” Bilich said, noting that Judd continued earning the admiration of union and company personnel alike throughout his career. “If you didn’t smile at least once in his company, you didn’t listen well enough. He was a man of his word and a rising star. He will be sadly missed.” Another member, David Merida, knew Judd since they attended the same high school in the 1970s. “Anything he did, he did it 110 percent,” said Merida, who joined the union in 1982. “I’ll always remember his willingness to help people, his unselfishness. His integrity could never be questioned. He might have been small in height and weight, but he was a very powerful official when it came to getting your attention and talking shop.” George Tricker, SIU vice president contracts, said Judd “set the highest standard for representing this membership. Whether he was defending a seaman’s rights or pursuing a grievance, his tireless efforts and tenacity reflected his commitment to this organization. Steve’s knowledge of the issues and the membership’s needs were invaluable during negotiations. I will forever carry his example.” Chris Westbrook, the union’s New Orleans port agent, first met Judd while sailing as an engineer at Bisso. “I knew him from both sides, as a member and (later) as a co-worker, and also as a friend,” Westbrook remembered. “He was a fantastic guy, a great mentor and he passed along a wealth of knowledge. He loved the union and he was a dedicated servant to the membership, to his family and to his friends. Steve was truly an exceptional person.” Ed Kelly, SIU port agent in Mobile, Ala., described Judd as “one of the most thorough individuals I ever met, and also the fairest person I ever met. He was a Appreciation If it’s true that we are best measured under adversity, Steve Judd showed his real colors on the heels of Hurricane Katrina. He couldn’t have shined any brighter. Steve finagled his way back into New Orleans right after the hurricane, while the city was incapacitated. He did so in large part because he wanted to take care of the damaged SIU hall on LaPalco Boulevard, and to help look after family members as well as help in his neighborhood. Throughout the ensuing weeks we often spoke by phone, partly so that I could get updates for the Seafarers LOG but equally because we were friends. As Steve matter-of-factly described the hardships and the devastation—not to mention the endless, difficult work at the start of the recovery—he occasionally would pause and say, “But I don’t want to sound like I’m complaining. Plenty of other people are worse off. I’m grateful just to have food and water.” As always, he was 100 percent sincere. And as always, he was giving all his time and energy to help others, whether they were family members or Seafarers or neighbors or even strangers. Professionally, Steve was a godsend to the LOG office. If we needed a particular type of photo or had to contact members on short notice, I always felt comfortable turning to Steve for help. He not only delivered, he did so with a warm, welcoming attitude that superbly reinforced the notion that we 4 Seafarers LOG really are one big family. Thank heaven I occasionally had chances to reciprocate. Neither of us minded long phone conversations, and that helped enable us to solve most of the world’s problems a few times over, or so it seemed. Steve was especially interested in the health care crisis, specifically because he wanted to help educate the membership about this most serious issue. We discussed it for hours, sharing newspaper articles from across the country, reviewing members’ feedback, taking candid looks at the LOG’s coverage and how it might improve. Personally, Steve was as decent a man as I’ve ever known. There are too many examples for this space, but, just to share one: He preceded me in recovery from nicotine addiction, and proved a helpful but never pushy long-distance mentor. When I finally broke free from tobacco’s clutches, Steve’s positive reinforcement felt priceless. *** Steve Judd’s obituary was written at least 40 years too soon. I don’t claim to have known him better than his contemporaries in the Gulf, but I knew him well enough to submit a first-person tribute for the first time in my nearly 15 years at the LOG. That is my homage to Steve, whose exceptional character remains a powerful reminder of just how much good we can do. Steve Judd (second from left) celebrated the opening of the SIU hall on LaPalco Boulevard in April 1999 along with Seafarers, officials and guests. Here, he is pictured with (from left) SIU President Michael Sacco; Brother Judd’s wife, Nancy; his brother, AB Willie Judd Jr.; and his father, SIU Retiree Willie Judd Sr. unique individual and it was easy to get close to him. You didn’t have to know him very long to know what kind of person he was.” SIU Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski credited Judd with being “a consummate professional. There was never a situation where he couldn’t handle himself. He had an answer, and if he didn’t he knew where to go to find it.” SIU Political Director Terry Turner said, “To me, Steve was what the SIU is all about: bright, personable and hard-working. During the Katrina disaster he was the first one back in the hall, shoveling mud and debris so that we could start the operation of getting members out to open up the port. He worked with the federal and state agencies as well as the Coast Guard to help ensure that the port would open and recovery could begin. He was a true hero and I will miss him.” Funeral services took place March 9 at Bultman Funeral Home in New Orleans, followed by interment in Garden of Memories Cemetery in Metairie. An online guest book is available at www.legacy.com. Brother Judd’s surviving family includes his wife, Nancy Lee Nolle Judd; parents William S. Judd Sr. (an SIU retiree) and Esther Boutian Judd; and Brother William S. Judd Jr., who sails with the SIU. Steady as She Goes Written by AB Johney August IV In Tribute to Steve Steady as she goes I heard the Pilot say Just follow my commands I am the Way Fear not rough weather We shall prevail Cause I am the rudder, the tiller, The wind and the sail I’ll steer you to a place Where heaven and oceans meet A place of serenity and happiness Like “Fiddler’s Green Retreat” Steady as she goes I am the lighthouse in the blue abyss That guides you at night When you are troubled I shine ever so bright That’s my voice you hear Calling you near Like a foghorn in the distance So faint yet so clear Hard left? Or hard right? Full ahead? Or full astern? Come to me I am the peace that you yearn I am the ebb and the flow of tide That favorable knot current that you ride I say to you, “I am that I am” As the beginning joins the end So shall the end join the beginning Safe passage…. Calm seas…. Our port of call is near! Steady as she goes — Jordan Biscardo April 2006 �Crews Earn More Kudos for Relief Missions Seafarers from the Cape Vincent, Cape Victory and Empire State recently were recognized for their respective efforts in relief missions following last year’s hurricanes in the Gulf region. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MarAd) on March 9 conducted a hurricane relief cere- U.S. mariners answered the call for hurricane relief beginning immediately after Katrina and Rita. Among those who recently sailed on the Cape Vincent were (from left) Capt. David Scott, GSU Walter Wise, Chief Steward Ronnie Hadnott, Chief Cook Charles Curley, GSU Enrique Agosto, 2nd Cook Bridget Burkhalter and GSU Daniel Miller. Scott also offered special thanks to galley gang members who sailed on the vessel earlier in the relief mission: Francisco Sanchez, Pete Hernandez, Leo Battiste and Reynaldo Bernardez, who helped supply more than 11,000 extra meals. Displaying awards aboard the Cape Vincent are (from left) ABs Brian Jones, Thames Solomon and Anthony Smith, Bosun Darryl Sutton and Capt. David Scott. mony for Empire State crew members, who had just completed a six-month deployment in New Orleans. Mariners received certificates of achievement and commemorative Ready Reserve Force medallions at the ceremony, hosted at the State University of New York. MarAd also donated a plaque to be displayed on the vessel. Both the Cape Vincent and the Cape Victory were honored Jan. 31 by the City of Beaumont, Texas for their relief roles following Hurricane Rita. The ships and crews received a Congressional Proclamation from U.S. Rep. Ted Poe (R-Texas) along with a plaque from the city, a public service award from the Beaumont Police Department and a certificate of appreciation from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. A day earlier, Cape Vincent crew members and other Seafarers were recognized in New Recertified Bosun Jamie Miller (left), AB Kaled M. Saleh and Bosun’s Mate Malek G. Mohamed prep the hull of the Empire State. Orleans during a ceremony jointly sponsored by the port and the Maritime Administration. That ceremony honored mariners involved in Hurricane Katrina relief operations. “The crew has done an excellent job and deserves recogni- Mariners from the Empire State are honored March 9 at the State University of New York. The vessel aided in hurricane relief along the Gulf Coast for six months. Federal Court Says No to NSPS ITF Gets $240,000 In what a coalition of labor orga- the International Federation of In Back Pay for Crew nizations described as a victory for Professional & Technical Engineers Department of Defense workers worldwide, U.S. Federal District Court Judge Emmet G. Sullivan recently blocked the Pentagon from moving forward on the National Security Personnel System (NSPS). Via a late-February news release, the United DoD Workers Coalition noted the court found that the new rules fail “to ensure even minimal collective bargaining rights.” Specifically, the court determined that DoD regulations allowing the DoD to ‘take whatever actions are necessary to carry out the mission’ by creating issuances to override labor agreements failed to ensure collective bargaining under the statute. In the context of bargaining itself, the court held that subjecting union officials to the same standard as the average employee restricted vigorous advocacy and invalidated this regulation. The court further enjoined the new National Security Labor Relations Board on the grounds that this Board, as DoD envisioned it, did “not satisfy Congress’ requirement for an ‘independent third party’ to review labor management disputes.” The 36 member unions of the United DoD Workers Coalition (UDWC), which includes the SIU and represents the overwhelming majority of DoD’s 700,000 plus workforce, applauded Judge Sullivan’s decision. Gregory Junemann, president of April 2006 tion,” noted David Scott, master of the Cape Vincent, who submitted some of the photos accompanying this story. Altogether, more than 500 Seafarers sailed in the relief missions, aboard no fewer than 14 ships. (IFPTE), said, “I applaud Judge Sullivan for his reasoned and well thought out ruling.” John Gage, president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), stated, “I’m proud of the work done by our coalition of AFL-CIO unions and independent unions across the country. The judge’s decision is a decisive victory for the coalition. I would hope the DoD would not appeal the judge’s decision but give up the quest to change the personnel system and sit down with unions again to decide on a system which supports collective bargaining.” Rick Brown, national president of the National Federation of Federal Employees, said, “This is a great victory for the unions of the coalition. Judge Sullivan’s decision clearly shows that employee rights in the workplace are not a threat to national security.” UDWC Chair and AFL-CIO Legislative Representative Byron Charlton capped off the comments, stating, “The decision by Judge Sullivan is further vindication of the UDWC member organizations’ position that the DoD had far exceeded its so-called ‘authorization for change’ authority. I want to thank every UDWC member organization for its support in the long struggle to maintain workplace democracy. We recognize that this important decision is a very critical step in this process.” The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) in February secured $240,000 in back pay for 17 mariners aboard the runawayflag vessel Taxiarchis Sierra that had been arrested in the port of Houston. A 21,000–dwt Cyprus-flag bulker/log carrier, the Taxiarchis Sierra on Feb. 10 was arrested by SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Tun Aung, who works out of Houston, for unpaid wages and failures on the part of the mariners’ crewing agencies to forward previously authorized funds to their respective families in Sri Lanka. Built in 1985, the Greek-owned vessel is operated by Argosy Ship Management. Aung on Feb. 8 received a call from Rev. David Wells of the Port of Houston Seafarers Center. Wells had offered to provide phone service for crew members aboard the seized vessel who wanted to contact their families. (Most didn’t have shore passes.) The vessel’s captain refused Wells’ offer, perhaps fearing that the crew would call the ITF. Wells deemed the captain’s refusal suspicious and decided to go aboard the vessel to visit the crew. Once on board, Wells learned, among other violations, that the crew had not been paid in four months. Without hesitation, he contacted Aung. Going immediately to the aid of the crew, Aung boarded the vessel and met several individuals including the captain. He had a U.S. Coast Guard team inspect the ship and later had the Taxiarchis Sierra arrested. During his investigation, Aung discovered that the vessel’s managers had not only failed to pay the crew in accordance with their ITF contract, but also that they had been stealing about $28,000 from crew wages each month. The ITF inspector demanded that the company pay all wages, back pay and repatriation costs. Further, Aung demanded that the owners take no action against the seafarers for seizing the vessel and demanding their contractual rights. According to Aung, the Taxiarchis Sierra master claimed that the unpaid wages were simply a matter of miscalculations. Lawyers retained by the SIU, working in conjunction with the ITF, intervened and negotiated not only the payment of previously earned wages for the crew, but also arranged for repatriation to their home countries and protection from blacklisting by their crewing agencies. Sixteen of the crew members were from Sri Lanka while one hailed from Egypt. Mary Ann Starks, one of the attorneys retained on behalf of the crew, reportedly told Trade Winds that her clients were happy with the terms of the negotiations and pleased that Piraeus, Greece-based Argosy “stepped up to the plate” to do the right thing. The $210,000 recovered in back wages for the crew included some $55,000 that Stark says the owner had advanced in an attempt to halt the arrest. An additional $30,000, which members of the crew initially paid to their crewing agencies, also was secured for a total collection of $240,000. The crew was repatriated Feb. 27. According to Trade Winds, Starks said that crew members paid “deposits” of $3,000 each to their crewing agencies prior to taking jobs aboard the Taxiarchis Sierra. These monies could be forfeited unless the owner provided certification that they had fulfilled their contracts before quitting the ship. Supposedly because of high unemployment in Sri Lanka since the December 2004 tsunami, crewing agencies there demand high deposits for fear seafarers will jump ship in Western ports, Starks said. Seafarers who fear losing the deposit may also be reluctant to protest short wages or poor working conditions. Aung thanked the Port of Houston Seafarers Center, the U.S. Coast and Port of Houston security personnel. “Individuals from these agencies have good hearts,” Aung said. “They tried to help the crew members any way they could including providing food and beverages to the stranded Continued on page 8 Seafarers LOG 5 �Lakes Bosuns Attend Annual Meeting The winter months on the Great Lakes, when ships are often laid up for four to six weeks, has proven to be a good time for the bosuns working aboard SIUcrewed American Steamship Company (ASC) vessels to get together and discuss the important issues of concern to them about their work environments. This year’s annual two-day meeting of the Great Lakes bosuns took place in early March at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Sponsored by the SIU and ASC, the sessions gave everyone an opportunity to confer on certain common issues or problems and clarify contractual questions. Safety discussions, which cen- The bosuns listen to a number of informative presentations including those on safety and the use of synthetic wire. tered around maintaining safe working environments and accident avoidance, were held, led by Laurie A. Montante, risk management assistant at American Steamship Company and Thomas S. Anderson, assistant vice president of fleet operations at that company. This year, a special presentation was given by John Sheehan, director of outside sales at Puget Sound Rope, pertaining to the benefits of using synthetic wire versus the standard rope wire. SIU VP Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski and SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak attended the meeting along with the following bosuns: David Barber, James Joyce, William Mulcahy, David Greig, Charles Neigebauer, Albert Brzezinski, Ron Bochek, Tim Burke, Scott Gallagher, Paul Gohs, Jeff Eckhart and Mike Keogh. Seafarers who attended the annual ASC bosuns’ meeting at Piney Point are (from left, front row) David Barber, James Joyce, William Mulcahy, David Greig, Charles Neigebauer, (second row) Al Brzezinski, Ron Bochek, Tim Burke, SIU VP Tom Orzechowski, Port Agent Todd Brdak, Scott Gallagher, Paul Gohs, Jeff Eckhart and Mike Keogh. MSC Welcomes New Commander Rear Adm. Robert D. Reilly Jr. is the new commander of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC). Reilly replaced Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III in the post March 10 during a 1 p.m. change of command ceremony at the historic Washington Navy Yard in the nation’s capital. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael G. Mullen presided at the event while Air Force Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, delivered remarks. SIU President Michael Sacco, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker represented the SIU at the ceremony. Brewer, an unyielding supporter and vocal advocate of the U.S. maritime industry and the SIU, retired following 36 years of distinguished naval service. He had served as the commander of MSC since August 2001. Reilly, a native of Winnetka, Ill., comes from a family with more than a century of service in the U.S. armed forces. He graduated from the University of Washington and was commissioned in 1975 through the Navy’s Reserve Officer Training Corps program. As the new MSC commander, Reilly will be responsible for a fleet of more than 120 govern- Rear Adm. Robert D. Reilly Jr. 6 Seafarers LOG ment-owned and chartered ships, as well as a workforce of more than 10,000 civil service and military personnel—including SIU CIVMARS—operating worldwide. MSC ships transport critical fuel, supplies and ammunition to U.S. Navy ships underway and to U.S. forces ashore around the globe; preposition military equipment at sea to ensure rapid delivery to U.S. forces in support of possible future contingencies; and perform myriad at-sea special missions such as charting ocean bottoms and conducting undersea surveillance. In recent years, MSC has been at the forefront of the global war on terrorism, delivering 85.7 million square feet of combat power and more than 8.4 billion gallons of fuel to U.S. war fighters around the globe. This represents enough cargo to fill a bumper-tobumper line of mid-size sport utility vehicles stretching from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles, and enough fuel to fill the Empire State Building more than 30 times. Much of that materiel has been delivered by SIU-crewed ships. Reilly comes to MSC from the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, D.C., where he reported in June 2004 and served as deputy assistant chief of naval operations for Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III information technology. Throughout his 31-year Navy career, the new MSC commander has served in a wide variety of assignments at sea and ashore. Reilly’s previous commands include: Cruiser Destroyer Group Two and the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, home ported in Norfolk, Va.; Destroyer Squadron Fifty, the Navy’s Arabian Gulf destroyer squadron headquartered in Bahrain; and USS Halyburton. The admiral’s shore assignments include multiple tours on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations, as well as tours at the Car Carrier Jean Anne Is Named Magazine’s ‘Ship of the Year’ In its annual American Ship Review issue, the SIU-crewed Jean Anne was named Ship of the Year for 2005 by Professional Mariner magazine. The cargo carrier, owned by The Pasha Group of Corte Madera, Calif. and operated by Interocean Ugland Management, was praised for bringing new and competitive life to the Hawaii-West Coast trade lanes. It is the largest vessel ever built by VT Halter Marine at its Pascagoula, Miss. facility and is the first pure car/truck carrier constructed to meet the requirements of the Jones Act. The 579-foot vessel, which was christened early last year in the port of San Diego’s National City Marine Terminal, can carry cars, trucks and buses and othercargo—including household goods and construction equipment—on a roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) platform and can travel at speeds approaching 20 knots. On its 10 cargo decks, the Jean Anne holds 4,300 automobiles, and its stern ramp is capable of handling up to 100 tons as vehicles are driven on and off. There are three hoistable decks to handle larger vehicles like buses, 18-wheel rigs or M-1 tanks, which can be lifted upward in sections to provide greater height on the deck below. Smaller vehicles are driven up a ramp leading to an opening in the ship’s side. VT Halter President Butch King noted that the vessel’s maiden voyage in March 2005 “marked the beginning of a new transportation system that has already changed the way RO/RO cargo is delivered between the West Coast and Hawaii, in that Naval Personnel Command; duties with the operations directorate on the Joint Staff; and at headquarters, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Reilly holds a Master of Public Administration in National Resources degree from George Washington University and is a 1993 graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in Washington, D.C. no other vessel on this route has the car-carrying capacity and the speed of the Jean Anne.” And while every square foot of available space is devoted to the purpose of transporting cars and trucks, there also are 18 staterooms for the officers and crew as well as a hospital, pharmacy, mess, galley, crew lounge and refrigerated space for food. The Jean Anne transports its cargo from San Diego to the Hawaiian Islands, needing only a week to complete a voyage from the U.S. West Coast and calling on the Hawaiian ports of Hilo, Kahului and Honolulu. Named “Ship of the Year for 2005” by Professional Mariner magazine in its annual American Ship Review issue, the SIU-crewed car carrier Jean Anne graced the magazine’s cover. April 2006 �Appreciative SIU Recertified Stewards Share How and Why Union, School Work for Them For the SIU’s newest class of recertified stewards, working their way to the top of their department has proven worthwhile in many ways. The dozen Seafarers in last month’s graduating class briefly shared their respective backgrounds and perspectives with fellow members and unlicensed apprentices at the March membership meeting in Piney Point. While the details varied, the stewards all expressed appreciation for how the union not only helped them find their niche but also enabled them to earn a good living and provide for their families. Many credited the school for helping them advance. Successfully completing the four-week program—considered the top curriculum for mariners in the steward department—were William Churney, Virgilio Donghit, Alphonse Dixon, Charles Fincher, Abdul Hasan, Erik Ivey, Franco Pizzuto, Joseph Jones, Michael Watts, Pedro Ramos-Mena, Dennis Skretta and Fausto Aranda. The recertification course, like most other classes at the Paul Hall Center, blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. It also 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). Detailed refreshers in safety training (including fire fighting, highest caliber. I have learned many things here that have helped me in my chosen career. I also learned from the cook/bakers, chief cooks, stewards and other crew members I worked with on the ships. “To the ladies and gentlemen who will be joining this union, I want to say there is a lot of knowledge at this facility and out on the ships at sea. I implore you to take advantage of it all.” Pedro Ramos-Mena “The SIU has been good to my family and me. Almost everything I have is because of the SIU. Our union is like a guide to a better future. “I have learned a lot here at the school, and everything I’ve learned is going to help me guide others…. Apprentices, learn about and support SPAD. Work hard together as a team.” SIU officials are pictured with the union’s newest recertified stewards last month in Piney Point. Standing left to right are Alphonse Dixon, Assistant VP Gulf Coast Ambrose Cucinotta, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Charles Fincher, William Churney, Franco Pizzuto, VP Contracts George Tricker, SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, Abdul Hasan, Erik Ivey, Pedro Ramos-Mena, Virgilio Donghit, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, Michael Watts, President Michael Sacco, Joseph Jones, Fausto Aranda, Dennis Skretta, Executive VP Augie Tellez. first aid and CPR) and sanitary conditions are emphasized. Computer training also is a key part of the course. Other important topics include study skills, communication and nutrition. In every instance, the curriculum is designed to help stewards do an even better job when they go to their next ships. Following are some of the comments shared by the stewards last month, including remarks directed to the unlicensed apprentices at the meeting. They are presented in the same order in which the Seafarers addressed their fellow members. Joseph Jones “I’ve sailed all over the world. The SIU has helped me in a positive way, helped me better my life and my family…. To the apprentices, study hard, ask questions, listen to your supervisors and work together as a team.” Honing their skills during a culinary contest are Dennis Skretta (left), Joseph Jones (below left) and Erik Ivey. Abdul Hasan “I learned a lot during the course and improved my job skills. I like my job and being part of the SIU. I can be a good provider and still spend time with my family. God bless the SIU!” Virgilio Donghit “I was a career Navy man, a steward and cook for 26 years, and when I first retired I didn’t have much luck. Then I realized I still belonged at sea. I joined the SIU in Jacksonville as a messman, starting over. I was advised to upgrade and upgrade, and that’s what I did to once again reach my ambition. “Apprentices, do your best and think of safety first—yours and that of your brethren. Encourage your friends to join this outfit. That’s my message.” Michael Watts “I thank the SIU for opening a lot of doors for me, and I commend my classmates. To the apprentices, there is money to be made, but learn how to manage it. Don’t waste it.” Franco Pizzuto “In the 1980s I was on vacation in Hawaii when I heard about American Hawaii Cruises. I got a job with them, and after 19 years I’m still an SIU member. That says something good about this union. “I’ve upgraded many times, and each time I return to the school I see improvement. The instructors and staff are really dedicated. I hope you apprentices will take advantage of the school, because it’s all here for you.” “Apprentices, we look forward to you being out there with us because you’ll have the right training and skills.” Erik Ivey “I thank the staff here at the school. I also want people to understand that without the union we wouldn’t have any medical benefits for our loved ones. We can never forget our union leaders who go out and fight on our behalf.” Alphonse Dixon “I’ve sailed with the Navy, MSC and the SIU—all over the world, in all positions. I give personal thanks to the school staff and instructors. “To the apprentices, do you have dreams? The opportunity is right here for you. Don’t blow it. You’ve got the best team of officials right here to help you.” William Churney “I’ve learned quite a bit here and really enjoyed the training. We have great instructors, and there is so much to learn. Everyone should upgrade.” Fausto Aranda “The SIU has helped me take care of my kids, and this is a great school for those who want to get ahead in life. I learned a lot during the course and look forward to sharing the knowledge with members on ships. “God bless our apprentices. It’s a great career and a huge opportunity to be part of a great American tradition. Take pride in your learning and you’re going to see the difference the SIU makes.” Dennis Skretta “I have come to this school six times so far. The level of education here has always been of the Alphonse Dixon takes part in the “mystery basket cook-off.” The stewards’ delicacies are shown at various points during the cooking contest. Charles Fincher “This (course) has been highly educational. The Camp Springs (SIU headquarters) staff is doing a wonderful job…. I’ve been doing this for 40 years and I’d say they have some of the best instructors in the world right here at Piney Point. April 2006 Seafarers LOG 7 �ILO Adopts Innovative Maritime Convention Continued from page 2 plaint procedures for seafarers regarding the shipowners’ and shipmasters’ supervision of conditions on their vessels, as well as the flag states’ jurisdiction and control over their ships. The Convention sets minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship and contains provisions on conditions of employment, hours of work and rest, accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering, health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection. Among the novel features of the Convention are its form and structure with legally binding standards accompanied by directions given by guidelines. It departs significantly from that of traditional ILO Conventions. Its amendment procedures are rapid and, most importantly, it sets out a system for the certification of seafarers’ labor conditions. Under the new Convention, ships that are larger than 500 GT and engaged in international voyages or voyages between foreign ports will be required to carry a “Maritime Labor Certificate” and a “Declaration of Maritime Labor Compliance.” The declaration sets out shipowners’ plans for ensuring that applicable national laws, regulations or other measures required to implement the Convention are complied with on an ongoing basis. Shipmasters will then be responsible for carrying out the shipowners’ stated plans and keeping proper records to provide evidence of compliance with the Convention. The flag state will review the shipowners’ plans and verify and certify that they are in place and being implemented. This will put pressure on shipowners that disregard the law, but will remove pressure from those that comply. Other innovative features of the Convention include: „ Accelerated amendment procedures to update its technical provisions to address changes in the sector; „ Onboard and onshore complaint procedures to encourage rapid resolution of problems, if possible; „ A complaint and inspection system linked with the wellestablished ILO supervisory system; and, „ A modernized managementbased approach to occupational safety and health. The new Convention consolidates and updates 68 existing ILO maritime Conventions and Recommendations adopted since 1920. Countries that do not ratify the new Convention will remain bound by the previous Conventions that they have ratified, although those instruments will be closed to further ratification. The Convention received strong support from representatives of the ILO’s tripartite social partners. Brian Orrell, the seafarer vice president of the Conference from the United Kingdom, said, “We believe that the agreement we have concluded will make a significant contribution to ensuring decent work at sea and making a real difference to the lives and life chances of many of the world’s seafarers.” Dierk Lindemann of Germany, the conference vice president for the shipowners, said, “It may have seemed a long road, but we have got to the end of it and we have made history. We now have a single maritime labor standards Convention embracing virtually ITF Secures Back Pay for Crew Continued from page 5 crew who had nothing to eat aboard the vessel except potatoes and rice for a month.” Argosy Ship Management and the Taxiarchis Sierra are no strangers to the port of Houston, the ITF or to Aung. As reported earlier in the LOG, Aung in a January 2004 incident secured more than $64,960 in back pay for three crew members (electrician, bosun and AB) who were aboard the Taxiarchis Sierra. Their circumstances were virtual- ly identical to those faced by the 17 crew members in this latest incident. In a related development, it has been reported that Argosy Ship Management is again in trouble and facing a fresh round of problems just days after settling the dispute involving the 17 crew members. This time, the Greek-owned company is being scrutinized by a Singapore-based timber company for allegedly failing to deliver cargoes of logs to their designated ports in India. all we need in order to establish a uniform and acceptable regime for the world’s seafarers.” Bruce Carlton of the United States, who chaired a key committee at the meeting, said, “This Convention is unique in that it has teeth. What is fundamentally different about this Convention is that it is about quality shipping. Beyond improving the working conditions of seafarers, it is also about further marginalizing the bad shipowners who end up costing the entire industry. This is a very sound economic benefit for the entire industry.” Somavia in his closing remarks said that the Convention marked a new departure in the pursuit of a fair globalization by making “the rules of the game fair for everybody. At the same time, the market should have the necessary space to perform its key functions for the economy and for society. In the search for solutions it has become more and more evident that there can be no lasting success with purely national solutions to global problems.” The next step will be the ratification of the Convention. According to senior ILO officials, a great deal of care has been taken to make sure the Convention’s provisions are acceptable to all countries with an interest in the maritime sector. The organization hopes it soon becomes the “fourth pillar” of international maritime regulatory regime, at the side of the three key IMO Conventions: the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW); and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). The Convention will become effective once it has been ratified by 30 ILO member States which jointly constitute at least 33 percent of world gross tonnage. “What we now need to do is to work together to ensure that the next stages have the same dynamism and the same strength that you have given to the formulation of the Convention,” Somavia concluded. Northern Lights Recognized For ‘Commitment’ in OIF The captain and crew of the SIU-contracted Northern Lights last month was again recognized for the flawless fashion in which it achieved its mission during a February 2003 voyage to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. These latest laurels were published in a story in the Defense Transportation Journal titled “SS Northern Nights—A Lesson In Commitment.” Recounting the harrowing events which took place Feb. 20-22, the piece—based on actual verbiage from the captain’s log—affords a vivid account of what the 26-person crew, and 12man U.S. Marine Corps security detachment experienced while in the face of armed conflict. During the course of the two-day period, the vessel and its occupants endured some 10 SCUD/gas alerts. One attack took place while the Northern Lights (recently renamed the El Faro) still was being cleared by Kuwait Customs to enter the port. The remainder was registered when the vessel was tied up in port and while the crew was attempting to discharge its full load of military hardware. As reported earlier in the LOG, Air Force Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, in a letter to Seafarers-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, praised the efforts of mariners aboard the Northern Lights. Citing the “superior support” of U.S. troops by unlicensed and licensed mariners as well the company and its officials, the general’s correspondence in part said, “Since 18 February 2003, six weeks after the start of the deployment of forces to Iraq, SS Northern Lights was under charter to MSC. She continuously operated in support of U.S. forces since that time, never missing a commitment. No other ship, government-owned or commercial, has operated as long in support of these critical operations.” The Northern Lights made 25 voyages and 49 port calls during the charter period. The ship carried 12,220 pieces of military gear totaling 81,000 short tons and covering more than 2 million square feet. More GEDs Earned at Piney Point The high school equivalency program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education had a fairly modest start but has really taken off since the mid-1980s. Since 1984, more than 2,000 students have secured their GEDs through the Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Md. The latest students to join those ranks are pictured at right and below, being congratulated by SIU officials. In the photo at right, at the March membership meeting are (from left) SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Unlicensed Apprentices Dennis Rivard and Richard Guerra, Jr., SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. The other photo, taken at the February membership meeting, shows VP Tellez, SIU Atlantic Coast VP Joseph Soresi, SIU President Michael Sacco, Unlicensed Apprentices Russell Blanks and Adrian Taylor, Secretary-Treasurer Heindel and VP Tricker. Congratulations to the school’s four newest GED holders. SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Tun Aung (center, wearing guest ID) helped lead the way in securing back pay, repatriation and other benefits for 17 mariners on the runaway-flag Taxiarchis Sierra. 8 Seafarers LOG April 2006 �With the Membership in Ft. Lauderdale Listening to the SIU officials aboard the Perseverance are Seafarers Alfred Polk, Chancie Ransom, Milton Israel, Leonel Lazo, Emily Whitman, Roderick French and Joe Legree. On a recent trip to Florida in mid-February, SIU President Michael Sacco joined SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel in visiting the hall in Ft. Lauderdale. All three got a chance to meet with the SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Executive VP members in that port and Augie Tellez talk to members aboard the Perseverance. inform them of some of the latest news in the maritime industry. They also went on board the Perseverance, which was docked in Port Everglades, and got together with the crew members aboard that Maritrans vessel. Right: AB Sheldon Privin (right) has a little one-on-one time with SIU President Michael Sacco. Above left: SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel answers a question posed to him at the Ft. Lauderdale hall by Rich Williams. Above right: AB Regina Ewing listens to what the officials have to say. Port Agent Powell Appointed To State AFL-CIO Committee Bryan Powell, the SIU’s port agent in Tacoma, Wash., recently was appointed to the Washington State AFL-CIO Economic Development and Transportation Committee. The appointment is for a three-year term that expires Jan. 1, 2009. The committee examines the state’s economy and transportation issues and, in cooperation with state agencies and other organizations, examines how best to maintain a viable and robust infrastructure system that promotes a strong economy based on family-wage jobs. Powell also serves on the executive board of the Wash- Wiper Luchi Watson (left) and QMEDs Van Watler and Wendell Wilmoth (above) take an interest in the discussion led by SIU officials at the union hall in February. S.F. Port Agent Coss Retires Vince Coss, the union’s port agent in San Francisco, has retired due to health reasons. Coss joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1976, two years before that union merged into the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. He later transferred to the deck department and sailed until coming ashore to work for the SIU in 1987. Since then he served in various jobs within the union. Most recently, he was elected San Francisco port agent for the term beginning in 2005. “Vince was totally dedicated to serving the membership,” said SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone. “I wish him nothing but the best in retirement.” “He was well-liked and very committed to his job,” stated SIU Assistant Vice President West Coast Nick Celona. “It was a April 2006 Vince Coss, pictured recently at the San Francisco hall, came ashore in 1987. pleasure working with Vince.” Coss, 58, said he was especially proud to have been elected port agent by the membership. He has retired to Daly City, Calif. SIU, UIW to Participate In Annual Union Show The SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) once again will participate in the annual Union Industries Show, conducted by the AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department. This year’s event is scheduled to take place May 5-7 in Cleveland. Seafarers-contracted NCL America and several UIW-contracted shops already have agreed to donate goods or services for the event, which normally draws hundreds of thousands of guests. The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also will be represented at the show, hosted at the Cleveland I-X Center. This is the 68th Union Industries Show, and the SIU has participated in the vast majority of them. This year’s event is being promoted under the name America@Work, followed by the tag-line “100% Union-Made, American-Made Products, Services and Jobs.” Admission is free. “This show is living proof that great career opportunities are still available in North America, and here in Cleveland. We invite people to see all the fine products and services that are still made in the U.S. by men and women earning excellent wages and benefits, with their rights and dignity protected by good union contracts,” said Charles Mercer, president of the Union Label and Services Department. “America at Work showcases hundreds Port Agent Bryan Powell ington State AFL-CIO Maritime Section. of successful corporations where management and labor cooperate to provide value to consumers and vital services to our communities. This show is all about the wonderful things that are possible when people work together.” Hundreds of exhibits covering more than 400,000 square feet of floor space will provide a close-up look at the wide range of union occupations and the skills and training required to perform those jobs. Show-goers can chat with skilled workers in many different crafts and trades along with the men and women who serve as instructors in dozens of union apprenticeship and training programs. This year’s show also features airline pilots and travel professionals, air traffic controllers, makeup artists, cake decorators, heavy equipment operators and more. Show producers expect more than 250,000 visitors. Crowds also will be drawn by the promise of more than $1 million in giveaways, including a topof-the-line Harley Davidson motorcycle, new cars from Ford and DaimlerChrysler, groceries, tools, household goods and refrigerators, freezers, washers and dryers. Members of the American Federation of Musicians will provide live entertainment for visitors as they participate in interactive displays and demonstrations, learning the secrets of theatrical makeup, glass engraving, sheet metal fabrication, “high iron” construction, electrical installations and other fascinating pursuits. Seafarers LOG 9 �SIU Members: At Sea and Ashore Christmas Aboard the Matej Kocak The Sgt. Matej Kocak was in Diego Garcia over the Christmas holidays where crew members were treated to a festive party. The Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel is part of the Military Sealift Command fleet. These photos were sent to the LOG by Steward/Baker Evelina Barnes. AB Lorenzo Allen and AB Micheal Allain QMED/Electrician Matthew DeWitt and DEU Miguel Castro Bosun Donald Hood and AB Lorenzo Allen Left: QMED Levy Calzado and QMED Dan Amesbury Everyone Must Have a Hobby AB Fritz McDuffie Thomas Larkin shipped out for many years as a QMED with the NMU. He has been retired in Florida since 1994 and plays the bagpipes with the Sarasota Highlanders of Sarasota, Fla. Larkin, who was born in Rosscommon, Ireland, and has been playing the pipes since he was 16, served as pipe sergeant of the Kevin Barry Pipe Band in Boston for many years when he was shipping out of that port. He notes, “Everyone must have a hobby.” (In the photo below, Larkin is second from the left.) Left: The crew of the Sgt. Matej Kocak poses in front of the vessel’s Christmas tree. Around the Port of San Juan This photo was taken during a recent visit to Puerto Rico by the SIU-crewed Horizon Hawaii. From the left are AB Patrick Lavin, Port Agent Amancio Crespo and AB Isaac Vega. Remembering Brother Rivera Funeral services were held Jan. 12 aboard the stern container deck of the El Yunque for SIU pensioner Pedro Juan Perez Rivera, whose ashes were scattered at sea by Bosun George Perry. At the SIU hall in San Juan are (above photo, from left) AB Victor Velez, Port Agent Amancio Crespo and AB Jorge de Santiago. At left are (from left) AB Juan Ayala, AB Joseph Dupre and Bosun Anibal Matos. Aboard the Westward Venture With a tank serving as the background aboard the Westward Venture are (from left) GUDE Flavio Castillo, the chief mate, and AB Mark Smith (who sent this photo to the LOG). The SIU-crewed vessel, which is chartered by the Military Sealift Command, was in the Indian Ocean at the time this picture was taken. 10 Seafarers LOG April 2006 �AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT – EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING MTD Speakers Underscore Jones Act’s Value to America OSG May Invest in 17 Additional Vessels Speakers at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting Feb. 2425 in San Diego were especially strong in backing the Jones Act. Part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act (named in honor of its author, the late Senator Wesley Jones, RWash.) mandates that cargo moving between United States ports is carried on U.S.-crewed, U.S.flag, U.S.-owned and U.S.-built vessels. The cross-section of guest speakers—from labor, manage- ment and government—offered remarks highlighting numerous benefits stemming from the Jones Act. Those plusses include jobs for U.S. mariners and a boost to America’s national and economic security. Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, noted that the Jones Act “generates jobs, to be sure, but what it does fundamentally is it maintains the national defense maritime industrial base.” Perhaps the biggest surprise from the meetings occurred when Capt. Robert Johnston, senior vice president of SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), told the audience that his company is exploring the possibility of investing in 17 new U.S.flag ships that would sail in the Jones Act trades—in addition to the 10 domestic tankers already being built at the unionized Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. “We believe we can deliver,” Johnston stated. “We believe you can build the ships in the United States. We also believe you can crew and maintain the ships in the United States.” But Johnston also pointed out that his company at one point nearly gave up its U.S.-flag fleet. In this case, political action saved the day—Johnston said the SIU and other pro-U.S.-flag interests helped secure fair changes in tax laws that partly enabled OSG and others to keep an American-flag presence. Now, “We’ve bet $750 million on the Jones Act” in the form of the new tankers, he said. “The Jones Act is here to stay. The other thing we’re betting on is well-trained seafarers. The environment that we’re dealing with today is becoming more and more difficult. The quality of the seafarers has to continually improve. We are very happy with what we see.” Johnston was far from alone in noting the importance of the Jones Act. U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (DContinued on page 12 ‘We Could Not Have Fought this War Without You’ General Schwartz, Vice Admiral Brewer Credit Mariners for Troop Support The head of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) and the outgoing commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) emphatically and enthusiastically credited the U.S. Merchant Marine for its ongoing role in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom during remarks given at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting Feb. 2425 in San Diego. Gen. Norton Schwartz, com- mander, TRANSCOM, and Vice Adm. David Brewer, commander, MSC described not only U.S. mariners but the overall American maritime industry as indispensable partners in protecting national security, wherever the mission occurs. Schwartz said that MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco is someone “who has excelled as a partner in matters of national defense with us.” He noted the U.S. Merchant Marine’s centuries of service to the nation and declared that mariners remain vital. “The United States Transportation Command and the defense family depend on your labor. And just as it was true in Roosevelt’s generation, you’re indispensable,” Schwartz said. Additionally, he provided a basic explanation of TRANSCOM’s mission, noting that the agency oversees distribution in the defense supply chain. Through excellent cooperation between the military, other com- ponents of government and private industry, Schwartz said, the distribution process is improving in many ways—not just fiscally, but most importantly in terms of providing materiel where and when needed. “Working together really is the way ahead for each of us,” he observed. “It’s the Defense Logistics Agency, it’s the Department of Defense, it’s the Joint Chiefs, it’s the combatant commands—one of nine of which we have—and of course it includes you in the commercial enterprises that your labor sustains. “Fundamentally, it’s bringing everybody’s best thinking together on one goal, and that is a synchronized, totally visible, simplified end-to-end defense supply chain. This may sound like campaign language, but it’s not. It’s real because people depend on bombs, beans, bullets, medical supplies and so on. People in fact that are in harm’s way.” Continued on page 12 New Course for Health Reform Is State by State America’s health insurance crisis, something that affects every working family, proved a prime topic during the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting Feb. 2425 in San Diego. With health care costs easily rising much faster than incomes each year, it’s a crisis that in the long run threatens to cripple the U.S. economy. Among other efforts related to curbing health care costs and securing coverage for the tens of millions of Americans currently with no health insurance at all, the AFL-CIO is fighting back through a recently launched stateby-state grassroots campaign. The federation also is offering resistance through its support of the newly formed coalition America’s Agenda, headed by retired UFCW President Doug Dority. MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco described the health care crisis as one “that’s not going away. In fact, it’s getting worse. If you’ve negotiated a contract lately—or for that matter, if you’ve gone to the doctor— you know exactly what I mean.” Dority echoed and expanded upon those sentiments. “Every (union) president that I’ve talked to since we set up this foundation has told me that their number one domestic issue is health care— how to pay for the health care when it’s increasing at double digit inflation every year,” Dority said. “It’s something that the employers also have to address, and these are not bad employers that just want to put extra money in their pockets.” He pointed out that America’s Agenda, which includes prominent individuals and organizations from the medical community, is pushing for what is called “universal coverage” throughout the country. “You can’t solve the health and welfare problem at the bargaining table,” Dority insisted. “So we’ve developed a strategy to go out and [campaign in] some more progressive sates. They include Illinois and Massachusetts, and now we’ve reached into Maine and Vermont—all of which are moving to have universal health care in their state. “If we can get it in the state, then the federal government at some point will reach out and wrap their arms around this (by adopting a similar program). It can be done.” For instance, he reminded the audience that Medicare originally was a state-level program eventually duplicated by the federal government. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney noted that the federation last year launched grassroots campaigns at the state level ultimately aimed at securing good, affordable coverage for all. “We need a simple national health care plan that covers everybody,” he said. “If they won’t give us a fair health plan covering all families in all 50 states, we’ll give them hell in all 50 states.” U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie Continued on page 12 U.S. Maritime Industry Praised for Hurricane Relief Efforts Gulf Coast Experience Suggests Value in Separate Fleet for FEMA The American-flag maritime industry’s quick and efficient response to last year’s hurricanes that tore through the Gulf Coast drew appreciative words from several speakers at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting Feb. 2425 in San Diego. As part of the industry-wide effort, SIU members sailed aboard at least 14 vessels that were involved in relief operations following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. More than 500 Seafarers sailed in those missions, including inland members. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta said he was “proud of the way the maritime community responded to the tragedies.” April 2006 He pointed out that this marked the first time the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) “has been called to action in response to a domestic emergency. In all we sent 11 (Maritime Administration) ships to our Gulf Coast states to help with relief and recovery operations. On board were hard-working crew members from the Seafarers International Union, MEBA and AMO. In essence they became an instant hospitality industry, hosting operation centers, hosting headquarters offices, providing housing, food and other support for over 1,000 police officers, relief workers, port workers, stevedores and others.” Turning with a smile to MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco, Mineta added, “Mike, I have to applaud your foresight in supporting steward classes for SIU members. The training certainly came in handy as they served up well over a quarter of a million meals, 3,500 meals a day (to relief workers and others on the ships). I had an opportunity to see these tireless crews in action when I toured the port of New Orleans right after landfall and the storm put our fifth-busiest port, the gateway to the nation’s interior out of commission. “But because of the work of all of you, it was only temporary. I’m happy to report that the port is back to 100 percent of preKatrina levels. That is quite a turnaround and our nation owes a profound debt of gratitude to the men and women who played such a critical role in making it happen. So on behalf of President Bush and Vice President Cheney and a very grateful American people: Thank you all. Thank you very, very much for your response to the hurricane relief effort and thanks to all of you for your continued contributions to the prosperity and the wellbeing of this great nation.” Eugene Magee, chief of the Maritime Administration’s Reserve Fleet Division, said that the maritime industry’s response to the hurricanes suggests the need for a reserve fleet specifically designated for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “We are looking to create a new program very similar to the Ready Reserve Force,” he stated. “That means jobs for workers and more ships.” Magee noted that a basic tenet of the new program would see ships arriving at “ground zero” within 12 to 24 hours after a disaster. In some cases—as occurred in New Orleans with two of the Cape ships as well as the USNS Pollux—it also may be possible and even preferable for vessels “to stay and ride out the storm in port. We have a heavy-weather mooring plan that the ship managers use.” Magee indicated that FEMA officials “are very enthusiastic. They are going to take this proContinued on page 12 Seafarers LOG 11 �AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT – EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING MTD Speakers Underscore Jones Act’s Value Continued from page 11 U.S. Rep. Xavier Becerra S.C.) got straight to the point when he said, “Thank goodness the Jones Act is still in place to protect domestic shipping interests—otherwise our economic and national security would be in direct threat. I will always stand to protect the Jones Act and our domestic shipping industry. It may be time to expand the Jones Act.” U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie pointed to the Jones Act as a potential foundation for an expanded national maritime policy. He said he is carrying the message in Congress that “maritime has to be the number one security interest of this nation. Not just port security, but shipbuilding and a merchant marine owned and operated Capt. Robert Johnston, Senior VP, OSG under the Jones Act must become a fundamental premise of American policy.” U.S. Rep. Xavier Becerra (DCalif.) offered a word of thanks to mariners and others in the industry “for keeping it strong despite all the adversity that’s out there. Those of us that believe it’s the people that make our country and our industry strong pledge to you that the Jones Act will be preserved and that we will fight any waivers that are unnecessary.” AFL-CIO President John Sweeney credited U.S. maritime labor for being “so vigilant about keeping the Jones Act strong and enforced. It just makes common sense to make sure that critical ship- U.S. Rep. James Clyb ‘We Could Not Have Fought This War Without You’ Continued from page 11 Vice Adm. David Brewer, Commander, MSC Turning specifically to sealift, Schwartz lauded the value of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and also left no doubt that a strong U.S.-flag fleet is a must. “For the hundred or so ships that we have under way in a typical week, 40 percent or so and increasingly more are commercial for multiple carriers,” he stated. “Sealift is essential to victory. America’s capacity to engage its enemies at a distance, to provide humanitarian assistance at home and abroad, depends very, very much on your capabilities and know-how. The vast majority of how we get things done is through sealift. My commitment to you today and to Mike Sacco is that we will continue to work with you and with the Maritime Administration, our nation’s shipbuilders and owners to ensure that the nation’s commercial seapower is there for sustained and surge military operations.” Schwartz was a keynote speaker last year when the Alliance New York reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and enrolled in the MSP. He described the program as “brilliant” and indicated his hope that it may expand “in the not-too-distant future.” He also said that the reflagging ceremony “was truly symbolic of what I think is a rising tide of commitment to further strengthen the American Merchant Marine.” He concluded, “We’re better Gen. Norton Schwartz, Commander, TRANSCOM working as partners than we individuals. America’s capac engage our enemies at a dis depends on a strong and v merchant marine. We need counsel, your continued com ment and, of course, the able tance that you all bring with conviction to the na defense.” Vice Admiral Brewer equally passionate in desc the merchant marine’s impor “I’ve come to love this indu Brewer said. “We could not fought this war without this i try. I tell the American peopl all the time. The Transpor Command has moved the eq lent of the state of Utah durin war. That’s every man, wo New Course for Health Reform Is State by State Continued from page 11 U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) reminded everyone that health insurance was a big factor as U.S. auto manufacturers recently announced the layoffs of “not hundreds, not thousands but tens of thousands” of unionized workers. That’s despite the fact that labor, management and government alike all agree that today’s workers are more productive than ever. “If you’re more productive, you’re supposed to be sharing in the fruit of that production, but we’re not,” Abercrombie said. “We’ve got to band together. And if the American labor movement cannot do it, who is going to do it?” Doug Dority, President, America’s Agenda AFL-CIO President John Sweeney U.S. Maritime Industry Praised for Hurricane Relief Efforts Continued from page 11 gram forward.” James McGregor, president of SIU-contracted Ocean Shipholdings, Inc., related some of the behind-the-scenes efforts that occurred during the 2005 Labor Day weekend to mobilize vessels for the relief mission. He credited the SIU and other maritime unions for helping crew up the ships right away. “You can’t run the business we’re in if you don’t have the trained and qualified (shipboard) personnel and you don’t have them ready quickly,” he said. McGregor also provided a detailed look at each of the ships used in the relief effort—from the type of vessel to the crew complement. James McGregor, President, Ocean Shipholdings 12 Seafarers LOG U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta Eugene Magee, Chief of MarA Reserve Fleet Division April 2006 �burn are as city to stance viable d your mmitassish your ational was ribing rtance. ustry,” t have indusle that rtation quivang this oman, CWA Official Provides Cingular Update ping is done by U.S.-built, U.S.-owned and U.S.-crewed vessels. I wish we had similar laws when it comes to our defense industry, our oil industry, airlines and airports and our sea ports. They are simply too vital and too critical for any of them to be turned over to foreign nations, even friendly ones.” An estimated 70 percent of the oceangoing self-propelled vessels in the Jones Act fleet are militarily useful. This is crucial because when American forces defend our interests on foreign soil, 95 percent of the materiel they require moves in ships. child, all their household goods, all their vehicles, and enough fuel for them to survive for 1,000 years. That’s what you all have been doing. And that’s what the American people need to hear.” Brewer cited a recent trip to Korea and noted the extensive port construction and modernization taking place in that country. “They get it,” he said. “They understand that no nation can be a powerful nation unless you are a powerful maritime nation.” Like Schwartz, Brewer also indicated that a bigger MSP may be on the horizon. He said the current program—calling for 60 militarily useful, U.S.-flag commercial ships—“is not enough, period. I need more than that.” Communications Workers of America Vice President Ralph Maly updated the MTD executive board on the stark differences between union-contracted Cingular Wireless and its non-union competitor Verizon Wireless. Maly observed that because Verizon Communications is a union-represented company, some people are under the mistaken impression that Verizon Wireless is, too. In a resolution adopted by the executive board, the MTD noted, “Not only is Verizon Wireless a non-union company, but it also has a long record of attacking workers’ rights and blocking workers who only want to make a fair choice about union representation.” By contrast, Cingular Wireless—the nation’s biggest wireless company—respects the collective bargaining process. UMWA’s Kane Emphasizes Safety During the MTD meeting in San Diego, United Mine Workers of America Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Kane discussed the recent mine tragedies in West Virginia and the need for improved workplace safety in all industries. “There’s much that needs to be done and this union is determined that whether the accident happens in a union or non-union mine we’re going be there, because we truly speak for all miners,” Kane said. “We will not rest until all accidents are eliminated, all deaths come to an end and every miner in North America has a voice in the workplace.” MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco Brewer also said, “I have gone to the chief of naval operations and convinced him that civil service and commercial mariners are the answer to creating a stronger and better Navy.” He noted that as MSC gains vessels—including rescue ships, submarine tenders and additional prepositioning ships—it will mean more employment opportunities for civilian mariners (including those on the commercial side). With up to 14 new ships joining MSC’s fleet in the near future, “We’re talking about another 2,000 or 3,000 jobs,” he said. Finally, Brewer offered perhaps the highest measure of respect that a military officer can extend. He said that when discussing the U.S. military, “I’m not talking about just the Army or the Navy or the Marine Corps or the Air Force or the Coast Guard. I’m also talking about merchant mariners because merchant mariners are the ones who are carrying the freight. This country does not win wars without merchant mariners. They may take you for granted, but they can’t fight without you…. The maritime industry and the sailors who sail on my ships are just as powerful and just as important to the security of this nation as anybody else.” LEFT: Vice Adm. David Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command (fourth from left) gladly posed for this photo with members of the SIU’s Government Services Division along with SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (third from right) and SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler (second from left). The CIVMARS were among a number of rank-and-file members who attended the MTD executive board meeting in San Diego. RIGHT: MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (sixth from right) greets SIU members and fellow officials from Southern California following the executive board meeting. Pictured from left to right (beginning second from left) are Jason Stutes, Andrew Linares, Christina Mateer, Angelo Mateer, Robin Ballard, Emilio Palafox, Judy Chester, Warren Lombard, Carlos Solinap, Mike Sacco, Bill Stephens, John Cox, Jesselo Unabia, Sean Leeson and Vern Wallen. Ad April 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �With Crowley Boatmen in San Diego Left: AB Craig Melwing These photos were taken aboard the Sea Cloud in late February in San Diego, where SIU boatmen employed by Crowley were regrouping after one of many days spent assisting on the much-publicized APL Panama project. The foreign-flag containership has been grounded in Ensenada, Mexico since Christmas and has become something of a tourist attraction while salvage crews and other workers attempt to move it back to sea. The Sea Cloud normally operates in Los Angeles as a general-purpose ship-assist tug but recently has provided much help with the Panama. The Sea Cloud (right) and Spartan are docked in San Diego as crew members prepare for the next assignment. Right: Capt. Ed Brady AB Herman Moningka, Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, Capt. Ed Brady Left: Boatman Jim Tank NMU PENSION, ANNUITY & 401(K) PLANS AND NMU VACATION PLAN IMPORTANT NOTICE: Trustee, Administration and Summary of Material Modifications for the Year 2005 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. 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 THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES - Co-Chairmen EMPLOYER TRUSTEES UNION TRUSTEES Thomas Murphy Marine Personnel & Provisioning, Inc. 1083 N. Collier Blvd, PMB #387 Marco Island, FL 34145 (941) 393-0435 David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Seafarers International Union of N.A AGLIWD/NMU 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 AMENDMENTS & OTHER ITEMS NMU Pension Plan, Annuity Plan and 401(k) Plan: During 2005, the Board of Trustees adopted several amendments of significant importance to the membership and the Plans. Generally the amendments: 1. Changed the cash-out provision effective March 28, 2005 to stipulate that in the event of a mandatory distribution greater than $1,000 the plan will rollover the funds into a qualified retirement account. 2. Provided for a 2 percent increase at December 31, 2005 for participants active in 2006. 3. Provided a thirteenth check for every retiree or beneficiary who is eligible to receive a pension benefit with an effective pension date of August 1, 2005 or earlier. 4. Provided a special election of additional pension benefits for Hurricane Katrina victims. NMU Vacation Plan: There were no changes in plan benefits in 2005. ADMINISTRATOR Miriam Bove NMU Benefit Plans 360 West 31st Street, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001-2727 A LOS QUE HABLAN ESPANOL Esta noticia contiene informacion importante sobre sus derechos como marinero bajo los planes del Plan NMU Pension, Mantenimiento, y Vacacion. Si tuviera usted dificultades para comprender alguna parte de esta noticia se la explicara la misma en espanol. Esta ayuda podra recibirla en persona en la oficina principal del Plan, ubicada en el numero 360 Calle 31 Oeste Piso 3, Nueva York, NY 10001. O bien, puede comunicarse con el Representante del Plan en cualquier sucursal de la NMU . Las horas de oficina en todas estas sucursales son de 9:00 a.m. a 4:30 p.m. de Lunes a Viernes. Tambien podra escribir o llamar por telefono, si le resultara mas conveniente. No obstante, las cartas en espanol deberan ser dirigidas a la oficina del Plan de Nueva York. Las llamadas telefonicas para solicitar ayuda en espanol deberan tambien ser hechas a la oficina del Plan en Nueva York, cuyo numero de telefono es: 1-212-337-4900, o el numero de llamadas gratis: 1-888-424-4949. April 2006 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May & June 2006 Membership Meetings FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED 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 Totals 0 0 3 14 2 9 43 27 0 7 25 39 13 5 2 3 18 2 31 23 1 5 8 12 6 14 26 20 1 12 3 29 12 1 18 11 10 2 31 19 0 4 2 4 1 1 15 9 0 3 7 10 9 1 1 0 3 1 11 8 1 0 8 5 0 5 23 18 0 11 6 19 14 5 2 3 18 2 29 20 0 4 5 5 6 8 10 8 1 8 4 15 10 2 6 2 4 5 15 12 0 2 2 2 1 0 6 3 0 2 4 6 5 2 1 0 2 1 7 0 0 2 2 3 1 1 8 9 0 4 6 17 5 3 0 3 11 2 11 7 2 0 7 21 5 19 63 47 1 14 33 77 17 7 1 11 28 1 59 42 5 11 8 33 7 14 49 41 3 13 12 44 28 7 17 17 18 8 58 42 4 4 3 6 1 4 31 18 1 5 8 21 12 1 1 2 5 2 26 17 266 241 90 189 130 46 95 455 435 172 0 0 3 3 1 5 6 12 0 4 4 15 7 1 3 3 9 0 13 12 2 1 5 6 2 3 12 16 0 4 3 10 5 5 1 2 11 3 17 6 0 0 0 4 0 4 13 4 0 3 0 7 6 0 0 0 1 1 5 7 0 0 5 1 0 8 8 11 0 7 5 3 2 1 2 4 8 0 10 8 1 3 4 2 1 5 9 10 0 5 5 3 6 2 0 2 5 1 14 4 1 0 0 4 1 2 7 2 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 0 3 3 5 1 0 0 1 2 0 3 7 1 0 2 2 9 3 2 1 1 4 1 11 3 1 0 4 7 1 12 22 30 1 9 7 26 13 4 4 4 14 1 21 20 1 0 6 16 4 5 17 29 1 8 7 19 17 8 2 3 16 6 24 10 3 0 1 7 0 5 11 10 0 4 1 13 9 1 1 0 4 0 6 14 101 114 55 83 82 35 53 201 199 90 0 0 1 4 0 15 18 18 1 6 6 14 5 0 4 2 21 2 16 15 0 0 1 9 6 5 6 11 0 4 3 7 16 0 5 2 4 1 9 7 0 0 2 4 0 0 3 6 1 3 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 0 1 2 0 5 10 17 1 3 3 13 5 0 1 0 8 1 10 22 0 0 0 5 2 6 2 4 0 1 2 4 12 0 2 1 1 0 4 6 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 3 2 0 1 5 4 0 0 0 5 5 0 0 0 5 0 5 6 1 0 1 4 1 21 37 27 1 9 14 33 13 4 4 2 46 3 28 41 0 0 2 12 5 8 9 21 0 10 4 14 20 1 5 2 7 1 15 13 0 0 1 4 0 1 5 12 1 2 4 4 6 0 0 0 0 2 3 4 148 96 30 102 52 16 41 290 149 49 0 0 0 0 0 3 6 1 0 0 5 5 1 0 0 0 3 0 4 1 2 4 2 7 2 7 23 12 0 3 5 34 9 0 26 2 15 0 19 10 5 3 2 10 1 10 12 11 1 2 5 18 17 0 18 3 6 0 16 9 0 0 1 0 0 3 4 2 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 1 5 0 4 1 1 2 1 5 0 5 9 9 0 4 3 17 3 0 5 0 7 0 11 7 2 3 1 2 0 2 6 7 0 1 2 8 4 0 16 1 3 0 4 5 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 5 2 0 1 4 8 0 0 0 0 7 0 8 1 1 5 3 12 2 12 41 25 0 8 10 61 18 0 23 3 20 1 31 10 5 9 3 22 3 13 33 24 1 5 6 41 28 0 17 2 12 3 21 21 29 182 149 26 89 67 0 41 286 269 544 633 324 400 353 164 189 987 1,069 580 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 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 Totals All Departments Algonac ..................Friday: May 12, June 9 Baltimore ................Thursday: May 11, June 8 Boston.....................Friday: May 12, June 9 Guam ......................Thursday: May 25, June 22 Honolulu .................Friday: May 19, June 16 Houston ..................Monday: May 15, June 12 Jacksonville ............Thursday: May 11, June 8 Joliet .......................Thursday: May 18, June 15 Mobile ....................Wednesday: May 17, June 14 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: May 16, June 13 New York................Tuesday: May 9, June 6 Norfolk ...................Thursday: May 11, June 8 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: May 10, June 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: May 18, June 15 San Francisco .........Thursday: May 18, June 15 San Juan..................Thursday: May 11, June 8 St. Louis..................Friday: May 19, June 16 Tacoma ...................Friday: May 26, June 23 Wilmington ...........Monday: May 22, June 19 ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals SUZANNE CASTONGUAY Please contact Tom Christie. You may e-mail him at gizorp1@hotmail.com. LOOKING FOR SHIPMATES Elton “Whitey” Wilde is looking to hear from any of his old shipmates who sailed with him aboard Delta, Waterman and Isthmian vessels, among others. You may write him at 813 Old Highway 11, Countryview Dr., Carriere, MS 39426. ANYONE WHO SAILED ON GLOMAR SHIPS Anyone who said aboard the Glomar Navigator or Glomar Explorer in 1973 is asked to contact John Swain at (616) 776-9920. 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. April 2006 Piney Point .............Monday: May 8, June 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 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 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 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 Trip Reliefs SDRF Contributions The last few editions of the LOG included lists of individuals who contributed to the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF). Since then, additional contributions were received from the following individuals: Hezam Reyme Jason Brown Scott Bowmer Anthony Bartley Robert Stone Pablito Dagsa Mark Scardino Manuel Basas James Buckowski John Walsh Mark Paterson Nekeisha Patrick Otto Kurtz Delores Brown Rubin Mitchell Terrance Bing Arnolfo Bada Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, 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 George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 1 6 2 10 14 1 0 1 35 1 1 2 3 4 0 2 0 13 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 4 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 9 3 4 9 1 0 1 29 0 1 3 1 5 0 2 0 12 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 3 3 1 14 0 2 0 23 17 31 4 17 45 2 1 2 119 10 9 2 9 14 0 1 2 47 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 1 6 9 16 2 3 16 0 0 5 51 1 7 1 4 8 0 1 0 22 1 2 1 3 0 0 0 0 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 5 1 0 3 0 0 2 15 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 Port 0 1 1 1 5 0 0 2 10 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 1 0 1 5 0 0 2 10 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 4 1 0 6 0 0 1 12 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 4 0 0 1 6 9 11 4 3 9 1 0 0 37 2 5 1 1 8 1 0 0 18 1 1 2 3 0 1 0 0 8 Totals All Departments 60 19 11 51 18 11 35 207 87 20 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Russ Barrack of Jacksonville, N.C. They were taken in the spring of 1975 aboard a Hudson Waterways Corp. T-2 tanker—the first ship on which Barrack sailed. Those were the days of three men to a room and no air conditioning—“but they were great days,” he said in a note accompanying the photos. Above, in the ship’s mess hall, are (seated from left) “Recertified Bosun Gus Magoulas, Bosun Frank Swartz, OS Russ Barrack and OS Danny. Standing are ‘Whitey’ and Bosun Mario Zepeda.” Barrack, who said he hasn’t seen his fellow shipmates since that voyage in 1975, graduated from class 168 at the Paul Hall Center in 1974 and continually upgraded his skills, first to AB and finally to recertified bosun in 1993. He retired in 2002 and moved from Virginia to North Carolina. 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. April 2006 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA WERNER BECHER, 71, became a Seafarer in 1966. Brother Becher, who was born in Germany, worked in the deck department. His first ship was the Connecticut. Brother Becher enhanced his seafaring abilities on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He most recently shipped on the Horizon Navigator. Brother Becher calls Waveland, Miss. home. CHARLES BROWN, 69, began sailing with the SIU in 1962 in New Orleans. Brother Brown initially shipped on the Del Alba in the steward department. In 1962, the Louisiana-born mariner upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Brown’s most recent voyage was aboard the Inger. He makes his home in St. Louis. OLIVER DOTSON, 65, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1966. Brother Dotson is a Texas native. He first worked on a Delta Steamship Line vessel as a member of the deck department. He upgraded his skills several times at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Dotson last sailed aboard the El Faro. He is a resident of Texas City, Texas. AMERICO GARAYUA, 60, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Garayua first shipped on the Robin Kirk. Born in Guanica, P.R., Brother Garayua upgraded a number of times at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent voyage was on board the Horizon Crusader. Brother Garayua resides in Puerto Rico. HANS GOTTSCHLICH, 66, began his seafaring career in 1980. Brother Gottschlich first shipped from New Orleans on the Oceanic Independence. The deck department member was born in Germany. Brother Gottschlich upgraded in 2000 at the training school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the USNS Brittin. Brother Gottschlich lives in Florida. April 2006 WILBERT HAYWOOD, 67, joined the union in 1998. Brother Haywood’s first voyage was on the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. He is a native of Hampton, Va. Brother Haywood attended the Piney Point school in 2000 and 2001 to upgrade his seafaring skills. His last ship was the USNS Effective. Brother Haywood calls Portsmouth, Va. home. WINSTON MARCHMAN, 70, hails from San Jose, Calif. Brother Marchman became an SIU member in 1991, first sailing aboard the USNS Harkness. Brother Marchman sailed in the steward department. He upgraded frequently at the union-affiliated school. Brother Marchman makes his home in Virginia Beach, Va. Prior to retiring from the union, he worked on the SL Pride. JOSE ORTIZ, 65, joined the SIU in 1977. Brother Ortiz, who was born in Puerto Rico, first sailed aboard a Hudson Waterways vessel. He enhanced his skills numerous times at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Ortiz most recently worked on the Maersk Carolina. He is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. MOSE PEACOCK JR., 60, began his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Peacock worked as a member of the steward department. His first ship was the Santa Maria. Brother Peacock attended classes on three occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed on the SL Lighting. Brother Peacock resides in Bradenton, Fla. ALEX RELOJO, 66, was born in the Philippines. Brother Relojo joined the union in 1990, first sailing aboard the Independence. He upgraded his skills in 1991 and 2000 at the Piney Point school. Before retiring he worked on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Relojo makes his home in San Jose, Calif. LOUIS SANTIAGO, 68, launched his SIU career in 1956. Brother Santiago first sailed aboard the Del Sud, where he was a member of the engine department. The Puerto Rico-born mariner attended classes in 1976 at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Santiago continues to call Puerto Rico home. BENIGNO SANTOS, 62, joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of New York. Brother Santos’ first vessel was the San Juan. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Santos lives in Oviedo, Fla. VINCENT SIGUENZA JR., 61, became an SIU member in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Hawaii, Brother Siguenza shipped in the steward department. His first voyage was on the Santa Maria; his most recent was on the Grand Canyon State. Brother Siguenza resides in Las Vegas. VAINUU SILI, 62, joined the union in 1974 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Sili’s first ship was the Santa Maria; his last was the Horizon Navigator. He was born in Pago Pago, American Samoa. Brother Sili, who upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center, worked in the steward department. He is a resident of Ewa Beach, Hawaii. INLAND JAMES RICE, 56, embarked on his SIU career in 1974. Boatman Rice first shipped on a vessel operated by CG Willis Inc. The North Carolina native upgraded his seafaring skills several times at the training facility in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Rice, who last worked aboard a Maritrans Operating Co. vessel, makes his home in Lowland, N.C. PAUL ROACH, 73, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1988 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Roach’s first SIU voyage was aboard the Energy Ammonia; his most recent was on the Crescent Mobile. The deck department member, who was born in Mobile, Ala., continues to reside in Alabama. GREAT LAKES DENNIS PRIDDLE, 62, joined the union in 1972. Brother Priddle sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Luedtke Engineering Company. He was born in Hazel Park, Mich. and now lives in Frankfort, Mich. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. CARSIE FAIRMAN, 67, began shipping with the NMU in 1965 from San Pedro, Calif. Brother Fairman, who is a native of Mississippi, first sailed on the Pasadena. His last ship was the Kittanning. JAMES DeCLARK, 58, joined the union in 1969 in the port of New Orleans. Brother DeClark Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 Voting on the ships of the Isthmian Steamship Company in the National Labor Relations Board election commenced on March 29. The first ship to be voted was the SS Mobile City in New Orleans, on Saturday, March 29. Within a few days, ballots were cast on the Wm. N. Byers in Galveston, the Nicaragua Victory and the Mandan Victory in Baltimore, the Thomas Cresap in New York and the Marine Fox in Seattle. All reports indicate a favorable SIU vote. (Editor’s note: The NLRB later certified the SIU as the bargaining representative of the company’s unlicensed mariners.) was born in Middletown, Pa. He most recently went to sea on the Lykes Navigator. WILLIE POMPY, 67, joined the NMU in 1968 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Pompy’s first voyage was on the Dick Lykes, where he worked as a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed aboard the Delaware Trader. TOM REAY, 56, was born in Lynn, Mass. Brother Reay became a union member in 1973. His first trip to sea, aboard the African Moon, originated from Boston, Mass. Brother Reay worked in the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Keystone Georgia. GUS WEBSTER, 65, embarked on his NMU career in 1966, first sailing from New Orleans. Brother Webster was a member of the steward department. Prior to his retirement, he shipped on the Atigun Pass. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. Name Age EDP Floyd, Anthony Hernandez, Pilar 65 66 March 1 Feb. 1 ing will be automatically given their lifeboat tickets after they have sailed for the required 90 days to gain certification. 1979 The LNG Libra, the sixth LNG vessel built by Energy Transport Company, set sail on its maiden voyage to Indonesia on April 18. The 986-foot ship becomes the eighth LNG vessel to fly the U.S. flag. Like all previous U.S.-flag LNG ships, the Libra is manned by SIU seamen. Most of the Libra’s crew has had prior experience on LNG ships. This Month In SIU History 1967 The United States Coast Guard recently granted approval of the lifeboat certification training at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. In the future, examinations for lifeboat certification will be given to seamen who attend the school after their lifeboat training without a wait to allow them to build up 90 days’ sea time. Under the arrangement with the Coast Guard, seafarers who pass the examination at the end of their lifeboat train- 1995 The SIU urged Congress to enact maritime revitalization legislation this year when the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel held its first hearing on the Maritime Security Act of 1995 (H.R. 1350) on April 6. SIU President Michael Sacco, testifying on behalf of all U.S. maritime unions, told the panel, “Enactment of maritime reform legislation is essential to our nation. Our country’s security, the survival of our industry and thousands of American jobs are at stake.” H.R. 1350 was presented to Congress on March 10 by Transportation Secretary Federico Pena. The legislation calls for a 10-year, $1 billion program that would provide annual funding for approximately 50 U.S.-flag ships. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JIM BARBACCIA Pensioner Jim Barbaccia, 83, passed away Dec. 7. Brother Barbaccia launched his SIU career in 1953 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Burbank Victory, on which he worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Barbaccia was born in New York. Prior to retiring in 1986, he sailed on the San Juan. Brother Barbaccia called Riverhead, N.Y. home. AARON FIELDS Pensioner Aaron Fields, 76, died Sept. 16. Brother Fields joined the union in 1956. Born in Louisiana, he first sailed on the Monarch of the Sea. Brother Fields retired in 1987 and made his home in Metairie, La. His last ship was the Venture. PETE HOPELAND Pensioner Pete Hopeland, 77, passed away Dec. 22. Brother Hopeland became a Seafarer in 1961 in New York. His first SIU voyage was aboard the Hurricane. Brother Hopeland, who was born in Poland, shipped in the deck department. His last voyage was on the Patriot. Brother Hopeland went on pension in 1988. He lived in Arizona. AVELINO MENDOZA Pensioner Avelino Mendoza, 67, died Sept. 20. Brother Mendoza joined the SIU in 1979, first sailing aboard a vessel operated by Anchorage Tankship Corp. Brother Mendoza, who was born in the Philippines, worked in the deck department. His last voyage was aboard the Florida. Brother Mendoza settled in Jersey City, N.J., and began receiving his retirement compensation in 2002. RAY MILLER Pensioner Ray Miller, 85, passed away Nov. 1. Brother Miller, a native of Hagerstown, Md., joined the SIU in 1961. He first sailed from New Orleans on board the Lafayette. He most recently worked on the Sealift Caribbean. Brother Miller was a resident of Rockport, Texas. The steward department member started collecting his retirement stipends in 1985. JOHN MOSS Pensioner John Moss, 77, died Sept. 29. Brother Moss began shipping with the SIU in 1966. His first vessel was the Bangor; his last was the Overseas Chicago. Brother Moss, who was born in Wisconsin, worked in the deck department. He became a 18 Seafarers LOG pensioner in 1994. Brother Moss resided in New Orleans. JAMES PRAYTOR Pensioner James Praytor, 80, passed away Sept. 17. Brother Praytor embarked on his seafaring career in 1956 in New York. His first trip to sea was aboard the Madaket. A native of Florida, Brother Praytor shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Horizon Consumer. Brother Praytor retired in 1990 and called Harvey, La. home. ALBERTO ROCHA Pensioner Alberto Rocha, 87, died Aug. 29 in New Orleans during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Brother Rocha, who was born in Brazil, joined the union in 1943 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Ocean Star. Brother Rocha last sailed on the John Penn. He started receiving his pension in 1973. Brother Rocha made his home in New Orleans. REYNALDO ROSETE Pensioner Reynaldo Rosete, 69, passed away Sept. 30. Brother Rosete began his SIU career in 1970 in Seattle. He first sailed aboard the Steel Executive. Brother Rosete, who was born in the Philippines, made his last SIU voyage on the Mariner. He went on pension in 2002 and continued to live in the Philippines. JAMES SHORTELL Pensioner James Shortell, 83, died Nov. 27. Brother Shortell became a Seafarer in 1952. He first worked aboard vessels operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Shortell was born in New York and worked in the deck department. He retired in 1987 and lived in San Francisco. INLAND DAVID JONES Pensioner David Jones, 74, passed away June 30. Boatman Jones joined the ranks of the SIU in 1951. The Virginia-born mariner last went to sea aboard a McAllister Towing Company vessel. Boatman Jones began collecting his pension in 1994. He was a resident of Chesapeake, Va. LLOYD ORR Pensioner Lloyd Orr, 80, died Aug. 11. Boatman Orr began his seafaring career in 1951, first working aboard American Bridge Company vessels. Boatman Orr was a native of Lecompte, La. His last voyage was on a G&H Towing Company vessel. Boatman Orr became a pensioner in 1987. He lived in Arkansas. GREAT LAKES MARVIN SCHMITZ Pensioner Marvin Schmitz, 71, passed away Oct. 31. Brother Schmitz joined the union in 1973. He first worked on Columbia Shipping Company vessels. Brother Schmitz, who was born in Wisconsin, sailed as a member of the deck department. Many of the vessels on which he shippped were operated by American Steamship Company. Brother Schmitz resided in his native state and went on pension in 1999. 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. RAYMOND ADDISON Pensioner Raymond Addison, 74, passed away Oct. 11. Brother Addison became an NMU member in 1951, first sailing from the port of New Orleans aboard the Brinton Lykes. He sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Addison, who was born in Louisiana, last worked on the Letitia Lykes. He retired in 1973. the NMU colors in 1941. Born in Jacksonville, Fla., he was a member of the steward department. Brother Floyd’s first voyage was on the Dorchester. The Florida native last worked aboard the Independence. In 1966, Brother Floyd began collecting his pension. KEMRON EBANKS Pensioner Kemron Ebanks, 74, passed away Oct. 1. Brother Ebanks joined the NMU in 1957, initially sailing from the port of New Orleans aboard the Gatun. He was born in Honduras. Brother Ebanks’ last sea voyage was on the James Lykes. He went on pension in 1993. DANIEL FEATHER Pensioner Daniel Feather, 82, died Oct. 16. Brother Feather commenced his seafaring career in 1943 in the port of New York. He first worked aboard the Eastern Crown as a member of the steward department. During his NMU career, Brother Feather also sailed in the engine department. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1973. HENRY FLOYD Pensioner Henry Floyd, 84, passed away Oct. 25. Brother Floyd donned Pensioner Jearline Porter, 76, died Sept. 25. Brother Porter became an NMU member in 1946, initially sailing from the port of Norfolk, Va. His first ship was the Black Jack; his last was the Chemical Pioneer. Brother Porter went on pension in 1993. PEDRO GIMENEZ Pensioner Pedro Gimenez, 81, died Sept. 18. Brother Gimenez joined the union in 1951 in the port of New York. He was born in San Juan, P.R. and shipped in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1968, Brother Gimenez sailed on the United States. CARLOS VIRELLA Pensioner Carlos Virella, 86, passed away Oct. 16. Born in Guayama, P.R., Brother Virella began his NMU career in 1952. His first voyage was aboard the Washington. Brother Virella sailed as a member of the steward department. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1972. ROBERT MITCHELTREE Pensioner Robert Mitcheltree, 70, passed away Nov. 20. Brother Mitcheltree began sailing with the NMU in 1971 after serving in the U.S. Army. The deck department member was born in Iowa City, Iowa. Brother Mitcheltree retired in 1999 and resided in Houston. MELVIN DAVIS Pensioner Melvin Davis, 77, died Oct. 24. Brother Davis started his NMU career in 1944. He was a native of Virginia. Before retiring in 1983, Brother Davis shipped on the American Lynx. JEARLINE PORTER JOSE MUNDO Pensioner Jose Mundo, 83, passed away Sept. 25. Brother Mundo began his career with the NMU in 1949. He first shipped from the port of Baltimore, Md. aboard the Texas Trader. Born in Panama, Brother Mundo was a member of the engine department. He last sailed on the Adventure. Brother Mundo became a pensioner in 1987. ARTHUR NETTLES Pensioner Arthur Nettles, 79, died Sept. 27. Brother Nettles embarked on his seafaring career in 1949 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The steward department member, who was born in Alabama, most recently worked aboard the Texaco Mississippi. He started receiving his retirement stipends in 1988. WALTER PIERCE Pensioner Walter Pierce, 84, passed away Oct. 22. Brother Pierce started sailing with the NMU in 1970 from San Pedro, Calif. His first ship was the Buffalo Wallow. During his seafaring career, Brother Pierce shipped in the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Kittanning before retiring in 1983. 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 Andrew, Charles Aviles, Ricardo Boswell, Lawrence Burns, James Calicchio, Vincent Calvente, Victor Chamorro, Hector Coates, James Crombie, James Cruz, Bernardino Geleta, Zigmund Giraudo, Emma Grucko, Michael Guterrez, Frank Harmacey, Constantine Hazen, Charles Higgins, Haman Johnson, Lawrence Kanazawa, Ken Lawless, Joseph Leon, Pedro Lopez, Ramona Martenez, Victor Martin, Freddy McDonough, Alberto Medina, Arturo Merrill, Edwin Montanez, Francisco Morales, Alberto Nelson, Chapman Padilla, Joseph Pintor, Juan Polete, Thomas Richmond, James Rodriguez, Samuel Scott, Anthony Seifried, John Shackelford, Russell Simon, Joseph Singleton, Joseph Strom, Kenneth Taville, Harley Tenreiro, Julio Valdez, Larry Vigo, Pedro Vilbar, Sofronio Webster, Andrew Williams, Arthur Age DOD 86 90 79 82 81 87 66 94 79 84 85 94 78 83 Feb. 16 Feb. 23 Feb. 27 Dec. 9 Feb. 5 Feb. 2 Jan. 11 Jan. 11 Feb. 1 Feb. 13 Jan. 26 Feb. 26 Nov. 18 Jan. 3 78 71 88 79 82 89 95 82 81 81 78 79 71 84 84 87 85 81 88 78 84 70 92 90 78 55 80 80 86 79 86 97 80 84 Jan. 30 Jan. 16 Nov. 10 Feb. 23 Feb. 2 Jan. 29 Dec. 29 Jan. 13 Feb. 5 Jan. 21 Dec. 23 Feb. 22 Jan. 17 Jan. 8 Jan. 21 Feb. 1 Dec. 30 Jan. 31 Dec. 3 Jan. 8 Dec. 22 Dec. 18 Jan. 10 Feb. 19 Dec. 21 Jan. 8 Jan. 13 Dec. 23 Jan 21 Jan. 28 Jan. 21 Jan. 26 Feb. 7 Nov. 12 April 2006 �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. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), Jan. 30—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary Gregory N. Williams, Educational Director Joseph B. Callaghan, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Couture. Chairman announced arrival of ship in Guam on Feb. 1 and advised crew to be ready for heavy work schedule, including bunkers, stores and military security training. He also discussed new launch time table for Guam and Saipan. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. List of upcoming courses is in each issue of Seafarers LOG. Treasurer stated $617 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked fellow crew members for their support over last four months. Printer to be installed on crew’s computer and, hopefully, receipt of new copy machine. CHEMICAL TRADER (Intrepid Personnel), Jan. 29—Chairman Michael D. Wittenberg, Secretary Josue L. Iglesia, Educational Director Troy D. Banks, Steward Delegate Manes Sainvil. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Providence, R.I. He also spoke about changes made to health care and prescription benefits. He noted that crew members had lots of questions and requested more information and contact person. Secretary reminded Seafarers of importance to contributing to SPAD. Educational director encouraged everyone to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $2,414 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made to increase wages in next contract and lower age required to retire. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good meals every day. CP LIBERATOR (Marine Transport Lines), Jan. 27— Chairman Zeki Karaahmet, Secretary Alvin E. Major, Educational Director Ronnie L. Day Jr. Deck Delegate Terrell Alston, Engine Delegate Manuel A. Uy Jr., Steward Delegate Alan J. Wolansky. Chairman announced Jan. 28 payoff in Houston. He led discussion of president’s report from latest LOG, and spoke about crucial role SPAD contributions play in livelihood of Seafarers. Educational director advised mariners to check document expiration dates and start renewal process early, if necessary. Treasurer stated $10,241 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made that transportation be provided from gangway to gate since taxis are not allowed on docks in Charleston. Thanks given to April 2006 steward department for job well done. INTREPID (Maersk Line Limited), Jan. 30—Chairman Frank P. Sena, Secretary Guillermo F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Engine Delegate Erik Nappier. Chairman reported that new washer and dryer had been received aboard ship. Educational director urged members to upgrade seafaring skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded them to check expiration dates on all documents and keep them current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request submitted for two reclining chairs as well as weight machines for crew and officer lounges. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good work and food. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles, Calif. SEABULK TRADER (Seabulk Tankers), Jan. 27—Chairman Robert J. Coleman, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Educational Director LeBarron West. Chairman notified crew that vessel would anchor Jan. 29 on arrival in Lakes Charles, La. Payoff would take place at the dock with patrolman present. Educational director informed mariners of pullout section of January LOG devoted to Piney Point classes and descriptions of each course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested washing machine be replaced. Members were asked to help environmental efforts by continuing to separate plastics from trash. Everyone was thanked for assisting in keeping house clean. USNS BOB HOPE (American Overseas Marine), Jan. 27— Chairman Eugene T. Grantham, Secretary Pedro R. Castillo, Educational Director Samuel Deason, Engine Delegate David M. Dunklin. Chairman stated payoff to take place Jan. 31 in Tacoma, Wash. Secretary reported smooth sailing during recent voyage. Treasurer stated $919.12 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members were asked to bring garbage to trash room on A deck before getting off ship and clean room for next person. USNS FISHER (American Overseas Marine), Jan. 22— Chairman William D. Leachman, Secretary Leslie Davis, Deck Delegate Luis A. Valerio, Steward Delegate Tamara A. Houston. Chairman reported good crew. Educational director encouraged everyone to attend upgrading classes at Seafarers-affiliated school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on transportation, which appears to be changing each trip. Thanks given to all three departments for great work. Next port and port of pay- off: Charleston, S.C. ACHIEVER (Maersk Line Limited), Feb.5—Chairman William Henderson, Secretary John G. Reid, Educational Director Christopher M. Devonish, Deck Delegate Craig A. Pare, Engine Delegate Gary J. Timmons, Steward Delegate Bernadette R. Yancy. Chairman thanked crew for a safe trip. Secretary stated stores were replenished in Houston and expressed gratitude to all aboard for a great trip. Educational director advised members to keep documents current and attend Piney Point training facility to upgrade skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested installation of satellite TV and radios in all rooms. GREEN DALE (Waterman Steamship Corp.), Feb. 6— Chairman William R. Britten, Secretary Julio J. Marcone, Deck Delegate William D. Dukes, Engine Delegates Arthur L. Guy, Steward Delegate Bienvenido C. Badillo. Chairman thanked steward department for great food during trip. He advised those leaving ship that yearly pay raise is still due and if they do not receive a check within a month, contact their hiring hall. Educational director informed crew they should take advantage of the many courses available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like internet access. Fans for rooms also would be appreciated since air conditioning is strained when in Persian Gulf. Clarification requested on OT for sanitary done outside normal working hours. Next port and port of payoff: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON CRUSADER (Horizon Lines), Feb. 25— Chairman Antonio M. Mercado, Secretary Joseph P. Emidy, Steward Delegate Richard A. Gegenheimer. Chairman announced payoff Jan. 27 in Oakland, Calif. and thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. Recommendations made regarding pension and medical plans, and suggestions given for new work rules in next contract. Crew members were advised to bring up all safety issues at safety meetings. Next port and port of payoff: Oakland, Calif. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Feb. 7—Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary William E. Bryley, Educational Director Milan Dzurek. Chairman reported SIU apprentice to leave early due to father’s illness. Crew members pitched in to help offset cost of airline ticket to East Coast. He asked that crew keep him and his father in their prayers and hoped the apprentice will return to vessel, “as he will make a good shipmate one day.” Educational director urged members to keep track of expiration dates of shipping documents and upgrade at Piney Point facility as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary reminded departing crew to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Crew thanked steward department for barbecue and bosun for good trip. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Feb. 12— Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director David S. Fricker, Deck Delegate Gerald Freeman, Engine Delegate Gualberto M. Salaria, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 16. Secretary thanked crew members for being good shipmates and helping keep house clean. Educational director recommended everyone keep upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $900 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held con- to utilize resources available at Piney Point school and stay on top of MMDs and passport renewal. Treasurer stated $8,172.08 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made pertaining to health care plan. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (OSG Ship Management), Feb. 4—Chairman Raymond J. Novak Jr., Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Michael E. Valdez, Deck Delegate James L. Davis, Engine Delegate Sonny Kongmany, Steward Delegate USNS Yano Stops in Baltimore During a December stopover in the port of Baltimore, these photos of the USNS Yano’s galley gang were taken. The crew members shown are (clockwise, from top left) SA Jouan Jackson, Chief Steward Brandon Maeda, SA Daniel Miller and Chief Cook Tommy Smith. cerning upcoming contract negotiations in 2006. Before voting, Seafarers should make sure to read proposed contract and understand it. Next port: Oakland, Calif. MAERSK ALABAMA (Maersk Line Limited), Feb. 14— Chairman Timothy D. Girard, Secretary Osvaldo Ramos, Educational Director Alfredo O. Cuevas, Deck Delegate William P. Foley, Engine Delegate Seller T. Brooks. Chairman encouraged members to renew MMDs before they expire and contribute to SPAD as it is our voice in Washington. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to lower retirement age. Entire crew was commended for good voyage and safe work. Next port: Dubai. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), Feb. 4— Chairman Jose F. Cahallero, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Philip R. Ayotte, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov, Steward Delegate Alexander P. Cordero. Chairman announced Feb. 11 payoff in Newark, N.J. Secretary gave a special thanks to all departments for help in maintaining safe, clean ship. Educational director urged crew Lamberto O. Palamos. Chairman announced Feb. 5 payoff in New Orleans. The next voyage will be to the Far East. He reviewed new requirements needed to maintain health care benefits. Educational director encouraged crew members to take advantage of resources available at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested direct deposit for allotment checks. Discussion held about purchase of DVDs, movie locker hours, watchstanding and pension benefits. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (LMS Ship Management), Feb. 26—Chairman Henry J. Gable Sr., Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Alfred G. Lane, Deck Delegate Tibby L. Clotter, Steward Delegate Rocel C. Alvarez. Chairman read and led discussion of president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Educational director encouraged all mariners to enhance seafaring abilities at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase wages and pension amounts. Clarification requested on working dues and what it is used for. Crew members thanked steward department for hard work and great food. Seafarers LOG 19 �Know Your Rights Letter to the Editor Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Remembering the John W. Brown I would like to inform all SIU members about a book in print that would be of much interest to Seafarers. The title is “Shipmates: The Restoration of the Liberty Ship John W. Brown.” The book is being published in two volumes. The first volume is now available; Volume II will be on sale sometime near the end of 2006. It can be purchased on the ship (located in Baltimore at Pier 1 on Clinton Street) or at a bookstore near you. The author, Ernest Imhoff, was managing editor of the Baltimore Evening Sun and is now a crew member on the ship. Many SIU members have toured the ship while in training at Piney Point, Md. And old timers who are retired and have sailed the Liberty ships certainly would have an interest in reading about the John W. Brown. This vessel was built in Baltimore in 1942 and saw war service, duty as a school ship in New York City and now has been restored to full operating status. The book is interesting and an easy read. Ted Vargas, Oiler SS John W. Brown Seafarer Publishes Memoir As a child of the Great Depression, Cornelius “Buzz” Sawyer was born in Darlington County, S.C. in 1930, the second youngest of 10 children. By the time he finished high school in 1947, he knew he would one day fulfill his dreams of traveling the world. It all started when he dropped out of college at Kentucky State in Frankfort in 1951 and signed on with the Navy. He later joined the NMU and made his first voyage to Australia and New Zealand, stopping briefly in Tahiti and Pago Pago in the late 1960s. Over the years, after a number of voyages to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America and the Caribbean, he came ashore briefly between shipping to study history in San Francisco and serve as a substitute teacher in the Norfolk public school system. He also earned a B.A. in 1972 at San Francisco State University. Even while pursuing his education, Sawyer’s first love was the sea. He retired in 1996 and continued substitute teaching for several years before returning to California and Oregon. This book is about two voyages Sawyer made early in his NMU career—in 1966 and 1967—while serving as a messman aboard the Marine Charger. He had a talent for meeting people and learning as much as he could about the places he visited, including Australia, New Zealand and Japan and then into the heart of the Vietnam War Zone. Sawyer writes about not only the crew members and daily life aboard ship, but also about all the sights and sounds of the locations he visited and the life-long friends he made along the way. At every port, he encountered various perspectives when it came to addressing Civil Rights and other relevant issues of the day. He particularly enjoyed Australia and New Zealand, and when asked to come back and stay awhile, Sawyer said, “Thanks, but America is my home. That’s where I was born and I have no intention of living any place else; not even Africa where my roots are. I may visit other parts of the world as part of my job, but America will always be home to me through the best and worst of times.” The book, which sells for $14.95, is available through amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. 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. 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. 4/06 20 Seafarers LOG 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: Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? In order to help ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices—a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. April 2006 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for March through June 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 Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman April 17 May 12 May 29 June 23 April 17 April 21 April 3 April 14 May 15 June 2 Radar April 3 April 14 Radar Renewal (one day) April 24 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops May 22 July 14 FOWT May 22 July 22 Junior Engineer April 3 June 23 Welding May 8 May 26 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training - AB April 10 April 14 Government Vessels - FOWT April 3 April 7 May 15 May 19 June 26 June 30 April 3 April 14 June 5 June 16 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (*must have basic fire fighting) (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) Lifeboatman/Water Survival 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 March 20, 2006. Recertification Bosun April 10 May 8 UPGRADE AT THE PAUL HALL CENTER � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, 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 ________________________________________________ April 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. 4/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 671 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 671. They are (in alphabetical order) James Alaniz, Wayne Altoonian, Anthony Berry, Steven Blair, Reid Bland, Dominique Calvy, Lewis Coleman, Eutiquio Flores, Ricardo Former, Dallon Garnett, Michael Iverson, Jesse James, Demarius Jones, Ronald King, Derek King, Benjamin Mullis, Casey O’Brien, Dathennile Parker, Algernon Reed, Michael Sedita, Taufiq Wasel and Pavis Whitley. AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Feb. 17 are (in no specific order) Ricky Myers, Timothy Heil, Elliott Del Aguila, Nur Holis, James Roy, Vincent Deguzman, Cory Gardner, Carlo Blaajadia, Timothy Watson, Carlos Gibbons, Sergio Gonzalez, Adam Ramey, Teresa Ward, Karberto Ramos, Joselier Itaralde, Leon Curtis III, Carlos Lucas, Vincent Hamm and Geoffrey Hall. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Chief Cook— Graduates of a recent chief cook class are (from left, front row) Elba Alfaro, Arlene Thomas, Chef John Dobson (instructor), and (back row) Paul Gelrud (galley staff), James Dewy, John Farreaux, Lisa Farreaux, Larry Bachelor and Syed Mortanza. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — One group of unlicensed apprentices who graduated from the tanker assistant class ending Jan. 20 are (in no specific order) Christina Earhart, Ryan Tompkins, Joseph Wiegand, José Rodriguez, Gustavo Brown-Costas, Cornell Harris, Martin Hamilton, Dorthea Roxas, David Moses, Conan Leegard, Clifford Cronan, Brian Finney, Francis Miller, Jesse Tornabene, Vadym Gutara, Jimmie Lee Williams Jr., Robert Hayes, Isaac Jackson, Luke Short and Amber Short. Specially Trained OS — The 15 Alaska fishermen who completed the STOS course Feb. 10, as well as the Lifeboat and STCW courses, are (in no specific order) Thomas Bruckman, Edward Chalmers, Holli O’Neal, Stanley Ness, Donald Dix, Theodore Jenks, Paul Hannan, George Slattery, Kevin Stehlik, Glenn Van Dyck, Mitchell Martin, Daniel Coffey, Michael Wolf, Norman Degner and Francisca Guillen. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, is at far right. Computer Lab Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — A second group of Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever graduates of the tanker assistant class ending Jan. 20 are (in no specific order) Perry Anglin, Marvin Porter, Jeffrey Tyson, Russell Blanks, Natalie Tremblay, Robert Light, Richard Pérez, Ryan Wall, Tyson Sherman, David Vandecar, Enrique Defendini, Micheal Williams, LeGarrius Jones, Adrian Taylor, Brian Elam, Ben Hulsey, Michael Callahan, Juan Gonzalez, Terrence Sawyer and Marcus Campbell. reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may Holding his certificates of achievement for courses recently completed in the computer lab is Scott Paxton with his instructor, Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center) are students who completed the welding course Feb. 10. They are Scott Paxton (left) and Greg Abalos Jr. take that place. April 2006 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankerman (PIC) Barge — Completing this course Feb. 17 under the instruction of Mitch Oakley (second from left) are (in alphabetical order) John Andrade, James Fekany, Kenneth Graybill, John Lee, Robert Lutz Jr., Frank Monteiro and Jeff Obney Sr. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Jan. 20 was graduation day for the 12 students in the water survival course. They are (in no specific order) Paul Gross, James Roy, Nur Holis, Budiman Chandra, Timothy Heil, Nagi Musaid, Kevin Stehlik, Rafael Irizarry, Victor Stewart, George Slattery, Ricky Myers and Yjohnzail Mack. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far right. STCW — NCL, Feb. 2: Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the tanker assistant course Feb. 17 are (in no specific order) David Grasso, Ali Ali, Yjohnzail Mack, Tracy Hill, James Pierce, Steve Kastel, Terrance Bing, Miguel Abad, Tawrence Abrams, Christopher Vincenzo, Robert Taylor, David Merida, Arthur Kately III, Eugene Edwards Jr., Joseph Williams IV, Arnold Jackson, Todd Peden, Antonio Arizala, Korron Richardson and Justin VanPelt. (Note: not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Herb Walling, is at far right. Eric Aguilar-Mendelson, Eric Aoyagi, Cris Arsenio, Rita Avila, Daniel Bamba, Michael Barr, Nicholas Beasley, Judith Benjudah, Michael Betancourt, Rolando Cadungon, Keitha Carriere, Richard Charles, Yvonda Chatman, Edgar Cortez, Andy Cosgrove, Edward Cromaz, Christina Davis, Donald Dischler, Mark Dyer, Nicholas Fairbanks and Mari Suzuki. STCW — NCL, Feb. 2: Ashley Goguen, Jason Goldman, Ellyn Groves, Carlos Gutierrez, Darwin Harris, Sehala Headley, Joshua Hefton, Michelle Helms, Desiree Jackson, Marcus Jackson, Oscar Jaime, Angela Jerde, Steven Joseph, Hakki Kavsit, Richard Kier, Mathew Kline, Lloyd Knight, Doreen Latimer, Mike Leccese, Paul Lentini and Tayler Lindsey. Specially Trained OS — Unlicensed apprentices in Phase III of the program completed the STOS course Feb. 24. They are (in no specific order) Robert Hayes, Perry Anglin, Cliff Cronan, Brian Finney, Francis Miller, Juan Gonzalez, Justin Sleaton, David Vandecar, Conan Leegard, Micheal Williams, Jeffrey Tyson, Ben Julsey, Robert Light, Richard Perez and Vadym Gutara. (Note: not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Stan Beck, is second from right. April 2006 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Completing this course Feb. 24 are Phase III unlicensed apprentices (in no specific order) Ryan Tompkins, Joseph Wiegand, Cornell Harris, Christina Earhart, Isaac Jackson, José Rodriguez, LeGarrius Jones, Jimmie Williams, Jesse Tornabene, Brian Elam, Russell Blanks, Michael Callahan, Gustavo Costas, Ryan Wall, Adrian Taylor, Tyson Sherman, Martin Hamilton and Wanda Davis. (Note: not all are pictured.) Specially Trained OS — Under the instuction of Stacey Harris (far left) are students who completed the STOS course Feb. 24. They are (in no specific order) unlicensed apprentices Brian Finey, Perry Anglin, Enrique Defendini, Natalie Tremblay and Clifford Cronan and SIU upgraders Nagi Musaid, Robert Godwin, Dionce Bright, Brian Jackson and Wilbur Williams. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 68, Number 4 April 2006 NMU Pension, Annuity & 401(k) Plans and NMU Vacation Plan Summary of 2005 Material Modifications — page 14 USNS Mercy Readies for Next Mission CIVMARS Prep Hospital Ship for Western Pacific Deployment A recent visit to the USNS Mercy in San Diego found members of the SIU’s Government Services Division expertly readying the hospital ship for a humanitarian mission to the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia this spring. SIU CIVMARS sail in all three shipboard departments aboard the Mercy. The vessel’s deployment is expected to last five months and is being coordinated with several nations. Specific locations for the ship’s upcoming operations haven’t been announced, but the mission will be carried out in conjunction with non-governmental relief organizations, according to the U.S. Navy. For this deployment, the Mercy is being configured with special medical equipment and a robust multi-specialized medical team of uniformed and civilian health care providers to offer a range of services ashore as well as aboard the ship. Like its sister ship, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Comfort, the Mercy supports medical and humanitarian assistance needs and can rapidly respond to a various situations on short notice. For instance, the hospital ship last year mobilized to help victims of the tsunami that struck Southeast Asia in late 2004. That deployment resulted in the treatment of more than 9,500 patients and 19,512 medical procedures being performed in Indonesia, East Timor and Papua New Guinea. The Mercy normally is based in San Diego. It can support various services such as casualty reception, optometry, physical therapy, burn care, and radiological, laboratory and dental treatments. The Mercy is 894 feet long and has a beam of 105 feet, 7 inches. The ship’s draft is listed at 32 feet, 10 inches; its displacement is 69,360 long tons. The vessel’s top speed is 17.5 knots. AB Oliver Jones blasts the ship’s deck. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy has 12 fully equipped operating rooms, 1,000 hospital beds and a medical laboratory, among other equipment. SIU Asst. VP Government Services Chet Wheeler (right), 3rd Officer (and NMU hawsepiper) Richard Paramore AB Ovido Barongdan sands on deck. Yeoman Storekeeper Benjamin Guinto Jr. Jr. Supply Officer Reynaldo Sansano AB Dale Witham � 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 April 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HORIZON LINES CHARTERS NEW SHIPS ILO ADOPTS INNOVATIVE MARITIME CONVENTION FINANCIAL COMMITTEE OKAYS RECORDS U.S. FLEET’S PROGRESS, VALUE EMPHASIZED SIU MEMBERS CREW UP 3RD NCL AMERICA SHIP STEVE JUDD: REMEMBERING ONE OF THE BEST CREWS EARN MORE KUDOS FOR RELIEF MISSIONS FEDERAL COURT SAYS NO TO NSPS ITF GETS $240,000IN BACK PAY FOR CREW LAKES BOSUNS ATTEND ANNUAL MEETING MSC WELCOMES NEW COMMANDER CAR CARRIER JEAN ANNE IS NAMED MAGAZINES ‘SHIP OF THE YEAR’ APPRECIATIVE SIU RECERTIFIED STEWARDS SHARE HOW AND WHY UNION, SCHOOL WORK FOR THEM NORTHERN LIGHTS RECOGNIZED FOR ‘COMMITMENT’ IN OIF PORT AGENT POWELL APPOINTED TO STATE AFL-CIO COMMITTEE SIU, UIW TO PARTICIPATE IN ANNUAL UNION SHOW S.F. PORT AGENT COSS RETIRES MTD SPEAKERS UNDERSCORE JONES ACT’S VALUE TO AMERICA ‘WE COULD NOT HAVE FOUGHT THIS WAR WITHOUT YOU’ NEW COURSE FOR HEALTH REFORM IS STATE BY STATE U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY PRAISED FOR HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS USNS MERCY READIES FOR NEXT MISSION CIVMARS PREP HOSPITAL SHIP FOR WESTERN PACIFIC DEPLOYMENT 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 04/01/2006 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. 4 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/b3048482ebffd0e9c4d228130e6522fd.pdf f8a8e72f96fba873118d3fbd0781c6bb PDF Text Text Volume 68, Number 3 March 2006 Seafarers Are Thanked For Gulf Relief Efforts SIU members recently were recognized during a ceremony for their key roles in hurricane relief efforts in New Orleans. More than 500 Seafarers sailed in the relief mission following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Among those honored by the U.S. Maritime Administration and the Port of New Orleans were (left photo) Chief Steward Eddie Taylor, pictured aboard the Cape Kennedy enthusiastically serving a hot breakfast to Mary Sandolph and Chico Morales of MarAd’s Central Region; and steward department members from the Empire State (below left, from left) Chief Cook Rodwell Thompson, Steward/Baker Habib Boualem, SA Wanda Kelly, SA Edward Dorsey, Steward/Baker Christopher Amigable and Assistant Cook M. Zawkari. Page 3. As they have done throughout Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, Seafarers continue delivering the goods for U.S. troops. At least 11 SIU-crewed ships remain mobilized for OIF, not including vessels from the SIU’s Government Services Division, which also are involved in the mission. Others are sailing in support of Enduring Freedom. Below, the combat stores ship USNS Niagara Falls delivers stores to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan Feb. 5 in the South China Sea. The carrier was on its maiden deployment for the war on terror. SIU Members (Still) Deliver For U.S. Troops A U.S. Marine in Kuwait waits for a truck to roll off the ramp of the SIU-crewed USNS Bellatrix during troop rotations in Iraq. Pages 10-11. 9th T-AKE Ship Ordered Page 3 Lykes Motivator Honored Page 4 Memorial Funds Established Page 4 Questions Surround Ferry Disaster Page 5 �President’s Report Ferry Disaster’s Lessons Reading some of the first news reports about the sinking of the Panamanian-flag ferry Al Salam Boccaccio 98 last month in the Red Sea, I kept hoping that the articles were wrong. The disaster itself, which looks to have claimed more than 1,000 lives, is bad enough. But the circumstances, which include unofficial allegations of incompetence by crew members and abandonment by the captain, make it even worse. Investigations on this scale typically take a long time, and that’s to be expected when you consider Michael Sacco not only the scope of the disaster but also the potential liability. It will take time before all the facts are known. Still, the earliest media coverage of the Feb. 3 sinking near Egypt included some very disturbing points. Passengers said they not only weren’t assisted by the crew, in some cases they actually were told either to remove their life jackets or not to bother putting them on in the first place. This was despite the fact that the ferry was on fire and taking on water. Survivors also said that the captain didn’t attempt to return the ferry to shore even after the fire started. They claimed that the captain and crew “just went off in the lifeboats and left us.” We may never know about this, as the captain is among the missing. However, one of the ship’s officers said that the crew’s inability to handle firefighting operations caused the sinking. Again because of the nature of the investigation, it still isn’t clear whether any of the crew members had undergone safety training. But it seems safe to say that no matter their backgrounds, they couldn’t have handled the shipboard emergency any worse. Can you imagine an American crew reacting like that? Can you imagine U.S. mariners not knowing how to handle a fire and then running away while innocent passengers were left on their own? The SIU doesn’t work that way. The U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole doesn’t operate that way. I often describe our membership as the best-trained mariners in the world. That’s not just a catch-phrase, it’s the truth. We’re held to a higher standard when it comes to shipboard safety. We exceed a lot of the government’s requirements anyway, through many of the safety courses offered at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Accidents happen. They can happen to anyone. But in this business there’s simply no excuse for not being prepared. That’s especially true on a passenger vessel of any kind. On that note, I remain proud of the mandatory safety training offered at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point for all of the crew members heading to the SIU-contracted NCL America ships. The school provides U.S. Coast Guard-certified safety training that includes lifeboat, crowd control, fire fighting, first aid, CPR and much more. And if you don’t pass the course, you don’t set foot on those ships. The rest of our membership also is committed to safety. Thousands upon thousands of Seafarers have completed STCW Basic Safety Training at the Paul Hall Center. They and others routinely execute shipboard fire and boat drills and other safety exercises designed to help ensure that if an emergency arises, they’ll react with speed and efficiency. If all foreign-flag crews consistently were held to the same high standards as we are in the U.S., our industry would be a lot safer. In part, that’s why our union always has been active in the International Transport Workers’ Federation—an organization dedicated to protecting transportation employees all over the world. At its core, the ITF is about doing the right thing. It’s about treating people fairly and promoting safety and productivity for the benefit of all concerned. The SIU remains fully on board with the ITF’s goals, and that’s why it was so sickening to read about the Al Salam Boccaccio 98. In this day and age, with the safety training that’s available and the sophisticated shipboard equipment that can help save lives, a disaster like this one shouldn’t occur. Through our unwavering commitment to safety for all mariners around the globe, we’ll do everything possible to help make sure it never happens again. Volume 68, Number 3 March 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 ITF Inspectors Team Up, Secure Back Pay for Crew The multinational crew of the Panamanian-flag gambling ship Island Casino recently received more than $81,000 in back pay, thanks to the work of inspectors from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). SIU ITF Inspector Tony Sacco and fellow inspector Enrique Lozano (based in Mexico) late last year answered a call for assistance from mariners aboard the gaming vessel, which normally sails around the Caribbean Islands. The crew hadn’t been paid since mid-October and was concerned that they wouldn’t be paid at all. After initial attempts failed to secure the back wages, Sacco prepared to have the ship arrested in early January. The Island Casino’s Jacksonville, Fla.-based owner then paid the total amount due to the mariners (a crew that included Filipinos, Mexicans and Americans). “The crew was very happy that the ITF delivered,” Sacco noted. “We also assisted in rectifying a shortage of food and water on the ship.” The SIU is an ITF affiliate and actively has supported the federation’s efforts for decades—most prominently the ITF campaign against so-called flags of convenience (FOCs), but also including global outreach for crews facing any unfair treatment. In 2004 (the most recent year for which complete data is available), ITF inspectors worldwide recovered $25.1 million in back pay for mariners. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as vice chairman of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section. He recently participated in the successful meetings of the international shipowners’ Joint Negotiation Group, which bargained for a contract covering 55,000 mariners on more than 3,200 vessels. The ITF itself was founded in 1896 and now consists of more than 600 transport trade unions in 137 countries. ITF member unions represent more than five million workers. A flag of convenience ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of ownership. According to the ITF, cheap registration fees, low or no taxes and freedom to employ cheap labor are the motivating factors behind a shipowner’s decision to “flag out.” On its web site, the federation notes, “The ITF takes into account the degree to which foreign-owned vessels are registered and fly the country flag, as well as the following additional criteria, when declaring a register an FOC: The ability and willingness of the flag state to enforce international minimum social standards on its vessels, including respect for basic human and trade union rights, freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining with bona fide trade unions; the social record as determined by the degree of ratification and enforcement of ILO Conventions and Recommenda- tions; and the safety and environmental record as revealed by the ratification and enforcement of IMO Conventions and revealed by port state control inspections, deficiencies and detentions.” The ITF believes there should be a genuine link between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). There is no genuine link in the case of FOC registries. Some of these registers have poor safety and training standards and place no restriction on the nationality of the crew. Sometimes, because of language differences, seafarers can’t communicate effectively with each other, putting safety and the efficient operation of the ship at risk. “Once a ship is registered under an FOC, many shipowners then recruit the cheapest labor they can find, pay minimal wages and cut costs by lowering standards of living and working conditions for the crew,” the ITF notes. “Globalization has helped to fuel this rush to the bottom. In an increasingly fierce competitive shipping market, each new FOC is forced to promote itself by offering the lowest possible fees and the minimum of regulation. In the same way, ship owners are forced to look for the cheapest and least regulated ways of running their vessels in order to compete, and FOCs provide the solution.” In the long run, the federation aims to eliminate the FOC system and establish “a regulatory framework for the shipping industry.” Meanwhile, the ITF will continue to “attack sub-standard shipping and seek ITF acceptable standards on all ships irrespective of flag, using all the political, industrial and legal means at the ITF’s disposal; protect and enhance the conditions of employment of maritime workers and to ensure that all maritime workers, regardless of color, nationality, sex, race or creed, are protected from exploitation by their employers and those acting on their behalf; (and) individually strengthen affiliated unions, in all aspects, so as to ensure the provision and delivery of a greater degree of solidarity in the campaign.” ITF’s Seafarers’ Trust Celebrates 25 Years of Helping Mariners The Seafarers’ Trust, the ITF’s non-political charity arm which exists solely to improve seafarers’ welfare, reached its 25th anniversary on Jan. 18. Since its founding in 1981, the Seafarers’ Trust has donated $120 million to good causes, according to the federation. In a news release, the ITF noted that the 2,250 projects sponsored by the Trust in that time include 144 grants for new seafarers’ centers and mission facilities, 482 grants for the refurbishment and rebuilding of existing facilities for seafarers, and helping to supply more than 1,000 minibuses that take mariners from remote docksides to missions, accommodation, health centers and visitor attractions. The Trust also sponsors the World Maritime University in Malmo, the Seafarers’ International Research Centre in Cardiff, the International Seafarers’ Assistance Network, and the Seafarers’ Health Information Programme. It has funded groundbreaking work in ship-to-shore communications and mariners’ health. Tom Holmer, administrative officer of the Seafarers’ Trust, explained, “We’re delighted to reach our silver jubilee, proud of what has been achieved—often alongside outstanding partners such as the Mission to Seafarers, the Apostleship of the Sea and others— and mindful of the continuing struggle to improve seafarers’ lot.” Chris York, national director of the Apostleship of the Sea, commented, “The Apostleship of the Sea worldwide offers many congratulations and sincere thanks to the ITF Seafarers’ Trust for their work for seafarers’ welfare over the last 25 years. The generosity and farsightedness of the Trust has helped maintain many small endeavors in maritime welfare whilst promoting more and more cooperative and ecumenical ventures, thus making the outreach of the Apostleship of the Sea and our colleagues in the International Christian Maritime Association more and more effective over time. We look forward to the continued and vital support of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust in future years.” Natalie Wiseman, International Shipping Federation secretary, said, “The Trust has been an active partner over the last 10 years in the International Committee on Seafarers’ Welfare, alongside government bodies, religious organizations, the ISF and the ILO. In this capacity it has helped to provide sport, health and welfare provision for seafarers.” Holmer concluded, “There can be no better time than now to set our priorities for the coming years. This will include a new emphasis on taking welfare services closer to seafarers on board ship. As turnaround times have reduced we have seen the need for the accommodation we used to fund shrunk. We need to be getting out there, meeting seafarers and finding out what they need.” The Seafarers’ Trust is funded by the profits from the investments of the ITF Welfare Fund, as well as the profits from its own Trust fund. It is dedicated to the support of seafarers’ spiritual, moral and physical wellbeing, irrespective of nationality or religion. March 2006 �Seafarers Honored for Relief Efforts MarAd Approves Medals for ‘Outstanding Achievement’ Members of the SIU’s deep sea and inland divisions were among those honored Jan. 30 during a ceremony jointly sponsored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) and the Port of New Orleans. The event, which took place in New Orleans, recognized individuals and organizations for their relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina last summer. Approximately 100 people, including a half-dozen Seafarers and SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, participated in the ceremony. “It was a good turnout and good recognition, for sure,” said Seafarer Raymond Schwartz, who sails as a captain with Crescent Towing, one of the companies commended at the event. “A lot has been done to get the port back up and running.” A spokesperson for the port of New Orleans said that as of early February, the port was operating at about 80 percent of capacity. “The ceremony was fantastic,” said Chief Steward Eddie Taylor, who has worked aboard the Cape Kennedy throughout the relief operations. “It was a good feeling, recognizing everybody that had a part in the recovery, no matter how big or small. Give the port and everyone else who had a hand in the ceremony praise for doing it.” “What struck me during the ceremony was the appreciation for so much cooperation and productivity under very difficult and unique circumstances,” Judd said. “After the hurricane, things could have fallen apart very easily, but it didn’t happen. Everybody found a way to make it work.” Seafarers sailed aboard at least 14 vessels that were involved in Katrina relief operations, whether the ships already were in the area when the hurricane struck or were activated later. SIU boatmen from Crescent Towing played crucial and immediate roles throughout the port, particularly during the storm’s immediate aftermath. Those mariners and others were recognized at the ceremony by featured speakers including John Jamian, acting administrator of MarAd; Gary LaGrange, president and CEO of the Port of New Orleans; and Rear Admiral Robert Duncan, commander of the Eighth U.S. Coast Guard District and commander of the agency’s Maritime Defense Command Eight, which is based in New Orleans. Seafarers received certificates of appreciation, and MarAd also announced that it has approved the awarding of the Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement to the crews and operating companies of the agency’s ships that supported recovery efforts from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement was established in 2002, and is awarded to members of the maritime industry who have “given extraordinarily valuable contributions to the merchant marine,” according to the agency. “The men and women who crewed and operated these ships provided relief and care to the Gulf Coast at a critical time, and they have brought great honor and distinction to the U.S. Merchant Marine,” said Jamian. “They moved quickly into the stricken area and provided food and shelter for thousands of rescue and recovery workers, and demonstrated the extraordinary capability of the U.S. Merchant Marine 9th T-AKE Ship Ordered Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division received good news when General Dynamics NASSCO announced it has received a $317 million Navy contract to build a ninth T-AKE dry cargo/ammunition ship. The San Diego-based shipyard made the announcement Jan. 31. The Seafarers-contracted T-AKE vessels are a new class of combat logistics force ships also known as the Lewis and Clark class. Nine of the ships have been ordered through NASSCO and there are options for three additional vessels. According to the shipyard, the first T-AKE, the USNS Lewis and Clark, was launched in May 2005. The second T-AKE, the USNS Sacagawea, is in full-rate production and will be launched on May 23, 2006. Construction on the third T-AKE, to be named the USNS Alan Shepard in honor of the first American in space, began last September. The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships can carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of marine diesel fuel. The vessels will provide logistic support in port and at sea. They will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, fuel, repair parts, and expendable supplies and other materiel—to station ships and other naval forces at sea. The first ship in the T-AKE class, the USNS Lewis and Clark, was christened in May 2005. March 2006 and industry to respond in a crisis.” Designated recipients are crews and officers of six Seafarers-contracted ships from MarAd’s Ready Reserve Force: Cape Kennedy, Cape Knox, Cape Vincent, Diamond State, Equality State and Wright; three training ships from state maritime academies: State of Maine, Empire State and Sirius; and one other ship from MarAd’s National Defense Reserve Fleet, Texas Clipper II. The management companies are Keystone Shipping, Pacific Gulf Marine, Inter- ocean American Shipping, Ocean Shipholdings, and Crowley Liner Services. Schwartz was among the first on the scene even before the storm hit. After reassuring his family that he was determined to work through the hurricane along with his fellow SIU boatmen, he noted an odd feeling while driving from a New Orleans suburb into the city. “People were evacuating by the thousands. I felt weird—I was basically the only one on the road heading south.” Nevertheless, although Schwartz and his wife now joke about it, his commitment (and, undoubtedly, those of his fellow members) caused some concern among family members before the storm. “Like I told them, it’s what we do. Otherwise the maritime industry —the maritime family—will suffer more losses. We’re in the business to prevent problems from happening. A lot of people don’t understand that.” Schwartz helped secure the SIU-crewed RRF ships Cape Kennedy and Cape Knox throughout the hurricane. Those vessels later served as bases for hundreds of relief workers. Chief Cook Credits Fellow Members On Empire State Chief Cook Sal Ahmed recently wrote to the Seafarers LOG to commend his fellow steward department members aboard the Empire State. That vessel played a very active role during Hurricane Katrina relief operations in New Orleans, beginning shortly after the storm through late January. “I believe the entire crew are heroes for their response to the call, and for their effort in helping feed thousands of the victims in New Orleans,” Ahmed said. “They deserve two thumbs up. The U.S. Maritime Administration also recognized our help by giving a certificate of appreciation to every crew member aboard our vessel.” Ahmed particularly offered congratulations and appreciation to the entire steward department for putting together special meals throughout the holidays. Among the SIU members sailing in the galley gang during that time were Steward/Bakers Lovie Perez, Habib Boualem and Christopher Amigable; Chief Cooks Frederick Saffo, Clarence Mack, Adele Williams, Lashanda Brown, Archie Gerald and Rodwell Thompson; Cook/Bakers Mike Watts and Theodore Smith; Assistant Cooks Florentino Caballero, German Oliva, Julia Williams, M. Alzawkari and Abdulla Quaraish; and Steward Assistants Edward Dorsey, Angel Bernardez, Wanda Kelly, Simeon Eligio, Mohammed Yahya, Majed Alsharif, and Wadeea Alnasafi. Chief Cook Archie Gerald Right: Assistant Cook Julia Williams, SA Wanda Kelly Pictured from left to right on the Empire State are SA Majed Alsharif, SA Simeon Eligio, Assistant Cook Abdulla Quaraish, SA Mohammed Yahya, and Assistant Cooks German Oliva and Florentino Caballero. SAs Angel Bernardez and Edward Dorsey Cook/Bakers Theodore Smith and Mike Watts Seafarers LOG 3 �Lykes Motivator Honored for Rescue The crew and captain of the Seafarers-contracted Lykes Motivator on Feb. 4 were the recipients of the American Merchant Marine Seamanship Trophy for their role in rescuing three mariners from stormy seas. Capt. Richard Johnson and the Motivator’s crew displayed superior seamanship last year when they saved the lives of three Swedish sailors whose sailboat had foundered in the stormy Atlantic seas. Seafarers aboard the Motivator during the rescue were: Bosun James McRevy; ABs Michael Weber, John Saturday, Jerome Williams, Richard O’Brien and Brett Sunderland; Electrician Chavalier Maycock; MEMAC Alcido Lopes; Wiper Willie Clemmons; Chief Steward Walter Darensbourg; Chief Cook Francisco Da Cruz and GSU Clifton Washington. The Seamanship Trophy, which recognizes extraordinary seafaring skills by American mariners, was presented during a luncheon at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and SIU Brooklyn Patrolman Joseph Baselice accepted the award on behalf of the union. Vice Adm. Joseph D. Stewart, Merchant Marine Academy superintendent, and Capt. Warren Leback, chairman, American Merchant Marine Museum and a former U.S. Maritime Administrator, presented the award to Soresi and Baselice. On March 29, 2005, the Lykes Motivator was returning from its regular run to Europe when it received a message from the U.S. Coast Guard to change course and come to the assistance of a sailing vessel that was reportedly sinking. The sailboat needing assistance was the 37-foot Aurora, which had set out from Bermuda bound for the Azores Maritrans Establishes 3 Memorial Funds Article Recognizes Co.’s Quick Response SIU-contracted Maritrans on Jan. 24 announced that the company has established memorial funds in honor of each of the three crew members who lost their lives at sea when the tug Valour sank off the coast of North Carolina. The memorial funds are as follows: Ron Emory Memorial Fund c/o Citizens Bank 652 North DuPont Highway Milford, DE 19963 Fred Brenner Memorial Fund c/o Wachovia Bank Martin Plaza Financial Center 1442 Martin Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21220 Richard Smoot Memorial Fund c/o Fifth Third Bank 1008 Oak Street Kenova, WV 25530 For those interested in contributing to these memorial funds, checks may be mailed directly to the accounts listed above. Alternatively, any donations that are received by Maritrans at 302 Knights Run Ave, Suite 1200, Tampa, FL 33602, will be sent to the specified memorial fund account. In the absence of a specific designation, funds will be equally distributed to the three memorial accounts. (Please contact Jennifer Waldman of Maritrans at (813) 209-0686 with any questions regarding the memorial funds.) The SIU in late January made contributions to each of the three funds. The Valour sank on Jan. 18 in severe weather. Longtime Seafarer Emory (sailing as an AB/tankerman), former SIU member Brenner (chief mate) and Smoot (chief engineer) perished, while six others survived. The U.S. Coast Guard is investigating the tragedy, which 4 Seafarers LOG struck during the pre-dawn hours off the coast of Cape Fear, N.C. Meanwhile, a detailed article in the Feb. 5 edition of the newspaper St. Petersburg Times credited Maritrans both for its response to the accident and for its overall safety record. Writer Steve Huettel pointed out that the accident “marked the company’s first deaths since 1988 and the only loss of a tug in its 78-year history.” He further noted that the same day of the sinking, the company flew survivors’ relatives to Wilmington, N.C. so they could meet with the crew members. The SIU also quickly dispatched an official to Wilmington who helped console the survivors. Additionally, Seafarers-contracted Cape Fear towing brought the survivors to shore and also assisted in the successful recovery of the Valour’s barge, which had separated from the tug during the storm. “When rescued crew members reached shore, each was handed a cell phone and $750 cash to replace clothes and belongings lost on the Valour,” Huettel wrote. “Maritrans dispatched grief counselors not only for families and survivors but to crews of its 16 vessels and workers at offices in Tampa and Philadelphia. The company flew executives, survivors and their spouses to all three funerals.” The writer also observed that Maritrans Chief Executive Jonathan Whitworth—whose own father died in a marine accident when Whitworth was 14— “ached to tell families the fate of their loved ones. But he insisted on waiting to talk with the captain of the Valour aboard a tug that rescued most of the crew,” because of lessons learned from the West Virginia mine tragedy earlier that same month when family members mistakenly were told that most of the trapped workers survived. with three Swedish sailors aboard. Bad weather damaged the Aurora’s mast and gravely limited the boat’s ability to maneuver. The Aurora began to take on water, and its crew sent out a distress signal. About five hours later, lookouts aboard the Lykes Motivator spotted the foundering sailboat some 218 miles northwest of Bermuda. The sailboat was listing badly on its starboard side, still taking on water. When the endangered sailors spotted the Motivator, they managed to lower a small rubber dinghy into the stormy seas, which were reportedly running at 12-15 feet with winds squalling in excess of 30 knots. They first began to shuttle some of their personal gear to the Lykes Motivator, which Captain Johnson had maneuvered into position to provide leeward protection for the dinghy. The gear was winched aboard the cargo ship by its crew. After the last run between vessels, however, the dinghy nearly capsized, tossing one of the Swedish sailors into the rough waters. He soon drifted aft of the Motivator, whose crew swiftly responded to the peril and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joe Soresi (second from left) and SIU Brooklyn Patrolman Joe Baselice (third from left) accept the 2005 American Merchant Marine Seamanship Trophy on behalf of the captain and crew of the Seafarers-contracted Lykes Motivator. The award was presented Feb. 4 during a luncheon at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. Making the presentation were former U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. Warren Leback (left) and Vice Adm. Joseph Stewart (right), U.S. Merchant Marine Academy superintendent. retrieved him using the ship’s crane with a rescue basket attached to its line. The other two mariners, who managed to stay in their dinghy, subsequently were retrieved without further incident. After the three sailors safely CIVMAR Notice: Retiring Abroad The union’s Government Services Division understands that as CIVMARS consider retirement, some may be interested in retiring and living abroad. For those CIVMARS who are eligible for Social Security benefits during retirement, it is important to plan carefully. While there are many locations to which the Social Security Administration will send your check, there are some countries where Social Security will not provide this benefit to Americans living abroad. This is a complicated topic and should be considered watchfully. Details are contained in a booklet titled “Your payments while you are outside the United States,” which may be obtained from your local Social Security office or by visiting www.SocialSecurity.gov. That web site also contains details about this issue. were aboard, examined and attended to, the Lykes Motivator resumed its course for the U.S. As it departed the area, the Aurora’s mast was seen being ripped completely off, and the sailboat soon succumbed to the sea. The swift and professional actions of the captain and crew of Lykes Motivator undoubtedly prevented the likely loss of human life. The Academy administers the selection process for awarding the American Merchant Marine Seamanship Trophy. The trophy, an ornate sterling silver cup, is on permanent display at the American Merchant Marine Museum on the Academy’s Long Island campus. Winners receive a plaque representing the trophy. SIU/UIW Official Robert O’Keefe Dies at 76 With 26 years of service as a union official, Robert L. O’Keefe of River Vale N.J., passed away Jan. 23 of respiratory failure. He was 76. O’Keefe began working in the SIU claims department at the Brooklyn hall in 1960, where he was the supervisor of former SIU Plans Administrator Lou Delma. “He was a good boss, a really great guy to work for,” said Delma, who then reminisced that he was sometimes playfully fearful of O’Keefe, who would come into the office following a weekend and show Delma some of the wrestling moves his young sons had taught him. Later on, in the late ’70s, when O’Keefe was working as a representative of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), an affiliate of the SIU, Delma and he used to travel to some of the contracted shops including Paulsen Wire and Rope or one of the other shops in Pennsylvania. “It was 4 a.m. when we started driving,” Delma said, “in the middle of an ice storm. But Bob kept going.” UIW National Director John Spadaro, who worked closely with O’Keefe on medical claims issues as well as contract negoti- ations for the Atlantic region, remembers O’Keefe’s good outlook on life. “If you were feeling down, he knew how to raise your spirits,” Spadaro said. “He’d start his day with ‘top o’ the morning to you.’ He was always so positive.” O’Keefe played an important role in negotiating the contracts for the old Hussman Refrigeration Co. (now Victory), where Spadaro was working at the time. When Spadaro later came on as a UIW rep in 1985, he and O’Keefe sat side by side at many negotiation sessions. “It was always a pleasure working with him,” Spadaro continued. “He will be sadly missed by me and all those who knew him.” O’Keefe, who was an assistant vice president of the UIW, retired in 1986. “He lived and breathed union business,” said one of his sons, Dennis O’Keefe, “and loved telling stories of the people he worked with and the beefs he participated in.” His wife, Evangeline, predeceased him. Surviving are his children Brian R. O’Keefe of Denver, Col.; Michael P. O’Keefe of Westwood, N.J.; Patrice M. Archambault (and her This photo of Asst. VP Robert O’Keefe was taken at the UIW 7th quadrennial convention in Piney Point, Md. in 1985. husband, Roy) of Wilmington, N.C.; Dennis P. O’Keefe (and his wife, Karen) of Boiling Springs, S.C.; Karen E. Hilla (and her husband, Daniel) of Wilmington, D.C.; Timothy P. O’Keefe of Arlington, Va; and eight grandchildren. Following a funeral liturgy at the Church of St. Andrew in Westwood, N.J. on Jan. 27, interment took place at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus, N.J. Contributions in his memory may be sent to St. Andrews Human Concerns, 120 Washington Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675. March 2006 �Ferry Passengers Were ‘Abandoned’ More than 1,000 Dead or Missing in Red Sea Disaster More than 1,000 people are dead or missing following the Feb. 3 sinking of the Panamanian-flagged Egyptian ferry Al Salam Boccaccio 98 in the Red Sea. Although the official cause of the disaster had not been determined as of press time for the Seafarers LOG, more than a few sources have reported that a fire in the vessel’s hold coupled with the crew’s inability to extinguish it were the likely culprits. News reports indicated that passengers accused the captain and crew of negligence, saying the captain abandoned ship before ensuring the passengers had left. They also asserted that crew members prevented them from donning life jackets and didn’t assist them into lifeboats. (The captain is among the missing.) One survivor told the Gold Coast Bulletin, “We were wearing life jackets but the crew told us there was nothing wrong and ordered us to take them off. They took the life jackets away. When the boat started to sink, the captain took a lifeboat and left.” Another survivor said the captain was the first to leave the sinking vessel, and the crew of roughly 100 “just went off in the lifeboats and left us.” Built in 1970, the 11,800-gt vessel on Feb. 2 departed Dhuba, Saudi Arabia and was steaming to a port in Safaga, Egypt when the tragedy occurred. It was carrying 1,450 people, most of whom were Egyptians working in Saudi Arabia. The remaining passengers were said to be pilgrims returning from Mecca. Coastal stations last had con- tact with the ship at around 10 p.m. the same evening and did not receive any SOS from the crew. Al Salam Boccaccio 98 later disappeared off radar screens near the Saudi coast and never made its 3 a.m. docking time at Safaga. Survivors of the incident have alleged that the disaster was caused by a fire breaking out below decks. According to Lloyds List, witnesses reported that fire erupted about 90 minutes into the vessel’s overnight journey. It is not clear where the fire started or its size. Some say it began in the car deck, while others claim it ignited in the engine room. Some survivors have suggested that the ship was engulfed in smoke and passengers were running onto the decks wearing life jackets and begging the crew to turn the vessel around and return to Saudi Arabia. The captain, survivors said, made no attempt to return to shore, opting instead to continue on to Egypt while the crew tackled the flames. The surviving third officer on the ship, Rani Kamal, told the Arabic news channel Al-Arabiya that “…the ferry sank because of firefighting operations. Water flooded the garage [car deck] ... and it pooled on one side. Then the water increased and increased until the ship listed sharply,” he said. The ferry apparently was owned and operated by Cairobased Al-Salam Maritime Transport, although at least one news source claims that Panama-based Pacific Sunlight Marine Inc. is the official owner. According a British expert on fighting ship fires who spoke on condition of anonymity, in the kind of rough weather the Al Salam Boccaccio 98 experienced before it went down, it would only take two or three inches of water on the deck to set off what is called a Free Surface Effect. A Free Surface Effect is a phenomenon whereby a small amount of water inside the vessel starts slopping from side to side, making the ship rock. Even a small amount of water sloshing back and forth below decks can seriously affect a ship’s stability. As the vessel rolls, the water pours to one side, which moves the ship’s center of gravity. If this moves beyond a critical point, the ship cannot right itself and will overturn. Returning to the issue of the fire, the expert said that although methods for fighting ship fires could vary according to the sophistication of the vessel— ranging from the use of inert gas to douse flames to hoses and hand-held extinguishers—ships nonetheless obviously should be equipped with the means to put out a fire. This is especially important on ships such as the Al Salam Boccaccio 98, a rollon/roll-off (RO/RO) vessel with a large open space for cars, where fires can easily spread. Another expert said that the ferry’s chances of surviving were reduced by modifications made in the 1980s, when two more passenger decks were added. The vast majority of the ship was standing out of the water, with little below the surface to keep it stable. Compounding the problem were the high winds, Health Care Costs Affect Everyone The AFL-CIO and other groups that fight to protect workers’ rights continue calling attention to the nation’s health care crisis. Among other efforts, the federation recently launched a state-level campaign to promote good, affordable health care for all Americans. As part of the campaign, the AFL-CIO pointed out the fact that the United States spends almost twice as large a share of its economy on health as other rich countries do, yet 46 million Americans —one in six— go without health insurance. This is one issue that will continue to be watched closely by all sectors of business, whether public or private, including those in the automotive sector. General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co. indicate that soaring health care costs have contributed to the financial crises that are forcing them to close plants and lay off thousands of workers. Ford spent $3.1 billion in 2004 on health care, and the company expects that expense to have reached $3.5 billion in 2005. GM is expected to have spent $5.6 billion on health care in 2005, which covers slightly more than 1 million people. The United Auto Workers and Ford have reached a tentative March 2006 agreement to reduce Ford’s health care costs—similar to the deal they struck last October with GM—by shifting more of the health care expenses to workers and retirees. Under GM’s pact, active workers will forgo future pay raises and retirees will pay higher out-of-pocket costs to help GM reduce health costs that the company says represent $1,500 for every vehicle it builds. Ford’s health care deal with the UAW is expected to be much the same. The UAW now will move to DaimlerChrysler AG’s Chrysler Group, which also has requested relief from rising health care costs for its workers and retirees. The UAW’s Chrysler Council decided to move forward with negotiations once talks with Ford were concluded. Other unions all across the country are in similar circumstances as they prepare to negotiate labor contracts. In Passaic County, N.J., for example, the county is entering into negotiations with 11 of its 22 employee unions, representing more than half the county’s workers. “Negotiating with the unions on health costs is going to be one of the big savings,” said the chairman of the county budget committee. No one seems to be immune from these escalating expenditures. Some of the 9.2 million beneficiaries of the Military Health System (MHS)—which includes active duty and retired military employees—may face an increase in out-of-pocket expenses for health care based on proposals being considered by the administration. Details were expected to announced at a later date. Whatever the specific situation, health care—as the public has known it in the past—is basically gone. The days of having full benefits, medical and dental, with no worry of co-pays or prescription drug costs, are no longer. Polls now indicate that health care is consistently a top issue of concern for U.S. citizens. A 2005 survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation showed nearly 40 percent of Americans were “very worried” about paying more for medical care and health insurance. Six out of 10 worry about going bankrupt because of a major illness. And between the years 2000 and 2005, health insurance premiums rose 73 percent while workers’ income increased only 15 percent. which may have further tipped the vessel. Officials from the protection and indemnity club that will pay compensation claims on those who lost their lives say the vessel had more than enough lifesaving equipment on board. According to news reports, the Steamship Mutual Underwriting Association said it ordered a full condition survey on the vessel early last year and found the Al Salam Boccaccio 98 fully complied with all safety equipment requirements; that management and training was satisfactory; and that the owners had properly carried out and completed all necessary maintenance. However, according to further reports, the Italian firm that certified the ship’s seaworthiness is facing prosecution in France for allegedly failing to carry out proper checks on the Maltese-flagged tanker Erika which broke up off the coast of France six years ago. One of the Al Salam Boccaccio 98’s sister ships sank in the Red Sea last October after a collision with a Cypriot tanker. In a related development, a ferry captain several days following the tragedy said he refused to help the Al Salam Boccaccio 98 in order to protect his own passengers. Salah Jomaa told Egypt’s Al- Ahram daily that the crew of the stricken ship asked for help, but he steered clear to avoid a “second catastrophe.” “I [made] the decision not to turn around to protect the lives of the 1,800 passengers on board,” he said. Jomaa said that the Al Salam Boccaccio 98 had radioed his vessel, the Saint Catherine, asking him to turn around and mount a rescue effort. However, he said he was afraid that doing so would result in the sinking of his own vessel, “especially as the weather conditions were bad and the waves high.” Jomaa said he warned all other ships in the area of the impending disaster and requested that they come to help. Help, however never came. According to several sources, the rescue effort was not launched until seven hours after the Al Salam Boccaccio 98 sank. Angry relatives of passengers killed during the ocean tragedy on Feb. 3—frustrated by the lack of information about their loved ones—attacked the offices of the vessel’s owners. A mob broke into Al-Salam Maritime’s offices in Safaga and began throwing the facility’s contents onto the street. They destroyed furniture and attacked a fire engine before riot police used tear gas to restore order. ILO Weighs Maritime Standards The International Labor Organization last month examined a draft convention on maritime labor standards which, if adopted, would “represent the most sweeping and comprehensive global legal instrument ever forged regarding the world’s shipowners, seafarers and maritime nations,” the ILO said in a news release. The 10th maritime session of the ILO’s International Labor Conference was scheduled for Feb. 7-23 in Geneva (ending after the deadline for this issue of the Seafarers LOG). Such maritime sessions are conducted every 10 years, while the ILO’s annual labor conference meets every year. Delegates elected Jean-Marc Schindler, director-general for Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Transport, Tourism and the Sea, France, as president of the Conference. Dierk Lindemann (on behalf of employers) of Germany, Brian Orrell (representing workers) of the United Kingdom and Tatsuya Teranishi (governments) of Japan were elected vice presidents of the conference. Delegates were to consider a new, single “framework convention” on maritime labor standards that consolidates and updates more than 65 international maritime labor standards adopted since the ILO was founded in 1919. In his speech to the assembly, Schindler characterized the meeting as “a new and unique event in the history of this organization” and said the convention marked “the first attempt to create the global instrument for a specific sector of industry.” He also referred to the two major principles of the convention: allowing signatory governments discretion as to the way in which they implement the seafarers’ rights, but setting out firm obligations on governments to respect those rights—backed up by a detailed enforcement system. ILO Director-General Juan Somavia said the convention “would be an effective, modern and global response for a truly global industry. This is a major step forward in assuring better protection of workers, a level playing field for shipowners and an effective instrument for governments in providing decent conditions to seafarers. In sum, greater clarity, productivity, safety and security for all.” According to Somavia, the maritime session “seeks to ensure the relevance of ILO standards in this era of the globalization of production and work” and “may provide the impetus and support for similar innovative and balanced approaches in other areas.” Some 1,000 participants representing governments, workers and employers from 100 of the ILO’s 178 member states were set to discuss the draft convention, with voting expected on the closing day. Each member country has the right to send four delegates to the conference: two from government and one each representing workers and employers, each of whom may speak and vote independently. Seafarers LOG 5 �Survivor AB Gerard Costello (pictured last year during a safety exercise in Baltimore) battled through four-plus years of cancer treatments. AB Costello Credits Health Plan For Helping Him Beat Cancer Seafarer Gerard Costello had more than enough to worry about beginning in 2002 when he was diagnosed with a rare and most serious form of cancer. Through that struggle, he not only appreciated the treatment afforded him through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP), he drew strength and comfort from it. Lately, the news couldn’t be much better for Costello, who sails as an AB. During the January membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., he announced that his cancer is in remission— and also showed that he hasn’t lost his sense of humor. “Initially I was given three months to live,” Costello, 44, said at the meeting. “My wife and children are grateful now, to some degree.” Following the meeting, and also in a recent letter to SIU President Michael Sacco, Costello recalled that he has suffered through treatments for eight tumors. “I only have one At the January membership meeting in Piney Point, Seafarer Gerard Costello (center) shared the good news that his cancer is in remission. With him after the meeting are (from left) SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. left, but this time they’re calling it stable,” he said. “It’s been almost a year since I’ve grown another tumor. They had been coming every three months, like clockwork.” While not minimizing his struggle, Costello was liberal with his praise for the SHBP and the union. “The mental and physical hardships that accompany such treatments for cancer have put a strain on my family for over four years,” he said. “The benefits and support I have received from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan and the unwavering support from the Baltimore hall have been immeasurable in their level of professionalism in any and all situations and areas of concern. “As for the medical plan, the SIU alone has provided the absolute highest level of medical expertise in the field of cancer,” continued Costello, who joined the union in 1997 after previously sailing as a CIVMAR with the U.S. Military Sealift Command. “I have survived in large part by taking comfort in the fact that the medical plan provided the best of a knowledgeable and skilled team of doctors. For the services and support afforded me by the outstanding staff of our medical plan, and by my Port Agent Dennis Metz and the staff Union Membership Grows For the first time in six years, the number of people belonging to unions increased in 2005. The quantity of American workers holding membership in labor unions last year rose by 213,000 to 15.7 million, according to figures released Jan. 20 by the U.S. Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in its annual report. It was the first hike in the organized labor work force numbers since 1999. The bureau also said the median weekly earnings of full-time union members was about 29 percent more than nonunion workers’ pay and that union members’ pay rose by 2.6 percent last year, compared with only 1.6 percent for nonunion workers. The news of the membership increase was welcomed by the 53-union, 9 million-member AFLCIO, the country’s largest labor federation. Reacting to the BLS report, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney in a prepared statement said, “The AFL-CIO is pleased that the 2005 union membership numbers, released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics today, show a significant increase of 213,000 union members in the last year … reversing a trend of decline in recent years as good union jobs disappeared. In a political climate that’s hostile to workers’ rights, these numbers illustrate the extraordinary will of workers to gain a voice on the job despite enormous obstacles.... “But despite glimmers of hope, conditions for America’s workers are still bleak,” he continued. “As growth in the ‘McJobs’ economy and downsized pensions make unions even more important to workers, too few workers can exercise their choice to have a voice at work. Nearly five times as many workers—57 percent—say they would join a union tomorrow as the percentage that actually has union representation. The AFL-CIO renews its call for Congress to recognize the will of America’s workers to gain a voice on the job, and restore workers’ freedom to form unions by passing the Employee Free Choice Act without delay.” 6 Seafarers LOG Despite the increase in overall membership numbers last year, labor’s share of the total workforce in 2005 was unchanged at 12.5 percent. The number of union members grew at the same rate as the number of all wage and salary workers, including managers and executives who under federal labor law are not eligible for union membership. The majority of last year’s increase was in the government arena, especially at the state and local level, where union worker membership rolls grew by 163,000 to 7.4 million workers. The union share of public sector workers edged up to 36.5 percent from 36.4 percent, the BLS said. In the private sector, the percentage of union members slipped to 7.8 percent in 2005 from 7.9 percent, even though the number of union members grew by 50,000 to 8.3 million. The most union-dense states were New York (26.1 percent), Hawaii (25.8 percent), Alaska (22.8 percent), Michigan and New Jersey (20.5 percent each). States with the thinnest union presence in their workforces were South Carolina (2.3 percent), North Carolina (2.9 percent), Arkansas and Virginia (3.3 percent each) and Utah (3.9 percent). Also reflected in the report was the changing face of the American labor movement, which has become more female and minority and less male and white in the last 20 years. Last year’s growth was entirely among women union members, whose numbers grew by 222,000. The percentage of female union members rose to 11.3 percent in 2005 from 11.1 percent, while male union membership declined to 13.5 percent of workers from 13.8 percent. In 1983, the bureau said the percentage of male union members was 10 percentage points higher than female union members. Although white workers made up the bulk of union members with 12.5 million, the union membership rate among black workers was highest at 15.1 percent, compared with 12.2 percent for white workers and 10.4 percent for Hispanic workers. of the Baltimore hall whose care and assistance to both myself and my family have been invaluable throughout this extreme time of distress, I cannot thank them enough.” Costello concluded with a word of credit for SIU President Sacco: “Your tireless efforts to secure the best possible medical care for the membership of our great union—in a time of health insurance crisis in America—is indeed a testament to your leadership and care for this organization and its members. As I write you this letter, I am continually improving…. I will forever be indebted and grateful…. this organization saved my life.” This isn’t the first time Costello faced a life-and-death struggle. During the mid-1980s, while working as a CIVMAR, he was washed overboard approximately 500 miles north of the Azores. He survived even though it was mid-December and the water “was kind of chilly,” Costello recalled. “He is an inspiration,” Metz said. “When he walks into the union hall, he always has a smile on his face. Even when he was given three months to live, you wouldn’t have known it.” Articles Expose Tactics Of FOC Cruise Line Miami-based Carnival Corp. is the world’s largest cruise vacation company. The travel giant commands more than half the world’s cruise business through 12 subsidiaries, including Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruise, Holland American and Cunard Line. The lion’s share of this business is conducted from North American points of embarkation, including Miami, Port Everglades, Port Canaveral and Tampa in Florida; Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif.; New York; Galveston, Texas; New Orleans, Seattle and others. In 2004, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 8.12 million passengers boarded cruise vessels in the United States for international destinations. Carnival’s 2004 profits were a cool $1.85 billion. And while much of the company’s success directly can be attributed to management and marketing, recent news articles suggest that an equal if not greater portion must be credited to other factors—relaxed U.S. tax laws and the recruitment of inexpensive labor from poor world nations are among the most prominent. Because Carnival’s vessels are registered under the flags of a foreign nation (Panama), it is exempt from American labor laws. Additionally, it is free of some environmental regulations and can avoid paying corporate income taxes in the U.S. In 2004, Carnival reportedly paid taxes only on revenues from Princess and Holland America’s sales of U.S. hotel and tour packages. This payment amounted to $47 million or a mere 2 percent of Carnival’s net income. Deep sea SIU member Kevin W. Conklin recently brought a series of articles to the attention of the Seafarers LOG that addressed these issues. Published by Brevard County, Fla.’s Florida Today, the pieces among other things provided many behind-the-scenes insights on how the runaway-flag cruise ship business operates. Especially noteworthy were points made relative to the plight of Carnival’s shipboard employees. Through their words and photos, Florida Today journalist John A. Torres and photographer Craig Rubadoux told the uncompromising human story about how sacrifice and hope go handin-hand with exploitation and despair. When vacationers board any of Carnival’s 21 cruise vessels, they encounter accommodations comparable to those one might expect to find in a high-class hotel. Behind the scenes of these plush settings and red carpet treatment, however, is an overworked and vastly underpaid crew. Although extremely diversified, no American mariners can be found among their ranks. The crew is completely international and hails mainly from developing countries—upwards of 100 different nationalities round out a typical Carnival vessel crew. Many among those who comprise the company’s workforce (33,000 shipboard employees across its 21-ship fleet and another 3,500 employees at shore side offices in Miami and Miramar in Florida, and Flay and Colorado Springs, Colo.) spend long stretches of time away from their loved ones. The crew members’ objective is a simple one: attempting to care for their families and preventing them from experiencing the sting which accompanies poverty. Ross A. Klein, a university professor and author of “Death by Chocolate: What You Must Know Before Taking a Cruise,” last year published “High Seas, Low Pay Working on Cruise Ships,” an article which closely scrutinizes the cruise industry. Klein has taken 30 cruises since 1992 and is keenly aware of the Continued on page 7 March 2006 �Federal Funds Allocated for Port Security More than $2 billion has been allocated for port security across the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the White House’s fiscal year 2007 budget request. Overall, the request calls for $58.3 billion for the DHS, a 6 percent or $3.4 billon increase over FY 2006. The $2 billionplus portion that was earmarked for port security primarily is for Coast Guard port security activities such as Maritime Safety and Security Teams and harbor patrols. In addition, ports are among the infrastructure assets protected through DHS Targeted Infrastructure Protection (TIP) grants. Taken as a whole, the budget How FOC Cruise Ships Operate Continued from page 6 plight of cruise crew members. “The reality for many cruise-ship workers is certainly not carefree, nor fun,” he wrote. “While the working conditions for officers, cruise staff, and those working in the shops and casinos are adequate, if not good, the experience of those working in the dining room, cleaning rooms, in the galley, and below deck is quite different. “These workers are often paid substandard wages, have marginal accommodations, survive on inadequate food, and live under a system that is rife with abuse and uncertainty,” he said. Carnival crew members— who may be, for example, cooks, stewards, electricians or laundry workers—work up to 16 hours a day, seven days a week for 10 months at a time for salaries as low as $75 a month. That’s why many of them depend on tips from passengers for the lion’s share of their income. The company provides medical care for employees on board ship, but often it’s minimal. Workers who are injured or become sick can find themselves out of a job with little money and no further medical benefits. Aside from the foregoing conditions, other practices also are rampant aboard Carnival vessels. According to Klein, “Carnival Cruise Line requires workers who interact with passengers to pay a $50 deposit for their uniforms. According to the International Transport Workers’ Federation, some companies charge employees a ‘security bond’ of up to $750, supposedly to stop desertion or to cover the consequent U.S. immigrationservice fine a company gets charged. The bond can extend the amount of work time a worker spends just covering expenses to six out of the eight or 10 months on board.” Klein also says, “Cruise lines have typically restricted the ability of workers to engage in collective action by hiring staff from multiple countries, and from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. In those few cases where workers have joined together, they have met with harsh resistance from the companies.” March 2006 provides $2.7 billion for the Coast Guard’s homeland security programs, a 16 percent increase over the 2006 level. This request includes $1.8 billion for ports, waterways, and coastal security. The FY ’07 request of $668 million in homeland security grants to states is less than the FY ’06 enacted level, but, according to the Office of Management and Budget, “these programs’ effectiveness will be sustained by continuing to allocate funds based on risk and threat, and ensuring that states and localities are targeting their funds to the priorities identified in the National Preparedness Goal.” Two officials representing America’s public seaports weighed in on the FY ’07 budget request. Kurt Nagle, president and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) and Bernard Groseclose, president and CEO of the South Carolina State Ports Authority, appeared at the National Press Club Feb. 7. They suggested that similar to last year, the president’s 2007 budget proposal recommends lumping the security infrastructure needs of seaports with those of trains, trucks, buses and other public transit into a new and consolidated Targeted Infrastructure Protection program. “The federal share of the seaport facility security funding partnership needs to be increased, not reprogrammed and diluted,” said Nagle. “Another top federal priority should be to adequately fund the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to keep the nation’s deep-draft channel maintenance projects on schedule. Simply put, we believe all authorized channel projects with positive benefit-cost ratios should be maintained at their authorized project depths.” Nagle noted that the economy, safety and national defense of the United States depend largely on how well the country can protect its seaports and ensure deep- draft shipping access to them. He said that although airports, first responders and research and development centers receive most of the federal attention and funding for security and terrorism prevention, seaports—which support 5 million jobs and annually handle $2 trillion worth of cargo and more than 8 million cruise ship passengers—remain largely under-funded at the federal level. As a result, they must divert limited port resources to pay for enhanced security, often at the cost of improving their facilities to handle fast-growing trade volumes. Elsewhere, the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in late January conducted a field hearing on the National Strategy for Maritime Security. The purpose of the hearing, held in Camden, N.J., was to continue oversight of federal programs intended to enhance security in the maritime domain. U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Craig Bone and Mark O. Hatfield Jr. of the Transportation Security Administration testified that maritime security encompasses threats from all criminal or hostile acts and involves collection of information relating to all aspects of maritime activities. William Boles, director of security at the Port of Wilmington, Del., testified regarding the challenges and successes of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program. Lisa Himber, vice president, Maritime Exchange for the Delaware River and Bay, testified regarding disconnects in development of the National Strategy and in the port security grant program, among other things. Dr. Scott Glenn, Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences, Rutgers University, testified about the possible use of compact high frequency radar to enhance maritime domain awareness. Ford Announces Massive Job Cuts Management’s Failure Leads to ‘Disappointing and Devastating News’ Ford Motor Co. in late January announced what it described as a sweeping restructuring plan that would shut down 14 factories, eliminate as many as 30,000 jobs and hopefully tackle its declining market share and rising costs that led to robust losses in its North American operations. The restructuring—which officials say will restore profitability by 2008—is Ford’s second in four years and comes in the wake of a major overhaul by General Motors Corp., which plans to cut 30,000 workers by 2008 and close all or part of 12 plants. Under Ford’s first plan, the company closed five plants and cut 35,000 jobs, but its North American operations failed to turn around. Overall, the U.S. auto industry in the past five years has shed 200,000 jobs, or 15 percent of its workforce. “The restructuring plan announced by Ford is extremely disappointing and devastating news for the many thousands of hard-working men and women who have devoted their working lives to Ford,” Ron Gettelfinger, president of the United Auto Workers (UAW), said in a statement released shortly after Ford went public with its restructuring plans. “The impacted hourly and salaried workers find themselves facing uncertain futures because of senior management’s failure to halt Ford’s sliding market share. “The announcement has further left a cloud hanging over the entire workforce because of pending future announcements of additional facilities to be closed at some point in the future,” said the union president. He said the job cuts and future announcements of plant closures still are being discussed with the second-biggest U.S. auto maker and warned, “Certainly, today’s announcement will only make the 2007 negotiations all the more difficult and all the more important.” The union said it would seek to strictly enforce job security agreements that exist with Ford. Gettelfinger said that Ford’s latest plan, like its predecessor in 2002, concentrated on cutting capacity when “the focus should instead be on striving to gain market share in this competitive market by offering consumers innovative and appealing products.” Under the company’s existing contract with the UAW, workers at the idled plants will continue to get most of their pay and benefits until a new contract is negotiated next year. The UAW already has granted historic concessions to Ford and GM that would allow the automakers to cut their multibillion-dollar health care costs. The most recent agreement, which raises drug co-payments for active workers and establishes monthly premiums for retirees, was ratified by a slim 51 percent majority at Ford and 61 percent at GM. “Today’s announcement by Ford Motor Company is tragic for the employees who have invested their lives in Ford and devastating for all working people,” observed AFLCIO President John Sweeney. “For decades, autoworkers have defined what it means to have a middle class job in America. The evisceration of good, middle class jobs is the single biggest crisis facing our nation today. “That’s why we are organizing as never before to demand the attention and action it will take to restore respect for work and workers in this country,” he continued. “Thank goodness the Ford employees have a strong union to give them a voice and a place at the table to ensure their needs are addressed in this difficult situation.” The federation president added, “Workers cannot and should not be expected to bear the burden of the competitive pressures on the auto industry. Instead of trying to shrink its way to profitability, Ford should innovate— developing new products and technologies to regain market dominance. “Our elected officials also have a role to play,” Sweeney concluded. “Now is the time to enact a national health plan that will provide the affordable, quality health care working families need, while helping companies compete in the global marketplace.” Canadian Auto Workers President Buzz Hargrove described the cuts as “a shocking, painful blow.” One plant in Canada is on the closure list. The Canadian union already has negotiated 1,100 job cuts at Ford, including the closure of a Windsor casting plant in 2007, during a collective bargaining session earlier this year. The agreement also discussed the possibility that Ford’s Essex engine facility in Windsor would end production of an older V6 engine, along with efforts to replace it with a new-generation model by 2008. Analysts warn that the Ford and GM cuts will ripple through the economy because the auto industry supports so many other jobs— those producing steel, rubber, glass, electron- ics and other auto parts, for example. The relatively high wages of auto workers, combined with good health and pension benefits, also fuel local spending, which supports retail jobs. As a result, economists estimate that every 100 U.S. auto industry jobs support 460 other jobs, a relatively high “multiplier effect” compared with other industries. “These cuts are a painful last resort, and I’m deeply mindful of their impact,” Chairman and Chief Executive Bill Ford said in announcing Ford’s new job cuts. According to Ford Americas President Mark Fields, the architect of the plan, the following facilities initially have been targeted for closure: „ The Ford assembly factory St. Louis, where approximately 1,900 union members are employed. This facility, which builds the Ford Explorer and a similar Mercury SUV, will cease operations during the first quarter of this year. This plant was on the chopping block four years ago, in a previous Ford restructuring announcement. „ An assembly plant near Atlanta will close at the end of this year. The facility builds large sedans and employs more than 1,800 hourly workers. „ The Wixom, Mich. assembly plant is slated for closure during the second quarter of 2007. It employs 2,600 workers who build the Lincoln LS, the Lincoln Town Car and the Ford Thunderbird. „ Other plants to be idled and eventually closed through 2008 are Batavia Transmission in Ohio and Windsor Casting in Ontario. Ford later this year will choose two more plants to be idled. The company also will reduce production to one shift at its St. Thomas assembly plant in Ontario. All of the plant closings and job cuts are scheduled to be completed by 2012. Besides the facilities named during January’s restructuring announcement, analysts also have predicted that assembly plants in St. Paul, Minn. and Cuautitlan, Mexico could be at risk for closure because of the products they make. Ford said that in addition to the job cuts and plant closures, it plans to achieve $6 billion in material cost savings by 2010 as part of its restructuring. Seafarers LOG 7 �Meeting recently at the SIU hall in Houston are (from left) SIU President Michael Sacco, Capt. Rodney Nix of G&H Towing Co. and SIU VP Dean Corgey. The Industrial Challenger shifted from the Bahamian flag to the U.S. flag in 2002 and last year was renamed the Ocean Atlas. Still crewed by Seafarers, the 393-foot heavy lift vessel is operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine and is enrolled in the new Maritime Security Program (MSP). MSP ships contribute to the operation of a commercial U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed fleet engaged in the international trade, thus ensuring the government’s access to these critical assets during times of war or national emergency. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU Left: The heavy lift vessel Blue Marlin enters Pearl Harbor, Hawaii with the Sea Based X-Band Radar (SBX) aboard after completing a 15,000-mile journey from Corpus Christi, Texas. The SBX, which will undergo maintenance in Pearl Harbor, is one-of-a-kind within the SIU-contracted fleet. Part of a U.S. operation called ground-based midcourse defense (GMD), the radar it carries is designed to intercept and destroy long-range ballistic missiles aimed at the United States. The SBX will eventually make its home port in Adak, Alaska in the Aleutian Islands. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) chats with Robert Redford at a mid-November fundraising event in San Francisco for Rep. Nancy Pelosi. Redford spoke to the group about the importance of participating in and maintaining special interest coalitions to protect workers’ rights in California. Left: Ceremonies for the Alaskan Legend took place Nov. 12 at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The fourth Alaska-class tanker will transport cargo from Alaska to the West Coast and is set to debut mid-year. Santa (Recertified Bosun Tim Burke) made the rounds aboard the Adam E. Cornelius over the Christmas holiday. Above, he visits with OS Mohamed Ali; below, he shares a chuckle with AB/Wheelsman Dan Bryant; and below right, he charts a course with Capt. Steve Draper. The smaller photo shows him without his red suit. Special thanks from the bosun and crew of the SS Cleveland were given to Chief Steward Christina Mateer (center) and her galley gang. At left is GSU Justin Burgess; at right is GSU Terry Lane. Over the busy holiday season, starting with Thanksgiving and going through Christmas and New Year’s, she kept the holiday spirits high, decorating both the officers’ and crew mess halls with her personal touches—followed by some delicious meals—all with a big smile. Even the menus (see inset) were prepared with care. 8 Seafarers LOG March 2006 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea April & May 2006 Membership Meetings JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 13, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 0 0 7 9 3 8 31 23 0 11 11 35 9 2 2 5 20 1 36 28 4 10 4 21 6 3 25 21 2 7 13 19 14 5 4 3 12 8 31 27 1 2 1 7 1 2 19 8 0 4 3 16 9 0 1 2 3 2 15 5 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 4 4 0 5 27 17 0 14 7 17 5 3 0 6 19 2 21 25 241 239 101 177 1 0 4 5 1 9 10 15 1 5 5 13 9 1 1 3 11 1 15 11 0 1 4 7 4 5 8 18 1 4 4 6 12 5 2 3 5 3 11 4 4 1 1 5 0 2 6 5 0 0 0 11 3 0 2 2 3 2 5 10 1 0 6 3 1 8 13 5 0 5 4 11 5 1 1 4 6 0 13 8 121 107 62 0 0 2 3 2 7 13 11 0 5 7 19 7 4 2 0 21 1 16 27 1 0 0 2 1 8 6 12 0 7 2 8 14 0 2 2 4 0 6 5 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 5 0 0 1 5 5 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 6 5 13 3 5 16 22 0 5 3 8 9 2 10 6 9 3 20 17 164 2 2 0 4 0 1 3 1 2 4 2 11 6 0 0 1 4 2 5 8 58 1 0 4 5 0 0 25 14 0 2 6 12 2 0 0 3 9 2 11 8 104 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 95 0 1 3 3 2 3 4 9 0 0 2 4 7 1 1 2 4 0 7 8 61 1 0 0 3 0 3 8 5 0 1 0 8 2 0 1 2 3 0 2 6 45 0 0 2 2 0 1 7 1 0 1 6 7 1 1 2 3 6 0 18 5 63 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 3 1 8 14 8 0 6 5 8 5 1 5 2 17 0 15 10 147 80 30 111 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 5 1 0 0 0 4 0 7 0 0 2 2 8 0 7 13 16 0 4 4 22 8 0 7 0 9 1 15 4 3 3 1 10 2 2 16 12 0 4 4 18 9 0 31 0 9 1 7 8 0 0 0 0 0 5 4 0 0 0 1 6 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 0 4 0 4 4 4 1 2 1 2 5 0 1 1 4 0 4 6 45 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 5 4 0 0 0 1 1 4 3 22 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 1 2 5 0 5 7 6 0 3 1 11 1 0 11 1 3 0 6 3 1 3 1 2 0 1 1 6 0 0 6 5 2 1 21 0 2 0 7 4 0 0 1 2 0 2 5 4 1 2 2 9 5 0 1 0 7 0 10 7 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 4 0 12 17 4 15 59 45 1 21 20 74 23 8 2 14 33 1 62 42 4 3 3 8 1 3 38 12 2 4 10 20 13 2 1 2 5 3 24 12 457 398 170 1 0 6 7 0 13 25 35 1 14 11 23 8 6 4 5 17 2 17 17 0 4 7 14 4 7 16 31 1 10 12 15 20 7 1 3 12 4 22 14 4 1 2 8 1 2 9 11 0 1 1 14 7 1 1 0 6 2 9 14 212 204 94 0 0 3 4 1 16 27 30 1 12 13 44 13 5 3 0 40 2 26 52 0 0 2 11 1 13 9 14 0 7 7 12 17 1 2 1 6 0 13 12 0 0 1 2 1 1 7 9 0 1 4 5 7 0 0 0 1 2 6 4 58 292 128 51 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 6 4 0 1 4 8 0 0 0 2 11 0 12 1 0 3 3 12 1 9 33 27 0 13 10 56 16 0 3 5 18 1 29 12 5 9 3 16 3 11 39 31 0 5 4 58 21 0 22 0 17 3 22 18 22 122 140 22 66 63 0 52 251 287 531 548 333 405 336 188 225 1,013 981 602 *“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. March 2006 5 10 8 30 7 6 45 37 3 14 18 38 27 8 5 10 15 11 52 49 Piney Point .............Monday: April 3, May 8 Algonac ..................Friday: April 7, May 12 Baltimore ................Thursday: April 6, May 11 Boston.....................Friday: April 7, May 12 Guam ......................Thursday: April 20, May 25 Honolulu .................Friday: April 14, May 19 Houston ..................Monday: April 10, May 15 Jacksonville ............Thursday: April 6, May 11 Joliet .......................Thursday: April 13, May 18 Mobile ....................Wednesday: April 12, May 17 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: April 11, May 16 New York................Tuesday: April 4, May 9 Norfolk ...................Thursday: April 6, May 11 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: April 5, May 10 Port Everglades.......Thursday: April 13, May 18 San Francisco .........Thursday: April 13, May 18 San Juan..................Thursday: April 6, May 11 St. Louis..................Friday: April 14, May 19 Tacoma ...................Friday: April 21, May 26 Wilmington ...........Monday: April 17, May 22 ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals SANFORD “CHUCK” KLAVANO Please contact Larry Helfrich at (206) 440-0470. Help Locate Pensioners The Seafarers Plans office is attempting to locate nine SIU pensioners who were affected by the hurricanes in the Gulf region last year. They are: Silverio Arana, Rosemary Davis, Jorge Giraud, Herbert Hebert, Mandred Herman, Rodolfo Lopez, Hildebrando Mendoza, Charles Stanford and Robert Thomas. Anyone who can reach any of these individuals is asked to request that they contact the Plans office toll-free at 800-252-4674, option 4. Inland Career Opportunities: Immediate Job Openings The SIU has immediate openings in the inland division. Interested individuals who possess either a 1,600ton 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. Congratulations to the Casugays This month AB Josefino (Jerry) Almoro Casugay and his wife, Erlinda, are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. Casugay, who has been an SIU member since 1968, currently is working aboard the Intrepid; Erlinda is a pre-K teacher in the Vallejo (Calif.) school district. The couple have five children and six grandchildren. Seafarers LOG 9 �U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are unloaded from the USNS Bellatrix in Kuwait. The USNS Soderman is one of more than 100 SIU-crewed ships that have supported U.S. troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The R vesse rolling for t Infant the glo At Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, the USNS Red Cloud off-loads coalition combat equipment and supplies after returning from deployment in Iraq early last year. The vessel is still sailing in support of OIF. Pictured from left to right are the Seafarers-crewed USNS Fisher, USNS Benavidez and USNS Bob Hope, each of which has been a part of OIF. Seafarers Proudly Serve as Part of America A heavy-duty bulldozer rolls off the Northern Lights during an offload of U.S. Army military vehicles while pier-side in Karachi, Pakistan. The combat stores ship USNS Niagara Falls and the fast combat support ship USNS Rainer (out of view) conduct replenishments with the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan last month. Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk monitor refueling hoses from the underway replenishment oiler USNS Walter S. Diehl. 10 Seafarers LOG As U.S. troops continue carrying out Seafarers remain on the job wherever and women in America’s armed forces. As of early February, SIU members w OIF. Those ships included the USNS Ben USNS Mendonca (operated by AMSEA); (Maersk Line, Limited); the Westward Ven and the Cape Douglas (Crowley). Seafarers unfailingly have answered th the present. At the height of OIF’s sealift on the move, carrying materiel and military 2,000 SIU members sailed aboard those ve That type of support for U.S. troops not earliest days. In fact, it was during Wo Eisenhower first referred to the U.S. Merc Whether serving in OIF, Operation En needed, today’s Seafarers uphold that lega Editor’s note: Most of the photos accom Navy’s U.S. Military Sealift Command. So during earlier phases of OIF. Boxes are moved during a replenishment at sea involving the USNS Niagara Falls and the USS Ronald Reagan. March 2006 �Ready Reserve Force el Cape Taylor loads g stock in late January he U.S. Army’s 4th ry Division in support of obal war on terrorism. The USNS Pomeroy takes part in cargo operations for OIF. Pictured in the Republic of Korea, the USNS Watson is ready to load an M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle—along with lots of other materiel. A U.S. Marine Corps High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) bound for Iraq is off-loaded from the USNS Altair in Ash-Shu’aibah, Kuwait. a’s Civilian mariners aboard the combat stores ship USNS Concord prepare pallets to be transferred to the fast combat stores ship USNS Rainier during a replenishment at sea. their assignments in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), d whenever needed, steadfastly supporting the men and ere sailing aboard no fewer than 11 vessels involved in avidez, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Fisher, USNS Seay and the USNS Pomeroy, USNS Red Cloud and USNS Sisler nture and Independence (Interocean American Shipping); e call for OIF from the first activations in 2003 through component, more than 100 Seafarers-crewed ships were y personnel to key locations. During that time, more than essels. t only isn’t new for the SIU, but dates back to the union’s rld War II that both President Roosevelt and General chant Marine as America’s “fourth arm of defense.” nduring Freedom or any other mission in which they’re acy. mpanying this story are courtesy of the U.S. Navy or the ome were taken earlier this year, while others were taken March 2006 A Seahawk helicopter picks up cargo pendants from the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan during a vertical replenishment with the MSC combat stores ship USNS Niagara Falls. Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 13, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 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 12 Seafarers LOG TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Port Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 11 12 2 5 9 1 0 4 44 1 4 3 4 10 0 0 0 22 2 1 3 2 0 1 2 0 11 3 12 2 2 10 0 0 4 33 Port 0 3 1 0 4 0 0 0 8 0 2 3 2 0 1 2 0 10 0 3 1 1 6 1 1 1 14 19 36 5 15 42 2 1 3 123 10 11 2 7 17 0 1 2 50 3 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 10 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 1 7 6 12 3 5 20 0 0 5 51 1 7 3 6 11 0 1 0 29 1 2 3 7 0 0 0 0 13 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 5 2 2 8 0 0 2 21 0 4 0 0 6 0 0 0 10 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 2 6 Port 1 7 5 0 1 0 0 1 15 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 6 4 1 1 1 0 0 1 14 1 2 0 0 2 1 0 0 6 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 6 3 3 3 2 8 0 0 1 20 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 5 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 6 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 6 7 15 4 2 9 1 0 0 38 4 2 1 1 12 1 0 0 21 0 1 3 5 0 1 0 0 10 Totals All Departments 79 38 23 68 16 21 27 212 100 33 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Mack D. Brendle of Bastrop, La. It is a picture from the early ’50s of “Babe” Torrey and Mack Brendle aboard the Irene Star (one of the U.S. merchant ships that sailed into the war zone during the Korean conflict). The vessel was at anchorage in Instanbul, Turkey at the time. In a note accompany the photo, Brendle notes that Torrey was the deck engineer aboard ship; Brendle was the bosun. Torrey later passed away. Brother Brendle, who is a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II, joined the SIU in the port of Lake Charles, LA in 1955. He attended the Piney Point (Md.) Crews Conference in 1972 and graduated from the bosun recertification program at the unionaffiliated school in September 1974. Born in Bastrop, Brendle, now 78, retired from the union in 1979. 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. March 2006 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA RONALD DEWITT, 60, joined the SIU in 1968. Brother Dewitt was a member of the steward department, initially sailing aboard the Afoundria. The New Jersey native upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in 1995, 1998 and again in 2001. Prior to retiring, he shipped on the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Dewitt makes his home in Seattle. PETER FRIED, 55, was born in New York. He started sailing with the Seafarers in 1972, working in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Fried, who shipped in the engine department, was a frequent upgrader at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Fried calls Howell, N.J. home. JERRY GANT, 51, became a Seafarer in 1975 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gant first shipped on the USNS Maumee. The steward department member, who hails from Jacksonville, Fla., upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He last went to sea aboard the Guayama. Brother Gant is a resident of his native state. ROBERT HAGOOD JR., 56, joined the SIU in 1968. Brother Hagood was born in Columbus, Miss. and worked as a member of the deck department. His first ship was the Van Horizon. Brother Hagood upgraded his skills often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1980. He now lives in Kingman, Ariz. Brother Hagood last sailed aboad the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. LESTER HOFFMAN, 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967. Brother Hoffman’s first voyage was aboard Hudson Waterway’s TransChamp. Born in Louisiana, he shipped as a member of the deck department, most recently on board the USNS Algol. Brother Hoffman makes his home in Bay City, Mich. CARL MERRITT JR., 70, embarked on his seafaring career March 2006 in 1967 in Baltimore, Md. Brother Merritt was born in North Carolina and worked in the engine department. His initial voyage was on the Bradford Island. Brother Merritt attended classes at the Paul Hall Center on four separate occasions. He calls Baltimore, Md. home. ROBERT MUNROE, 65, hails from Ludlow, Mass. Brother Munroe became an SIU member in 1961. His first ship was the Cantigny; his last was the LNG Taurus. Brother Munroe sailed in the deck department. He upgraded his skills in 1979 and 1980 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Munroe lives in Springfield, Mass. JOSEPH SMITH, 66, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1962, initially shipping aboard Waterman Steamship Corporation vessels. Brother Smith was born in North Carolina. The steward department member upgraded his skills twice at the Piney Point training center. Prior to his retirement, Brother Smith worked on the Ascension. He is a resident of Stockton, Calif. RAY WILKES, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1991. Brother Wilkes first sailed aboard the USNS Tenacious. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded his skills frequently at the maritime training facility in Piney Point, Md. Brother Wilkes last worked on the USNS Stalwart. He makes his home in Pensacola, Fla. INLAND ROBERT ALBURTUS, 68, was born in New Jersey. He joined the Seafarers in 1987 and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Port Imperial Ferry Corp. Boatman Alburtus shipped in the deck department. He currently resides in Toms River, N.J. MICHAEL DOWNEY, 62, began sailing with the union in 1979. Boatman Downey first worked aboard Mariner Towing Company vessels. He upgraded his seafaring skills on three occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Born in Ontario, Canada, Boatman Downey now calls Madeira Beach, Fla. home. BILLY PEPPERS, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1977. Boatman Peppers’ first ship was the Seabulk Tanker; he most recently sailed aboard a Higman Barge Lines vessel. A native of Tennessee, Boatman Peppers is a resident of Beaumont, Texas. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. RAFAEL AVILES, 59, joined the NMU in 1979. Born in Las Piedras, P.R., Brother Aviles began sailing from the port of San Pedro, Calif. His most recent trip was aboard the Cape Hudson. CONSTANTIN BACZU, 68, hails from Romania. Brother Baczu became an NMU member in 1963 in Tampa, Fla. The steward department mariner first shipped on the Canterbury Leader. Prior to retiring, Brother Baczu worked aboard the Amoco Virginia. KERRY BUSH, 64, began his seafaring career in 1969, first sailing from the port of Mobile, Ala. on board the Texaco North Carolina. He is a native of Honduras. Brother Bush most recently worked aboard the Lykes Navigator. DAVIS CHISHOLM, 65, embarked on his NMU career in 1969 in Houston. Brother Chisholm was born in Grand Cayman. His first voyage was on the Gulf Spray. Brother Chisholm was a member of the engine department. ESTELLA CRAWFORD, 65, was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. Sister Crawford joined the union in 1981. Her first ship was Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1947 The Seafarers International Union forged ahead in gains for seamen recently by signing a pact with seven steamship companies providing for a 6 percent wage increase for all hands. The new agreements supplement those signed on October 23, 1946. The new contracts were overwhelmingly ratified by the membership in regular meetings held on Wednesday, March 12. They include Alcoa, South Atlantic, Eastern, Seas Shipping, Bull, Baltimore Insular and Smith and Johnson lines. The 6 percent wage increase is retroactive to January 1, 1947. the Texaco Wisconsin. In 2001, Sister Crawford attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Her most recent trip to sea was aboard the Kenai. JAMES VON HAESLER, 60, started shipping with the NMU in 1980 from the port of San Francisco, Calif. Brother Von Haesler’s earliest journey was on the Mallory Lykes. The engine department member was born in California. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME AGE EDP Clark, Lester 70 Feb. 1 Robinson, Verna 65 Jan. 1 Rogers, Herbert 69 Jan. 1 by members of the SIU. The eight former Sea-Land ships are stationed around the country and are designed to move heavy military equipment such as tanks and other supplies in rapid deployment. The ships have a top speed of 33 knots and are powered by steam turbine engines…. The conversion included installation of several decks for vehicle and cargo storage, a flight deck with helicopter landing platform, two side ports with hinged platforms and a portable ramp, and twin cranes fore and aft. This Month In SIU History 1962 Preliminary planning for a brand new union hall and shipping center for Seafarers in the vast Hampton Roads area has begun. The new construction would further the SIU’s continuing building program in all ports. A Norfolk facility would add another important link to the network of new halls developed on the Atlantic Coast and in the Gulf during recent years. Announcement of the planned construction follows the formal opening of a new building in Houston this month. 1986 The eighth and final former SL-7, the USNS Pollux, converted for the Navy’s TAK-R Fast Sealift Ship program, was dedicated at Avondale Shipyard in March. These fastest cargo ships in the nation’s fleet are all manned 1991 The SIU-crewed integrated tug-barge Frances Hammer received a commendation from the U.S. Navy for being the first merchant vessel to enter liberated Kuwait City despite the fact the harbor area was not free of mines and other potential hazards. U.S. Navy Captain R.A. Crooks of the Military Sealift Command commended the crew for its efforts. “Your support to the Military Sealift Command and other military personnel assigned to the port area was outstanding,” Crooks wrote the vessel on March 20 after its one-week stay from March 11 to March 17. “By allowing these personnel to utilize your facilities, they were able to keep their equipment fully operational despite the hazardous environmental conditions that threatened to curtail harbor clearance operations.” The Ocean Shipholding vessel was sent to Kuwait’s capital city to deliver 120,000 barrels of water for the citizens and allied forces there. Seafarers LOG 13 �Final Departures DEEP SEA KASMOIN AMAT Pensioner Kasmoin Amat, 84, passed away Aug. 4. Brother Amat became an SIU member in 1957 in New York. He was born in the Philippines and sailed in the deck department. Brother Amat’s first ship was the Steel Age; his last was the LNG Aries. He retired in 1970 and made his home in New York. WILLIAM BOLLING Brother William Bolling, 51, died July 12. Brother Bolling began working with the Seafarers in 1976 in New Orleans. His first voyage was aboard a Dravo Basic Materials Co. vessel. Brother Bolling shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions. The deck department member was born in Louisiana. Brother Bolling’s last ship was the Liberty Wave. WILLIAM CASSEL Pensioner William Cassel, 67, passed away July 15. Brother Cassel joined the union in 1987 in New York. He initially sailed aboard the USNS Dutton in the engine department. Brother Cassel was born in Indiana and lived in Edwards, Miss. He most recently shipped on the Green Mountain State. Brother Cassel began collecting his pension in 2003. HWO CHEN Pensioner Hwo Chen, 86, died July 27. Brother Chen was born in China. He started sailing with the MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) in 1959 in the port of San Francisco. Prior to retiring in 1979, Brother Chen worked aboard the Santa Mariana in the steward department. He was a resident of San Francisco. CHRISTIAN CHRISTENSEN Pensioner Christian Christensen, 89, passed away May 6. Brother Christensen joined the SIU in 1947, first sailing in the deck department of a Terminal Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Christensen went on pension in 1999 after sailing on the Endurance. He resided in Fremont, Calif. BURTON CHURCHILL Pensioner Burton Churchill, 79, died June 18. Brother Churchill began his seafaring career in 1967, first sailing aboard the Henry. A native of Illinois, Brother Churchill was a member of the deck department. His last voyage was on the Pride of Texas. Brother Churchill started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1991. He lived in Slidell, La. LORENZO FORGERON Pensioner Lorenzo Forgeron, 78, passed away Sept. 28. Brother Forgeron became an SIU member in 14 Seafarers LOG 1952 after serving in the U.S. Navy. The Canadian-born mariner shipped in the deck department. Brother Forgeron’s first vessel was operated by Pocahontas Steamship Co. He began his retirement in 1994 and called Seattle home. BENNY FRATELLO Pensioner Benny Fratello, 89, died July 13. Brother Fratello began shipping with the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Los Angeles and worked as a member of the steward department. Brother Fratello started collecting his pension in 1969. He made his home in Jonesboro, Ark. ROBERT HUNTER Pensioner Robert Hunter, 76, passed away May 21. Brother Hunter launched his seafaring career in 1972, sailing from the port of San Francisco. He worked primarily aboard ships operated by American President Lines such as the President Truman and the President Adams. Brother Hunter retired in 1995. He was a resident of New Waverly, Texas. ROBERT HYER Pensioner Robert Hyer, 82, died June 16. Brother Hyer joined the SIU ranks in 1942 in New York. The Pennsylvania native first shipped aboard a Terminal Steamship Co. vessel as a member of the deck department. Brother Hyer’s last voyage was on the Newark. He went on pension in 1985. Mill Creek, Wash. was his home. WILLIAM JONES Pensioner William Jones, 86, passed away July 13. Brother Jones was a native of Kentucky who began shipping with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Houston. His first vessel was the Kyska. Brother Jones worked in the deck department, last sailing on the Westward Venture. Brother Jones began receiving his retirement stipends in 1990. He resided in Seattle. CURTIS KLAFERT Brother Curtis Klafert, 46, died July 12. Born in Illinois, he joined the SIU in 1977 in Piney Point, Md. A member of the deck department, Brother Klafert first shipped aboard the Overseas Natalie. He last sailed on the Kopaa. DAVID MESSICK Brother David Messick, 63, passed away May 26. He became a Seafarer in 1978 in New Orleans. Brother Messick was a Texas native. He first worked aboard the Overseas Natalie in the deck department. Brother Messick’s last ship was the Sandy Bay. ERNEST MONEYMAKER Pensioner Ernest Moneymaker, 81, died June 24. Brother Moneymaker joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed primarily on vessels operated by Sea-Land Services, including the Los Angeles and the Galveston. Brother Moneymaker was born in Tennessee. He made his home in Thailand and started collecting his pension in 1989. SALVADOR O’NEILL Pensioner Salvador O’Neill, 79, passed away June 20. Brother O’Neill joined the ranks of the SIU in 1978 in New York. The Puerto Rico-born mariner shipped in the steward department. Brother O’Neill first sailed aboard the Santa Mariana. Before retiring in 1987, he worked on the Borinquen. Brother O’Neill resided in Bronx, N.Y. CHARLES SMITH JR. Brother Charles Smith Jr., 58, passed away July 14. He launched his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Smith first shipped aboard the Santa Magdalena. The steward department member was born in California and last worked aboard a vessel operated by Matson Navigation. STANFORD SMITH SR. Pensioner Ricardo Pacheco, 68, died July 7. Brother Pacheco became a Seafarer in 1960. He began sailing aboard vessels operated by Tankers and Tramps Corporation as a member of the engine department. Brother Pacheco was born in Puerto Rico. He last shipped on the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Pacheco retired in 1990 and lived in Ponce, P.R. Pensioner Stanford Smith Sr., 91, died Aug. 13. Born in Louisiana, Brother Smith was a charter member of the SIU, having joined in 1938 in New Orleans. He first sailed aboard a Delta Steamship Lines vessel, working in the steward department; his last voyage was on the Carolina. In 1979, he retired and settled in his native state. STANLEY PALFREY JOSEPH SNYDER RICARDO PACHECO Pensioner Stanley Palfrey, 80, passed away May 15. Brother Palfrey embarked on his SIU career in 1951. His first vessel was the Steel Flyer. Brother Palfrey was born in Louisiana and worked as a member of the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Sam Houston. In 1991, Brother Palfrey retired and settled in Amite, La. HENRY PERKINSON Pensioner Henry Perkinson, 75, died April 12. Brother Perkinson began sailing with the Seafarers in 1953 on the Abibua. The Houston native worked in the deck department. Before retiring in 1988, Brother Perkinson sailed aboard the Senator. He called Crosby, Texas home. OLIVER PITFIELD Pensioner Oliver Pitfield, 80, passed away May 21. Brother Pitfield was born in Biloxi, Miss. He joined the SIU in 1965, initially sailing on the OMI Missouri. Brother Pitfield shipped in the deck department. His last ship was the Seabulk Power. The U.S. Navy veteran went on pension in 1990 and made his home in Houston. LLOYD RICHARDSON Pensioner Lloyd Richardson, 84, died Oct. 27. Brother Richardson donned the SIU colors in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va., first sailing on the Golden City. Brother Richardson worked as a member of the deck department. His last ship was the Eric G. Gibson. Brother Richardson, who was born in Richmond, Va., called Sea Level, N.C. home. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1986. Pensioner Joseph Snyder, 93, passed away June 26. Brother Snyder joined the union in 1946. His first ship was the Steel Vendor. Brother Snyder, who was born in Pennsylvania, was a member of the deck department. He last sailed on board a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. Brother Snyder began collecting his retirement pay in 1978. He lived in Oceanside, Calif. JOSEF STEPHAN Pensioner Josef Stephan, 74, died July 4. Brother Stephan became a member of the MC&S in 1961 in the port of San Francisco. He shipped in the steward department aboard such ships as the Santa Maria and the Independence. Brother Stephan was born in Germany. He retired in 1990 and made his home in Walnut Grove, Calif. FELIX VALENTIN Pensioner Felix Valentin, 73, passed away July 11. Brother Valentin started sailing with the SIU in 1969. The deck department member was born in New York. Brother Valentin last sailed on the Santa Juan. He went on pension in 1997 and resided in Magna, Utah. LAMBERT WALDROP Pensioner Lambert Waldrop, 70, died May 29. Brother Waldrop joined the SIU in 1953, first shipping as a member of the steward department aboard the Alcoa Polaris. Brother Waldrop was born in Florida. Prior to retiring in 1989, he worked on the President Taylor. Brother Waldrop lived in his native state. JAMES WELCH Pensioner James Welch, 89, passed away July 5. Brother Welch joined the SIU in 1951 in New York. His first voyage was aboard the Steel Rover. Born in Maine, Brother Welch was a member of the engine department. He last sailed on the Borinquen. Brother Welch, who was a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y., started receiving his pension in 1990. INLAND SIBI LeBLANC Pensioner Sibi LeBlanc, 80, died Oct. 7. Boatman LeBlanc was born in Abbeville, La. He sailed primarily aboard Moran Towing Co. vessels in the deck department. Boatman LeBlanc retired in 1987. He called Port Arthur, Texas home. OLAF ROSE Pensioner Olaf Rose, 85, passed away April 2. Boatman Rose, who was born in Kentucky, embarked on his career with the union in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. He worked primarily aboard C.G. Willis Inc. vessels. Boatman Rose settled in Bayboro, N.C. and went on pension in 1983. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND BUZWAH Pensioner Raymond Buzwah, 77, died July 7. Brother Buzwah began sailing with the SIU in 1962, joining in Detroit, Mich. The steward department member first worked on board the Overseas Joyce. Before retiring in 1992, Brother Buzwah shipped aboard the William Roesch. He made his home in Ontario, Canada. PAUL WERYNSKI Pensioner Paul Werynski, 77, passed away April 2. Brother Werynski began his seafaring career in 1960 after serving in the U.S. Army. He worked primarily aboard American Steamship Company vessels, sailing as a member of the steward department. Brother Werynski was born in Toledo, Ohio and retired in 1982. He still called Ohio 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. NAME AGE DOD Abraham, Willie 91 Dec. 25 Archbold, Alfredo 75 Nov. 29 Barahona, Alberto 94 Dec. 29 Barron, James 78 Jan. 1 Brown, George 78 Jan. 28 Cases, Antonio 67 Dec. 22 Castro, Maximo 86 Jan. 14 Chavez, Frank 92 Dec. 22 Cheknas, Gus 93 Nov. 21 Cisneros, Rudolpho 52 Dec. 13 Davidson, Ralph 82 Dec. 7 Davis, James 85 Dec. 31 Fanchi, Amerigo 90 Dec. 14 Gani, Mohamed 86 Jan. 2 Gonzalez, Herminio 90 Jan. 20 March 2006 �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. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), Dec. 1—Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Hazel Johnson Jr., Educational Director Michael S. Kirby, Deck Delegate Carl T. Motley, Engine Delegate Antonio F. Simon, Steward Delegate Erik Marlowe. Chairman posted President Sacco’s report from Seafarers LOG for everyone to read. Educational director led discussion on options for obtaining prescription medication and studied contract issues. Treasurer stated $550 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman spoke to crew concerning conduct to and from vessel and about need to set time for each watch to go ashore and return. Seafarers requested increase in food budget for 28-man crew. Special thanks given to Chief Steward Johnson, Chief Cook Marlowe, and SA John Damphier. Crew also thanked Capt. Timothy Delong for job well done. Next port: Bayonne, N.J. CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), Dec. 26—Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Christina A. Mateer, Educational Director Terry Lane, Deck Delegate Kenneth A. Abrahamson, Steward Delegate Terry Love. Bosun noted that he and captain were very pleased with Seafarers in all departments. Secretary reported excellent trip and expressed gratitude to crew members for working hard. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new chairs in crew lounge and repair of ice machine and washing machine. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great barbecue, Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. Next ports: Houston and Galveston, Texas. DILIGENCE (Maritrans), Dec. 28 —Chairman Michael E. Brown, Secretary Mary L. Smith, Engine Delegate Patrick D. Carroll Jr., Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman discussed communications sent to headquarters and Houston hall pertaining to draws. Secretary thanked all hands for helping maintain cleanliness of ship. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. Suggestions were made regarding new contract, particularly with respect to wages, pensions, vacation, e-mail, slop chest and postal service. JEAN ANNE (Interocean American Shipping), Dec. 18— Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Deck Delegate Robert W. Knowlton, Engine Delegate Louis A. Punch, Steward Delegate Ingra L. Maddox. Chairman asked all members to pass along questions, comments or beefs directly to delegates, so they can be addressed properly. Crew thanked Steward Sinclair for providing gourmet entrees and extraordinary baked breads and pastries. Secretary requested clarification March 2006 about grandfather clause pertaining to initiation dues. Steward delegate reported morale is excellent with arrival of new steward. “Quite simply, he’s the best.” Next port: Hawaii. OVERSEAS MARILYN (OSG Ship Management), Dec. 24— Chairman Marco A. Galliano, Secretary Obencio M. Espinoza, Deck Delegate Donald R. Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members looking into possibility of getting satellite dish for TV. Two bikes were purchased for crew use. All mariners were encouraged to upgrade seafaring skills at Piney Point school. Next port: Galveston, Texas. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaskan Tankers), Jan. 8—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Donnell Lewis, Educational Director Leland O. Peterson, Deck Delegate Manuel Espinoza, Steward Delegate Randy Proctor. Chairman notified crew members of last chance to submit suggestions for upcoming contract negotiations. He announced new satellite dish expected in Long Beach, Calif. and updated them on status of computer to be installed in crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from LOG read at meeting regarding passing of John Fay. Crew dis- cational opportunities available at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Information requested about cost of living increases in pension benefits. Next port: Oakland, Calif. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), Jan. 15—Chairman Jimmie L. Scheck, Secretary Pablo C. Alvarez, Educational Director Ronald A. Garber. Chairman announced Jan. 23 payoff following meeting with patrolman. Secretary discussed the importance of contributing to SPAD. Educational director urged crew members to renew seamen’s documents in timely manner and take advantage of educational opportunities available at Piney Point facility. No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. Letter from headquarters read and posted for everyone to read. Recommendations made regarding medical and pension benefits as PETERSBURG (Interocean American Shipping), Jan. 12— Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary Oscar R. Angeles, Educational Director Jeffry P. Stuart, Deck Delegate Noel R. Camacho, Steward Delegate Michael C. Munoz. Educational director suggested members check their college credits while upgrading at Piney Point school. AB Chris Dionio voted in as new ship’s treasurer. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew warned to be careful in laundry room during painting process. During a recent stopover in Puerto Rico, Seafarers aboard the El Yunque include (clockwise from top left) ABs Adrian Surrillo-Diaz and Ruben Gonzales; Chief Cook Juan Vallejo-Hernandez; the crew following payoff meeting; and UMM Argelio Perez-Borroto. WILSON (Sealift Inc.), Dec. 23— Chairman Andrew Jones, Secretary Robyn A. Anderson, Deck Delegate James M. Wray, Engine Delegate Nicholas K. Doffoh, Steward Delegate Edward J. Aguigui. Chairman read president’s report from the cussed negotiations of 2001 contract, which was partly was dedicated to attaining enhanced health benefits. They expressed thoughts on negotiating new contract. Bosun asked shipmates to close house doors softly, particularly during working hours and at night. Steward department was thanked for fine cuisine. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska; Long Beach, Calif. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Jan. 8— Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Roger D. Linasan, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Khaled Munassar, Steward Delegate Reynaldo Recarte. Chairman announced Jan. 17 payoff in Oakland, Calif. Next foreign trip will possibly take them to China shipyard for three weeks. Secretary thanked crew for good trip and for helping keep ship clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of edu- OCEAN ATLAS (Pacific Gulf Marine), Jan. 27—Chairman Maurice D. Hetrick, Secretary André Zene, Educational Director Allen D. Parker, Deck Delegate Donald A. Stickens, Steward Delegate Leroy Jenkins. Educational director encouraged mariners to enhance skills at seafarers-affiliated training facility in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All departments expressed gratitude to union for helping bring ships on South American run under U.S. flag. OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG Ship Management), Jan. 29—Chairman Roger C. Tupas, Secretary Ronald P. Drew, Educational Director Norman A. Arquillano, Steward Delegate Jack A. Hart Jr. Chairman announced Feb. 4 payoff in Newark, N.J. Educational director advised everyone to attend Piney Point school to upgrade skills necessary to remain competitive. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new washer and dryer along with new stereo for crew lounge. Crew members complimented steward department for job well done, especially chief cook for his extra efforts. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. Aboard the SIU-Crewed El Yunque Ackerman, Steward Delegate Cirilo S. Centeno. Chairman announced payoff Jan. 3 upon arrival in Houston. He reported good trip with great food, thanks to hard work by steward department. He reminded crew members to separate plastic items from other trash. Secretary thanked mariners for helping keep lounge and mess hall clean and asked them to tidy up rooms and leave fresh linen for next person. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun talked about president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Vote of thanks given to steward department for fantastic Thanksgiving and Christmas Day meals. for safe trip and for helping keep ship clean. Secretary reminded crew members to straighten up rooms and leave new linen for next person. Educational director advised members to start renewal process early on z-cards. He also talked about upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Captain now in charge of video library. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions for new contract made regarding expanded medical coverage. well as purchase of computer for crew. Vote of thanks give to ship’s crew for smooth trip to and from Djibouti. Next port: Galveston, Texas. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), Jan. 15—Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary James Tucker. Chairman announced Jan. 22 payoff upon arrival in Long View, Wash. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to attend classes at Paul Hall Center. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. All mariners departing vessel were asked to clean rooms for next person. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line Limited), Jan. 2—Secretary Franklyn D. Cordero, Educational Director Michael A. Scinto, Steward Delegate Melvin W. Hite. Chairman thanked all departments QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), Jan. 22—Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Steward Delegate Eddy D. Rustandi. Chairman announced Jan. 30 payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. and was happy to report safe trip with no accidents or injuries. Educational director reminded everyone to take advantage of educational opportunities available at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He stressed importance of contributing to SPAD and thanked steward department for “truly remarkable meals.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Electrician requested spare parts for vacuum cleaner. Recommendations made regarding medical, dental and pension benefits. Next port: Norfolk, Va. USNS BRUCE HEEZEN (Horizon Lines), Jan. 29— Chairman Franz C. Eder, Secretary Edgardo H. Ong, Educational Director Robert P. Rosa. Secretary led discussion on safety procedures aboard vessels. Educational director talked about training courses available at Paul Hall center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun clarified questions pertaining to prescription benefits and pension plan. Seafarers LOG 15 �Aboard the Steel Rover in 1948 Know Your Rights Editor’s note: Brother Bart Misuraca of Brooklyn, N.Y. contributed an article in the Sept. 3, 1948 of the Seafarers LOG and thought current readers of the paper might enjoy reading it, too, and seeing how shipboard life has changed. Originally titled “Girls and Gripes Highlight Steel Rover’s Far East Run,” it is reprinted here. You have asked for stories and photos for the LOG, so I’m going to give you as much detail as I can to go with this picture of our trip to India aboard the Steel Rover. We left New York with a swell bunch of SIU men. Nearly the entire crew had full-books with plenty of experience, so when we secured ship, everything went along smoothly—even got a compliment from the chief mate on a job well done. It sure looked like a good start for a trip. When we got to Port Said, there was martial law ashore, and everyone was required to remain aboard. But as usual, the bumboats came along side with their watered whiskey Our next stop was Karachi, India, where those of us who were looking forward to going ashore for a nice cool drink were badly disappointed. We found stench and filth and unpleasant conditions all around. I might add a warning to SIU men hitting this port—stay away from the native Indian town. We have one crew member in bad shape now because he wandered in there. Changes Came We dropped anchor in Bombay next, and the mate changed his attitude. Things were run bell to bell, so we changed the name of the ship to the SS Steel Slavery. When we finally tied up after a week, all hell broke loose. Our famous captain, “Schooner Guy” Barnhard, started throwing logs at us till it got as hot as the Chicago fire. But the crew kept up the SIU spirit by seeing to it that the ship remained in good shape. Bombay had its pleasant side for us, too—let’s talk about that. There were wine, women and song. And I mean good wine. An Italian ship tied up alongside, so I and a wiper, who understands the lingo, went aboard and traded cigarettes [for wine]. All went smoothly until the utility man got gassed up until he felt like superman—someone then laid him out on the deck for a nice long sleep. Then we have a character whom we call Flash Gordon— you’ll hear more about him when the ship hits New York. This phony claims he has been going to sea for 20 years, but he still doesn’t know the bow from the stern. To top it off, he is the mate’s boy and a great reporter —if you know what I mean. He plays pirate on lookout and imagines he sees submarines. He would swear on a stack of bibles that the Rock of Gibraltar is in the Indian Ocean, and he thinks there is a rabbit aboard ship. So stand by with a straight jacket when we get back. The DM fell in love with a sweet looking Anglo-Indian gal, who stood on the pier crying her eyes out as we pulled out. We had a tough time holding Don from jumping overboard after her. Love leaves sweet sorrows. The crew’s pantryman from the Bronx probably rates the title of the ship’s great lover. He can’t resist the temptation of beautiful women. He caught a nice cold. Well I guess I have covered most everything, but you will hear from me with more news from Calcutta, for I hear all the girls are moving from Bombay to Calcutta to meet the boys of the Steel Rover. I’m going to rig a lantern at the gangway later on. — Bart Misuraca 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. 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. 3/06 16 Seafarers LOG 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. March 2006 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for March through June 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 Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman March 6 April 17 May 29 March 31 May 12 June 23 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 17 April 21 Lifeboatman/Water Survival April 3 May 15 April 14 June 2 Radar April 3 April 14 Radar Renewal (one day) April 24 Course Junior Engineer April 3 June 23 Welding March 20 May 8 April 7 May 26 Recertification Bosun April 10 May 8 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training - AB March 13 April 10 March 17 April 14 Basic Safety Training - FOWT March 27 March 31 Fast Rescue Boat March 20 March 24 Government Vessels - FOWT April 3 May 15 June 26 April 7 May 19 June 30 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* April 3 June 5 April 14 June 16 Course (*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 March 6, 2006. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Basic Auxiliary Planning Ops FOWT Start Date Date of Completion March 27 May 22 June 16 July 14 March 27 May 22 May 19 July 22 UPGRADE AT THE PAUL HALL CENTER � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, 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 ________________________________________________ March 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. 3/06 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 670 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 670. They are (in alphabetical order) AlexStephen Amarra, Jayson Cottrille, Abner Diaz-Torres, Eddie Flood, Ernest Frank III, Sean Fox, Timothy Hetz, Maxine Howard, Michael Lais, Gil Lawrence, Ceresa Moreno, Shawn Orr, Dennis Rivard, Reylan Tendido, Stephon Thompson, Joseph Daniel and Akia Wilcox. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Dec. 9 are (in alphabetical order) Chris Bryan, Richard Cannady, Gordon Grant, Steven Hurden, Ramsey Ingram, Mark Keblis, Perry King, Louis Kramm, Kenny Potts, Anthony Roca, Patrick Ryan, Perry Schroff and Kenneth Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, stands at far right. Bridge Resource Management— The six MTLX boatmen who recently completed this course are (in no specific order) John Emmel, Patrick O’Brien, Joshua Ellis, Glen McCann, Michael Tarbox and Scott Murdock. Not pictured are MTLX staff member Igor Loch Jr. and instructor Herb Walling. FOWT — Graduating from this course Nov. 11 are (in alphabetical order) Troy Davis, Elvin Ellis Jr., Herman Fleischman, Brandon Granger, Cynthia Harris, Michael Hill, Davis Kelch, Joshua Lampke, John McIntosh, Jonathan Miller, Robert Ott, James Perkins, Stephen Riccobene, Jonathan Scurry, Scott Spilman, Steben Torres, Bon Vannaxay, Ron Westerfield and Matthew Wright. Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center, back row) are students who completed the welding course Nov. 11. They are (in no specific order) Geoffrey James, Kenneth Lockhart and Romel Reyes. HAZWOPER — MTLX boatmen who completed the HAZWOPER course Nov. 11 are (in no specific order) John Emmel, John Leslie, Michael Maibaum, Jerry Bishop, Michael Tarbox, Scott Murdock, Mike Wiley, Scott Libby, Jeff Maszk, Marc Aikin, Vincent Whitehair, Patrick O’Brien, Joshua Ellis, David DeBruler, Robert Reeder, Jay O’Crotty, Edwin Schlink, Ken Stanton, James Suomela, Glen McCann and Kevin O’Leary. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Computer Lab Classes 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 Holding their certificates of achievement for courses recently completed in the computer lab are (from left) Christopher Mosley, Geoffrey James and Musid Musleh. With them (at right) is their instructor, Rick Prucha. 18 Seafarers LOG another student may take that place. Fast Rescue Boat — Nov. 4 was graduation day for MTLX boatmen in the fast rescue boat course. They are (in alphabetical order) John Lesie, Scott Libby, Michael Maibaum, Jay O’Crotty, Kevin O’Leary, Robert Reeder, Edwin Schlink and Mike Wiley. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is seated at left. March 2006 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankerman (PIC) Barge — The MTLX boatmen who took this course ending Nov. 18 are (in no specific order) Edwin Schlink, John Emmel, James Suomela, Robert Bouron, Ken Stanton, Michael Tarbox, Joshua Ellis, Kevin O’Leary, Scott Libby, Igor Loch Jr., Jason Loch, Vincent Whitehair, Glen McCann, Mike Wiley Patrick O’Brien, Scott Murdock, John Leslie, Robert Reeder, Jay O’Crotty and Michael Maibaum. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at far left. Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher — John Bonifas (right) worked with instructor Jay Henderson to complete the marine electrical maintenance refresher course Nov. 11. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Nov. 11 graduates of this class include (in alphabetical order) Daniel Anderson, Rafael Borja, Christopher Bryan, Richard Cannady, David Grasso, Regie Ignacio, Michael Jarvi, Michael Morita, Christopher Mosley and Musid Musleh. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. Safety — Boatmen from Express Marine completed the damage control portion of the safety class Nov. 4. They are (in no specific order) Frederick Register, Billy Sawyer Sr., Ronnie Fulcher, Wiliam Edwards, Roland Mason Jr., James Dixon Sr., James Dixon Jr., Donald Stutzbach, Pierre Daigle, Dennis Gaskill Jr., Gil Pruitt, Ernest Ross, Christopher Blake Jr., Foster Watts, Robert Perosse, Leslie Anderson and Oswald Smithwick. Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher — Working their way through this refresher course, which ended Dec. 9, are (in alphabetical order) Greg Alvarez, Sergio Ayala, Edward Fore, Wayne Gonsalves, Kenneth Lockhart, Randolph Patterson and Pedro Santiago. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at left, back row. Specially Trained OS — Tony Sevilla Specially Trained OS — Graduates of the STOS course ending Oct. 7 include (in no specific order) De’Aris Henry, William Clifton, John Burns, Glenard Chaney Jr., Robert Hardesty, Nicole Geideman, Robert James, Daryl Alvin, David Anderson, Mark Bickham, Terrance Dunn, Sylvan Harris and Fermin Baltazar. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, stands fourth from right. Specially Trained OS — Graduates of the STOS course ending Dec. 16 include (in no specific order) Norman Lucas II, Fausto Aranda, Mohamed Mosed, Dominic Gilmartin, Isaac Garrido, Richard Kight, Daniel Manning, George Marshall, Agustin Manzo, Anthony Anderson, Christopher Bean, Ken Ada, Chris Cain and Alex Banky. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Their instructor was Stacey Harris (not pictured). March 2006 (far left) was the instructor for the STOS class ending Dec. 16. The students are (in no specific order) Dean Bettis, Philip Smith, Carlos Ramirez, Gabe Williamson, Jacob Kamp, Ivan Zapata, Ryan Scott and Garrett Phillips. Specially Trained OS — Alaskan fishermen who received their STOS certificates of completion Dec. 16 are (in no specific order) Bruce Dunbar, Jorel Zellweger, Patrick Langdon, Douglas Sams, Stephen Snapp, James Brigherti, Carolina Crenna, Brett Lange, Mark Nugent, William Richmond, Kevin Anderson and SIU member Edgar Elegino. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is standing at far left. Seafarers LOG 19 �Volume 68, Number 3 March 2006 Upgrading at the Paul Hall Center Take advantage of the upgrading courses available at the Paul Hall Center. See page 17 for a schedulee of upcoming classes. Sh h ip p boo arr d T raa in n in n g FFocuses occ uss ess on n Sa a fee tyy Shipboard Training Safety Using the wheelhouse aboard the SIUcrewed Cape Washington as their classroom, Seafarers from the Cape Washington and Cape Wrath (docked side-by-side in the port of Baltimore) met for several days earlier this year for a safety training session conducted by representatives from Crowley Maritime Corporation. Noting that all accidents can be prevented and that everyone is responsible for safety, Charles F. Nalen, vice president, environmental, safety, quality assurance at Crowley, and Capt. Margaret M. Reasoner, senior port captain at Crowley, led the job safety seminar. A number of well designed handouts guided the lectures, starting with Crowley’s safety policy and then going through various hazards, controls, concerns and requirements for those working on deck, in the galley, handling dry cargo or performing engineering or petroleum Seafarers from the SIU-crewed Cape Washington and Cape Wrath join union and company officials for a shipboard safety training session conducted by Crowley personnel. operations. Information also was presented on operations in extreme heat and cold conditions and the necessary personal protective equipment required in each case. McKinley Jones, recertified steward aboard the Cape Washington, said “I found the training to be very educational—with some good safety tips. I didn’t know about different ways to step across objects, and I plan to carry what I learned back to my family—beyond shipboard life—and into everyday life.” Bosun Rick James agreed. “The course was very effective in learning about safety operations at sea and was very beneficial to the crew in general.” One of the handouts pertained to incident investigation—to determine the real root causes of an undesired event that results in injury to people, damage to property or the environment, or loss of service. Another was a job safety analysis handbook, which is designed to improve the safety of all personnel and provide Crowley employees with guidance on how to apply job safety analysis in the day-to-day conduct of assigned jobs. Effective communication also was stressed as a way to promote the health, safety and security of all employees. Training such as this, in addition to the safety courses available at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., help make SIU members the besttrained mariners in the world. If we think accidents will happen— they will happen. Safety training can help prevent accidents in all activities aboard ship like the ones shown at left and below. Everyone is responsible for safety. Gathering for a group shot following the training program are Seafarers from the Cape Washington and Cape Wrath, along with SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz (third from right) and Crowley VP Charles Nalen. The shipboard safety training session was conducted by Capt. Margaret M. Reasoner (left) and Crowley VP Charles F. Nalen (above) aboard the Cape Washington. All accidents can be prevented. The training seminar was conducted aboard the SIU-crewed Cape Washington (right), which is docked in Baltimore alongside the Cape Wrath. � 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 March 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF INSPECTORS TEAM UP, SECURE BACK PAY FOR CREW ITF’S SEAFARERS’ TRUST CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF HELPING MARINERS SEAFARERS HONORED FOR RELIEF EFFORTS MARAD APPROVES MEDALS FOR ‘OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT’ CHIEF COOK CREDITS FELLOW MEMBERS ON EMPIRE STATE 9TH T-AKE SHIP ORDERED LYKES MOTIVATOR HONORED FOR RESCUE MARITRANS ESTABLISHES 3 MEMORIAL FUNDS SIU/UIW OFFICIAL ROBERT O’KEEFE DIES AT 76 FERRY PASSENGERS WERE ‘ABANDONED’ MORE THAN 1, 000 DEAD OR MISSING IN RED SEA DISASTER ILO WEIGHS MARITIME STANDARDS HEALTH CARE COSTS AFFECT EVERYONE AB COSTELLO CREDITS HEALTH PLAN FOR HELPING HIM BEAT CANCER ARTICLES EXPOSE TACTICS OF FOC CRUISE LINE UNION MEMBERSHIP GROWS FEDERAL FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR PORT SECURITY FORD ANNOUNCES MASSIVE JOB CUTS MANAGEMENT’S FAILURE LEADS TO ‘DISSAPOINTING AND DEVASTATING NEWS’ SEAFARERS PROUDLY SERVE AS AMERICA’S FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE ABOARD THE STEEL ROVER IN 1948 SHIPBOARD TRAINING FOCUSES ON SAFETY 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 03/01/2006 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. 3 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/ccc6d76b56acf86c04bde60045feaa83.pdf 1fdfaa14ec652c23860e749b2e2d7de1 PDF Text Text 34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 3:50 AM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 2 February 2006 More New New Ships Ships More On the the Way! Way! On SIU-Contracted Cruise Ship, Tankers And More Under Construction At least five new Seafarers-contracted vessels plus an ATB are scheduled to launch in 2006. They include (clockwise, from upper left) the tanker Alaskan Legend, the military support ship USNS Sacagawea, the first of 10 tankers being built for OSG in Philadelphia, and NCL America’s cruise ship Pride of Hawaii. Page 3. Photo courtesy NASSCO Photo courtesy NASSCO Photo courtesy Aker Philadelphia Shipyard Tug Tragedy Claims 3 Page 4 Tax Tips for Mariners Pages 12-13 �2006-February.qxp 1/28/2006 1:33 PM Page 2 President’s Report Remembering Our Fallen Brothers From time to time we are reminded that shipboard life, for all its appeal and rewards, carries a certain inevitable amount of risk. That’s true in the deep sea, Great Lakes and inland divisions, and it’s also the case in other transportation-related industries. Some of the risk simply comes with the territory. It’s the nature of the work, particularly where heavy equipment is involved. That’s one reason why our union always has emphasized shipboard safety and especially the need for each Michael Sacco member to stay up-to-date with the latest safety training. In particular we have gone to great lengths with our affiliated school, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, to make sure that Seafarers can and do receive the absolute “latest and greatest” courses which help them do their jobs safely and effectively. In the merchant marine, we also constantly face the threat of an uncontrollable and often seemingly unpredictable companion in Mother Nature. There may be times when severe weather is a flat overwhelming foe, no matter how many precautions are taken. That appears to have been the case in the fatal sinking of the SIU-crewed tug Valour last month off the coast of North Carolina. The U.S. Coast Guard is investigating the incident, but even before all the details are reported, it’s apparent that extremely rough seas played a big part in the sinking. There are no words that can compensate for the three lives that were lost—those of SIU member Ron Emory, Chief Engineer Richard Smoot and Chief Mate Fred Brenner, who began his career with our union many years ago. But I would say to their families and friends and shipmates that everyone in the SIU genuinely feels the loss. We’re a closely knit organization—a community of Seafarers—and I think that to some extent we all share in each other’s experiences. When one of our crews helps earn a safety award or some other positive recognition, we have every reason to feel good about it throughout the entire SIU. When one of our brothers or sisters suffers a tragic loss, we all share in the pain. No matter what facts emerge in the final report on the Valour, the incident itself is a grim reminder that safety training and documentation are about far more than just fulfilling obligations on some checklist. Some accidents truly are unavoidable and blameless. But we owe it to every Seafarer and their families to continue fully preparing our membership to face the challenges in all three shipboard departments and in every division. We most certainly will continue fulfilling that mission—working with our affiliated school, with our contracted companies, with the appropriate government agencies and international maritime bodies and with anyone and everyone else who gives us a better chance to help ensure the safe return of every SIU member. On behalf of our officials and members, I extend the SIU’s deepest sympathies to the families and shipmates of the Valour victims. New Ships on the Way There is no completely comfortable way to go from such a serious subject to looking at the year that lies ahead, but we of course must continue and move forward. And on that note, I believe we have plenty to look forward to in 2006. For example, on our cover and on page 3 you can read about some of the new SIU-contracted ships that are due to begin sailing this year. Those vessels represent the continued job security of Seafarers and continued success in our efforts to help revitalize the U.S.-flag fleet. As usual, we won’t let up in those efforts. Volume 68, Number 2 Navy League President Urges Policy for Stronger U.S. Fleet The national president of the Navy League of the United States recently called for presidential action to further strengthen the U.S. Merchant Marine and stated that a vibrant U.S.-flag fleet is vital to America. Writing in the Navy League’s latest annual Seapower Almanac, John A. Panneton, a decorated veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, said that a “strong U.S.-flag Merchant Marine is essential to support the defense of our nation and our economic security in the 21st century.” Speaking of all U.S. sea services, Panneton likened current conditions to the pre-Katrina days in New Orleans. “The primary lesson arising from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and other recent disasters is that we must not wait until tragedy strikes to refurbish and maintain the nation’s critical infrastructures,” he observed, adding that the federal government must avoid similar pitfalls when it comes to maintaining sufficient U.S. tonnage. Panneton continued, “During a conflict, 95 percent of the equipment and supplies required to deploy the U.S. armed forces overseas are delivered by ship. U.S.-flag commercial and government-owned vessels, manned by U.S. citizen mariners, played an indispensable role in providing strategic sealift for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and in the continuing Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sea Power 21, the Navy’s strategic vision of the future, underscores the need for a robust logistics force and commercial sealift capability to support and sustain Special Operations Forces, maritime coalition forces and additional expeditionary strike groups. A variety of commercial maritime vessels, in-stream cargo handling systems and high-speed connector vessels also will be needed.” Underscoring the organization’s belief in U.S. mariners, Panneton wrote, “Our call for White House intervention to bolster the Merchant Marine is a central element of the Navy League’s Maritime Policy for 2006-07. The underlying purpose of our policy is to establish the basis for Navy League support of the sea services’ mission success. The Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine are beset by rising expectations of performance and diminishing resources. Personnel and equipment are being driven to extremes as the sea services continue to prosecute the global war on terrorism in the Middle East and Southeast Asia while vastly increasing their humanitarian operations around the globe, from tsunami relief in Southeast Asia to hurricane relief on the U.S. Gulf Coast and earthquake relief in Pakistan. John Panneton, president of the Navy League of the United States, notes that U.S. mariners have “played an indispensable role” supporting our troops. “Accordingly, the Navy League Maritime Policy for 200607 concludes that the sea services are stretched to the point where they can no longer do more with less. The nation must provide the funding for the reconstitution and modernization of its forces, and avoid the specter of failure that lies on our horizon.” He concluded, “Providing for the future is not easy or cheap, but it is essential. Each day, the people of our nation ask sailors, Marines, Coast Guard personnel and merchant mariners to go into harm’s way to protect their interests. We are obliged to hold ourselves accountable, and provide them with the resources to survive and prevail.” SIU of Canada Protects Jobs Company Tried to Use Cyprus-Flag Tonnage The SIU of Canada, an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America, started the New Year by protecting members’ jobs when a company attempted to use Cyprus-flag tonnage in the Canadian domestic trades. SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz confirmed a report in the newspaper Trade Winds indicating that bulk shipper Canada Salt Co. had applied to the Canadian Transport Agency (CTA) for work involving cargo shipments from the Magdalen Islands to ports along the St. Lawrence River. However, Canada Salt wanted to give the work to the Greek company Navarone SA, which apparently would have utilized its Cyprus-flag vessels Mandarin and Pintail. “The SIU objected on the basis that SIU-contracted vessels would be available,” SIU of Canada Executive Vice President Michel Desjardins noted. “We also objected to any issuance of temporary work visas, as Canadian seafarers were available to do the work, in accordance with our immigration laws. We were helpful in safeguarding approximately four weeks’ work for our members.” The SIU of Canada had allies in this fight: Domestic owners Canada Steamship Lines, Transport Desgagnes Inc. and Seaway Marine Transport also protested the application. All three of those companies have contracts with the SIU of Canada. Canada’s cabotage rules stipulate that foreign-flag vessels may be used in the domestic trades only if no appropriate Canadian-flag tonnage is available. According to Trade Winds, when the CTA denied Canadian Salt’s application, “The authorities explained that the burden of proof was on the shipper to ‘prove that the vessel capacity offered by Canadian vessel operators, that have previously always met its transportation needs, is insufficient.’” Port Council Honors McLaughlin, Johnston, Bishop February 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 The Maritime Port Council of Greater New York and Vicinity presented its annual awards Oct. 15, 2005 in New York City. Pictured at the ceremony are (from left) Brian McLaughlin, president of the 1.5 million member New York City Labor Council and recipient of the port council’s Paul Hall Labor Man of the Year Award; SIU and AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department President Michael Sacco; U.S. Rep. Timothy Bishop (D-N.Y.), the port council’s Government Man of the Year; SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, who also serves as president of the port council; Captain Robert E. Johnston, senior VP at Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) and recipient of the council’s Herb Brand Memorial Man of the Year Award; Port Council Secretary-Treasurer Peter Busaca; and MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex. February 2006 �2006-February.qxp 1/28/2006 1:33 PM Page 3 More New Ships Due this Year When it comes to new SIUcontracted vessels, Seafarers should have plenty to look forward to this year. Based on the latest projections from the respective shipyards, at least five new Seafarers-contracted vessels plus an ATB are scheduled to launch in 2006. Those ships include NCL America’s cruise ship Pride of Hawaii, slated for a mid-April debut; Crowley’s ATB Pacific Reliance, scheduled for late March; the Matson containership Maunalei, due in June; BP Oil Shipping Company USA’s fourth Alaskaclass tanker, the Alaskan Legend, set to debut mid-year; the second ship in the Lewis and Clark class, the USNS Sacagawea; and the first of 10 tankers to be built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard for Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). Delivery dates haven’t been specified for the latter two vessels but both are expected sometime this year. “This type of great news should never be taken for granted,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “So many things play a role in the SIU’s success—political action, doing an outstanding job aboard ship and staying on top of the latest training techniques and requirements. As always, we won’t rest on our laurels.” The 920-foot Pride of Hawaii undoubtedly will garner the most headlines in the commercial media. It is the third ship in NCL America’s fleet and is undergoing finishing touches in a German shipyard. The Pride of Hawaii will have a passenger capacity greater than 2,100 and will be capable of a top speed of 25 knots. It will join the Seafarers-crewed Pride of Aloha and Pride of America on Hawaiian Island itineraries (see related story, page 24). Crowley’s Pacific Reliance and accompanying barge 650-1 are being built at Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Miss. The tug will have 10,000 h.p. while the 580foot barge will have a capacity of 185,000 barrels. The unit will have 14 cargo tanks, two more than the earlier generation of ATBs. Each of those tanks will have its own electronically driven cargo pump. Members of the union’s Government Services Division will crew up the 689-foot USNS Sacagawea, part of a new class of combat logistics force vessels. The new T-AKE ships are dry cargo/ammunition vessels designed to operate independently for extended periods at sea while providing underway replenishment services. The first such ship, the USNS Lewis and Clark, began sailing last year. The Alaskan Legend will join three double-hulled sister ships in its class operated by Alaska Tanker Company. The other ships are the Alaskan Explorer, Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan Navigator. Each is 941 feet long; they have a combined capacity of 1.3 million barrels of crude oil. The vessels already in operation have been delivering cargo from Alaska to BP’s refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. OSG’s first new tanker, unnamed for now, will be 600 feet long and capable of carrying 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. Construction also has begun on the second ship in the Veteran class; it is due to launch in 2007. Matson’s Maunalei is its fourth containership being built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. It is approximately 700 feet long and will join sister ships Manulani, Maunawili and Manukai along with the R.J. Pfeiffer in what the company describes as an integrated weekly West Coast-HawaiiGuam-China service. Photo courtesy Aker Philadelphia Shipyard Above: In the foreground is the first of 10 tankers being built for SIU-contracted OSG at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard; right behind it is the final in a series of four Seafarerscontracted Matson ships under construction. Left: The fourth Alaskaclass tanker, the Alaskan Legend, will transport cargo from Alaska to the West Coast. Photo courtesy NASSCO Additional North Slope Acreage Opened for Safe Oil Exploration Photo courtesy NASSCO The USNS Sacagawea is the second in the new T-AKE class, being built at San Diego’s NASSCO shipyard. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard has begun production on the second of 10 vessels in the product tanker program announced last spring. President to Nominate Sanborn for MarAd Post The White House last month announced that president Bush “intends to nominate David C. Sanborn, of Virginia, to be Administrator of the Maritime Administration of the Department of Transportation. Mr. Sanborn currently serves as Director of Operations for Europe and Latin America at DP World. Prior to this, he served as Senior Vice President for North America Service Delivery at CMACGM (America) LLC. Mr. Sanborn also served as Vice President for Network-Operations for American President Lines, Pte. Ltd. Earlier in his career, he served as Director for Operations for Sea-Land Service, Inc. Mr. Sanborn is a retired Lieutenant Junior Grade for the United States Naval Reserve. He received his bachelor’s degree from the United States Merchant Marine Academy.” February 2006 The U.S. Department of Interior may well have paved the way for future oil exploration in the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), and potentially more SIU jobs, as a result of its Jan. 11 approval to open thousands of acres on Alaska’s North Slope for oil exploration. According to several sources, including Reuters, The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times, the Interior Department gave its okay for oil and gas exploration in the Teshekpuk Lake Region, an area that previously was considered off-limits because of concerns about the impact on wildlife. The department’s action came just weeks after Congress blocked legislation that would have permitted energy development in the nearby ANWR. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) proposed opening the area—used by migrating caribou and birds and situated west of the 19.9 million acre wildlife refuge on Alaska’s North Slope—one year ago, but it was not until Jan. 11 that Deputy Assistant Secretary Chad Calvert approved a modified version of the original arrangement. The area and adjacent land is not part of a wildlife refuge and does not require Congressional approval for oil development. The latest plan will open up more than 500,000 acres in and around Teshekpuk Lake on Alaska’s oil rich North Slope. Government officials said the area has significant potential for oil development and estimate it contains about 2 billion barrels of oil that economically is recoverable, along with 3.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. The area—especially portions near Teshekpuk Lake—has been a focal point of concern among environmentalists for some time. They say oil operations would disrupt an area where thousands of geese molt. Caribou and tundra swans also would be harmed, they predicted. BLM officials acknowledged that the area is important for wildlife and subsistence hunting, and said their plan was very meticulous in requiring environmental protection and mitigation. They also pointed out that technological advances in oil drilling allow drilling to occur safely, without the impact previously feared. No surface drilling will be allowed on 242,000 acres considered vital for molting geese, or on another 244,000 acres used by caribou. Slant drilling will be allowed under those surfaces from adjoining land. Pipelines must be seven feet high, at least initially, to allow caribou and hunters to pass beneath. Finally, a maximum of 2,100 acres total in seven different zones can be permanently disturbed on the surface, and a three-year study will be conducted of molting geese, BLM officials said. The leasing of lands could begin as early as September, following reviews by Alaskan coastal and regional planning agencies, but drilling on the lake will be deferred for 10 years. “We have done a very good job balancing the subsistence resources while allowing some areas to be opened to oil and gas drilling,” said Susan Childs, energy and mineral planning coordinator for the BLM’s Alaska office, which will oversee implementation of the plan. BLM Alaska Spokeswoman Jody Weil echoed Childs’ comment, noting “Our mission is to provide for multiple uses. A part of our mission is to protect wildlife, but also part of our mission is to allow for the development of resources. Our job is to find that balance on oil and gas mining.” Actual oil drilling in the area could start as soon as the winter of 2007-08 by some estimates. And with the ANWR closed to exploration, the oil industry likely will be attracted and keenly interested in this new opportunity. “We believe there will be a lot of interest,” said Henri Bisson BLM director of Alaska. “It’s the most significant prospect on the North Slope, absent ANWR.” Seafarers LOG 3 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 3:51 AM Page 4 SIU-Crewed Cape Trinity Recognized For Active Role in Enduring Freedom The SIU-crewed Cape Trinity late last year was recognized for its performance during Operation Enduring Freedom. As was reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) in December awarded its Professional Ship Award to the Cape Trinity crew for services in the war on terror. Specifically, the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessel’s crew and officers were cited for voluntarily serving on the high seas for 341 continuous days. During this period, they repeatedly transported assorted provisions to American military personnel in the Middle East and returned home. A formal awards ceremony to commemorate the service of the crew and officers on Nov. 29, 2005 took place at Brady’s Landing in Houston. SIU Asst. Vice President Southern Region Jim McGee represented the Seafarers during the event. On behalf of SIU President Michael Sacco and the union as a whole, McGee congratulated crew members on their accomplishment. He also thanked them for their hard work and the professional fashion in which they collectively represented the union throughout the time for which they were recognized. SIU members aboard the vessel during the period for which accolades were bestowed included Bosun Charles Jackson, ABs Frank Thompson, Robert Taylor, Vincent Lao, Richard Molina-Blackman and Dan Carman; Electrician Carlos Perez; GVAs Timoteo Nunez, Abdo Ahmed and Ali Hussein; Oilers Zaid Shaif, Filiberto Moreira and Rodolfo Menchaca; Chief Cook Amilcar Bermudez, Assistant Cook Jamie Cayonte and SAs Ramon Hernandez and Rolando Batiz. In addition to McGee, several other officials from the maritime industry attended the event. Deepak Varshney, acting director, Central Region, MarAd, served as the event’s keynote speaker. Also in attendance were Erny Otterspoor, president, Mormac Marine, Inc., and other officials from MarAd. MarAd’s Professional Ship Award is given to non-military ships that achieve the highest degree of safety, readiness, performance, efficiency, reliability and productivity, according to the agency. The crew and officers of the Cape Trinity also received the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal, given to mariners who serve in war zones. Ready Reserve Force ships, crewed by U.S. Merchant Mariners, have carried much of the supplies to and from the Middle East since the start of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Cape Trinity, in its 341 days of activation, carried 19,603 metric tons of cargo between various ports including Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, Shauiba and Ash Shuaybah in Kuwait, and Messaieed in Qatar. Ports in Europe included Bremerhaven, Szczecin and Antwerp. U.S. load ports included Charleston and Corpus Christi. The Cape Trinity originally was constructed in Germany’s HDW shipyard in 1977 for commercial roll-on/roll-off service. In 1994, it was converted to the U.S. flag and became part of the RRF. Tug Sinking Claims Lives of 3 Mariners Tragedy struck during the pre-dawn hours of Jan. 18, as a Seafarer and two officers from the Maritrans tugboat Valour lost their lives when the boat sank in high seas and gale-force winds off the coast of Cape Fear, N.C. Six other men aboard the Valour survived the ordeal. Three are SIU members and three are members of the American Maritime Officers. Longtime SIU member Ron Emory, age 56, sailing as an AB/tankerman, died in the acci- Contract Briefs The following items were reported at the January membership meetings: Sagamore Shipping – Ascension and Sagamore In accordance with their agreement, members of the unlicensed crew aboard the Ascension and Sagamore will receive a 3 percent increase to all wage-related items effective Jan. 1, 2006. Osprey Ship Management, Inc. – American Tern Last month (December 2005) with the re-award of the Military Sealift Command contract for the operation of an ice-strengthened vessel to Osprey Ship Management, Inc., the American Tern moved onto the new contract. The new agreement will include a 3 percent increase to all wage-related items along with a vacation benefit of 15 for 30 and 5 percent into the Seafarers Money Purchase Plan Benefit. Members also will continue to receive health benefits in accordance with the Core Plus Plan level. 2006. All fringe benefits remain unchanged. Also effective Jan. 1, 2006 unlicensed personnel employed aboard the E-Ships-operated Endurance, Endeavor and Enterprise received a 3.5 percent increase to wages and wage-related items. This contract is due to expire June 15, 2006. Interocean American Shipping Corp. – Car Carriers Interocean American Shipping Corp. (IAM) has extended their agreements covering unlicensed personnel aboard company-operated car carrier vessels to expire June 15, 2006 to coincide with the expiration of the Standard Freightship Agreement. With the extension of the agreement, there was also a 3 percent increase negotiated for wages and wagerelated items. The vessels included are the F reedom, Independence, Courage, Honor, Integrity, CF Liberty, CP Patriot and CR Resolve. Fringe benefit levels will remain the same through the duration of the agreement. Central Gulf Lines – Energy Enterprise Effective retroactively to July 1, 2005, there will be a 3 percent increase to wages and wage-related items for unlicensed personnel employed aboard the SS Energy Enterprise. The existing agreement has been extended to expire June 15, 2006. Maersk Line, Ltd. – Page and Carter SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) announced that it has been awarded a one-year agreement to charter two vessels under the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning program. The contract covers sister ships, the Seafarers-crewed military support carriers Lt. Col. John U.D. Page and Sgt. Edward A. Carter, Jr. The company noted that the agreement follows MLL’s “successful completion of an existing fiveyear contract and has options that could extend the performance period to a total of 59 months.” Company officials acknowledged the good work of Seafarers aboard those ships during the past five years. Waterman Steamship Corp. – Buenos Aires, Vera Cruz Effective January 1, 2006, the P&O Ned Lloyd Buenos Aires and the P&O Ned Lloyd Vera Cruz received a 3 percent increase in wages and wagerelated items. The agreement has also been extended to expire June 15, 2006. E-Ships – Argonaut, Endurance, Endeavor and Enterprise Effective Jan. 1, 2006, unlicensed personnel employed aboard the E-Ships-operated vessel the SS Argonaut received a 4.5 percent increase in wages and wage-related items. Additionally, the contract for this vessel has been extended to expire Dec. 31, Marine Personnel and Provisioning, Inc. – Motivator Effective Jan. 1, 2006, unlicensed personnel employed aboard the Americana-Class vessel Motivator received a 3 percent increase in wages and wage-related items. The agreement has been extended to expire June 15, 2006. 4 Seafarers LOG Seafarers recently were honored for their service aboard the Cape Trinity in Operation Enduring Freedom. Some of those SIU members are pictured at a MarAd awards ceremony last November in Houston, joined by SIU Asst. VP Southern Region Jim McGee (seated at far left). dent along with Chief Mate Fred Brenner, 53, and Chief Engineer Richard Smoot, 50. Brenner sailed with the SIU from 19711985. The survivors are AB/Tankerman Earl Shepard, AB/Tankerman James Hamilton, Cook Jay Templett, Captain Michael Lynch, Second Mate Jim Garnett and Assistant Engineer Lou Gatto. “On behalf of everyone in the SIU, I extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and to the surviving shipmates,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “Words always seem inadequate at times like this, but we are all part of the ‘Brotherhood of the Sea,’ and we all share in this terrible loss.” “We are deeply saddened by this incident and the related loss of life. Our primary concern is with the crew and their families,” said Jonathan Whitworth, president of Maritrans Operating Company L.P. According to company and newspaper reports, the 135-foot Valour was towing the Maritrans tank barge M-192 (carrying 135,000 barrels of No. 6 oil, a thick oil used as fuel) when the tug began taking on water in heavy seas late in the evening of Jan. 17. The tug separated from the barge and sank at approximately 2:30 a.m. Before the tug went down, Shepard was washed overboard while trying to secure an emergency door. His fellow mariners attempted to rescue him but were thwarted by the heavy seas. Shepard eventually was saved by a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter. Another seagoing tug, the Justine Foss, reportedly was in the area after completing a longdistance assignment and answered a Coast Guard call for assistance as the Valour was sinking. The Justine Foss arrived in time to pick up the remaining survivors as the Valour went down. Emory, wearing a survival suit, was lost at sea. According to unconfirmed reports, he likely was injured before the boat sank, possibly fatally. The Coast Guard dispatched a search team but later called off the search on Jan. 19. Similarly, and also according to unconfirmed reports, one of the officers was badly injured and may already have perished before going down with the Valour. Maritrans reported that the Coast Guard later in the day helped secure its drifting fuel barge and arranged for its tow to Wilmington, N.C. The barge apparently was undamaged and lost no cargo. The Coast Guard is investigating the sinking. As this edition of the Seafarers LOG went to press, there had been no official report indicating whether the sinking strictly was due to the severe weather or if other factors contributed. Shepard, who has sailed with the SIU for more than 30 years, was understandably distraught following the accident but quietly described Emory as “a great guy. I worked with him for 28 years. He was retired from the Navy—a great seaman and a loving family man…. The whole thing seems like a bad dream. It happened so fast.” MSC Buys 3 SIU-Contracted Ships The U.S. Military Sealift Command last month announced that it has purchased three Seafarers-contracted prepositioning vessels: the PFC Dewayne T. Williams, 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez and 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Corp. (AMSEA) will continue operating the vessels. In a news release, the agency reported a purchase date of Jan. 17 and indicated that the vessels “had previously been under long-term charter to the command from Braintree II, III and IV Maritime Corps. of Quincy, Mass…. The options to purchase these ships were part of the original contracts, which were delivered to MSC in 1985 and 1986.” MSC further stated that AMSEA will remain as the vessels’ operator. The Williams is prepositioned in the Mediterranean; the Lopez in the Indian Ocean; and the Lummus in the western Pacific. They carry U.S. Marine Corps cargo. February 2006 �2006-February.qxp 1/28/2006 1:34 PM Page 5 Report Underlines U.S. Health Care Woes Costs Consume 16 Percent of Nation’s Economic Output A government report released Jan. 10 brought to center stage what consumers and many companies have known for a long time: Health-care costs have soared out of control—they now consume 16 percent of the nation’s economic output. Issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ Office of the Actuary, the report conceded that this level represented the highest amount ever recorded. It further stated that the nation’s health-care bill also continued to grow at a significantly greater rate than inflation and wages, increasing by almost 8 percent in 2004. Spending for physicians and hospitals shot up considerably faster than in recent years, while drug costs grew at a slower rate than over the past decade. Even as health care costs continue to escalate, however, many Americans— especially minorities and the poor—don’t get high-quality care, according to two other federal reports released the same day. Health care quality is improving slowly and some racial disparities are narrowing, the reports found, but gaps persist and Hispanics appear to be falling even further behind. “We can do better,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt at a Washington conference on racial and ethnic disparities in health. “Disparities and inequities still exist. Outcomes vary. Treatments are not received equally.” Experts from the political, medical and economic arenas have long warned that health care cost trends gradually will overwhelm the economy, and many companies now complain that employee and retiree health costs are making them less competitive. This latest report without doubt has added fresh fuel to a blaze that already is raging out of control. The overall cost of health care—everything from hospital and doctor bills to the cost of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, insurance and nursing home and home-health care—doubled from 1993 to 2004, said the CMS report. In 2004, the nation spent almost $140 billion more for health care than the year before. In 1997, health care accounted for 13.6 percent of the gross domestic product. “Americans rejected the tougher restrictions of managed care in the late 1990s, and yet they want all the latest advances in medical technology,” said Drew Altman, president of the non-partisan Kaiser Family Foundation, which researches health issues. “Since government regulation of prices and services is not in the cards, the inevitable result is higher costs.” The health care increase of 7.9 percent in 2004 was almost three times greater than the overall national inflation rate, which was 2.7 percent. The average hourly wage for workers in private companies was essentially unchanged that year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The best news in the report involved spending on pharmaceutical drugs, which of 9 percent over 2003 and an increase in hospital costs of 8.6 percent. The report’s authors said the jumps appeared to be associated with higher Medicare reimbursement rates for some doctors and, anecdotally, to an upswing in the construction of new hospitals. “This is an alarming situation, but it’s more like a creeping infection than a broken bone, and so people get used to it,” said Edward Howard, executive vice president of the Alliance for Health Reform, a non-profit education group chaired by The rise in health care costs “is an alarming situation, but it’s more like a creeping infection than a broken bone, and so people get used to it. Frankly, I don’t see major change until people who have some sort of organized political influence start hurting a little more.” —Edward Howard, VP Alliance for Health Reform increased by less than 10 percent for the first time in more than a decade. Cynthia Smith of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, lead author of the health spending report, attributed the slower increase in drug spending to greater use of generic drugs and mail order pharmacies, a slowdown in the introduction of costly new medications, and the impact of higher drug co-pays. Mark Merritt, president of the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, which represents drug benefit managers, said the trend was also a result of their “work over the past decade to change the way consumers, clinicians, and purchasers think about prescription drugs.” While the fast rise in drug spending in the past decade attracted great attention from officials and health policy experts, it remains a relatively small part of the health care bill—about 10 percent. Defenders of increased drug spending have often argued that those added costs would keep people healthier and reduce the amount spent on hospitals and doctors. The 2004 statistics told a different story, however, with an increase in doctor costs Sens. Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.), and Bill Frist, (R-Tenn.).“Frankly, I don’t see major change until people who have some sort of organized political influence start hurting a little more.” In a related development, working families, their unions and community allies are joining with the AFL-CIO in launching a major health care campaign to ensure the largest corporations, such as Wal-Mart, stop shifting health care insurance costs onto workers, taxpayers and other businesses. As part of the AFL-CIO “Fair Share Health Care” campaign, activists will work with legislators in 31 states to win legislation to require companies to pay their fair share for health care. Fair Share Health Care legislation will reduce the bill taxpayers pay to cover profitable employer’s expenses, ease the financial strain states face in growing Medicaid costs and help level the playing field between companies that provide good jobs and benefits and those that don’t. “I’m pleased to launch the AFL-CIO’s breakthrough Fair Share Health Care campaign,” said AFL-CIO President John Report Reveals Problems Aplenty On Doomed Runaway-Flag Ship USCG Concludes Capt. Violated Safety Practices The U.S. Coast Guard has concluded that the captain of the runaway-flag chemical tanker Bow Mariner—which during the early evening hours of Feb. 28, 2004 exploded and sank off the Virginia Coast—violated safety practices by ordering crew members to open empty cargo tanks for cleaning. Nearly two years after the 570-foot vessel exploded and claimed the lives of 21 crew members, the Coast Guard on Jan. 3 released its final incident report on the catastrophe. Investigators blamed gross negligence on the part of the vessel’s captain for the massive loss of life and said that opening the tanks’ hatches caused highly flammable vapors to escape onto February 2006 the deck, where the crew of the Bow Mariner was working. A spark ignited the mixture of air and vapors from a gasoline additive, the investigators said. The investigation also found that Greek Capt. Efstratios Kavouras abandoned ship without sending a distress call or trying to save his crew, contributing to the high death toll. Investigators blamed the Greek company that managed the ship and the senior officers on board for the disaster. The report said there was a failure to comply with the company’s and ship’s safety, quality and environmental system that likely exposed crew members to toxic vapors. Investigators also noted there was poor communication between the ship’s Greek officers and its Filipino crew. The Singapore-flagged chemical tanker was built in 1982 and was managed by a Greek company, Ceres Hellenic Shipping Enterprises Ltd. Its owners, Odfjell USA, are headquartered in Houston. According to the Virginian Pilot newspaper, the Bow Mariner—which picked up its cargo of methyl tert butyl ether (a flammable liquid used as an additive in unleaded gasoline) in Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, on Jan. 24, 2004, and unloaded part of it in New York on Feb. 25, 2004—prior to the catastrophe had been carrying 3.1 million gallons of the ethyl alcohol, along with 192,904 gallons of heavy fuel oil and 48,266 gallons of diesel fuel. While the Sweeney on Jan. 5. “Beginning this month, the AFL-CIO and its unions, together with progressive state legislators and other allies, will be introducing and pushing legislation in more than 30 states to stop large, profitable corporations—like Wal-Mart— from freeloading off their communities and shifting their employees’ health care insurance costs onto workers, taxpayers and smaller businesses. “Health care is a basic need of every family,” he continued. “It’s nothing short of immoral that big, rich companies are shirking their responsibilities to their employees—we’re talking about mothers and fathers who are pushed to tears because they can’t take their children to the doctor. And it’s happening every day.” Forty-six million Americans—most of them in working families—live without health insurance, according to Sweeney. And literally thousands more lose their insurance each day, as good-paying jobs with benefits continue to be destroyed. To make matters worse, the AFL-CIO president said, those companies that do provide insurance are increasingly shifting the cost onto workers and cutting back on the benefits they provide, pushing hundreds of thousands of workers and their children into Medicaid programs all over the country. Between 2001 and 2004, the number of uninsured people in the U.S. rose by a staggering 5 million, with nearly the entire increase accounted for by a decline in employer-sponsored health insurance coverage. Today, more than one-quarter of workers in companies with 500 or more employees do not receive employer-based coverage, according to a study by the Commonwealth Fund. “As a result, around the country, workers, taxpayers and other businesses are forced to pick up a staggering $113 billion when profitable companies refuse to shoulder their employees’ health care costs,” Sweeney said. “Workers who have family coverage are forced to pay more and more each year, and at every bargaining table, those workers lucky enough to have a union are fighting to hold on to their health care coverage. The bottom line is that our health care system is broken—but it didn’t just split open. Big companies like Wal-Mart are pulling it apart and profiting at taxpayers’ expense.” ignition source could not be determined, investigators said it probably came from one of the following: electrostatic discharge, mechanical sparks caused by metal-on-metal contact, faulty electrical equipment, hot soot or particles from the ship’s smoke stack or funnel, or even sparks from changing batteries in a flashlight. Because the tanks had not been washed or mechanically ventilated, the concentration of vapor was well above the “upper explosive limit” for methyl tert butyl ether, the report said. Opening all the cargo tank hatches permitted vapors to escape at deck level, exposing crew members to a greater risk of an explosion from an accidental spark. The ignition produced two major explosions less than two minutes apart that began at 6:06 p.m. Feb. 28, 2004. The blasts resulted in catastrophic structural damage to the vessel and caused immediate flooding that sent crew members who had survived a series of explosions into the icy water. The explosions were heard on shore, more than 50 miles away, and witnesses from a passing tanker that arrived first on the scene described a ring of fire extending for hundreds of yards from the stricken ship. At around 6:30 p.m., the Coast Guard received its first and only distress call from one of the Bow Mariner’s Filipino crewmen and quickly launched a search and rescue mission. The ship sank in one hour and 32 minutes. The flight crew of Coast Guard divers who responded to the scene quickly plucked six survivors out of the sea. They immediately were transported to a makeshift triage center set up at the Ocean City, Md. Municipal Airport and later to area hospitals. Eighteen other crew members on the Bow Mariner weren’t as lucky. Searchers recovered only one other body following the explosion. Three crewmen who were recovered died from expoContinued on page 6 Seafarers LOG 5 �2006-February.qxp 1/28/2006 1:34 PM Page 6 Seafarers Credited by Gen. Schwartz TOTE’s Northern Lights Sailed in OIF for 2 Years The commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) praised the efforts of mariners aboard the SIU-crewed Northern Lights in a letter to Seafarers-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). TRANSCOM Commander Gen. Norton A. Schwartz wrote to TOTE Chairman and CEO Robert P. Magee concerning the crew’s excellent performance in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Northern Lights, a roll-on/roll-off vessel that normally operates in the Jones Act trade, supported U.S. troops for more than two years while under charter to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command. General Schwartz cited the “superior support” of the unlicensed and licensed mariners as well as that of the company and its officials. “Early in the Iraq deployment, the Military Sealift Command sought commercial support and your company answered the call,” General Schwartz wrote on Oct. 26, 2005. “Since 18 February 2003, six weeks after the start TRANSCOM Commander Gen. Norton A. Schwartz has been quick to credit the U.S. Merchant Marine for its support of U.S. troops. of the deployment of forces to Iraq, SS Northern Lights was under charter to MSC. She continuously operated in support of U.S. forces since that time, never missing a commitment. No other ship, government-owned or commercial, has operated as long in support of these critical operations. Special Guest aboard Manulani Seafarers recently welcomed U.S. Deputy Maritime Administrator John Jamian (second from right) aboard the Manulani. Jamian said he sailed on the Matson ship for a few days and that the SIU members aboard “took great care of me and fed me very well.” Pictured in the crew mess are (from left) Assistant Cook Ruben Siclot, Chief Steward Stephen Valencia, Jamian and Chief Cook Jose Guzman. Runaway-Flag Ship Captain Violated Safety Practices Continued from page 5 sure and other injuries. Kavouras, 51, whose body was among those missing after the explosion 50 miles east of Chincoteague on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, was one of three Greek officers aboard ship and drew much of the criticism from investigators. However, also contributing to the disaster “was the failure of the operator, Ceres … and senior officers of the Bow Mariner to properly implement the company’s and vessel’s Safety, Quality and Environmental System,” investigators said. For example: Cargo tanks were not fixed in stationary positions or neutralized of their chemical activity as required; procedures for cleaning tanks were not followed; procedures for entering confined spaces were not followed; the failure of one of two required 6 Seafarers LOG blowers used to disburse vapors was not reported; monthly fire drills were not conducted; training was scheduled and recorded in the minutes of a safety committee meeting but not actually held. “Opening of all of the hatches for the empty cargo tanks, as was done on the Bow Mariner, fails to conform to any known customary marine practice,” investigators wrote. “Because the tanks had not been washed or mechanically ventilated, the concentration of vapor was very high and certainly above the upper explosive limit for the MTBE. Opening all of the cargo tank hatches permitted vapors to escape at deck level, where the crew was actively working. This exposed them to toxic vapors and increased the likelihood of an explosion to initiate from an accidental spark.” Investigators also cited significant culture problems between “During the charter period SS Northern Lights made 25 voyages and 49 port calls,” he continued. “She carried 12,220 pieces of military gear totaling 81,000 short tons and covering over 2 million square feet. “Those statistics clearly demonstrate the value that the U.S.-flag shipping industry brings to the Defense Transportation System. At 200,000 square feet of cargo space, this ship has nearly the capacity of the Fast Sealift Ships, has speeds approaching those of the Navy’s Large, Medium Speed RoRo ships, and had a perfect record of reliability. Having this asset enabled us to improve readiness by keeping ships of the Ready Reserve Fleet available for other contingencies as needed. “You and your team of professionals showcased the U.S.-flag industry at its best,” General Schwartz concluded. After one of the vessel’s first deployments in 2003, Recertified Steward Steve Dickson, proving that humor remained even as the Northern Lights endured numerous alerts in Kuwait, noted that the U.S. Marines on board “are well-trained and polite. They have been learning shipboard lingo, such as the floor is called the deck, and the wall is a bulkhead, left is the port side and right is the starboard. They already know the salty language.” As of early January 2006 no fewer than a dozen SIU-crewed ships remained activated in support of U.S. troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Seafarers on the Northern Lights fulfilled their duty as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. Notice: Mariner Credentials Extended in Gulf The U.S. Coast Guard on Jan. 17 announced that the agency is extending the expiration dates of credentials held by merchant mariners impacted by the effects of Hurricane Katrina until Feb. 28, 2006. The authority for this temporary relief measure was included in the Coast Guard Hurricane Relief Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-141). Details are contained in the notice published in the Federal Register on Jan. 17, 2006 (available on the internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/f edreg/frcont06.html). This measure applies to certain mariners whose credentials expired on or after March 1, 2005, or will expire before Feb. 28, 2006. The requirements are as follows: „ Credentials are automatically extended 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. 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 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. Mariners whose home of record is Alabama, Mississippi or Louisiana may receive a waiver of the fees for issuance of duplicate credentials. 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, for a copy of the Federal Register notice, or for any other assistance. The Regional Examination Center locations and phone numbers are: the officers and crew. The Filipinos said they were treated with disrespect by the officers and were constantly threatened with being fired. The report goes on to state that the vessel’s senior officers, all Greek, were abusive to the junior officers and crew, all Filipino. “The survivors clearly feared the Greek officers, and each stated that they would obey any order from them, even if they knew the order to be unsafe,” the investigators said. The chief cook and his assistant said the fear of the Greeks extended to the galley. Reynaldo A. Tagle, 51, a messman, said the officers were verbally abusive and constantly threatened to send him home if he did not work harder or faster. Chief Cook Dominator M. Marentes, 57, likewise feared losing his job, the report said. “While these may have been the usual complaints of the lowest ranking crewmen aboard ship, there can be no question that such fear can lead to a shipboard culture where safety takes a backseat to preserving one’s livelihood,” the report said. “Filipino officers did not take their meals in the officer’s mess, were given almost no responsibility and were closely supervised in every task,” according to the report. The second assistant engineer, identified in the report as Edimar L. Aguilar, 48, working aboard a Ceres ship for the first time, was upset that he was chastised on his first day aboard because he inquired about his management and administrative duties. The attitude toward Filipino officers and crew was not limited to the Bow Mariner, the Coast Guard said. As part of the investigation, Jerry R. Crooks Jr., senior investigator for the Marine Safety Office in Norfolk and the investigating officer for the Bow Mariner, wrote that he visited a sister ship, the Bow Transporter, in Singapore, and observed many of the same attitudes. “The Filipinos were only permitted to speak to the investigating officer and Singapore offi- cials in the presence of the senior officers, leading to obvious nervousness,” Crooks wrote in the report. “Nevertheless, several crew members made statements confirming the same cultural divide existed aboard the Bow Transporter.” The Coast Guard recommended that its report be sent to the governments of Greece, the Philippines and Singapore, as well as to the owners and operators of the ship and international and American shipping interests. The U.S. attorney’s office in Norfolk issued subpoenas to get them to speak before a grand jury, but only after promising immunity from prosecution. The Coast Guard cited Ceres for pollution and has recommended a fine of $11,000, said Crooks, the senior investigator. That case is pending. The Bow Mariner explosion was the worst of four tank ship explosions that occurred worldwide between December 2003 and June 2004, resulting in a total of 27 deaths. 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 San Pedro, Calif. - (310) 732-2080 Memphis, Tenn. - (901) 544-3297 or (866) 777-2784 Miami - (305) 536-6548/49/6874 or (800) 982-9374 New Orleans (temporarily operating in Memphis, Tenn.) (901) 544-3941 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 February 2006 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 3:51 AM Page 7 SIU-Crewed Lummus Supports U.S. Troops The SIU-crewed 1st Lt. Jack Lummus is the flag ship for the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron Three. The vessel, home-ported in the Guam/Saipan area of the Western Pacific, is one of MSC’s 17 container and roll-on/roll-off ships and is one of the 36 ships in the prepositioning program. The Lummus and its sister prepositioning vessels are configured to transport supplies for the U.S. Marine Corps. They were built or modified beginning in the mid1980s and are forward-deployed to the western Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Collectively, the ships contain nearly everything the Marines need for initial military operations— from tanks and ammunition to food and water and from fuel to spare parts and engine oil. Following a recent voyage, the vessel tied up in Guam. While the Lummus was in port, SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus met with crew members, discussed their concerns and conducted a union meeting. The photos which appear on this page were taken while the vessel was docked. Taking in the proceedings during the meeting are, front, left to right, ABM Steve Wilson Jr. and Chief Steward Greg Williams. In the back row are AB Pankiatou Oleg and Chief Cook Gennady Dragunov. Below: ABs Denny Manns, left, and Ray Fanning prepare to power wash the deck of the Lummus. Pumpman Dan Kresconko maintains radio contact during fueling operations. Fleet Support Command Established The U.S. Military Sealift Command reported that a “significant benchmark” in MSC’s transformation was reached Nov. 13, 2005 when Military Sealift Fleet Support Command, headquartered in Norfolk, Va., was officially established. MSFSC’s mission is to staff, train, equip and maintain MSC government-owned and -operated ships worldwide and to support other MSC assets as directed by MSC’s commander. Some of the functions previously performed by MSC’s area commands are being combined and transferred to MSFSC. The new command will manage the repair and maintenance processes aboard MSC’s 38 government-owned and -operated ships, including the repair and maintenance of all shipboard installed communication systems. Engineering, comptroller and contracting functions will also be executed by MSFSC. In addition, personnel administration aboard government-owned and-operated ships—for both the active duty military and the civilian mariners—is an MSFSC responsibility. MSC’s Afloat Personnel Management Center, located in Virginia Beach, Va., has been realigned under the command of MSFSC and is now the Human Resources and Manpower Directorate for the organization. MSFSC headquarters is expected to be fully staffed with about 500 employees by April 2006. SA Mac Brown prepares to launch an all out cleaning assault in the galley. ing the SIU formed a coalition to ensure that employees would have effective representation as this process continued. The unions through many discussions and legislative efforts have tried to persuade DOD that these changes and regulations would substantially harm employees. The SIU and the licensed maritime unions fought hard to convince DOD that CIVMARS are a unique group of employees and should remain exempt from the NSPS. That exemption was granted for all but “Part I”—the labor relations portion of these regulations. The regulations implementing the program severely limit collective bargaining rights for bargaining unit employees and their representatives. Despite the arguments made by NSPS staffers, the regulations provide very little protection for employees who may come up against disciplinary and other employment issues. Much of the current collective bargaining agreements will be eradicated if the regulations are implemented as DOD expects. Once DOD published the final regulations and indicated their intent to implement this program, the unions had no other choice but to file a lawsuit to try and stop the regulations. A judge was scheduled to hear an oral argument on January 24, 2006. The unions understand that a decision may be made as soon as February 15, 2006. The union will continue to provide information to CIVMARS about the NSPS. In addition, up-tothe-minute information is available on the coalition’s web site at http://www.uniteddodworkerscoalition.org/. NSPS Update Wage Update Throughout 2005, the union kept CIVMARS advised about the Department of Defense’s NSPS (national security personnel system) program. DOD introduced this program in February 2004. It was proposed to substantially change how pay, performance and labor relations issues were carried out throughout all of DOD’s agencies. Approximately 30 federal sector unions includ- Federal law requires that each year the union must provide MSC with private sector maritime wages. To do this, the union gives MSC letters containing the wages and collective bargaining agreements. MSC uses this information and other types of information to develop the wage scales that apply to CIVMARS. Generally CIVMARS receive increases in July. February 2006 Electrician Bruce Callaghan monitors the gauges in the engine room. Steward Assistants Minnie Thomas, left, and Ray Baluyot talk about their latest culinary creations. Cook/Baker Evelyn Tayag, left, and SA Ryan Anderson are busy baking cookies for the next meal. CIVMAR News SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus, second from right, conducts a meeting with the crew of the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus in Guam. In October 2005, the union provided MSFSC with the wage information for its review and action. The union has been requesting information as to when there will be an announcement regarding 2005-2006 wages. The agency representative recently stated MSFSC had met with the Department of Defense but would not release any information to the union about those discussions. As soon as the union secures an update regarding the status of CIVMAR wages it will disseminate that information. Union Files Health and Safety Grievances The union has filed two health and safety grievances on behalf of SIU East Coast CIVMARS. The first grievance was filed on behalf of CIVMARS sailing on board USNS Spica. The union received a communication advising that the ship had a severe infestation of cockroaches. The infestation was one of the worst that shipboard personnel had encountered. The insects created health hazards in the galley when they were found in the food, cooking and eating utensils. Because it remained untreated, the infestation then spread from the galley to the rest of the vessel. Some shipboard supervisors appeared unconcerned when this issue was raised by several unlicensed CIVMARS. On the same day the union learned of this problem it contacted the APMC and requested an immediate investigation and treatment of the infestation. The union was advised that environmental health personnel had boarded the vessel and done an inspection along with the report. Extermination treatments, the union was told, started immediately. The union is still waiting for a formal response to its grievance. It has an information request pending regarding the report that was produced and other questions about the amount and type of chemicals used to treat the infestation. Thanks to the efforts of the CIVMARS who reported this issue, the union took very quick action to assist in ensuring that this important health and safety issue Chief Cook Gennady Dragunov readies the main course for the lunch meal. is addressed. The CIVMARS who reported this issue to the union made it clear that they did so to protect their own health as well as that of their shipmates, and to prevent illnesses and other health concerns aboard the Spica. If CIVMARS have concerns about a specific health or safety issue aboard a vessel, do not hesitate to contact your union official or send an e-mail to civmarsupport@seafarers.org. The second health and safety grievance was filed on behalf of CIVMARS reporting to the CSU East. MSFSC uses several hotels in the area but selected as the main hotel housing CIVMARS one located at Military Circle. Along with complaints made by East Coast unlicensed CIVMARS, an inspection by SIU Government Services Representative Maurice Cokes revealed that this hotel was in a dangerous neighborhood. Many crimes have been reported in this area and the union learned that someone was robbed at the hotel. Additionally the rooms were dirty and the furniture was in bad shape. Linens were not clean, drug paraphernalia was found in a room and one CIVMAR reported seeing roaches. The union believes that this hotel provides substandard accommodation to CIVMARS. It filed this health and safety grievance and requested a report that had been produced by an environmental protection officer to evaluate the conditions. The union is now waiting for a response to its grievance. It will continue to monitor the conditions at the hotel. While normally there are not many health and safety grievances that come to the union’s attention, monitoring such issues is one of the most important services that the union can provide to its membership. Those efforts will be most successful if CIVMARS take the time to make SIU Government Services Division representatives aware of shipboard and shore-side habitability conditions. Finally, do not be afraid to make such reports. The union in most cases can keep the mariner’s name confidential while notifying the Command of a problem in working towards its resolution. Seafarers LOG 7 �2006-February.qxp 1/28/2006 2:25 PM Page 8 2005 Great Lakes Sailing Season Comes to an End A s most of the lakers began laying up in January for the icy winter months, the Seafarers who ply these vessels on the Great Lakes were able to look back on a good year, noted SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak. In addition to the busy Lakes season, the union in June welcomed new shipboard jobs when SIUcontracted American Steamship Company added a twelfth vessel—the Burns Harbor—to its fleet. The 1,000-foot self-unloading vessel primarily sails between Duluth, Minn. and Burns Harbor, Ind., carrying steel and steel byproducts. According to the Lake Carriers’ Association, which represents 12 American corporations that operate 54 U.S.-flag vessels on the Great Lakes, shipments of coal totaled 42.7 million tons in 2005, an increase of 7 percent compared to the previous year. SIU members crew many of the cargo vessels represented by the Lake Carriers’ Association, carrying the raw materials that help drive the nation’s economy: iron ore and fluxstone for the steel industry, limestone and cement for the construction industry, and coal for power generation. Furthermore, the lakers sail under the Jones Act, a law which mandates that cargoes carried from one U.S. port to another must be carried on U.S.-flag, U.S.-built and U.S.crewed vessels. The winter lay-up period will allow time for maintaining the vessels—a key factor in the long lifespan and exemplary safety record of the Great Lakes fleet. Sporting the Stars and Stripes on his hardhat is Bosun Charles Neigebauer, working on the deck of the St. Clair in Superior, Wis. Conveyorman Terry Pyrlik inspects the conveyor belt underneath the boom aboard the St. Clair in Superior, Wis. Bill McAndrews is a deckhand aboard a Great Lakes Towing tug in Buffalo, N.Y. First Mate Leo Bonser proudly displays the new soda machine recently installed aboard the dinner cruise vessel Detroit Princess, docked in downtown Detroit, Mich. From the left aboard the tug Sandusky and barge Cleveland Flats are Deckhand Clarence Brazzell, First Mate Leo J. Bonser and SIU Algonac Patrolman Ken Horner. Tim Burke is a recertified bosun, pictured working aboard the Adam E. Cornelius in Detroit, Mich. The American Spirit called on the port of Detroit on Dec. 1. Above: DEU Amin Quraish (left) observes DEU Mousa Ali being lowered in the bosun’s chair to the pier as the St. Clair prepares to dock in Superior, Wis. At right: AB Robert Mason retrieves the chair aboard the vessel. 8 Seafarers LOG Leonel Gutierrez catches up on the latest news in the Seafarers LOG while on the tug Sandusky and barge Cleveland Flats. Gutierrez is a deckhand aboard the vessel, which was docked in Detroit, Mich. February 2006 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 3:59 AM Page 9 More SIU Snapshots from The Great Lakes SIU Representative Don Thornton (seated) and 2nd Cook Maccine Bell review some paperwork aboard the Adam E. Cornelius in Wyandotte, Mich. Engineer Edd Carlson works aboard a Luetdke Engineering Co. vessel in Cleveland, Ohio. You can tell it’s getting near lay-up time by the frozen eye in the line. The American Spirit glides under the Ambassador Bridge on the Detroit River in early December. Paul Paton is the 2nd cook on the J.A.W. Iglehart in Toledo, Ohio. Tug/Barge Combo Transports Windmill Parts The most recent addition to the Laken Shipping Corp. of Cleveland, Ohio fleet is the tug Sandusky and its barge, the Cleveland Flats. Managed by SMT (USA), the tug and barge combo moved out of the port of Milwaukee in late September, powered by new twin diesel engines. The Cleveland Flats was loaded with tower sections for wind turbines, to be delivered to upstate New York. The tug Sandusky pushes the barge Cleveland Flats through the Welland Canal. Jamie Long is the captain of the tug Sandusky. The tug and barge combo is ready to depart the dock. Cargo is firmly secured on the deck of the Cleveland Flats. The newly re-powered tug (3,000 hp) Sandusky and its barge, the Cleveland Flats, are the most recent addition to the Laken Shipping Corp.fleet. Right: The unit passes under the Garden City Skyway Bridge in St. Catharines, Ontario. February 2006 Seafarers LOG 9 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 5:43 AM Page 10 Remembering a War Hero Katrina Claims Life of SIU Retiree Alberto Rocha For many who witnessed Hurricane Katrina from the comfort of their living rooms while watching the tragic events unfold on television, it was the unimaginable. For many residents of the area who lived through it, it was a nightmare. And for countless others, the flooding that took place in the Gulf Coast region marked the end of their lives. And so it was for SIU Pensioner Alberto Rocha who, at 87, lost his life in his New Orleans home during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. It was a somewhat ironic end for Rocha, who served on a submarine during World War II. The sub was torpedoed, and Rocha rescued at least a dozen of his fellow mariners, yet no one was there for him when he was left, presumably to drown in the flood waters of New Orleans. Born in São Paolo, Brazil in 1918, Rocha was one of 21 siblings (each one beginning with the letter “A.”) He joined the union in 1943 in the port of New York and later moved to New Orleans, where he lived with his wife, Maria. He sailed in the deck and engine departments, retiring from the union in 1973. He last sailed as an FOWT aboard Waterman Steamship Corp’s John Penn. Much of the information about Rocha in this article was given to the Seafarers LOG by Julia Ewens, a good friend who, with her husband, Ralph Ewens (a former NMU bosun), befriended Rocha and considered him their adopted grandfather for the past 21 years. Ralph and his first wife were neighbors of the Rochas in New Orleans’ 9th ward. When Ralph’s wife died suddenly at 41 years of age, he became quite distraught, Giving Thanks with Fellow Seafarers and Alberto and Maria Rocha were very kind to him and helped him through this difficult time. When Julia married Ralph in 1985, she, too, got to know the Rochas well and helped repay the kindness that they had shown her husband in his time of need. But, as Julia said to the LOG, “kindness like his can never be repaid in anything but kindness.” And so the Ewens helped the Rochas in whatever ways they could. “Alberto was very loyal,” Julia said. “His word was his bond.” Alberto Rocha retired from the SIU in 1973. He did some maintenance work for a local hospital and helped people in the neighborhood. “He could tell some of the funniest stories of things he did as a seaman,” Julia Ewens reminisced. Rocha’s wife later was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and Julia was always there to help take her to her doctors’ appointments and whatever else she could do to ease the pain. Maria died in 2000, and the Ewens continued to look after Rocha, making sure his accounts were in order and he had been to the grocery store. In February, Julia’s husband, Ralph, died as well, and Rocha insisted that it was too much for Julia to continue being his caretaker and that he should go to an old-age home. But Julia remained as loyal to Alberto Rocha as he had been to her, often driving 25-30 minutes from her home in eastern New Orleans to make sure all his affairs were in order. With Hurricane Katrina forecast to hit New Orleans in late August 2005 and an evacuation called for, Julia did not hesitate to leave, as she had done in past evacuations. Rocha, however, who had lived through Hurricane Alberto Rocha Betsy in 1965, wasn’t about to leave his home. And he did survive the hurricane, which did little damage to the area. Even when the levee finally broke and water began rising in his home, he still thought he was going to be OK, he told neighbors. Julia is still trying to adjust to the loss. She identified and claimed his body (by tattoos on his right arm and chest), and he was given a full military burial. She will mail the flag that covered his coffin to his sister Albertina in Brazil. SIU members, pensioners and their families gathered at the union hall in Houston Nov. 22 and at the hall in San Juan, P.R. Nov. 23 to share in pre-Thanksgiving festivities. Members at both halls donated their time and talents to help conduct the events, which featured traditional holiday menus. Approximately 130 people attended the feast in Houston, while an estimated 50 participated in San Juan. Photos from the respective events are shown below. HOUSTON SAN JUAN Pictured from left to right are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Father Sinclair Oubre and SIU Representative Robert Troy. Father Oubre, an active SIU member who also serves as president of the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States, gave the blessing before the meal. Retiree Luis Roman (right) and his nephew Ezequiel Ocasio Members, officials and their families are ready for the buffet. Odalys Vallejo (wife of SIU Chief Cook Juan Vallejo), Wildalis Rivera (secretary at the San Juan hall) and Maria Crespo (wife of Port Agent Amancio Crespo) Seafarers, officials and guests QMED José Quiñones and Port Agent Amancio Crespo Retiree Ralph Moore helps set up for the dinner. 10 Seafarers LOG Chief Stewards Henry Manning and Grant Bazile, Retiree Joe Clark and Chief Steward Saundra Leonard (inset) were among those who volunteered to help ensure the gathering’s success. AB Kevin Farrell and Port Agent Amancio Crespo Seafarers and their families enjoy the feast at the San Juan hall. February 2006 �2006-February.qxp 1/28/2006 3:07 PM Page 11 Celebrating With the SIU The port of Wilmington continued its yearly tradition of visiting SIU members aboard various vessels on Christmas Day. This past Dec. 25, Wilmington Port Agent John Cox stopped off at four Crowley tugs in Long Beach: the Leader, Master, Scout and Admiral. From the left are Engineer George Cox, Capt. Rick Cavalier, Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, Mate Roger Stewart, Mate Dave Verschoor and Mate Chad MacAuley. It was a small but nevertheless cheerful group that celebrated the holidays at the New Orleans hall this year. And while they enjoyed in the festivities, their hearts, prayers and thoughts went out to those who were unable to join them in welcoming the new year. These photos were sent to the LOG by AB Arthur Machado. SIU VP West Coast Nicholas Marrone (left) conducts the swearing-in ceremony for Tony Marino (holding his new book) at the SIU hall in San Francisco. Looking on are (from left) SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Jesse Solis Retires After 44 Years in Maritime Jesse Solis (right) enjoys his retirement party and reminiscing with the good friends he’s made over the years, like QMED David Hamilton. The wording on the cake says it all: “We will miss you Jesse!” Solis is joined by his son and two daughters. February 2006 After 44 years working in the maritime industry, Jesse Solis was treated to a couple retirement parties by his friends and fellow Seafarers. One was held at the Dispatcher Jesse Solis Wilmington union hall in September. He officially retired Nov. 1. Solis, 70, began working as a steward aboard ships like the Monterey and some of the early Delta Lines vessels as a member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards union. He came ashore in 1978 with the merger of the MC&S and the SIU, and worked behind the counter as a dispatcher for the next 28 years. With all that experience and knowledge of the workings of the union, his absence will be duly noted. “He will be greatly missed,” said Wilmington Port Agent John Cox. Solis, who was born in Texas, is considering a return to the Lone Star State to enjoy his retirement years. Lots of well-wishers came to give Solis a big send-off for his well-deserved retirement. Some of the deck crew from the Pride of Aloha get together for a golf outing on the island of Kauai. From the left are AB Lonnie Evans, OS Christopher Vincenzo, AB Warren Asp (who sent this photo to the LOG) and AB Slade Matthews. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) and SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (second from right) meet SIU members aboard the Horizon Reliance during a recent servicing call. From the left are Celona, Chief Electrician James McParland, Marrone and AB Rick Grubbs. The Horizon Line vessel is on a West Coast to Far East run. Seafarers LOG 11 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 4:49 AM Page 12 TAX TIPS HOW TO PREPARE A TAX RETURN Step 1. Get all records together. ‹ Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. ‹ Itemized deductions and tax credits. ‹ Medical and dental payment records. ‹ Real estate and personal property tax receipts. ‹ Interest payment records for items such as a home mortgage or home equity loan. ‹ Records of payments for child care so an individual could work. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications necessary to assist in filing the return. IRS Publication 17 entitled “Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals” is the most comprehensive guide the agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and many local banks, post offices and libraries have publications designed to provide individuals with information on correctly filing tax returns. Also, you may access the IRS web site at www.irs.gov for forms, instructions and publications. Step 3. Fill in the return. Step 4. Check the return to make sure it is correct. Step 5. Sign and date the return. Form 1040 is not considered a valid return unless signed. A spouse must also sign if it is a joint return. Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. Attach Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099R to the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the payment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form 1040-V (original only). Write Here are some of the changes that will take effect in 2005 and 2006 from the Hurricane Katrina Emergency Tax Relief Act, the Gulf Opportunity Zone Act of 2005, the 2005 Energy Tax Incentive Act, and other tax law changes: Uniform Definition of Qualifying Child – To simplify the tax law beginning in 2005, the definition of “qualified child” changes for taxpayers who claim a child as a dependent, elects Head of Household status, or takes the Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, Child or Dependent Care Credit. To meet this new definition, the person needs to be your child, sibling (or descendant of either), adopted or foster child. The child must be under either (1) age 19; (2) under age 24 if a student; or (3) any age if permanently and totally disabled. Also, the child must be either a citizen, resident or national of the United States and must have the same principal place of abode as the taxpayer for more than one-half of the year. The child must not provide more than one-half of his/her own support for the year. Foster Child – New rules apply to determine who is a foster child and when a foster child can be used to claim certain benefits. To claim a foster child as a qualifying child for any tax benefits, the child must be placed with a taxpayer by an authorized placement agency or by judgment, decree or other order of any court of competent jurisdiction. A foster child no longer qualifies a taxpayer to use qualifying widow(er) filing status. Combat Pay – Some military personnel receiving combat pay get larger tax credits because of two law changes. The new law counts excludable combat pay as income when figuring the Child Tax Credit and gives the taxpayer the option of counting or ignoring combat pay as income when figuring the Earned Income Tax Credit. Counting combat pay as income when calculating these credits does not change the exclusion of combat pay from taxable income. Sales Tax Deduction – Taxpayers who itemize deductions will have a choice of claiming a state and local tax deduction for either sales or income taxes on their 2005 return. The IRS will provide optional tables for use in determining the deduction amount, relieving taxpayers of the need to save receipts throughout the year. Sales taxes paid on motor vehicles and boats may be added to the table amount, but only up to the amount paid at the general sales tax rate. Taxpayers will check a box on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions, to indicate whether their deduction is for sales or income taxes. Tuition and Fee Deduction – Individuals may be able to deduct up to $4,000 if Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is not more than $65,000 ($130,000 if married filing jointly), or deduct up to $2,000 if AGI is higher than that limit but not more than $80,000 ($160,000 if married filing jointly). The following highlights some of the most important provisions of the Hurricane Katrina Act and Gulf Opportunity Zone Act affecting individual taxpayers: In general, non-business casualty losses are deductible as itemized deductions to the extent they exceed 10 percent of adjusted gross income plus $100. However, these limitations are suspended for losses resulting from the hurricane and incurred in the disaster area. The 10 percent penalty imposed on premature withdrawals from IRA and other qualified retirement plans is waived for victims of a hurricane. Such individuals may withdraw up to $100,000 from those plans without penalty for distributions made after August 25, 2005 and before January 1, 2007. Also, the threshold limitations for loans from qualified employer plans for hurricane victims are increased to $100,000 or 100 percent of the account balance effective for loans made on or after September 23, 2005 and before January 1, 2007. The standard business mileage rate for charity work related to Hurricane Katrina is increased to 29 cents per mile during the period of August 25, 2005 through August 31, 2005, and 34 cents per mile for September 1 through December 31, 2005. Individuals who use their principal residence to provide housing free of charge to hurricane evacuees for at least 60 consecutive days may claim a $500 exemption for each evacuee (up to $2,000 total). 12 Seafarers LOG Presented on these two pages of the Seafarers LOG are han mariners. Included are the new deduction amounts for 2 name, address, phone number, Social Security number and form number on your check or money order. Payment also can be made by credit card. You may use American Express, Discover, Visa or Master cards. To pay by credit card, call the toll-free number 1-800-272-9829 or 1-729-1040 or visit web sites www.officialpayments.com or www.pay1040.com. There is a fee charged based on the amount you are paying. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: Cents may be rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on the tax return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $1.50 becomes $2. line 73d is the taxpayer’s account number at the bank. When tax returns are filed electronically, a refund will be received in about 3 weeks, or in 2 weeks if it is deposited directly into a savings or checking account. For a charge, many professional tax return preparers offer electronic filing in addition to their return preparation services. If an individual prepared his or her own return, a preparer or transmitter in their area can file the return electronically. For a list of who can file a tax return electronically in any given area, visit the IRS web site at: www.irs.gov. Fast Refund: Taxpayers are able to request direct deposit of their tax refunds by filling out lines 73b, 73c and 73d on their Form 1040. Line 73b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 73c indicates the type of account, and Personal Exemption Amount: The deduction for each exemption—for the individual, his or her spouse and dependents has increased to $3,200 per person. In 2005, the exemption deduction for high income taxpayers may be reduced or eliminated if their adjusted gross income exceeds certain threshold amounts. A child cannot claim an exemption on his or her return or qualify for a higher education credit if the child’s parents claim a dependency exemption for their child. Standard Deduction Has Increased: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, has increased for most people (see box on this page). Because of this increase, it may be to an individual’s benefit to take the standard deduction this year even if that person has itemized deductions in the past. Personal Interest Deductions: For 2005, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: Interest paid on mortgages or investments is 100 percent deductible. Union Dues Deduction: Union dues, including working dues, are deductible only if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible. SPAD contributions have never been deductible. Club Dues Deduction: No deduction is permitted for club dues; however, dues paid to professional or public service organizations are deductible for business reasons. Deductions Subject to 2 Percent of Adjusted Gross Income: These include investment advisory fees, trustee’s administrative fees, legal expenses that are paid to produce taxable income, unreimbursed employee expenses, safe deposit box rental and tax preparation fees. Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses associated with a seaman’s work may be considered tax deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union’s designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are work-related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of work-related clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the employer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally-owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses—either listing a standard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax return due April 15 of this year, the IRS is accepting a standard mileage rate of 40.5 cents per mile (48.5 cents after August 31, 2005). Parking fees and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage rate. If using actual expenses, information must be available on all operating-related costs for the vehicle, including interest, insurance, taxes, licenses, maintenance, repairs, depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and parking. In either the standard mileage rate or the actual cost method of determining car expenses, accurate records should be kept. WHAT’S NEW FOR 2005? CAUTION As of the writing, Congress is working on other tax law changes which may impact your 2005 income taxes. Please check www.irs.gov before filing your return. FOR SEA The charitable contribution deduction limitation for individuals of up to 50 percent of the contribution base is temporarily suspended for cash contributions made after August 27, 2005, and before January 1, 2006. Individuals who lived in the disaster area and were displaced as a result of the hurricane may elect to use their 2004 income instead of 2005 to calculate the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC). The new law doubles the HOPE Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit for individuals who attend an eligible educational institution in the disaster zones for any tax year beginning in 2005 or 2006. The Hope Credit for qualifying students will be $3,000, and the Lifetime Learning Credit increases to a $4,000 maximum. In addition, certain room and board expenses qualify. These credits are for both returning and new students. Tax credit for the installation of non-business energy property – Starting in 2006, a tax credit is available to individuals for the installation of non-business energy property, such as residential exterior doors and windows, insulation, heat pumps, furnaces, central air conditioners and water heaters. The credit is limited to a lifetime maximum of $500. The credit breaks down as follows: $200 of the credit can be based on expenditures for windows; $50 of the credit on any advanced main air circulating fans; $150 on any qualified natural gas, propane, or oil furnace or hot water boiler; and $300 of the credit on any item of energy-efficient building property. Tax credit for residential alternative energy equipment – A tax credit is available to help individuals pay for residential alternative energy equipment. The credit is 30 percent of the cost of eligible solar water heaters, solar electricity equipment and fuel cell plants placed in service in 2006 and 2007. The maximum credit is $2,000 per tax year for each category of solar equipment, and $500 for each half kilowatt of capacity of fuel cell plants installed per tax year. Clean fuel vehicle deduction – For 2005, Internal Revenue Service allows taxpayers to claim a $2,000 deduction for purchasing (not leasing) a qualifying new (not used) hybrid vehicle. The following vehicles qualify: Ford Escape Hybrid (2005 and 2006 model year), the Honda Accord Hybrid (2005), the Honda Civic Hybrid (2005), the Honda Insight (2005), the Lexus RX 400h (2006), the Mercury Mariner Hybrid (2006), the Toyota Highlander Hybrid (2006), the Toyota Prius (2006). This deduction expires in 2005. Six-month Automatic Extensions – Beginning with 2005 returns due in 2006, individuals will be able to file Form 4868 to get an automatic six-month extension of time to file. Previously, only corporations could request an automatic six-month extension, and other taxpayers were required to file for two extensions. Also, almost all states have indicated that they are following the IRS’s lead. Standard mileage rates – The 2005 rate for business use of your vehicle is 40.5 cents a mile (48.5 cents after August 31, 2005). The 2005 rate for use of your vehicle for medical care or to move is 15 cents a mile (22 cents a mile after August 31, 2005). Donations of Automobiles – Starting in 2005, there is a limit on the charitable contribution of used motor vehicles (with a claimed value in excess of $500) to the gross sales price received by the charity for the subsequent sale of the donated vehicle, rather than the fair market value. A charitable organization must provide the donor with Form 1098-C. Exemption – The amount you can deduct for each exemption has increased from $3,100 in 2004 to $3,200 in 2005. You lose all or part of the benefit of your exemptions if your adjusted gross income is above a certain amount. The amount at which the phaseout begins depends on your filing status. For 2005, the phaseout begins at: „ $218,950 for married people filing jointly and qualifying widow(er) with dependent children, „ $182,450 for a head of household, „ $145,950 for single taxpayers, and „ $109,475 for married persons filing separately. The exemption phaseout threshold for 2006 and 2007 is reduced by one-third, and for tax years beginning in 2008 and 2009 by two-thirds. For the tax years beginning after 2009, the exemption phaseout is repealed completely. WHAT ARE CONSIDERED DEDUCTIONS AND CREDITS This is the standard ded there are additional sta $1,250 for an unmarried Filing Status Single. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Married filing joint retu with dependent childr Married filing separate Head of household . . . The IRS recommends ke diary listing all expense Only work-related expen by an employer can be c Deducting Work-Rela Traveling: Workers in allowed a special rate on of $41 per day in the co $46 per day outside th Otherwise the IRS standa is generally $31. In some and in Hawaii and Alaska ferently. Travel expense can only be deducted if one’s work and if they h bursed from any other so There has been a tax cou Comm. 115 TC210[200 chant seaman was denie for the full M & IE rate that in situations where at no cost, the incidental able as an itemized dedu $3 (in the continental U ing from $1 to $53 in oth these rates, to the extent a higher deduction amou Limit on Itemized Ded itemized deductions may viduals earning more tha eral adjusted gross inco married and filing separa Earned Income Cred earned income credit (E certain individuals who h and meet certain adjus thresholds. For tax year 2 does not have to have a be eligible for this cred tions are met. Different and phase-out percenta based on the taxpayer’s the number of qualifyin if any. The maximum c follows: Taxpayers with $11,450 and no qualifyi maximum credit; taxpa less than $30,338 and child—$2,604 maximum with income less than $3 more qualifying childr mum credit. If the ear reduces the income tax li a refund will be gran Taxpayers should use fo EIC to see if they are eli Dependent’s Social S Each dependent must hav number (SSN). Individua for their dependent by with their local Social istration office or calling at 1-800-772-1213. It u two weeks to receive an General Information: 1-800-829-1040 may answer questions 24 ho Publications: Call 1-800-829-3676 instructions and publica Walk-In Help: IRS representatives country to help with tax q telephone. To find the lo book under “United Stat Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared agency’s taxpayer info aspects of tax-filing can The federal Tele-Tax ing about 150 topics. February 2006 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 3:53 AM Page 13 AFARERS e handy tax tips—some of which are intended specifically for for 2005 as well as where to get additional information. STANDARD DEDUCTION d deduction chart for most people. If a taxpayer is 65 or older or blind, al standard deductions ($1,000 for a married person or “spouse” or married person). Note that the personal exemption deduction is $3,200. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Standard Deduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,000 nt return or qualifying widow(er) children. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10,000 arate return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,000 d . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,300 ds keeping a log book or penses related to travel. expenses not reimbursed n be claimed. Related Meals When rs in transportation are te on the meal allowance the continental U.S. and de the continental U.S. standard meal allowance some locations it is $42, Alaska it is computed difpenses, including meals, ted if directly related to hey have not been reimher source. ax court case (Johnson v. 0[2000]) where a merdenied a full deduction E rates. The court ruled here meals are provided ental expense rate allowd deduction is limited to tal U.S.) and rates rangin other areas. In lieu of extent you have receipts, amount may be allowed. d Deductions: In 2005, s may be limited for indire than $145,950 of fedincome (or $72,975 if separately). Credit: A refundable dit (EIC) is available to who have earned income adjusted gross income year 2005, an individual ave a qualifying child to credit if certain condiferent credit percentages rcentages are provided ayer’s income level and lifying children eligible, um credit allowed is as with income less than alifying children—$390 taxpayers with income and with 1 qualifying ximum credit; taxpayers an $34,450 and with 2 or children—$4,300 maxie earned income credit tax liability below zero, granted by the IRS. use form 1040, schedule re eligible for the credit. ial Security Number: st have a Social Security ividuals may get an SSN nt by filing Form SS-5 Social Security Adminalling the Administration . It usually takes about ve an SSN. Child Child Credit: In 2005, taxpayers who have a qualifying child who is a U.S. citizen and for whom the taxpayer may claim a dependency exemption and who is less than 17 years old, are entitled to the child tax credit. The amount of the credit is $1,000 per child. The credit begins to phase out when modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) reaches $110,000 for joint filers, $75,000 for single taxpayers or $55,000 for married taxpayers filing separately. Credit for Higher Education Tuition: Individuals may be able to take the “HOPE” credit for tuition and related expenses paid for oneself, spouse or dependents to enroll at or attend an eligible educational institution (i.e., college or graduate school or vocational training). The HOPE credit provides a maximum allowable credit of $1,500 per student for each of the first two years of postsecondary education. For qualified expenses paid after January 1, 2005, taxpayers can take the “Lifetime Learning Credit,” that is a credit of 20 percent of qualified tuition expenses paid by the taxpayer for any year (after that date) the HOPE credit is not claimed. This credit is not limited to the first two years of postsecondary education. Also, no credits are available for expenses of a student in any year that tax-free distributions from an education IRA are used to pay the student’s expenses. These credits are subject to income limitations. The phaseout of the credits begins for single taxpayers when modified AGI reaches $43,000, and completely phase out when modified AGI reaches $53,000. For joint filers, the phaseout range is $87,000 to $107,000. The HOPE and Lifetime Learning Credit are not available to taxpayers married filing separately. In 2005, the Lifetime Learning Credit will be $2,000. Student Loan Interest: Taxpayers may be able to deduct up to $2,500 of interest paid for qualified education expenses for oneself, spouse or dependents. The deduction is allowed in figuring adjusted gross income. Individual Retirement Accounts: ‹ Education IRAs – Taxpayers can contribute up to $2,000 each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The contribution is not deductible. Earnings on the contribution will be distributed tax-free provided that they are used to pay the beneficiary’s postsecondary education expenses. However, the exclusion is not available for any year in which the HOPE credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit is claimed. ‹ Traditional IRAs – The contribution limit to a traditional IRA in 2005 was increased to $4,000. If taxpayer reaches age 50 before 2006, the most that can be contributed will be $4,500. Modified TAX TIPS Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phaseout range increased to $50,000-$60,000 for single, head of household, and $70,000$80,000 for married couples filing jointly or qualifying widow(er). Also, solely for the purpose of figuring the $100,000 modified AGI limit on eligibility to make qualified rollover distributions from a Traditional IRA to Roth IRA, minimum required distributions from IRAs and other qualified plans received in tax year beginning with 2005 are excluded from modified AGI. ‹ Roth IRAs – The maximum total yearly contribution that can be made by an individual to a Roth IRA is $4,000. Roth IRAs are subject to income limits. The maximum yearly contribution is phased out for single taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) between $95,000 and $110,000, for joint filers with an AGI between $150,000 and $160,000, and for married filing separately with an AGI between $0 and $10,000. Although the contributions are not deductible, the distributions may be tax-free depending on when and why they are made. ‹ Penalty-Free IRA Distributions – The additional 10 percent tax penalty on an early distribution from an IRA may not apply if you pay higher education expenses for yourself, spouse or your children or grandchildren. The tax penalty also may not apply if you pay expenses related to the purchase of a home by a first-time homebuyer. Only $10,000 during the individual’s lifetime may be withdrawn without a penalty for this purpose. Also, the tax penalty does not apply to distributions for an individual’s disability, medical care, or to a beneficiary after death of the individual. OTHER TAX INFORMATION Private Delivery Services: Tax returns and extensions can be mailed through private delivery services such as Airborne Express, DHL Worldwide Express, Federal Express and United Parcel Service. Forms of Payments: One can pay the Internal Revenue Service through credit cards, debit cards, charge cards, bank check or money order. WHICH RECORDS TO KEEP Keep records of income (such as receipts), deductions (for example, canceled checks) and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limitations runs out for that return, usually 3 years from the date the return was due or filed, or 2 years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recommended that all records be kept for about 6 years. Some records should be kept even longer. For example, keep property records (your home, stocks) as long as they are needed to figure the basis of property. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one listed on that person’s last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filled out and filed with the agency. Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before filing a required return for 2005, the taxpayer’s personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a joint return) must file and sign the return for that person. A WHERE TO GET INFORMATION ion: 0 may be called for general information. IRS staff 24 hours a day. 9-3676 to order current and prior year forms, ublications. tives are available in many IRS offices around the h tax questions that cannot be answered easily by the location of an IRS office, look in the phone d States Government, Internal Revenue Service.” pared to answer questions by phone. Through the r information service, publications covering all g can be ordered. e-Tax system has recorded tax information coveropics. 1-800-829-4477 is the IRS’s automated February 2006 Tele-Tax system. When calling from a touch tone phone, the number “9” will repeat the topic and the number “2” will cancel the topic. To listen to a directory of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. You can also check the status of your refund. This telephone service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Personal Computer: Access the IRS’s internet web site at www.irs.gov to: download forms, instructions and publications; see answers to frequently asked tax questions; search publications on-line by topic or keyword; figure your withholding allowances using their W-4 calculator, check the status of your 2005 refund, send the IRS comments or requests for help via e-mail; and sign up to receive local and national tax news by e-mail. Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District Director (listed on the tax form). Include a Social Security number with the letter. personal representative can be an executor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of the taxpayer’s property. WHICH INCOME TO REPORT In addition to wages, salaries, tips, unemployment compensation, capital gains, dividend payments and other income listed on the federal tax return, the following kinds of income must be reported: ‹ Jones Act settlements for lost wages. ‹ Amounts received in place of wages from accident and health plans (including sick pay and disability pensions) if employer paid for the policy. ‹ Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. ‹ Canceled debts ‹ State income tax refunds ‹ Rents ‹ Repayments ‹ Royalties ‹ Unemployment benefits ‹ Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. ‹ Endowments. ‹ Original Issue Discount. ‹ Distributions from self-employed plans. ‹ Bartering income (fair-market value of goods or services received in return for services). ‹ Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act. ‹ Lump-sum distributions. ‹ Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, silver, gems or other property (capital gains). ‹ Accumulation distributions from trusts. ‹ Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). ‹ Earned income from sources outside the United States. ‹ Director’s fees. ‹ Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. ‹ Embezzled or other illegal income. WHICH INCOME NEED NOT BE REPORTED The following kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return: ‹ Benefits from government welfare programs. ‹ Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, medical costs. ‹ Maintenance and Cure. ‹ Workers’ compensation benefits, insur- OVERSEAS AT TAX TIME Should Seafarers find themselves overseas and seeking IRS forms or assistance, U.S. embassies and consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-related services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates located in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan. ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ance, damages, etc. for injury or sickness. Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans’ Administration. Child support. Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. Dividends on veterans’ life insurance. Life insurance proceeds received because of a person’s death. Amounts received from insurance because of loss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of normal expenses while living in the home. Certain amounts received as a scholarship. FILING AN EXTENSION Taxpayers can get an automatic 6-month extension if, no later than April 17, 2006, Form 4868 will be filed with the IRS. It is important to remember that a 6-month extension to file does not extend the time to pay the taxes. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due to the U.S. government. WHERE IS MY REFUND? In 2004, the IRS launched a new program that allows taxpayers to trace their refunds online. If taxpayer(s) have not received a refund check within 28 days from the original IRS mailing date, information can be accessed through the web site at www.irs.gov. To get the refund status, taxpayers will need to provide the information from their tax returns. You should know your Social Security Number (or IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), Filing Status (Single, Married Filing Joint Return, Married Filing Separate Return, Head of Household, or Qualifying Widow(er)) and the Refund amount (It is important to enter the refund amount exactly as it is shown on your return). WHY SEAFARERS MUST PAY STATE INCOME TAX Federal law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of mariners working aboard U.S.-flag ships. Specifically, the law [46 USCA 11108(11) ] provides that “no part of the wages due or accruing to a master, officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoastal, interstate or non-contiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year—was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one State” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. Seafarers LOG 13 �2006-February.qxp 1/30/2006 1:58 AM Page 14 Seafarers Win ‘Food in a Bowl’ Cook-off Three prizes were awarded to chief stewards at the first annual cook-off for ships stationed in Diego Garcia, and all three were won by members of the SIU! The Seaman’s Club in Diego Garcia played host to the event, which was sponsored by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) Diego Garcia and Capt. Tuck Hord, USN, Commander, Maritime Prepositioning Squadron. The purpose of the cook-off was twofold. First, it was a chance to get mariners together for an enjoyable event; second, it served to introduce the new Food Service Officer for Naval Support Facility (NAF) Diego Garcia, Chief Warrant Officer Arnie Limon, to the ships’ masters and stewards, who are his primary customers. The rules of participation for this event were that the recipe had to be (1) original, (2) eaten out of a bowl and (3) of a semiliquid consistency (e.g., chili, gumbo)—hence the term “Food in a Bowl.” Only one entry per ship was permitted, and enough of the recipe had to be prepared to feed 10 to 12 people. Yeoman First Class Linda Varnell at the Military Sealift Command Office spearheaded the event, going the extra mile to ensure that the first “Food in a Bowl” was a top-notch affair. The enviable job of judging was left to CWO Limon along with Left: Chili peppers marinate in a garlic dip from Chief Steward Leo Dela Cruz. Below: The cook-off taste-testing gets under way. the NSF stock control officer, Ensign Scott Schwemin, and Culinary Specialist Third Class Matthew Melius. They had an extremely difficult task, but with years of eating experience, they were able to narrow the field to three. The “Best in Show and Presentation” award went to Leo Dela Cruz, chief steward aboard the SIU-crewed William H. Pitsenbarger. His “Hawaiian Seafood Creole” (a combination of shrimp, scallops, oysters and lobster) was accompanied by some incredibly intricate food decorations. USNS Pomeroy Chief Steward Javier Delosreyes received the “Best Taste” award for his “Slammin’ Jammin’ Clammin’ Chowder,” and Chief Steward Tony E. Spain of the Pvt. Franklin J. Phillips took home the envied prize of “Hottest” with his “Voodoo Stew,” which was made with 16 chili peppers! Robert Greenwood, steward on the USNS Soderman, noted that the “Food in a Bowl” contest was enjoyed by everyone. He said he solicited his ship’s chief engineer, John Fleming, to enter his famous chicken gumbo in the competition. “Even though we did not walk away with a plaque,” Greenwood noted, “we were pleased that the gumbo was the only dish to be completely eaten up. So we know it was outstanding.” The galley gang from the Soderman also provided fresh chocolate chip cookies to “keep the energy flowing.” The “Food in a Bowl” event was a huge success with stuffed bellies and good camaraderie all around, stated Executive Officer Union Industries Show Comes to Cleveland For the first time in more than 50 years, the Union Industries Show will be held in Cleveland May 5-7. The show, now promoted under the name “America@Work,” and followed by the tag-line “100% Union-Made, American-Made Products, Services and Jobs,” will continue as it has for nearly 70 years in educating the public abut America’s best products and services, created by the best workers in the world—the men and women of organized labor. The SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers union regularly participate in the show, and this year will be no exception. Cleveland’s I-X Center will be the venue for the 2006 event. It has the advantage of being conveniently located near several large highways connecting dozens of towns and cities, like Columbus, Akron, Canton and Toledo. The America@Work show attracts between 250,000 and 300,000 visitors each and every year. While the crowds are pretty evenly divided between union members and people who do not belong to a union, many of the attendees are “conscientious consumers,” those looking to purchase products and services made by employers who care about people and the community and who provide good jobs. It also attracts an audience of all ages—high school and college students as well as young workers seeking information about employers and career opportunities, as well as more established men and women looking at the exhibits for quality appliances, automobiles, boats and luxury goods. Many of the hands-on exhibits display skills and craft work in construction, transportation, high-tech, electronics, engineering and white-collar occupations. Live music, fashion shows, frequent raffles and product giveaways are always very popular attention-getters. 14 Seafarers LOG As always, admission to the show is free. This year the hours will be from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. “Cleveland could be our biggest show ever,” said Union Label and Service Trades Department President Charlie Mercer. “We are excited to be working closely with the Ohio AFL-CIO and the Cleveland Federation of Labor and all the individual unions across Ohio. This region is full of fine unionized companies with great products and services, and the public is going to learn a great deal about them. The public will also learn a lot about the Alliance for Retired Americans, Working America and the important political and organizing work that our unions are doing. That, too, is a very exciting ad promising development,” Mercer concluded. Frequent raffles, like this one held at the SIU/UIW booth during the 2004 show in St. Louis, attract an audience of all ages. Awards are presented to Chief Stewards (from left) Tony Spain (hottest), Javier Delosreyes (best tasting) and Leo Dela Cruz (best presentation). Standing in back is Capt. Tuck Hord, commander, Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron Two, who helped sponsor the event. Ben Metcalf of the MSC. A big vote of thanks went to all the participants who put a lot of hard work into some excellent dishes. Thanks also to Capt. Michael Finnigan, master on the USNS Pomeroy, for providing the Seafarers LOG with the photos accompanying this article. Yeoman First Class Linda Varnell (right) looks over the shoulder of Chief Steward Leo Dela Cruz holding his beautiful centerpiece of roses and tulips, sculpted entirely from fresh vegetables. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. February 2006 �34103p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 10:43 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea March & April 2006 Membership Meetings DECEMBER 16, 2005 — JANUARY 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 2 0 8 10 2 9 32 29 1 8 8 29 9 5 0 8 19 1 38 25 3 7 9 14 4 9 25 28 2 5 6 16 26 5 21 12 7 7 28 26 4 1 3 3 1 1 15 6 3 3 4 16 5 2 0 0 5 1 11 8 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 3 7 1 7 29 19 0 6 8 19 10 2 0 6 16 0 17 21 243 260 92 171 1 0 3 2 1 5 17 15 0 6 7 7 6 4 3 4 10 0 10 10 0 1 3 6 1 5 9 13 1 4 10 6 13 0 0 2 8 3 12 11 1 0 0 5 0 1 9 7 0 1 1 8 7 1 1 0 2 2 4 7 0 0 3 1 1 3 11 9 0 5 4 6 11 0 1 1 6 0 10 4 111 108 57 0 0 3 2 0 10 21 16 0 5 10 18 8 3 1 1 22 1 16 28 1 0 4 6 1 4 6 6 1 3 1 5 5 0 2 1 4 1 4 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 6 0 0 2 2 4 0 0 0 1 2 2 3 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 3 4 6 11 4 9 20 12 1 5 8 11 19 3 12 7 7 6 16 11 175 0 1 1 2 3 0 15 5 0 0 3 9 3 0 1 1 3 0 10 9 66 0 0 3 7 0 8 21 10 0 4 4 11 8 3 1 5 6 2 17 13 123 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 76 0 0 1 4 2 2 4 14 2 3 5 7 8 0 1 3 5 4 15 10 90 0 0 0 1 0 1 9 7 0 0 1 8 9 0 1 0 0 3 2 5 47 0 0 2 0 1 0 5 10 0 3 1 7 7 0 1 1 7 1 6 2 54 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 6 0 9 7 8 0 4 3 10 6 2 1 2 10 0 9 20 165 59 28 100 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 4 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 2 3 0 5 1 0 3 3 7 0 6 20 12 0 10 3 32 7 0 8 1 6 0 14 6 1 8 1 7 1 9 17 22 0 0 6 25 13 0 16 0 7 3 15 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 2 0 6 7 0 3 3 6 8 1 0 2 2 1 4 4 56 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 1 15 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 4 1 3 1 4 8 8 0 4 1 11 5 0 15 0 6 0 9 6 1 1 1 6 1 6 11 9 0 0 3 7 11 0 19 0 5 1 13 5 0 0 1 5 1 5 5 8 0 3 2 7 3 1 0 1 7 0 6 10 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 5 0 9 14 1 13 62 47 1 26 23 72 24 8 0 18 35 2 59 46 5 9 10 23 4 14 41 42 2 16 13 37 26 5 13 13 12 7 50 47 5 4 2 9 1 4 34 13 5 4 12 22 11 2 0 0 8 3 17 13 465 389 169 1 0 9 8 1 12 28 29 0 12 13 27 4 7 4 7 14 2 16 14 1 4 8 13 1 6 13 23 0 7 11 15 18 6 0 2 11 1 20 22 2 1 1 8 1 4 13 14 0 3 1 12 9 1 0 0 6 0 6 15 208 182 97 0 0 6 5 0 17 33 32 1 14 15 40 14 2 6 2 39 1 29 45 1 0 2 12 0 13 8 9 1 3 6 9 12 1 3 0 6 0 14 14 0 0 1 2 1 1 5 5 1 2 4 7 7 0 0 0 1 2 8 4 65 301 114 51 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 10 4 0 1 4 13 0 0 0 2 9 0 11 1 1 3 3 15 1 12 33 24 0 13 7 60 11 0 9 6 14 0 28 12 6 9 4 10 2 16 30 34 0 1 9 57 22 1 12 0 14 4 26 18 26 148 162 11 86 100 0 62 252 275 545 575 339 358 407 228 242 1,036 937 592 Piney Point .............Monday: March 6, April 3 Algonac ..................Friday: March 10, April 7 Baltimore ................Thursday: March 9, April 6 Boston.....................Friday: March 10, April 7 Guam ......................Thursday: March 23, April 20 Honolulu .................Friday: March 17, April 14 Houston ..................Monday: March 13, April 10 Jacksonville ............Thursday: March 9, April 6 Joliet .......................Thursday: March 16, April 13 Mobile ....................Wednesday: March 15, April 12 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: March 14, April 11 New York................Tuesday: March 7, April 4 Norfolk ...................Thursday: March 9, April 6 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: March 8, April 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: March 16, April 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: March 16, April 13 San Juan..................Thursday: March 9, April 6 St. Louis..................Friday: March 17, April 14 Tacoma ...................Friday: March 24, April 21 Wilmington ...............Monday: March 20, April 17 ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals SHIPMATES OF MARTIN E. HURLSTONE NMU retiree Martin E. Hurlstone recently sent a note to the LOG saying he would like to hear from old shipmates. Brother Hurlstone celebrated his 90th birthday last October and reports that he is in good health. He sailed in the steward department during World War II and then joined the NMU in 1946. He retired in 1981. He may be reached at 1110 Marshall Road, Greenwood, SC 29646. More SDRF Contributors The last few editions of the LOG included lists of individuals who contributed to the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF). Since then, additional contributions were received from the following individuals: David Barber James High *“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. February 2006 Seafarers LOG 15 �34103p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 10:41 AM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report DECEMBER 16, 2005 — JANUARY 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 Port 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 10 13 6 2 12 1 0 1 45 0 1 0 1 4 0 0 0 6 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 1 16 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 8 6 1 5 0 0 1 24 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 4 1 2 5 0 5 0 3 1 17 0 7 5 0 8 0 1 0 21 15 37 6 14 42 1 1 4 120 9 10 0 3 12 0 1 2 37 1 2 0 7 1 0 1 0 12 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 2 6 6 15 6 3 16 0 0 4 50 1 3 3 7 9 0 1 0 24 1 2 3 7 0 0 0 0 13 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 2 1 1 2 3 0 0 1 10 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 3 1 1 0 1 1 9 Port 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 1 0 1 1 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 3 2 1 3 1 0 0 12 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 1 3 0 0 1 1 0 6 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 4 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 5 0 1 3 0 0 1 1 0 6 0 2 1 1 0 1 1 0 6 6 13 5 4 16 1 0 2 47 3 2 2 1 14 1 0 0 23 0 1 3 5 0 1 0 0 10 Totals All Departments 67 13 31 33 10 30 33 217 84 35 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner William McAlpine of Braintree, Mass. On the right is a photo of the Katrina Luckenbach, taken Oct. 1, 1938 at Commonwealth Pier in South Boston, along with Brother McAlpine’s certificates of discharge from the vessel in 1944. Below is the Liberty ship James Otis. AB McAlpine was aboard the vessel in 1944 when it carried two sea-going tugs to England. Fortunately, he was not on it when it ran aground in Devon, England in February 1945. PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG 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. February 2006 �34068p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 11:32 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA DOMINICO DACUA, 66, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1989 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Dacua was born in the Philippines. He first sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Dacua worked in the steward department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was on the R.J. Pfeiffer. Brother Dacua calls Kapole, Hawaii home. WILLIAM MARINO, 65, became an SIU member in 1965. Brother Marino first sailed aboard the Yorkmar in the engine department. The Mississippi native upgraded his seafaring skills in 2000 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Marino’s most recent journey was on the USNS Altair. He is a resident of River Ridge, La. he sailed on the Samuel L. Cobb. Brother Orlando lives in Virginia Beach, Va. TRINIDAD SANCHEZ, 69, began sailing with the SIU in 1967 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Sanchez first worked aboard Alcoa Steamship Company vessels. The Puerto Rico-born mariner worked in the steward department. Brother Sanchez’s most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Fisher. He attended upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center in 1996, 2000 and again in 2001. Brother Sanchez makes his home in Carolina, P.R. HENRY SCOTT, 58, joined the SIU in 1968 in New Orleans. Brother Scott first sailed on a Hudson Waterways vessel. He was born in Louisiana and shipped in the deck department. Brother Scott last worked aboard the John A. Chapman. He settled in Grambling, La. LOUIS McBRIDE, 65, embarked on his seafaring career in 1970 in the port of Houston. Brother McBride first shipped aboard the Amerigo. In 1990, he completed his steward recertification training at the Paul Hall Center. Brother McBride was born in Louisiana. His last ship was the Patriot. Brother McBride resides in Ringgold, La. THOMAS STEPHENS, 65, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Stephens first sailed on the East Point Victory as a member of the deck department. He upgraded his seafaring skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. on a number of occasions. His last ship was the Cape Knox. Brother Stephens was born in Wisconsin and currently resides in Metairie, La. RODOLFO ORLANDO, 67, began his seafaring career in 1987 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Orlando’s first voyage was on the USNS Stalwart. He attended the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. on three occasions to upgrade his skills. Brother Orlando hails from the Philippines. Prior to retiring, JONATHAN STRINGER III, 64, hails from Port Arthur, Texas. Brother Stringer began shipping with the Seafarers in 1968. He upgraded his skills To submit articles, poems, photographs or letters to the editor, please send them to: Seafarers LOG 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 February 2006 often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Stringer first sailed aboard the Minot Victory. He worked in the deck department, last shipping on the Liberty Grove. Brother Stringer is a resident of Dickinson, Texas. GREAT LAKES RAY BLAHNIK, 65, became an SIU member in 1962, sailing aboard the Michigan Interstate Railway-operated Ann Arbor. Brother Blahnik, who was born in Michigan, worked as a member of the deck department. He upgraded his skills in 1999 and 2000 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Blahnik’s most recent voyage was aboard the Adam E. Cornelius. He lives in his native state. CHARLES DeVLIEGER, 53, was born in Detroit, Mich. Brother DeVlieger joined the SIU in 1970. In 1978, the deck department member upgraded his skills at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother DeVlieger last sailed on the J.A.W. Iglehart. He calls Cheboygan, Mich. home. 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. IGNACIO BLANCO, 67, began his career with the NMU in 1967, initially sailing from New Jersey. Brother Blanco was born in Honduras. Prior to retiring, he worked on the Chesapeake Bay. LEONARD JOHNSON, 65, became an NMU member in 1961. Born in Alabama, Brother Johnson joined the union in Mobile. His first vessel was the Tillamook. Brother Johnson shipped as a member of the engine department, last sailing aboard the Navigator. ANGEL MINDEZ, 64, started his NMU profession in 1963 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Mindez originally worked on the Texaco Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 The SIU Tampa port agent ran into a rough one when he, along with the crew of the West Kyska, took some beefs to the local inspector and the U.S. shipping commissioner. Instead of acting on the beefs, they told the men to swear out affidavits, with the commissioner warning them that the beefs better be correct or else they would lose their certificates. “In the face of all this opposition from men who are supposed to represent all the people of the United States, and not a few, we decided to try and get some satisfaction from you,” the agent wrote in a letter to the Commerce Department. Among the beefs listed were: badly equipped slop chest, little heat in the foc’sles, bad drinking water, foc’sles awash in heavy weather, plus a steering engine which throws oil, making it dangerous to oil and clean up when the ship was underway. Mississippi in the engine department. The Puerto Rico-born mariner’s final voyage was aboard the Texaco California. JOHN VANASE, 66, first donned the NMU colors in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Vanase’s first ship was the Constitution. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Vanase last sailed aboard the African Neptune. GILBERT VASQUEZ, 60, was born in San Pedro, Calif. Brother Vasquez began shipping with the NMU in 1978. The steward department member’s first ship was the Export Buyer; his last was the Cape Horn. PABLO ZALDIVAR, 65, joined the NMU ranks in 1968. Brother Zaldivar is a native of Honduras. He most recently sailed aboard the Golden Gate. 1951 Plans formulated several weeks ago for establishment of a steward department upgrading school in the SIU’s new headquarters New York-branch building are rapidly taking shape. According to Frenchy Michelet, chairman of the committee of steward department personnel, which met recently to discuss means of utilizing the building’s modern galley facilities to increase departmental efficiency and to train new men for shipboard duties, “real progress is being made. The upgrading school will be ready to function when our new building is completed this spring.” The committee chairman said that efforts are being concentrated on achieving a uniform system of steward department operation on all SIU-contracted ships. This Month In SIU History 1941 In an election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board on the ships owned and operated by Robin Line (Seas Shipping Company), the SIU was the winner by an overwhelming majority. Of 210 men who were eligible to vote, 201 actually voted, with 199 voting in favor of the SIU. There was one crew member who voted against the union and one whose ballot was declared void. 1961 The newest SIU-manned supertanker to enter service is the Mt. Vernon Victory, currently finishing up its maiden run to the West Indies and Hawaii. The vessel has many features which meet the fancy of the crew, but at the top of the list is air-conditioning—in foc’sles especially. Then there’s a modest sized swimming pool aft near the stack; a large mess hall lounge and plenty of space in each room which is shared by two men who sleep in officer-style bunks. Seafarers LOG 17 �34068p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 11:52 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA KEYNON BRAGG SR. Brother Keynon Bragg Sr., 58, passed away Aug. 16. He joined the union in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Bragg was a member of the steward department. He first sailed aboard a States Steamship Company vessel; his most recent voyage was aboard the Thailand. Brother Bragg, who was born in Arkansas, called Wilmington, Calif. home. PHILLIP DESETT Pensioner Phillip Desett, 62, died Aug. 11. Brother Desett became a Seafarer in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. The steward department member was born in Ohio. Brother Desett first shipped on the Santa Maria. Before retiring in 2004, he worked aboard a Matson Navigation Company vessel. Brother Desett lived in Pahrump, Nev. INLAND was a Crowley Towing and Transportation vessel. Boatman Peterson called Valdosta, Ga. home. GREAT LAKES CLINTON BROWN Pensioner Clinton Brown, 83, passed away Aug. 15. Brother Brown was born in Arcadia, Mich. He joined the union in 1954. Brother Brown sailed aboard Michigan Interstate Railway vessels, primarily aboard the Ann Arbor. The deck department member made his home in Traverse City, Mich. Brother Brown started receiving his retirement compensation in 1987. CHARLES GROUT Brother Charles Grout, 32, died Aug. 11. He began sailing as an SIU member in 2004. Brother Grout worked aboard Luedtke Engineering vessels. He was a native of Owosso, Mich. Brother Grout shipped in the deck department and resided in Lansing, Mich. GRAHAM EASON Pensioner Graham Eason, 82, died Aug. 7. Boatman Eason began his seafaring career in 1960. He first shipped aboard a Gulf Atlantic Transport Company vessel. Boatman Eason was born in New Hanover, N.C. He last worked aboard an Allied Towing vessel. Boatman Eason began receiving his pension in 1985. He was a resident of Wilmington, N.C. WALTER HANN Boatman Walter Hann, 61, passed away July 30. He joined the union in 1990. Boatman Hann worked primarily aboard Crowley Liner Service vessels. He was born in Fallsington, Pa. and resided in Newton, Pa. MICHAEL KISLAN Pensioner Michael Kislan, 76, died July 12. Boatman Kislan joined the SIU in 1975 in the port of Philadelphia. He first sailed on a Taylor Marine Towing vessel. Boatman Kislan, who was born in Pennsylvania, worked as a member of the deck department. His last trip to sea was on a Moran Towing Company vessel. Boatman Kislan retired in 1990 and lived in Philadelphia. RANDY PETERSON Boatman Randy Peterson, 53, passed away July 12. He became an SIU member in 1979 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman Peterson was born in Washington state and worked in the deck department. His first ship was the Del Rio; his last 18 Seafarers LOG ALFRED MARSH EDWIN THOMAS Pensioner Ambrosio Castro, 73, passed away June 28. Brother Castro became an NMU member in 1954. He first sailed out of New Orleans aboard a vessel operated by Gatun Standard Fruit Company as a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1988, Brother Castro sailed aboard the Export Patriot. Pensioner Alfred Marsh, 74, passed away July 28. Brother Marsh joined the NMU ranks in 1957, first shipping on the Gulf Maid as a member of the steward department. Born in Port Arthur, Texas, he last sailed aboard the Galveston Bay. Brother Marsh retired in 1988. Pensioner Edwin Thomas, 82, died Aug. 12. Born in South Carolina, Brother Thomas launched his NMU career in 1942, first sailing from Charleston. He was a member of the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Marine Dow-Chemical. In 1967, Brother Thomas started collecting his pension. WESLEY CHEVANNES Pensioner Wesley Chevannes, 87, died Aug. 16. Brother Chevannes embarked on his seafaring career in 1944, first sailing aboard the Cherry Valley. Born in Panama, he last worked on the Independence. Brother Chevannes began receiving his retirement pay in 1969. JOSEPH De SILVA LOWELL APPLEWHITE Pensioner Lowell Applewhite, 78, passed away Aug. 24. Boatman Applewhite was a native of Sacul, Texas. He started sailing with the SIU in 1968, working primarily aboard G&H Towing Company vessels. He retired in 1991 and made his home in Galveston, Texas. AMBROSIO CASTRO RAILROAD MARINE HOWARD HUDGINS Pensioner Howard Hudgins, 76, died July 5. Brother Hudgins joined the SIU in 1965 in Norfolk, Va. The U.S. Army veteran first worked with Pennsylvania Railroad in the port of Norfolk. Brother Hudgins, who was born in Virginia, last sailed on a Penn Central Transportation vessel. In 1988, Brother Hudgins went on pension. He resided in Mathews, Va. 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. RODRIGO ALMONTE Pensioner Rodrigo Almonte, 86, passed away Aug. 14. Brother Almonte joined the NMU in 1942, first shipping from Port Arthur, Texas aboard the Senator Bailey. Brother Almonte worked in both the deck and engine departments during his seafaring career. His most recent voyage was aboard the Joseph Lykes. Brother Almonte was born in Mexico. He retired in 1984. DANIEL ARMSTRONG Pensioner Daniel Armstrong, 79, died July 17. Brother Armstrong began sailing with the union in 1952 from the port of Mobile, Ala. His first trip was on the Enid Victory. Brother Armstrong shipped as a member of the engine department. The Alabama-born mariner last worked aboard the Bennington. Brother Armstrong went on pension in 1988. Pensioner Joseph De Silva, 83, passed away Aug. 21. Brother De Silva first donned the NMU colors in 1942. The Louisiana native worked in the steward department. Brother De Silva’s first ship was the Jamaica; his last was the Velma Lykes. He went on pension in 1980. RILEY FREEMAN JR. Pensioner Riley Freeman Jr., 75, died Aug. 4. Brother Freeman joined the union in 1946, first sailing on the Gulf of Venezuela. Brother Freeman was a member of the steward department. Born in Marksville, La., he last worked aboard the Gerig. Brother Freeman began collecting his retirement pay in 1971. ROBERT HASELDEN Pensioner Robert Haselden, 77, passed away Aug. 25. Born in Shulerville, S.C., Brother Haselden launched his NMU career in the port of Charleston. He first sailed aboard the Export Defender. Brother Haselden became a pensioner in 1993 after sailing aboard the American Spitfire. SINCLAIR KEITH Pensioner Sinclair Keith, 80, died Sept. 13. Brother Keith became an NMU member in 1945, first sailing from Savannah, Ga. on the Ormondale. Brother Keith was a member of the steward department. He last shipped aboard the David D. Irwin. In 1986, Brother Keith started receiving his retirement stipends. SEGISMUNDO MEJIA Pensioner Segismundo Mejia, 83, died July 25. Brother Mejia began his employment with the NMU in 1943, sailing first from the port of San Francisco. Born in Honduras, Brother Mejia initially shipped on the Vernon L. Parrington. Prior to retiring in 1985, he worked aboard the Dolly Truman. ANTONIO MENENDEZ Pensioner Antonio Menendez, 80, passed away July 20. Brother Menendez was born in Florida. He joined the NMU in 1946, first shipping out of Tampa, Fla. The steward department member retired in 1972. PRIMITIVO ORTIZ Pensioner Primitivo Ortiz, 80, died Aug. 14. Brother Ortiz began sailing with the NMU in 1946 in the port of New York. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner last went to sea on the Allison Lykes. Brother Ortiz went on pension in 1991. RUFEL RAMOS Pensioner Rufel Ramos, 83, passed away Aug. 20. Brother Ramos joined the NMU in 1948. His first ship was the Ernie Pyle. Brother Ramos, who worked in the steward department, was a native of Puerto Rico. His final voyage was on the United States. Brother Ramos began receiving his retirement pay in 1969. MICHAEL STAMOU Pensioner Michael Stamou, 78, died Aug. 2. Brother Stamou began his seafaring career in 1951, first sailing from the port of Philadelphia aboard the Simon Benson. Brother Stamou was born in Greece. He retired in 1973. ROLAND STRAIGHT Pensioner Roland Straight, 85, passed away June 20. Brother Straight was a native of Bend, Ore. and joined the union in 1946 in Portland. Brother Straight initially shipped on the Marine Robin as a member of the engine department. He went on pension in 1991. ELIGIO TORRES Pensioner Eligio Torres, 83, passed away Aug. 13. Brother Torres began sailing with the NMU in 1945 in San Pedro, Calif. His first vessel was the Appomattox. Brother Torres was born in Puerto Rico and shipped in the engine department. His last trip to sea was on the Santa Ines. Brother Torres became a pensioner in 1964. DICK YIN-TING Pensioner Dick Yin-Ting, 84, died Aug. 5. Brother YinTing was born in China. He joined the NMU in 1964. Brother YinTing worked in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1984, he sailed aboard the Export Champion. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE DOD Alfonzo, Hector Berger, August Burnbage, Robert Butler, Frank Campos, Louis Daire, John Deane, Margaret DiMambro, Roger Fujon, Arthur Inscoe, Robert Ivery, James Jang, Cheng Kleinen, Martin Larsen, Carl Madrid, Carlos McGuire, Allen Pagan, Rafael Parker, Edward Pickett, Edward Quinones, Victor Ramos, Lester Rivera, Wilfred Ruiz, Hector Samet, Abbas Scotlas, Adam Scott, Eddie Showell, Velton Shun, Ho Solano, Emilio Stepien, Felix Tarvin, Eddie Tirado, Lorenzo Valencia, Jorge Welch, Orrie Yamamoto, Harry 88 79 79 74 75 79 87 63 92 85 64 88 90 75 94 86 86 81 81 80 88 77 90 90 83 74 93 102 69 102 85 91 87 76 76 Oct. 3 Oct. 2 Oct. 4 Sept. 1 Sept.10 Sept. 30 Sept. 26 Oct. 1 Aug. 31 Aug. 27 Aug. 24 Oct. 3 Sept. 10 Oct. 1 May 9 Oct. 3 Aug. 28 Sept. 25 Oct. 1 Sept. 17 May 9 Sept. 17 Sept. 1 July 21 Oct. 22 Oct. 1 Oct. 11 Aug. 30 Oct. 13 May 3 Oct. 25 Oct. 18 Oct. 21 Oct. 2 Oct. 22 February 2006 �34068p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 12:12 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.. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 31—Chairman Mathew J. Bevak, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Stephen J. Bradfute, Engine Delegate Nelson Powers. Chairman reported smooth trip and reminded crew members to allow at least six months when renewing MMDs. Educational director advised mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding rotary shipping. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. CPL. LOUIS J. HAUGE JR. (Maersk Line Limited), Dec 7— Chairman Wayne K. Green, Secretary George J. Borromeo, Educational Director David Castro, Deck Delegate Allen A. Cole, Engine Delegate Andrzej Furmanowski, Steward Delegate Richard Jefferson. Chairman reported no injuries, lost time or safety issues during voyage. He also noted availability of personal protective equipment. Educational director encouraged seafarers to attend upgrading classes at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Captain handling ship’s fund; chairman to find out amount of money in fund. Beef reported in deck department; no disputed overtime noted. Crew thanked Port Agent Jeff Turkus for keeping them informed on union matters. Members requested e-mail access and new mattresses. Next port: Guam. DENALI (Alaska Tanker), Dec. 11 —Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Sean O'Malley, Educational Director John C. Henry, Deck Delegate James E. Murphy, Engine Delegate Corey P. Hann, Steward Delegate Dennis D. Skretta. Chairman discussed importance of SPAD. Crew members were asked to keep volume down on radios, TVs, cell phones and alarm clocks, especially while others are trying to sleep. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding wages for next contract and replacement of air filters aboard ship. Steward department given vote of thanks for excellent Thanksgiving meal. Next port: Port Angeles, Wash. FLORIDA (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 17—Chairman Barry M. Carrano, Secretary Theodore E. Quammie, Educational Director David Vega, Engine Delegate Robert Davis, Steward Delegate Daniel L. Wehr. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 24 in Charleston, S.C. Secretary thanked crew for helping maintain ship cleanliness and encouraged them to keep up good work. Educational director advised everyone to enhance seafaring skills at SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. GREEN DALE (Waterman Steamship), Dec. 11—Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Allan D. Bright, Engine Delegate Clyde McArn, Steward Delegate Bienvenido C. Badillo. Chairman February 2006 thanked crew for good trip. He asked those departing vessel to clean rooms and turn in keys and security badges. Educational director encouraged members to watch safety films and report any items in need of repair to department head. He also urged mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed communication received from headquarters regarding furniture and contract. Vote of thanks given to chief cook for great meals. Next ports: Vancouver; Portland, Ore.; Long Beach, Calif.; Japan. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Dec. 4—Chairman Joel G. Miller, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan, Deck Delegate Sangie Mohamed, Engine Delegate Curtis Barnett, Steward Delegate Jessy Sunga. Chairman announced Dec. 8 payoff in Oakland, Calif. He thanked crew for smooth trip. Secretary reported that recent ship audit in Honolulu went well. He reminded everyone to check documents’ expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), Dec. 13—Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Paula S. Kaleikini, Educational Director Alfonso D. Bombita, Engine Delegate Ralph D. Thomas, Steward Delegate Gary Lofton. Chairman announced ship to arrive Dec. 15 in Tacoma, Wash. for payoff, followed by blanket relief for entire crew the following day. He mentioned that Tacoma hall was collecting Christmas toys for needy children. He also advised crew to pay dues on time and recommended they contribute to SPAD. Treasurer reported $2,000 in ship’s fund. Satellite radio system is in the process of being upgraded. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Concerns raised about Tacoma clinic and costs of testing. Suggestions made pertaining to Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, especially when medical treatment is needed overseas. Crew expressed gratitude to chief steward and entire steward department for great job. One minute of silence observed in memory of departed brothers and sisters. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Dec. 3—Chairman Donald G. Rezendes, Secretary Mark S. Scardino, Educational Director James T. McParland. Chairman thanked crew members for accident-free voyage and instructed them on process of written resolutions and motions. Crew observed moment of silence in memory of late SIU Executive VP John Fay. Secretary reported payoff to take place Dec. 10 in Tacoma, Wash. Vessel to then sail for Singpore, arriving Jan. 3 for shipyard period. Reliefs can finish tours after that time. Educational director reminded Seafarers not to let documents expire as they would have to retest. Treasurer stated $903.98 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held on changes to medical benefits. Suggestions made regarding pension and vacation plans as well as work on bridge rule. Members requested that mattresses be changed every three years. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. INTREPID (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 18—Chairman Salvadore J. Lagare, Secretary Louis Nicoud, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate Joemar P. Abagat, Engine Delegate Erik W. Nappier, Steward Delegate Fernando C. Onativia. Chairman urged members to read Seafarers LOG to stay current on union information. He announced ship scheduled to arrive in Oakland, Calif. Dec. 25 and sail for Los Angeles two days later. Educational director reminded mariners to allow plenty of time when renewing documents with Coast Guard. Treasurer stated $1,200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding shipping rules and increase in pension and medical benefits. Crew requested new washing machines. Thanks given to steward department for job well done and good salad bar. Vote of thanks also given to everyone for helping keep ship clean. Crew wished all members at sea and ashore a Merry Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year. After stops in Oakland and Los Angeles, ship heading to Yokohama and Kobe, Japan. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 17—Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Rex E. Bolin, Deck Delegate Othman A. Saleh, Steward Delegate Carlito S. Navarro. Chairman wished happy holidays to all SIU members and encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility and update necessary shipping documents before they expire. He reported good voyage. Secretary asked departing crew to clean rooms and change linen for next person. He thanked SA Fadel Mohamed for job well done. Educational director suggested crew members write their congressional representatives asking their support for maritime issues. Treasurer stated $230 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited) , Dec. 4—Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary James H. Rider, Educational Director Kevin Cooper, Deck Delegate Howard G. Blanks Jr. Chairman thanked crew for safe, smooth trip. He asked everyone departing vessel to clean rooms and turn in keys. Secretary reported stores for 60-day voyage were ordered and will be loaded in Norfolk, Va. He thanked all departments for their help in keeping ship clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility and keep all necessary shipping documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding pension benefits. Steward department thanked for great Thanksgiving dinner. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk; Newark, N.J. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 18—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Randy D. Clark, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Randy D. Clark, Steward Delegate Alex- ander P. Cordero. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 23 in port of Newark, N.J. He reported all departments operating smoothly and working well together. “Keep up the good work.” Secretary told crew he appreciated their help in keeping ship clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to enhance seafaring skills at Paul members expressed thanks for new upholstery and drapes and were asked to not turn on TV during meal hours. RED CLOUD (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 30—Chairman Thomas H. DeCarlo, Secretary Christine A. Cassie, Educational Director Dave D. Higdon, Deck On the Job with the SIU Pictured above and below are Seafarers aboard the new Matson ship Manulani, which entered service in 2005. Shown in the top photo are John Harvey (left) and Bob Gale; in the other is Nadia Wright. Seafarers fill the steward department positions aboard Matson vessels, although they provided additional manpower to help get the Manulani ready for its debut last spring. Hall Center and watch safety videos aboard vessel. Treasurer stated $6,280 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on danger pay for current run. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding food and service. PRIDE OF AMERICA (NCL America), Dec. 10—Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary Michael D. Wiley, Educational Director Mark A. Freeman, Deck Delegate Craig J. Burmeister, Engine Department Brett B. Wilson. Chairman expressed appreciation to deck and engine personnel for “working together in a friendly and safe manner.” He noted “The Brotherhood of the Sea is alive and well on this ship.” Educational director explained process of upgrading at the Piney Point school and encouraged everyone to attend classes there. President’s report from recent LOG pertaining to passing of Executive VP John Fay and progress made during 2005 was read and discussed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate reminded crew that any problems they have should first be taken to department delegate. PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND (Alaskan Tankers), Dec. 10—Chairman John T. Mossbarger, Secretary Jeff Smith, Educational Director Thomas E. Woerner, Engine Delegate John Miranda. Bosun suggested crew have money ready to pay dues at Dec. 31 payoff in Cherry Point, Wash. Educational director reminded members to renew z-cards early and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Delegate David G. Knutson, Steward Delegate Samuel Washington. Educational director stressed importance of education and advised members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at SIU-affiliated school. Bosun read letter from headquarters concerning contract for LMSRs— specifically portions regarding ROS and vacation benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun will check with captain on possibility of satellite TV aboard ship as well as phone that works while underway. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK (Waterman Steamship), Dec. 2— Chairman Angelo J. Urti Jr., Secretary Stephen W. Roth, Educational Director Matthew D. Dewitt, Deck Delegate Donald M. Hood, Engine Delegate Robert C. Hines, Steward Delegate Carlos A. Rosales. Chairman asked crew members leaving vessel to clean cabins and supply with fresh linen. Educational director urged crew to use time off wisely by upgrading at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. USNS BRITTIN (American Overseas Marine), Dec. 4—Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Lawrence E. Winfield, Deck Delegate Donald L. Kelly, Engine Delegate Lamont Robinson. Chairman asked members departing ship to clean rooms and leave keys. Secretary reported all departments running smoothly. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Contract extension notice received and posted. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Seafarers LOG 19 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 6:34 AM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Thankful Message I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude and thanks for the generous help provided to me and my family by union brothers and sisters during our time of need following our recent loss resulting from Hurricane Katrina. Also, I would like to add a special “Thank You!” to the officers and crew of the Westward Venture for their support and generosity. The emotional and financial support we have received from the SIU (Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund), fellow shipmates and friends has been remarkable and much-appreciated. You all have our undying gratitude and appreciation. Daniel Laitinen Sutherland Springs, Texas Supporting H.R. 23 To all personnel of the SIU, I salute you and wish you a pros- perous New Year. I am very happy about the possibility of enactment of the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act (H.R. 23) to give a little help to those who are still alive, who were valiant crew members and risked their lives. Yes, by luck, some of us are still living. I started sailing in 1943, first aboard SIU ships and later with the NMU, the union through which I retired. I know that today the SIU is as much my union as the NMU was back when I was sailing. Today’s SIU members are just like those of us in the 1940s that were eager to volunteer to help the cause. I hope you will now help those few of us from that era that remain. Thank you all and God bless you. tions of work, workers and workplaces that occurred between the mid-19th and late 20th centuries. This amazing collection of photographs, augmented with audio and video, can be viewed until May 29, 2006. Please consider this letter an open invitation to your union members to tour this exhibit some time in the near future. (Admission is free.) When you visit the National Archives, of course, you can also view the Charters of Freedom—U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Bill or Rights—and our permanent exhibit “The Public Vaults.” Allen Weinstein Archivist of the United States Washington, D.C. Exhibit Shows How Work Has Changed I am writing to call your attention to a new and exciting exhibit at the National Archives building: “The Way We Worked.” This exhibit illustrates the transforma- Scholarship Deadline Is April 15 P 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. The selection committee looks at the high school grades of all applicants and also checks the scores of either their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT). Therefore, arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 2006 to ensure 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. No one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Scholarship Program by April 15. Send for your application booklet now (see coupon below) or pick one up at any SIU hall. If you sent in an application form in 2005 and were not selected for one of the scholarships, you should try again this year. You have nothing to lose—and an education to gain! lease send me the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ ( ) Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2/06 20 Seafarers LOG 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. The annual financial committee will be elected during the March 6 headquarters membership meeting to review the 2005 records. 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. Ruperto Lopez Rosado Puerto Rico Two months remain until the deadline—April 15—for receipt of scholarship applications from Seafarers as well as from their spouses and children who wish to continue their education at the college level in the fall of 2006. Eight monetary grants will be awarded this year to three SIU members and five dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $20,000 and is intended to help cover the costs of attending a four-year, 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. Five scholarships are to be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information to make sure that certain conditions are met. After checking for eligibility, applicants should start collecting other paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15, 2006 deadline. These items include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools are often quite slow in handling transcript requests, the sooner the request Know Your Rights 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. February 2006 �34068p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 12:51 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 first few months 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 Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman March 6 March 31 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 17 April 21 Lifeboatman/Water Survival February 20 March 3 Radar April 3 April 14 Recertification Bosun April 10 May 8 Steward February 6 March 6 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training - AB February 27 March 13 March 3 March 17 Basic Safety Training - FOWT March 27 March 31 Fast Rescue Boat March 20 March 24 Government Vessels - FOWT April 3 April 7 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* February 6 April 3 February 17 April 14 February 13 Febrary 17 Course (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning January 23, 2006. 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. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion FOWT March 27 May 22 May 19 July 22 Junior Engineer April 3 June 23 Welding February 20 March 20 March 10 April 7 Course � 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 ________________________________________________ February 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. 2/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �34068p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 12:28 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman — Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 669 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 669. They are (in alphabetical order) Joseph Bianchi, Tyrell Blackburn, Russell Blanks, Karel Cain, Marcus Campbell, Catherine Clark, Joseph Craig, MacGregor Davis, Margery Earhart, Robert Godwin, Richard Guerra Jr., Christopher Hoffpauir, Benjamin Hulsey, Winter Meacham, Abdmutaali Muhammad, Winston Rankin, Philip Rhule, Christopher Sahagon, Gregory Simmons, Wilma-Joy Smith, Natalie Tremblay, Morgan Tury and Damion Vaughn. (Note: Not all are pictured.) ARPA— With instructor Mike Smith (far left) are Seafarers who completed the ARPA course Oct. 25. They are (in alphabetical order) José Boza, Rafael Clemente, John Daunoras, Robert Lutz Jr., Michael Murner and Neonito Sodusta. Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Oct. 28 are (in no specific order) Duane Frosburg, Gill Sickles, Harold Harper, Ronald Whitlow, Samantha Ortiz, Hector Ortiz, Jeffrey Moore, Jonathan Ives, Felsher Beasley Jr., Christopher Keshlear, Billie Jo Munoz, Carlos Llanos, Richard Avila, Joshua Smith, Samuel Miller, Calvin Andrews Jr., Miles Partridge and William Hunt. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Under the instruction of Jim Shaffer and Herb Walling (not shown), are graduates of the tanker assistant class ending Oct. 7. They are (in no specific order) Christopher Bryant, Arthur Rogers, Carl Taylor Jr., Nathan Elliott, Gilberto Baltazar, Cornelio Bartholome, Jesse Natividad Jr., Michael Lockhart, Patrick Chalmers, Albad Colon, Bryan Vallecillo, Christopher Bean, Gregory Ball and Michael Fields. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Sept. 30 graduates of this class include (in alphabetical order) Duane Frosburg, Harold Harper, Jackie Jones, George Miller, Jeffrey Moore, Gill Sickles and Joseph Thomas. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, stands aft. HAZWOPER — Upgrading Seafarers working aboard MTL vessels who completed the Confined Space Awareness portion of the HAZWOPER course Oct. 25 are (in no specific order) Sean DeBruler, William Palmer, Robert Bouton, Howard Clark, Robert Hoffman, William Harvell, Joe Kadak, Johnny Nilsen, Robert Mills, Darren Bates, Dale Wilson, Robert Joiner, Chris Valley, Bruce Walsh, Douglas Crawford, Kenneth Graybill III, Charlie Carlson and Bruce Comiskey. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Computer Lab Classes Holding their certificates of achievement for courses recently completed in the computer lab are (above left photo) Yolanda Martinez and (above right photo, from the left) James W. Buckowski, Gregory L. White and Stephen M. Berschger. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, is in each of the photos. 22 Seafarers LOG Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Trainees in Phase III of the Unlicensed Apprentice Program completed the Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course Oct. 7. They are (in no specific order) Arthur Sanders, Stravon Jordan, Franklin Rodgers, Kevin Tyson, Mikel Tittsworth, Gregory Holsey Jr., Jo-Vanio Sprauve, Richard Wright, Robert Newcomb II, Brandon Tanton, Clyde McArn, Francisco Ramilo, Howard Vick, Robert Minter, Aaron Dixon, Jo-Vanii Sprauve, Hussain Hafid and Jimmy McCall. February 2006 �34068p01_24.qxp 1/30/2006 12:46 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Marine Electrician Refresher — Fast Rescue Boat — Oct. 28 was graduation day from the fast rescue boat class for Seafarers working aboard MTL vessels. They are (in alphabetical order) Willie Allen, Crispin Carino, William Jackson, Jimmy Saloom and Marc Tomuschat. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far left. Express Marine Wheelhouse — Pictured are Express Marine boatmen in the wheelhouse course ending Oct. 6. They are (in no specific order) Michael Daniels, Phil Inman, Thomas Crockett, Parran Keane, Tom Shaw, Mark Faust, Keith Kirkeide (management) and instructor Mike Smith (far right). Radar — The six Seafarers completing the radar course Oct. 18 are (in alphabetical order) Rafael Clemente, Romeo Codillero, John Daunoras, Michael Murner, Winston Restauro and Arthur Shaw. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is third from left. Express Marine Engineers/DEUs — Boatmen from Express Marine completed their engineeer/DEU training Oct. 6 from instructor Buzzy Andrews (far right back row). They are (in no specific order) Stan Davis, William Vanzyl, Jackie Pruitt, Albin Henries, Guy Ireland, Richard Hamilton, Stephen Murray, Ed Bishop, David Harris, Mark O’Neal and Larry Tribby. James Tyson and Richard Huffman passed the marine electrician refresher course Oct. 28. With them (at far left) is their instructor, Jay Henderson. Express Marine Culinary — With their instructor, Chef John Dobson (left), are boatmen from Express Marine who completed a culinary course Oct. 6. From the left are Dobson, Timothy Thomas, Colin Bridgman, Jerold Register and Tommy Horton. STOS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Aug. 12 are (in no specific order) James Gano, Jack Gainers, Chris Doucet, Cory Gardner, Patrick Guertin, Robert Hardesty, David Bennett, Graham Jones, Francis Gallagher Jr., James Roy, Richard Crutchfield and Steven Sanderson. Tankerman (PIC) Barge — The nine Seafarers who took the Tankerman (PIC) Barge course ending Oct. 21 are (in no specific order) David Kennedy, James Buckowski, Michael Freeman, Carl Taylor Jr., Stephen Berschger, Frank Campos, Linnell Coleman, Doug Lewis and J. Stephen Lewis. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is fifth from right. Electrician — Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, Sept. 9: Amir Abubakar, Louis Bates, Arin Berthiaume, Mark Bickham, Ana Blankenship, James Brechtbill, Gregory Brown, DeWann Burton, Amber Carver, Rachel Cassell, Alicia Chambers, Justin Chandler, Anthony Chavez, Benjamin Clark, Christopher Colson, Maria-Elena Cordoba, Carrie Courtney, Christopher Crump, Jason Cullers, Rolando Delacruz, Gerren Duncan, Maryann Dymen, Kenneth Fleming and Katherine Flint. February 2006 STCW — NCL, Sept. 9: Donnell Foster, Todd Fuller, Charles Gentry, Julie Harrison, Darnell Herbert, Yohko Hiromatsu, Christophe Hudson, Joseph Hudson, Kerrin Johnson, Jamell Jones, Douglas Joseph, Mecia Kaczor, Zachary Kaili-Josue, Jacqueline Latham, Donna Leary, Gina Lee, Kristen Lew, Samuel Lewis, Alba Lopez, Antonia LouisWagner, Daniel Lowy and Kevin Mader. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Three Seafarers completed the electrician course Oct. 14. From the left are Jay Henderson (instructor) with Alton Hickman, Dave Goodpastor and Francis Quebedeaux. STCW — NCL, Sept. 9: Forest McClendon, Jeremy McKeever, Emmy Montoya, Meliton Orosco, Sherin Osman, Michelle Potts, Joseph Qumsieh, Justin Rasmusen, Darwin Reyes, Marsha Reyes, Michael Rinaldi, Miriam Rouse, Lorena Sanchez, Kalie Schlewitz, Zina Sigur, Rachel Smith, Nicholas Socket, Clevern Taylor III, Donald Thomas, Phillip Thomas, Michael Wedgley, Albert Weight and Steven West. Seafarers LOG 23 �34068p01_24x.qxp 2/1/2006 3:54 AM Page 24 February 2006 DUE ON APRIL 15 Applications for SIU Scholarship – page 20 Income Taxes — See Tax Tips for Seafarers on pages 12 and 13 Pride of America Brings New Jobs, Economic Benefits and Good Reviews For Seafarers, the NCL America cruise ship Pride of America signified new jobs even before its formal christening last June in New York. From its first days at sea en route to the ceremony, SIU members ably have filled the unlicensed positions aboard the new vessel, which can carry more than 2,100 passengers. Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus recently submitted the crew photos accompanying this story, and he also reported smooth sailing aboard the 921-foot ship, which cruises the Hawaiian Islands. Seafarers aren’t the only ones seeing the benefits of the Pride of America and its sister ship, the SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha, which also features a Hawaiian Island itinerary. Last July, Hawaii welcomed nearly 23,000 cruise ship passengers—an increase of 57 percent from July 2004, according to newspaper reports. When the Seafarers-contracted Pride of Hawaii joins NCL America’s fleet later this year, the vessels altogether will carry an The Seafarers-crewed Pride of America is estimated 8,000 passengers per week. the second ship in NCL America’s fleet. “Being able to welcome an additional thousands of people on a weekly basis will allow us to continue to grow our economy because we are almost at our capacity where our land-based accommodations are concerned,” Marsha Weinert, the state’s tourism liaison, told the Monterey County (Calif.) Herald. Such projections may have seemed anywhere from overly optimistic to outright impossible back in late 2001, when the deep-sea U.S.-flag cruise industry was halted by the attacks of September 11. But, according to NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch, the restoration of this segment of the industry was made possible by the enactment of legislation introduced by Sen. Daniel Inouye (DHawaii): the Hawaii Cruise Ship Initiative. Speaking at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department convention last summer, Veitch stated that the U.S.-flag program 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,” he declared. He added that while the NCL America fleet creates a substantial number of shipboard jobs, “The bulk of the 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 jobs- that support the operation of a ship and entertain travelers when they come to take our OS Rogelio Jamora (left) and OS Riesel Pardilla cruises.” Less apparent but potentially of great importance to national security, the maritime jobs undeniably help strengthen U.S. national defense. The NCL America vessels help maintain a pool of welltrained U.S.-citizen mariners who can crew up military support ships in times of crisis. Those U.S. crews are prominently mentioned in promotions by Union Plus, a non-profit organization founded by the AFL-CIO to secure discounted goods and services for union members and their families. Through Union Plus, union members can receive reduced fares when booking cruises on NCL America ships. (The toll-free number for this benefit is 866 867-0593.) The company faced some initial growing pains in 2004, but since then has successfully refined its product—a fact not lost on professional and amateur critics alike. Both in the media and on internet message boards populated by passengers, the reviews nowadays Wiper Rolan Lagaac (left) and are decidedly favorable. Some of the OS German Nunez Unlicensed Apprentice Winston Rankin Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus is pictured magazine reviews point to the SIU-affiliaboard the Pride of America with ated Paul Hall Center as one reason Honolulu’s Aloha Tower in the background. why things have improved. In 2005, AB Maintenance Robert Marcus was the first bosun aboard the more than 3,000 students successfully Warren helps wash NCL America ship. completed the Paul Hall Center’s threedown the deck. week course given to prospective NCL America shipboard employees who fill hundreds of nonmarine positions. Left: Ordinary Seaman Leonard Gregg (left) and AB Maintenance Herbert Oquendo clean windows on the Pride of America. OS Yung Fan Haloski � 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 February 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NAVY LEAGUE PRESIDENT URGES POLICY FOR STRONGER U.S. FLEET SIU OF CANADA PROTECTS JOBS MORE SHIPS DUE THIS YEAR ADDITIONAL NORTH SLOPE ACREAGE OPENED FOR SAFE OIL EXPLORATION PRESIDENT TO NOMINATE SANBORN FOR MARAD POST SIU-CREWED CAPE TRINITY RECOGNIZED FOR ACTIVE ROLE IN ENDURING FREEDOM TUG SINKING CLAIMS LIVES OF 3 MARINERS MSC BUYS 3 SIU-CONTRACTED SHIPS REPORT UNDERLINES U.S. HEALTH CARE WOES COSTS CONSUME 16 PERCENT OF NATION’S ECONOMIC OUTPUT REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS APLENTY ON DOOMED RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIP USCG CONCLUDES CAPT. VIOLATED SAFETY PRACTICES SEAFARERS CREDITED BY GEN. SCHWARTZ TOTE’S NORTHERN LIGHTS SAILED IN OIF FOR 2 YEARS SIU-CREWED LUMMUS SUPPORTS U.S. TROOPS MORE SIU SNAPSHOTS FROM THE GREAT LAKES REMEMBERING A WAR HERO KATRINA CLAIMS LIFE OF SIU RETIREE ALBERTO ROCHA SEAFARERS WIN ‘FOOD IN A BOWL’ COOK-OFF UNION INDUSTRIES SHOW COMES TO CLEVELAND PRIDE OF AMERICA BRINGS NEW JOBS, ECONOMIC BENEFITS AND GOOD REVIEWS 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 02/01/2006 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. 2 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/628cf07c4f4843ce600964f104734f22.pdf 9f0f1f3123c35bebfdac88d64bf42121 PDF Text Text 34103_P01,4,5,20,21X2.qxd 12/27/2005 2:44 AM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 1 January 2006 SIU Members Sail Aboard New Tanker Alaskan Navigator Seafarers are sailing aboard the newest double-hulled tanker built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA following the vessel’s delivery late last year. SIU members in late November crewed up the Alaskan Navigator (left), the third of four Alaska-class tankers constructed for BP at San Diego’s National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO). Like its sister ships Alaskan Frontier (below) and Alaskan Explorer, the Alaskan Navigator is operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company. Page 3. New Tug Christened Paul Hall Center 2006 Course Guide Photo courtesy Al Lindner As reflected in the photos directly above and at left, hands-on training is a key part of most courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. For information about individual classes as well as course dates for early 2006, see pages 9-16. SIU boatmen on the West Coast are sailing aboard the new Brusco Tug & Barge tugboat Lulapin. Page 3. SIU members and officials across the country joined with fellow trade unionists and other supporters around the globe in a number of demonstrations conducted during International Human Rights Week. At left, Seafarers (far right in photo) carry the American flag during a Dec. 8 march in Washington, D.C. At right, SIU Patrolman Rob Wisler (right) greets AFL-CIO President John Sweeney at a Dec. 6 event in Philadelphia. Page 5. Seafarers Rally for Human Rights SHBP Scholarship Info Page 8 SIU’s Year in Review Page 24 �34103p02,18X.qxd 12/27/2005 1:34 PM Page 2 President’s Report Progress and Optimism Looking back on the year 2005, our union has every reason to feel proud. Looking ahead to 2006, we have every reason to be optimistic. Take a moment to consider some of the accomplishments we’ve made during the past 12 months. When it comes to new ships and new jobs, 2005 was nothing short of incredible. The Maritime Security Program fleet added 13 SIU-crewed ships. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard Michael Sacco started construction on the first two of 10 SIUcontracted tankers to be operated by OSG. NCL America launched its second Seafarers-crewed cruise ship, the Pride of America. We gained ships in other areas, too, including three new tankers on the West Coast, a new car carrier, a new Great Lakes ship, new tugs and barges, and a new class of vessels crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. We also retained jobs on dozens of ships when new contracts were awarded by the government, including all 54 vessels in the U.S. Ready Reserve Force. Brothers and sisters, if that’s not progress, then I don’t know what is. I have no intention of ever letting our union rest on its laurels, but I’m proud of our accomplishments. And I think it’s important to step back every once in a while and appreciate our gains along with the people who make them possible. As I’ve said many times, it all starts with you, the rank-and-file Seafarer. Our union is strong because of the outstanding work you do aboard ship. Our union is strong because you support this administration at every level. Our union is strong because you understand the importance of political action. On that last note, I especially appreciate your support of SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. Our industry is so heavily regulated that we simply have no choice but to protect our interests on Capitol Hill and at the state and local levels all across the country. That type of effort takes manpower and it also takes money. That’s simply the reality of politics in the United States. I’m certainly not saying that political contributions guarantee results. But they do help give us a chance to sit down and explain our issues and concerns. Normally, when we have that opportunity we are successful. With 2006 being a Congressional election year, your continued support of SPAD is more vital than ever. Moving forward, I see no reason to expect anything less than continued success for the SIU. We have the best-trained mariners in the world. We have a top-notch affiliated school, the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. By the way, that school constantly brings in new unlicensed apprentices to help ensure a solid future for our industry. No one else in America offers a similar program for unlicensed seamen. We also have dedicated officials who along with the membership understand that the SIU is more than a union. I honestly feel that we’re more like a family. That may sound old-fashioned if you’re not very familiar with our organization, but it’s from the heart and it’s true. Let me tell you why. When you fight alongside someone, you almost can’t help becoming close. You bond under those circumstances. And make no mistake, it is a constant battle to continue revitalizing the U.S. Merchant Marine. We’ve earned every single SIUcontracted ship and fought for every pro-U.S.-flag program in existence. None of it happened by accident, and none of it is guaranteed to last. That’s why we’re going to keep promoting and protecting our union and our industry. Our country deserves and needs a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, along with the hurricane relief missions along the Gulf Coast are just the latest reminders of our value to national and economic security. That’s something worth fighting for, and I know that our union— our family—will continue to win our share of battles in 2006 and beyond. Volume 68, Number 1 January 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 Steady Progress Continues In ITF’s FOC Campaign Annual Report Reflects Success, Challenges The year 2004 was one of significant achievement for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) in its ongoing battle against owners of vessels that fly the flags of countries other than their own, according to the body’s recently released annual report, “Campaign Against Flags of Convenience and Substandard Shipping.” The ITF’s fight against so-called flags of convenience (FOC)—also known as runaway flags—has two primary components: a political campaign and an industrial crusade. The political element is designed to establish an authentic link between the flag a ship flies and the nationality or residences of its owners, managers and seafarers through international governmental agreements. The industrial campaign is designed to ensure that mariners who work aboard FOC vessels, regardless of their nationality, are protected from exploitation by shipowners. The industrial campaign continues to be an essential component of the fight against FOCs and substandard ships, so that seafarers are protected from exploitation, according to Stephen Cotton, secretary, ITF Special Seafarers’ Department. In the case of FOCs, he said, a fundamental objective of the campaign is the erosion of the competitive advantage that FOC ships have over the higher cost, traditional flag vessels. Cotton pointed out that one noteworthy development during the past two years has been the creation of the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) as the primary forum for negotiations between the ITF and shipping companies on issues relating to wages and working conditions of crews aboard FOC ships. A noticeable increase in the IBF’s membership, which includes more of the world’s shipowners and managers, has been particularly encouraging for the ITF. Some of the noteworthy progress outlined in the annual report, and the arenas in which it occurred is as follows: „ The Political Campaign—Negotiations to formulate a single ILO convention to consolidate and replace more than 60 maritime labor conventions took place. ITF officials hope for a final agreement on this issue sometime this year. In addition, the ITF was involved in talks which led to the adoption of the IMO’s International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. Among other things, the new code contains instructions on fundamental rights and freedoms of maritime workers, including trade union rights. (See related story, page 4.) „ The Inspectorate—ITF inspectors and coordinators numbered only 131 people in 2004. They were responsible for 43 countries and dependent territories. Despite the size of their ranks, they conducted 9,532 ship inspections. This compares to 9,104 inspections in 2003 and 8,886 in 2002. „ Agreements—ITF officials signed 6,811 collective agreements for crews of FOC vessels in 2004 (most of them for ships previously covered by ITF contracts). In previous years (2003 and 2002), the numbers were 6,633 and 6,577, respectively. Inspectors and coordinators signed 1,285 new agreements in 2004 compared to 1,035 in 2003. The number of seafarers covered by ITF agreements in 2004 was 187,218 (178,466 in 2003) who worked aboard 8,171 vessels (7,886 in 2003). „ Back Pay—A total of $22.9 million was collected by inspectors in back wages for crews. In 2003, that figure was $24 million; the level was $27.6 million in 2002. In addition, $2.2 million was secured by the ITF Actions Unit. The total amount of back pay recovered in 2004 was therefore $25.1 million. In 2003 the figure was $27.8 million. „ Industrial, Legal Action—Industrial action, either by dockers unions or by FOC crews, was taken in 24 different countries in 2004 in order to recover back pay owed to crews or to secure ITF agreements. In 2003, industrial action was taken in 31 countries. The mark was 21 countries in 2002. Between 2002 and 2004, a total of 55 ITF agreements were signed as a result of industrial action. During 2004, 23 ships were arrested following legal action instigated by an ITF inspector. The foregoing facts and figures speak for themselves. There can be no argument that 2004 was a banner year for the ITF and its FOC campaign, but this really is nothing new. For more than 50 years, the ITF—through its affiliated seafarers and dockworkers unions, successfully has waged a campaign not only to end the FOC system, but also to improve the wages and working conditions of seafarers who work aboard runaway-flag ships. The campaign has evolved considerably since those early days and will continue to do so as the shipping industry adapts to changing global circumstances, noted ITF General Secretary David Cockroft in his column in the 2004 annual report, “Campaign Against Flags of Convenience and Substandard Shipping.” “One thing will remain constant,” Cockcroft said. “The ITF’s determination to ensure that the world’s seafarers receive decent wages, enjoy safe working conditions and can exercise their trade union rights.” SIU-Crewed Ships Deliver for U.S. Troops SIU members continue answering their call to duty as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense by sailing aboard military support ships involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, the following 15 SIU-crewed vessels were among those on the high seas supporting our troops involved in the ongoing sealift component of OIF: USNS Chesapeake, Northern Lights, Westward Venture, USNS Pomeroy, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, Cape Douglas, USNS Watkins, Cape Decision, USNS Pililaau, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Fisher, USNS Seay, USNS Benavidez and the USNS Denebola. For Seafarers, the current stage of OIF is the continuation of a mission that began with pre-war mobilizations for the all-out combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. As SIU President Michael Sacco recently noted, Seafarers “are proud to continue serving as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. Our members are the best-trained seafarers in the world, and I know for a fact that they are patriotic men and women who are ready, The USNS Pililaau is one of many SIU-crewed ships sailing in support of U.S. troops mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom. willing and able to deliver the goods—anytime, anywhere.” Numerous military officers have commended the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role in OIF— an operation repeatedly described as the most efficient sealift effort in America’s history. For example, addressing mariners at a shipboard ceremony, the commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Vice Admiral David L. Brewer, stated, “We have prevailed because you answered your nation’s call. You built a steel bridge of democracy from the USA to the Coast of Kuwait.” At another ceremony last November in Baltimore, Brewer along with General Robert Magnus, assistant commandant, United States Marine Corps, and Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) expressed similar appreciation for the performance and reliability of U.S. crews. January 2006 �34103_P3,19,24.qxd 12/21/2005 9:01 AM Page 3 3 BP Tanker Delivered rd Seafarers Crew Up Double-Hulled Alaskan Navigator Seafarers are sailing aboard the newest double-hulled tanker built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA following the vessel’s delivery late last year. SIU members in late November crewed up the Alaskan Navigator, the third of four Alaskaclass tankers constructed for BP at San Diego’s National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO). Like its sister ships Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan Explorer, the Alaskan Navigator is operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company. The vessels normally sail between Alaska and the West Coast. The fourth and final ship in this class is under construction at NASSCO and is slated for delivery in late 2006. “I know from talking with members and officials on the West Coast that there’s a lot of excitement about the Alaskan Navigator,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s obviously a state-of-the-art ship, and it means continued job security for the membership. There’s an important national security aspect to this delivery, too, because every new U.S.-flag ship helps sustain a pool of welltrained, reliable U.S. mariners who can sail on military support vessels.” The tankers are 941 feet long with a beam of 164 feet and a capacity of 1.3 million barrels of crude oil. The Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan Explorer, delivered in August 2004 and March 2005, respectively, have been delivering crude oil from Alaska to BP’s refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. NASSCO touts the Alaskaclass tankers as “the most environmentally friendly oil tankers ever built. Their double hull construction has been designed for a life of 35 years, and their deck structure has a life of 50 years—a robust configuration that will perform at peak efficiency for decades in the rigors of the Gulf of Alaska’s waters.” According to the shipyard, the tankers’ diesel-electric propulsion system, with redundant engines, shafts and screws, significantly increases reliability and reduces air emissions and maintenance downtime. The ships use seawater instead of oil to cool and lubricate their propeller shafts, eliminating the possibility of accidental oil leaks. Cargo piping, normally installed on the deck, is run inside the cargo tanks to reduce the risk of small spills. Also under construction in San Diego are the Lewis and Clark combat logistics force ships— The Alaskan Navigator is floated out in April 2005 in San Diego. Seafarers crewed up the ship in late November. part of a T-AKE program that means new shipboard job oppor- Maersk Awarded MSC Contract For Ammo Ships Page, Carter SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) last month announced that it has been awarded a one-year agreement to charter two vessels under the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) prepositioning program. The contract covers sister ships, the Seafarers-crewed ammunition carriers Lt. Col. John U.D. Page and Sgt. Edward A. Carter, Jr. The company noted that the Left: Caroline Shorten Conn, spouse of BP Group Executive Officer Iain Conn, officially names the Alaskan Navigator during a ceremony at NASSCO on Nov. 12, 2005. New Tractor Tug Joins Brusco Fleet SIU boatmen late last year welcomed a new addition at Brusco Tug & Barge: the tractor tug Lulapin. The boat was christened Oct. 6 in Port Hueneme, Calif. Described by the company as “a compact but powerful addition to Brusco’s fleet,” the Lulapin is 78 feet long and 30 feet wide. It is classified as an Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tractor tug with 4,000 hp and 100,000 pounds of bollard pull. The tug can sail at 13 knots “light running speed” forward and reverse, according to Brusco. Diversified Marine Inc. of Portland, Ore. built the new tug, which also features state-of-the-art fire fighting capability. An SIU-contracted company since the late 1980s, Brusco Tug & Barge tows and transports cargo along the West Coast. Among other work, Brusco tugs tow log, chip and sand barges as well as target sleds for the United States Navy. Brusco’s current ship assist services include the ports of Stockton, Sacramento, Eureka, and Port Hueneme, Calif. as well as Grays Harbor, Wash. Various other services have been added in the San Francisco Bay area, which include towing dredge scows to sea. Photo courtesy Al Lindner The SIU-crewed tug Lulapin features the most modern equipment. tunities for members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. Seafarers will continue sailing aboard the Lt. John Page (above) and sister ship Sgt. Edward Carter under a new MSC contract awarded to Maersk Line, Limited. Cape Trinity Honored For Performance In Enduring Freedom The SIU-crewed Cape Trinity has been recognized for its performance during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) announced. MarAd last month awarded its Professional Ship Award to the crew of the Cape Trinity for services in the war on terror. “This ship’s officers and crew served voluntarily for 341 continuous days, taking supplies to our soldiers in the Middle East and back home again,” MarAd Deputy Administrator John Jamian stated. “The Ready Reserve Force has proved its capability and efficiency time and time again, and the men and women of the Cape Trinity agreement follows MLL’s “successful completion of an existing five-year contract and has options that could extend the performance period to a total of 59 months.” Company officials acknowledged the good work of Seafarers aboard those ships during the past five years. Built originally as commercial containerships, the ships each carry a total of 2,500 20-foot containers in air-conditioned, humidity-controlled cargo holds. They are 950 feet long, just short of a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. The vessels have on-board cranes to facilitate unloading of cargo where shoreside support is unavailable. MLL managed the conversions of both vessels, with extensive modifications, after which they were delivered to MSC in 2001. are an example of the fleet’s success.” The Professional Ship Award is given to non-military ships that achieve the highest degree of safety, readiness, performance, efficiency, reliability and productivity, according to the agency. The crew and officers of the Cape Trinity also received the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal, given to mariners who serve in war zones. Ready Reserve Force ships, crewed by U.S. Merchant Mariners, have carried much of the supplies to and from the Middle East since the start of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Cape Trinity, in its 341 days of activation, carried 19,603 metric tons of cargo between various ports including Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, Shauiba and Ash Shuayba in Kuwait, and Messaieed in Qatar. Ports in Europe included Bremerhaven, Szczecin, and Antwerp. U.S. load ports included Charleston and Corpus Christi. Right: The Seafarerscrewed Cape Trinity offloaded equipment at the Baltic Sea port of Szczecin, Poland last summer, concluding an MSC cargo operation in support of troops fighting in Iraq. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, Feb. 20, 2006 for the observance of Presidents’ Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. January 2006 Seafarers LOG 3 �34103_P01,4,5,20,21.qxd 12/21/2005 7:49 AM Page 4 Seafarers Recognized for Safety An awards recognition ceremony for the SIU-crewed Sea Land Pride took place Nov. 21 in the Portsmouth Marine Terminal in Portsmouth, Va. The Maersk Line-operated Pride, along with more than 50 other SIU-contracted vessels representing 10 other companies, last year in New Orleans was selected to receive the highly prestigious Jones F. Devlin Safe Ship Award, bestowed by the Chamber of Shipping of America. The event in Portsmouth was for the same award and was orchestrated to afford formal recognition to the crew and officers of the vessel which received laurels for having sailed 1,326 consecutive days without a lost time accident. SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and SIU Norfolk Safety Director Sam Spain joined more than 50 representatives of the vessel and invited guests on the bridge of the Pride for a light lunch and the official presentation of the Devlin Award. The certificate that accompanied the award, originated by the ISPS Code Gets Mixed Reviews The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) is improving security —but at the expense of mariners who are increasingly overworked and treated with suspicion, according to an International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) survey released in late November. This is happening at a time when disproportionate security measures not related to the code are also having a negative impact on crews, the federation says. In a news release announcing the survey, the ITF stated that the ISPS Code “was widely seen as a successful example of the ‘fast tracking’ of legislation when it was introduced in response to the 9/11 attacks in the USA. However the ITF survey shows that the welcome security gains are being undermined by lack of trust and support for the seafarers tasked with implementing it. “The ITF has been broadly supportive of ISPS and applauded the consultative manner in which it was drawn up. However, there have always been concerns about a possible negative impact on seafarers, as a result of which the federation initiated the survey, which was sent to its 127 inspectors and 230 affiliated maritime unions—which represent around 700,000 seafarers—for them to consult their members and report back.” The results—published as the report Access Denied: Implementing the ISPS Code—can be viewed on the internet at www.itfglobal.org/infocentre/pub s.cfm/detail/1446 According to the ITF, the overwhelming response to the survey was that ISPS Code had significantly increased mariners’ workloads without any boost in staff, pay or training, and was associated with “grave problems experienced with shore leave, especially in the USA. Although the ISPS Code includes provisions to avert problems of access to ports, shore leave and welfare facilities, it is clear from the survey that these are being neglected in the Code’s implementation.” Areas of concern highlighted in the survey responses include increased workload and responsibility with no commensurate increase in pay; inadequate training; restrictions on shore leave; 4 Seafarers LOG problems in obtaining United States visas; and difficulties for mariners’ welfare and union representatives seeking to board vessels to provide services to the crew. Jon Whitlow, Secretary of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, said, “All responsible parties back the aim of the ISPS Code. But there’s a gap between principle and practice. The measures that were supposed to protect seafarers are too often being neglected. Combine that with other excessive security measures being implemented outside the code and you have a grave and counter-productive climate of distrust and suspicion being created out there. “It would seem that the ISPS Code is being implemented selectively. The delicate balance built in to the Code has, in the opinion of seafarers, been undermined in practice.” He concluded, “The survey once again shows that the main problems include overwork, visa difficulties and the denial of shore leave—amounting to virtual discrimination just at a time when seafarers need to be treated as allies in the fight against terrorism and when everyone in the industry is trying to attract newcomers into the profession.” The SIU is an ITF affiliate and remains very active in the fight to protect and boost mariners’ rights, both here and abroad. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as vice chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section and, as previously reported, a number of other SIU officials serve on local port security bodies run by the government. Maersk management, in part read: “This outstanding achievement exemplifies devotion to duty and principles of maritime safety…. The impact of this recognition will go a long way to promote and encourage the MLL safety culture.” After accepting the award on behalf of his officers and crew, Pride Master J.P. Brennan cited two SIU members—AB Luis Alvarez and DEU Leonides Villamor—for their specific contributions toward the award. Brennan lauded their hard work, dedication and attention to detail. Alvarez worked aboard the Pride without recording any accidents, according to Brennan. On two occasions during recent trips, Alvarez noticed and reported the presence of a leaking substance on deck. Although subsequent investigation revealed that the substances were not hazardous, according to Brennan, Alvarez’s proactive reporting still brought attention to a potentially dangerous situation and is an example of good seamanship as well as concern for the ship and crew. Villamor also has worked without any lost time accidents, Brennan pointed out. At a recent payoff, Villamor marked the completion of his full 180-day assignment injury free. Both the chief and first engineers have described him as a hardworking, conscientious shipmate who always has a smile on his face, Brennan said. His good-natured attitude and dedication to working safely in the engine room were primary factors in affording him acknowledgment. In recognition of their accomplishment, each was awarded SeaLand Pride T-shirts, Maersk Line watches, mugs and tally books. Notice/Reminder Agency Issues Revised STCW Endorsement As previously reported, the U.S. Coast Guard in late September began issuing a newly revised U.S. STCW Endorsement, Form CG5611 (Rev. 01-05), to qualified licensed and unlicensed merchant mariners. According to the agency, more than 59,000 U.S. merchant mariners hold a valid STCW endorsement. Mariners’ existing endorsements will be replaced at the time of their scheduled expiration or when their qualifications are upgraded. The new document contains “significant security and accountability enhancements,” according to the Coast Guard. The design is based on the U.S. Merchant Marine Officer License (Form CG-2849) and advice by senior intelligence officers at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Forensics Document Laboratory for cost-effective, fraud-resistant features; and the Production and Design Team of the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). The revised U.S. STCW Endorsement “exceeds International Maritime Organization standards on anti-fraud measures and forgery prevention features for seafarers’ certificates,” the agency noted in a news release. Additionally, a revised U.S. STCW Endorsement information sheet was designed and printed by the BEP and has been distributed domestically to Regional Exam Centers (RECs), inspectors, unions and industry; and internationally to the IMO and foreign national maritime administrations. A copy of the Revised U.S. STCW Endorsement Information Sheet can be obtained by registering for a free subscription of the USCG Proceedings of the Marine Safety & Security Council at http://www.uscg.mil/proceedings/. It is posted on the National Maritime Center’s website, http://www.uscg.mil/stcw. Mariners with additional questions may contact their nearest REC or Mr. Jon Furukawa at (202) 493-1014 or jfurukawa@ballston.uscg.mil. SIU Boatmen Spread Holiday Cheer Six SIU boatmen employed by Crowley in Southern California recently did their part to brighten the holidays for area youngsters. The SIU members pictured at left in San Pedro, Calif. purchased and donated four children’s bikes for the Los Angeles Fire Department’s “Spark of Love” toy drive the week before Christmas. Pictured from left to right are Mate Benny Guillot, Engineer Craig Perry, Engineer John Tipich, AB Frank Gill, AB John Ivankovich and Mate Ed Brooks. The toy drive is a cooperative effort with other charitable programs. Reminder: STCW Basic Safety Training Is Renewable Via Sea Service As previously reported, the U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed a change in the way mariners may meet the requirements for renewing STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), a key component of the amended STCW convention. According to National Maritime Center Policy Letter No. 12-01, “A mariner who has met the requirements for initial competency in BST and who is actively serving on seagoing ships will be considered as having demonstrated continuing competence in BST provided he or she completes at least one year of sea service within the past five years. (Editor's note: For BST renewal via sea service, you must have gotten your original BST compliance through a Coast Guard-approved BST course that included training and assessment. If your initial certification was acquired through the relaxed assessment period, then your initial renewal must be done via a Coast Guard-approved course. Thereafter, you can renew via sea service.) This five-year period is a running calendar in which credit for competency in BST extends for five years beyond the critical date at which the mariner has completed one year of sea service. “To determine the critical date,” the letter continues, “review the mariner’s sea service starting with the current date and go backward in time until one year of sea service is counted. The period of validity for continuing competence in BST is then five years from the date where the mariner has completed one year of sea service. For example, if on 1 October 2005, you count backward and determine the mariner completed one year of sea service on 1 June 2004, then the mariner is considered to be competent in the four elements of BST through 31 May 2009. “Using similar dates, if on 1 October 2004, a mariner completed one year of sea service on 1 June 1999, then the BST would have been valid until 31 May 2004. Because 31 May 2004 has passed (today’s date in this example is 1 October 2004), the mariner has not retained competency in BST.” The policy letter also notes that the “critical date” mentioned above will advance as a mariner continues serving on a seagoing vessel. Additionally, Coast Guard regional exam centers (RECs) may accept discharges or sea-service letters “prepared in accordance with current standards” as proof of sea service. January 2006 �34103_P01,4,5,20,21.qxd 12/21/2005 7:49 AM Page 5 Rallies Focus on Workers’ Rights as Human Rights Freedom to Join Unions Highlighted during International Human Rights Week SIU rank-and-file members early last month joined their brothers and sisters from other unions, community activists and religious leaders in Washington D.C., Philadelphia, San Francisco and other cities across the country to participate in events spotlighting International Human Rights Week. Workers around the globe took part in rallies, teach-ins and other events as part of a worldwide effort to support workers’ freedom to form unions. In the United States, thousands of activists in more than 100 cities called lawmakers to restore the freedom of workers to form unions. More than 2,000 union members and allies—including rankand-filers from the SIU and a large contingent of trainees from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md.— gathered at the AFL-CIO building in Washington, D.C., Dec. 8 for a rally and march. The trainees bore the colors and served as marshals during the event. “America used to stand proud before the world as a land where the right of working people to have a union was respected,” said AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda ChavezThompson during her address to the masses. “But today, that right has been destroyed…. The corporations trample on workers’ freedom like it’s their personal doormat.” Clyde Rucker, a Maryland Verizon worker fired for seeking to form a union also was among the others to speak as were AFSCME President Gerald McEntee, AFGE President John Gage, Air Line Pilots President Duane Woerth, AFT Executive Vice President Antonia Cortese, and NEA President Reg Weaver. Following all speeches, the workers marched and later delivered a petition signed by 100,000 workers calling for federal workers’ freedom to form a union to be honored and also urging strong collective bargaining rights for the 650,000 civilian Defense Department workers and 160,000 Homeland Security employees. SIU members in Philadelphia on Dec. 6 joined others from the labor sector and community activists to welcome AFL-CIO President John Sweeney at an event sponsored by the Philadelphia Central Labor Council, which focused on the Employee Free Choice Act (H.R. 1696). “Unions lift up the standards for all workers, and 50 million workers would join a union if given the opportunity,” said Sweeney. U.S. Congressmen Mike Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Curt Weldon (R-Pa.) prior to the start of the event signed on as co-sponsors of the legislation, which would strengthen protections for workers’ freedom to choose by requiring employers to recognize a union after a majority of workers authorize union representation. In San Francisco, SIU members were among those who attended a Dec. 5 San Francisco Labor Council-sponsored press conference at a City Hall. Tim Paulson, San Francisco Labor Council head, called for citywide actions to uphold workers’ rights on the job, while Peter Olney of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union urged support for more than 600 almond workers facing an aggressive antiunion campaign at Blue Diamond Growers. Elsewhere in the United States: „ Hundreds of Oakland, Calif. workers marched to City Hall Dec. 6 to highlight the struggle Comcast workers face in their efforts to join a union with Communications Workers of America. At a workers’ rights hearing that same day, workers testified about the failure of U.S. labor law to protect workers who try to join unions. „ In St. Louis, more than 1,100 workers and activists marched on the headquarters of Peabody Energy as the Mine Workers launched the largest organizing campaign in the nation’s coalfields in decades on Dec. 9. Peabody miners are seeking to form a union to win safety improvements and better pay and benefits. „ Thousands of unionists and supporters braved bitter cold Dec. 8 in Boston to march from Boston Common to a rally on the State House steps, highlighting what they described as the anti-worker attitudes of Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, corporate giants Wal-Mart and Verizon Wireless and the Harborside Nursing Home in Wakefield. „ In Tucson, Ariz., Jobs with Justice activists held a picket line Dec. 10 in support of workers allegedly harassed by management at Desert Diamond Casino. The Border SIU Assistant VP West Coast Nick Celona (fifth from right) demonstrates at City Hall during a Dec. 5 press conference sponsored by the San Francisco Central Labor Council. Action Network led a march and rally of more than 150 demanding immigration reform, an end to persecution and deaths of migrants, a halt to militarization of border communities, respect for workers’ rights, and fair trade. The group also held actions in Douglas and Nogales. In Phoenix, the Arizona AFLCIO held a spirited rally of over 200 at Phoenix College, supporting HR 1696 and a new voter initiative to raise the minimum wage. „ A Dec. 9 rally sponsored by UAW Local 2157 in Wichita Falls, Texas demanded justice for Delphi workers. Delphi seeks to join a growing list of major American companies using bankruptcy to void their contracts with workers, both active and retired, while rewarding the mismanagement of top executives. In another development, 11 recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize, including distinguished international leaders such as former President Jimmy Carter, Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa and Former Polish President Lech Walesa on Dec. 6 issued a statement in which they expressed grave concern about the state of workers’ rights around the globe. They urged all nations to vigorously protect and defend workers’ inalienable human right to form unions free of discrimination, threats or harassment. The statement ran as a full-page ad in The New York Times, The Washington Post and the International Herald Tribune. The thousands of U.S. workers who mobilized were supported in their fight to restore the freedom to form unions by workers in the international arena, according to During a rally in Philadelphia on Dec. 6, Seafarers (from left) Chris Nardone, William Kelly and John Wozunk show their support for human rights. the AFL-CIO. On Dec. 9, the Indonesian Prosperity Trade Union Confederation (KSBI) released a report showing at least 45 companies in 12 provinces violated freedom of association laws, including the arrest of two labor activists and the dismissal of more than 1,400 workers over the past year. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dec. 10 marked 10 years of peace by focusing the country’s attention on workers’ rights as human rights. Unions in the Upper Drina region launched a joint organizing program aimed at reaching out to workers of all nationalities within the region. In Bahrain, workers on Dec. 10 draped buildings in the capital city of Manama in white sheets and formed a human chain on a major bridge as part of a national campaign against poverty. Members Receive ‘A’ Books At the December membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left) and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) congratulated two Seafarers who received their Aseniority union books: Richard Cannady (left) and Ramsey Ingram. The latter two individuals took the union oath before their fellow members, administered by SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. January 2006 Seafarers LOG 5 �34103_P6_16,22_23X.qxd 12/22/2005 7:38 PM Page 6 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.) I have only gratitude toward our officials and their families. To our officials for doing their jobs, and to their families for letting them do it. Three things I would like to say to all SIU officials and members: Thank you, thank you, thank you. Message of Thanks I would like to thank the SIU, all officials past and present, for 35 years of great job security. Also I would like to thank my employer, Crescent Towing, for allowing me to work for the best company and boss, Arthur T. Kulp. If you don’t think the SIU is the best union in the maritime industry, try working for a nonunion company for a while. I did. I thought it would be better (wrong). After six months I ran back to the SIU. The grass is never greener on the other side. Stay where you are and enjoy job security and pay and great benefits. Also, I truly want to thank the late SIU President Paul Hall for seeing that there was a problem in the seafaring industry—alcohol and drugs—and doing something about it when every other business looked down on chemically addicted people. Paul Hall knew that he could help people and he did. When everyone else would just fire you, he had the courage to open the SARC (Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center) for people like me. I have been clean and sober for more than 11 years thanks to the SIU and Paul Hall, and for that I’m extremely grateful. Absolutely no other company or union would do that for their members, and allow the members to still have a job and seniority when they return. Jimmie L. Rosser Diamondhead, Mississippi Political Action Needed The World War II U.S. Merchant Marine veterans want to thank our union brothers and shipmates for all of your phone calls to Congress asking representatives to co-sponsor H.R. 23. To date, we have 232 co-sponsors in the House, more than enough to get this bill passed. Now, we have in the Senate S. 1272, a companion bill also known as the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act. So, we ask you to please call your two U.S. senators and ask them to co-sponsor S. 1272. Currently we have 17 senators who have co-sponsored the bill, which is identical to the House version. The toll-free telephone number for the Capitol is (866) 8774455. When you are connected, ask for the senator with whom you want to speak. You will be connected to the appropriate office. Please be persistent. Remember, the U.S. Merchant Marine during WWII protected the United States and its people —only to have some of those same people turn their backs on those who helped save them. About 8,000 U.S. mariners gave their lives. Without the U.S. Merchant Marine in WWII, we would not have won the war! Cleveland Hosts Union Industries Show The 2006 Union Industries Show rolls into Cleveland, Ohio’s I-X Center May 5 - 7 with a new name and new, sharper focus. The show will be promoted under the name America@Work, followed by the tag-line: “100% Union-Made, American-Made Products, Services and Jobs.” Exit surveys from the 2005 show revealed that more than half the attendees are not union members but favored unions. They viewed the show as a chance to demonstrate their support for unions, to investigate job and training opportunities and to and learn about union-made products and services. The SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers union regularly participate in the Union Industries Show. “America @ Work is a catchy name with a modern feel,” noted Union Label and Service Trades Department President Charlie Mercer. The show will also focus more on educating the public about trade unionism and the role unions play in the economic and political life of the community. It will highlight (and encourage people to join) vital pro-worker organizations, including the Alliance for Retired Americans and Working America. “Cleveland could be our biggest show ever,” Mercer said. “This is a heavily unionized, densely populated area. The I-X Center is conveniently located near several large highways connecting dozens of towns and cities, like Columbus, Akron, Canton and Toledo.” The show will have more convenient hours, too, running 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday (clos- The annual Union Industries Show typically attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. Above, guests check out the SIU/UIW booth during the 2004 event in St. Louis. ing one hour later than before) and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. (The show will no longer run on Monday, a day that has rarely drawn large crowds.) “We are excited to be working closely with the Ohio AFL-CIO and the Cleveland Federation of Labor and all the individual unions across Ohio. This region is full of fine unionized companies with great products and services, and the public is going to learn a great deal about them. The public will also learn a lot about the Alliance for Retired Americans, Working America and the important political and organizing work that our unions are doing. That, too, is a very exciting and promising development,” Mercer concluded. Helping Hurricane Victims Among the many Seafarers who have assisted hurricane victims along the Gulf Coast are the three Government Services Division members pictured at left (from left): Dan Petrie, Johann Aquilera and Mike Pretty. Normally based in Caven Point, N.Y., the three union members volunteered to go to the Gulf region to participate in relief and rebuilding efforts. Petrie and Aquilera worked with Army Corps of Engineers projects in conjunction with FEMA in Mississippi, removing debris and taking part in the “Blue Roof Program” providing tarps and canvasses for damaged homes. Pretty was a mission coordinator in New Orleans. Richard Wiggins Kansas City, Missouri High Cost of Health Care Continues to Make Headlines More American workers are feeling the pinch of the continuing rise in the costs of medical care. This topic remained a prime subject in union contract negotiations and job actions across the nation. In Pittsburgh, for example, bus and light-rail drivers and other hourly workers planned a vote in November whether to strike over wages and health care costs. More than 2,000 Port Authority of Allegheny County workers had been without a contract for four months. Union officials who approved the strike vote said that the proposed contract had raises that were too small and health insurance contributions that were too large. It was the first time that workers in the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 85 (ATU) were being asked to contribute to their health insurance costs. 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. 6 Seafarers LOG Patrick McMahon, president of Local 85, said the union was willing to agree to contributions but that the Port Authority was asking for too much. On Nov. 20, negotiators announced a proposed, three-year contract which would boost wages 3 percent each year but also would require workers to start paying a portion (1 percent of their salaries) for their health care coverage. Health insurance copayments also increased for emergency room visits, doctors’ office appointments and for prescriptions. By signing this contract, a strike was averted. In Philadelphia, also in November, negotiators for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), the region’s transit agency, and about 5,300 striking workers reached a tentative agreement on a new contract, ending a weeklong walkout. The strike, the first since 1998, involved about 5,000 Transport Workers members and 300 suburban transit employees represented by the United Transportation Union Local 1594. SEPTA had asked that employees pay 5 percent of the health insurance premiums. The union accused SEPTA of going back on a deal under which workers were supposed to maintain coverage without paying part of the premium. A week after ending their seven-day strike against SEPTA, the local ratified a four-year contact that includes a 3 percent annual raise and a 1 percent-of-salary health-care contribution. In early December, nearly 1,300 Stanford University (Calif.) employees in the Service Employee International Union (SEIU) Local 715 were considering a strike. Union workers criticized the current health care plan as well as the university’s recent cuts to retiree health care. Additionally, one of the union’s demands was that the university revoke a recent change to the contract that would reduce retirement benefits for employees hired after Jan. 1, 2006, which would amount to a 10 percent cut in benefits and create a two-tiered system where one group has one set of benefits and wages, and another group does the same work for fewer benefits. The reduction in retirement benefits would make low-income employees unable to afford health care during retirement, noted Zev Kvitky, president of United Stanford Workers. The union wants Stanford to provide full health care coverage for employee family members. “People who have given 20, 30 and 40 years of service need to be able to depend on the guarantee of a feasible retirement in the future,” Kvitky said. According to the most recent estimates, 45 million Americans have no health insurance whatsoever, while on average, 6,000 more Americans lose their coverage every day. January 2006 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:38 AM Page 7 Thanksgiving Spirit Evident At San Francisco Gathering I San Francisco District Attorney Kamala Harris n an event that seemingly becomes bigger and better each year, hundreds of people visited the SIU hall in San Francisco on Nov. 22 for the 15th annual pre-Thanksgiving feast that, for many, has become a “can’t miss” gathering. Seafarers, SIU retirees, dignitaries and their families were among those who enjoyed the two-hour banquet. “We got lots of good feedback,” noted SIU Assistant Vice President West Coast Nick Celona, who closely worked with the committee that organized the event. “We received great support from the rank-and-file membership and from a number of other unions and local businesses. “We didn’t have a specific theme,” he continued, “but overall the atmosphere was one of patriotism and thankfulness, in the spirit of the holiday.” Seafarers Steve Valencia, Louella Sproul, Peter Ciddio and George Pino were instrumental in planning the festivities, Celona noted. They were assisted by other members during the actual event, which featured a traditional Thanksgiving menu. As in years past, Alioto’s Restaurant on Fishermen’s Wharf assisted with the get-together. House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi credited the U.S. Merchant Marine for its role in helping provide relief to hurricane victims along the Gulf Coast, a sentiment repeated by other speakers. Members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment, present the colors. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and SIU Assistant VP West Coast Nick Celona (third from left) welcome San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to the union hall. San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White and San Francisco Port Commission VP Michael Hardeman Recertified Steward Louella Sproul and Electrician Ian Hindley Bosun Roger Rankin carries the U.S. Merchant Marine flag. Above right: Chief Cooks Mohamed Omar, John Stein and John Blasquez donated their time and talents, along with other Seafarers (above left). U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) is pictured with SIU officials Nick Marrone and Nick Celona. January 2006 Right: Patrolman Kathy Chester and her mother, Ethel Left: The U.S. Marine Corps was well-represented by (from left) Sgt. Major Harry Rivera, Col. Hank Morris and Major Michael Samarov, among others. SIU VP Nick Marrone and Assistant VP Nick Celona present a donation to retired NFL star Jack Tatum, founder of the Jack Tatum Fund for Youthful Diabetes. The retired Oakland Raider himself is a victim of the disease—his left leg is amputated below the knee. Seafarers LOG 7 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:38 AM Page 8 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS VACATION PLAN Know Your Rights This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Vacation Plan (Employer Identification No. 13-5602047, Plan No. 503) for the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $15,731,956 as of December 31, 2004 compared to $15,257,627 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $474,329. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $50,501,640. This income included employer contributions of $49,183,111, realized losses of $53,331 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $1,371,860. Plan expenses were $50,027,311. These expenses included $5,496,475 in administrative expenses and $44,530,836 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3 Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.60 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-5638, Washington, DC 20210. 2006: The Year to Fulfill Your Dreams! I t’s the start of a brand new year, and one of the best ways to celebrate is to fulfill your dreams of a college education. Completing the coupon below is the first step toward realizing that dream. Filling out the application and mailing it to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan by April 15, 2006 is the last step in the process. That leaves three months in which to complete the other steps necessary to apply for one of the eight scholarships being given out this year. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to send away for the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet. It contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. (The program books also are available at all SIU halls.) Eight monetary grants will be awarded in 2006 to three SIU members and five dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $20,000 and is intended to help cover the costs of attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. Five scholarships are to be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information to make sure that certain conditions are met. After P checking for eligibility, applicants should start collecting other paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15, 2006 deadline. These items include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools 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. The selection committee looks at the high school grades of all applicants and also checks the scores of either their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT). Therefore, arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 2006 to ensure 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. No one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Scholarship Program by April 15. If you sent in an application form in 2005 and were not selected for one of the scholarships, you should try again this year. Make 2006 your special year! lease send me the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ ( ) Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 1/06 8 Seafarers LOG 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. January 2006 �34103_P6_16,22_23X.qxd 12/22/2005 7:40 PM Page 9 Paul Hall Center School Supplement This handy version of the Paul Hall Center’s catalog is printed in the Seafarers LOG as a convenience to SIU members. Please keep it for reference. NOTE: Prerequisites for all upgrading courses in the SHLSS catalog include being 18 years old, holding a U.S. Merchant Marine Document, passing a physical exam, and English language proficiency. T he Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education enters 2006 well equipped to continue fulfilling its mission of delivering the world’s best-trained mariners. Located in Piney Point, Md., the school offers approximately 50 U.S. Coast Guardapproved classes—the most such courses provided by any maritime school in the nation. With a strong emphasis on hands-on training, the school offers everything from entrylevel programs to upgrading classes to license preparation to academic support and more. Students also may receive college credit recommendations for successfully completing certain sanctioned courses. In recent years, the center has answered America’s heightened security needs by implementing comprehensive maritime safety and anti-terrorism training for every student who passes through the front gate. For example, the school added a small-arms range approved by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (along with accompanying curriculums) and then in early 2005 became the first facility to offer a vessel security officer course approved by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Those are just two examples among many that illustrate the Paul Hall Center’s commitment to offering the most useful, important, up-to-date training anywhere in the industry. The school also has been a leader in providing STCW-mandated training, and was the first to publish a Coast Guard training record book to meet international shipping regulations. Similarly, the school was among the first maritime facilities to provide shiphandling simulators for training, and it was the first to offer an oil-spill prevention and containment class. Additionally, the Paul Hall Center was the first to institute an EPA-certified refrigerant handling class both on and off campus. It also was the first to establish a culinary institute dedicated to food preparation aboard ship. With the rebirth of the American-flag deep sea cruise ship industry, the school has developed new courses and built additional facilities specifically to help meet the manpower needs of this important component of the U.S. fleet. An overview of many of the courses available at Piney Point is contained in this eightpage section and also appears on the web site www.seafarers.org, in the Paul Hall Center section. Students should note that courses and class dates may change due to the manpower needs of SIU-contracted companies. Therefore, Seafarers should check the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date class listings. Schedules also are available on the web site. The basic eligibility for SIU members who want to upgrade at Piney Point includes 120 days’ sea time in the previous year, one day of sea time in the last six months prior to the date the class starts, a copy of their z-card (front and back), a copy of the identification page of their union book, plus any other course-specific requirements. If the course mandates a U.S. Coast Guard test to acquire the endorsement, then the upgrader must meet all Coast Guard requirements prior to taking the class. Some courses have other specific requirements which are printed in bold. For more information about the Paul Hall Center or any of its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075, or call (301) 994-0010. January 2006 DECK DEPT. Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman Applicants completing our 4-week Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman program satisfy: (1) the training, seagoing service, and assessment requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-3(c) and Section A-II/4 of the STCW Code, Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch;—AND—(2) if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, the written examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-9 for the “Deck General & Navigation General” and “Deck Safety & Rules of the Road” exam modules for any Able Seaman endorsement and the practical (knot tying) examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-9 for any Able Seaman endorsement PROVIDED that all other requirements of 46 CFR Subpart 12.05, including sea service, are also met. The course consists of hands-on training and classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, fire fighting, emergency procedures, first aid, anchoring, and mooring, and aids to navigation. Prerequisites: Sea service, Water Survival (Lifeboatman), STOS Special: 12 months’ service on deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, the OIC of the navigational watch, or qualified ratings (STCW) Limited: 18 months’ service on deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, OIC, or qualified ratings. Unlimited: 3 years’ deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master or OIC Bridge Resource Management Applicants completing our 30-hour Bridge Resource Management course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section B-VIII/ 2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. Bridge Resource Management-Unlimited is designed for persons with significant shipping experience who hold or are seeking a U.S. Coast Guard license. This course fulfills the training requirements of effective bridge teamwork as set forth in STCW 95, A-II/1, A-II/2, and B-VIII/2 and 46 CFR 10.25 and 10.209. Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 Gross Tons or greater OR seeking an original third mate or limited license Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons or less) Students who successfully complete this course will have the knowledge and experience needed to continually reassess the allocation and use of bridge resources using bridge management principles. Applicants completing our 26-hour Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons) course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section B-VIII/2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. THIS APPROVAL IS LIMITED TO SERVICE UPON VESSELS OF NOT MORE THAN 1600 GROSS TONS (DOMESTIC). Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 gross tons or greater OR in the process of getting license Celestial Navigation Applicants completing our 126-hour Celestial Navigation course with a passing grade of at least 80% satisfy the Celestial Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to sign-off for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-1A; OICNW-1-1B; OICNW-11C; OICNW-1-1D; OICNW-1-1E and OICNW-1-1F. The course covers the areas of celestial navigation required for licensing as a second or third mate unlimited and for all limited licenses. Students are instructed in latitude observations by sun and Polaris, running fixes by sun, stars, and planets, compass error by amplitude and azimuth, star identification, and care and use of the sextant. Prerequisites: ARPA, Radar Observer, Scientific calculator skill, time/speed/distance formula Crisis Management & Human Behavior Applicants completing our 7-hour Crisis Management & Human Behavior course satisfy: (1) the Crisis Management & Human Behavior training requirements of Table A-V/2 and Paragraph 5 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships;—AND—(2) the Passenger Safety training requirements of Paragraph 4 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships. This course is designed for any person responsible for the safety of passengers in an emergency on passenger ships. The training includes organizing the safe movement of passengers when embarking and disembarking, organizing shipboard emergency procedures, optimizing the use of resources, controlling responses to emergencies, controlling passengers and other personnel during emergency situations, and the establishing and maintaining effective communications. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Crowd Management Applicants completing our 4-hour Crowd Management course satisfy: (1) the Crowd Management training requirements of Paragraph 1 of Section A-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels;—AND— (2) the Safety Training requirements of Paragraph 3 of Section A-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels. This course profiles the required knowledge and applicable skills for crowd management including controlling a crowd in an emergency, locating safety and emergency equipment on board a vessel, complying with ships’ emergency procedures, effective communications during an emergency, and demonstrating the use of personal life-saving devices. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) Applicants completing our 35-hour Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) course are considered to have successfully demonstrated the competencies “Plan and Conduct a Passage and Determine Position: Thorough Knowledge of and Ability to Use ECDIS” of Table AII/1 of the STCW Code AND “Determine Position and the Accuracy of Resultant Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 9 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:39 AM Page 10 G Continued from page 9 Position Fix: Position Determination Using ECDIS With Specific Knowledge of its Operating Principles, Limitations, Sources of Error, Detection of Misrepresentation of information and Methods of Correction to Obtain Accurate Position Fixing” of Table A-II/2 of the STCW Code. The course provides training in the basic theory and use of electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) for those who will be in charge of a navigational watch on vessels equipped with ECDIS. Students learn to use, update, and verify electronic chart information. The training comprises all safety-relevant aspects and aims beyond the use of operational controls. All theoretical aspects and major characteristics of ECDIS data, such as data contents, system integration, information layers, and data updating, are covered in depth. Prerequisites: General Admission requirements; ARPA certificate; Radar certificate; Terrestrial Navigation training for license preparation; USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Fast Rescue Boats Applicants completing our 30-hour Fast Rescue Boats course satisfy the requirements of Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code, Specification of the Minimum Standard of Competence in Fast Rescue Boats. The Paul Hall Center’s Fast Rescue Boats course trains students to handle and take charge of fast rescue boats during or after launch in adverse weather and sea conditions. Students learn how to operate a fast rescue boat engine, use all locating devices, including communication and signaling equipment between the rescue boat and a helicopter and the ship, and how to carry out search patterns. Prerequisites: Basic Safety, Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than fast rescue boats Fundamental Concepts of Navigation Applicants completing our 70-hour Fundamental Concepts of Navigation course and who present our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 5 YEARS of the completion of training, receive 20 days’ sea service credit that may be used—ONLY—for the following: (1) Any license restricted to service upon vessels of not more than 200 gross tons (domestic); OR (2) Any license restricted to service upon inland or Great Lakes waters; OR (3) Any Able Seaman endorsement PROVIDED that the applicant has at least 6 months of actual sea service that can be credited toward an Able Seaman endorsement. Topics covered in this c1ass include the use of nautical charts, calculating time, speed, and distance problems, the use of plotting instruments and compasses, dead reckoning, bearings, fixes, current sailing, piloting, and an introduction to collision regulations and rules of the road. Prerequisites: 120 days of sea time as an AB Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) Applicants completing our 70-hour Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) course with a passing grade of at least 75% satisfy the GMDSS training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(n) and Table A-IV/2 of the STCW Code. Applicants for this 70-hour course must hold a 200-ton or greater license, or show a current U.S. Coast Guard approval letter indicating they are eligible to sit for a license greater than 200 tons. The class is designed to meet the requirements set forth in Table A-IV/2 of the amended STCW convention. Topics include principles of the global marine distress and safety system communications, distress alerting and operational procedures for VHF DSC, INMARST-C, MF/HF, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART, and VHF (SCT). The course blends classroom instruction and practical exercises. Prerequisites: 1 year experience as a member of navigational watch on the bridge of an ocean going vessel OR licensed radio officer or engineer Government Vessels This 3-week class is open to mariners sailing in any department. The course is structured as three 1-week, stand-alone modules. The modules may be taken in any order. Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command and military vessels, damage control, CBRD (chemical, biological, radiological defense), anti-terrorism level I 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. (This course is required of students attending AB or FOWT courses.) Prerequisites: No additional Radar Observer (Unlimited) Applicants completing our 5-day Radar Observer (Unlimited) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480 for an endorsement as Radar Observer (Unlimited) and the radar training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to signoff for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-2B; OICNW1-2C; OICNW-3-1A; OICNW-3-1B; OICNW-3-1C; OICNW-3-1D; OICNW-31E; OICNW-3-1F; OICNW-3-1G; OICNW-3-1H; OICNW-3-1I; OICNW-31J; and OICNW-3-1K. This course features hands-on training and classroom work, including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision avoidance and navigational exercise. Students operate modern audio-visual and radar simulation gear, as well as the full shiphandling simulator, as they practice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Also included are practical exercises and lectures covering inland waterway and river navigation and piloting. Prerequisites: Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation Radar Observer Recertification Applicants completing our 1-Day Radar Observer Recertification course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisites: No additional Radar Observer Refresher Applicants completing our 3-Day Radar Observer Refresher course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisites: Radar Observer ARPA Applicants completing our 32-hour Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the ARPA training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC) and of 46 CFR 10.205(m)(1). The practical assessments conducted in this course are equivalent to the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-3-2A; OICNW-3-2B; OICNW-3-2C; OICNW-3-2D; OICNW-32E; OICNW-3-2F; OICNW- 3-2G; OICNW-3-2H; OICNW-3-2I; OICNW-32J; OICNW-3-2K; OICNW-3-2L; and OICNW-3- 2M. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) This course of instruction incorporates the use of ARPA simulation equipment to operate, observe, and use the radar plotting aids. Students gain an understanding of the limitations of the aids as well as their performance factors, sensor inputs and malfunctions and gain knowledge of tracking capabilities, processing, operational warnings, and target acquisition. Prerequisites: Radar Observer Coast Guard documenting maintenance of medical skills. Cardiopulmonary (CPR) certification must be renewed annually. Training as a Medical First Aid Provider is the second level of medical training required by STCW. Topics include a review of cardiac and airway management, rescuer safety, body structure, examining trauma victims and medical patients, treating head and spinal injuries, burns, musculoskeletal injuries, and rescued persons. Also included are obtaining radio medical advice, administering medication, and sterilization techniques. Prerequisite: Candidates for the course must possess current certification from the American Red Cross for CPR for the Professional Rescuer or equivalent certification issued through a similar authorizing agency Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (Including Sea Service) Applicants completing our entire 16week Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch Program, INCLUDING the 360 days of seagoing service: (1) receive 720 days’ sea service credit toward a license as Third Mate of Ocean or Near Coastal Steam or Motor Vessels of Any Gross Tons. Applicants must present evidence of not less than 1 year of qualifying seagoing service obtained AFTER enrollment in the OICNW program, including at least six months performing bridge watch-keeping duties under the supervision of the master or a qualified officer. Applicants must have previously completed our entire Unlicensed Apprentice Program, and sea service awarded for completion of the Unlicensed Apprentice Program may NOT be used to meet the service requirements for OICNW and Third Mate;—AND—(2) Satisfy the training and assessment Continued on next page Medical Care Provider Applicants completing our 21-hour Medical Care Provider course satisfy the Medical First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/4 and Table A-VI/4-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 12.13-1. This course is designed for mariners who are employed or may be employed on U.S.flag ships. It meets STCW requirements. Students successfully completing this course must take a refresher course within 5 years or provide information to the U.S. 10 Seafarers LOG January 2006 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:39 AM G Continued from page 10 requirements of 46 CFR 10.910 and Section AII/ 1 and Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code, Specification of Minimum Standard of Competence for Officers in Charge of a Navigational Watch on Ships of 500 Gross Tonnage or More, PROVIDED that they have also completed the following Coast Guard approved courses within five years of completion of the OICNW program: a) Basic Safety Training; b) Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting; c) Medical Care Provider; d) Proficiency in Survival Craft; e) Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids); f) Celestial Navigation (STCW); g) Radar Observer (Unlimited); h) Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA); i) Bridge Resource Management; j) Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS); and k) Visual Communications. Prerequisites: ARPA, Basic/Adv. Fire Fighting, BRM, Celestial Navigation, First Aid, GMDSS, Medical First Aid Provider, Proficiency in Survival Craft or Water Survival, Radar Observer, Tanker Familiarization, Visual Communication, BST, sea time for 3rd Mate and OICNW Page 11 Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques (Lifeboatman) Applicants completing our 37-hour Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques course satisfy: (1) the Survival Craft training requirements of Section A-VI/2 and Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW Code;—AND—(2) the training requirements of 46 CFR 12.10-3(a)(6) for any endorsement as Lifeboatman, PROVIDED that sea service requirements are also met;—AND—(2) if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, the written and practical examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.10-5 for a Lifeboatman endorsement (exam module 481xx) and the written “Survival Craft” examination requirements for service on vessels not equipped with lifeboats (exam module 441xx or 706xx),—AND—(3) the Personal Survival Techniques training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR and pilot interactions, helm control, rules of the road, IALA buoy systems, shipboard communication, helm watch relief and lookout watch. Prerequisites: UA Program Phases 1 and 2 Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids Applicants completing our 38-hour Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids Course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.309 for an endorsement as Tankerman-PIC (Barge). Prerequisites: Present evidence of service in accordance with 46 CFR 13.303. Fire Fighting may be taken simultaneously with the course Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids Applicants completing our 5-day Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d) Oil Spill Prevention and Containment This 1-week course consists of classroom and practical training exercises. Topics include oil types and petroleum products’ behavior on water; pollution prevention regulations; hazardous materials training; spill prevention; absorbents, suction equipment, skimmers, and their proper use; and small boat operations. Students also receive instruction in spill containment booms, boom towing configurations, and anchoring operations. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities Applicants completing our 4-hour Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(l)(4) and Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-4 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code. This course provides the unlicensed apprentice candidate with a general understanding and basic knowledge of human relationships, social skills necessary for living and working aboard operational merchant ships, and a working knowledge of issues impacting preparedness for international travel. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Survival Techniques Applicants completing our 12-hour Personal Survival Techniques course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Survival training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(1). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites January 2006 Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) Applicants completing our 63-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 for an original endorsement as TankermanAssistant DL. This course meets the Code of Federal Regulation requirements for personnel not having the required sea service. The objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct operations on tankships. Topics include the 16-hour worker health and safety (HAZWOPER) First Responder/ Operations Level, Ship Design and Operation, Cargo Characteristics, Enclosed Space Entry, Cargo Transfer and Shipment, and Pollution Prevention, and Emergency Operations and Response. Prerequisites: Fire Fighting Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) HAZMAT Recertification This 1-day class includes a regulatory overview of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, reviews of toxology terminology, medical monitoring instruments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection, and monitoring equipment and new technology. Prerequisite: 24- or 40-hour Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) courses ters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises a specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: 3 months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (Paul Hall Center “Tanker Assistant” course) to cover STCW Code Section A-V/1 para. 2-8. Fire fighting course in accordance with 47 CFR 13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR Paul Hall Center Basic Fire Fighting, U.S.C.G.-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course 10.205(l)(1). This course helps mariners develop the required knowledge and application skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft, and the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, students learn the procedures necessary to take charge and maintain a survival craft and protect embarked personnel while on board. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman Applicants completing our 70-hour Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training requirements for service as a Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman AND the training and assessment requirements of Table A-II/4 of the STCW Code, “Specification of Minimum Standard of Competence for Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch,” and 46 CFR 12.053(c) PROVIDED they also present evidence of at least 6 months’ sea-going service performing navigational watchkeeping functions under the supervision of the Master or officer in charge of the navigational watch. If the applicant does not present evidence of 6 months of this service, he or she satisfies the training and assessment requirements for certification as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch RESTRICTED to lookout duties only. This certification is valid for 1 year and may not be renewed. This course is designed for deck trainees who need a fast track to Ratings Forming Part of the Navigational Watch. It meets the requirements of 46 CFR 12.05.3(c) and STCW Table A-II/4. Topics covered in the course include: anchoring, mooring, knot-tying, gyro and magnetic compass, wheel watch, error chain analysis (1) (ii) (A), 13.115 (b) (1), 13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement. This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises a specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: 3 months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (Paul Hall Center “Tanker Assistant” course) to cover STCW Code Section A-V/1 para. 2-8. Fire fighting course in accordance with 47 CFR 13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR Paul Hall Center Basic Fire Fighting, U.S.C.G.-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Applicants completing our 30-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 for an original endorsement as Tankerman- Assistant (LG); —AND— (2) the tanker familiarization training requirements of paragraphs 17 of Section A-V/1 of the STCW Code. This course consists of a safety program designed to meet STCW requirements for those who have not served on LNG ships. The course of instruction includes LNG fire fighting, confined space awareness, LNG nomenclature, LNG ship operations, personal safety, LNG safety, hazardous material, LNG cargo tank (level indicators, temperature), LNG cargo pump (Carter pump construction and ops), inert gas generator (general flow system), nitrogen gas system, LNG vapor compressor, warm-up heater and boil-off heater. Prerequisites: Advanced Fire Fighting Continued on next page Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) Applicants completing our 53-hour Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d)(1)(ii)(A), 13.115 (b)(1), 13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement;—AND— receive credit for: (1) two loadings and two discharges which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements of 46 CFR 13.203(b)(1);—AND—(2) one commencement of loading and one completion of loading which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46 CFR 13.203(b)(2);—AND—(3) one commencement of discharge and one completion of discharge which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46 CFR 13.203(b)(3). This course provides training for mas- Seafarers LOG 11 �34103_P6_16,22_23X.qxd 12/22/2005 7:41 PM Page 12 G Continued from page 11 Vessel Security Officer This 12-hour course provides knowledge to those wishing to perform the duties and responsibilities of a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) as defined in section A/2.1.6 (and section A/12.1) of the ISPS Code with respect to the security of a ship, for implementing and maintaining a Ship Security Plan, and for liaising with the Company Security Officer (CSO) and Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs). Successful students will be able to undertake the duties and responsibilities as Vessel Security Officer as defined in section A/12.2 of the ISPS Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Visual Communications (Flashing Light) Applicants completing our 1-day Visual Communications course with a minimum score of 80% will: (1) Satisfy the practical signaling examination requirements (flashing light) of 46 CFR 10.401(h) IF presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training;—AND—(2) Be considered to have successfully demonstrated the competence “Transmit and Receive Information by Visual Signaling” of Table AII/1 of the STCW Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Apprentice Mate (Steersman) The Paul Hall Center’s 103-hour Apprentice Mate (Steersman), Near Coastal course is a self-certifying course for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on uninspected towing vessels sailing under U.S. flag or registered/documented under any political subdivision in the United States. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) for original issuance or 46 CFR 10. 209(c)(iii) for renewal of a license as Apprentice Mate (Steersman) of Towing Vessels (Near Coastal, Great Lakes, and Western Rivers;—OR—(2) the examination requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) for original issuance or 46 CFR 10. 209(c)(iii) for renewal of a license as Master of Towing Vessels (Near Coastal, Great Lakes, and Western Rivers) provided that they also provide evidence of service in the towing industry before May 21, 2001, AND that the requirements of 46 CFR 10.464(h) are also met. After obtaining the requisite sea service and fulfilling other U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements pertaining to this license, successful students will be able to take responsibility for the safety of an inspected towing vessel; be aware of obligations under Coast Guard regulations concerning safety and protection of passen- gers, crew, and the marine environment; and, be able to take the practical measures necessary to meet those obligations. Successful students will be issued a certificate of completion for an Apprentice Mate (Steersman), Near Coastal course. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCGapproved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.15-5; Fundamentals of Navigation OR equivalent course OR experience as determined by the instructor; valid Radar Observer Unlimited certificate; Able Seaman endorsement (any) Master 100 Tons The Paul Hall Center’s 90-hour Master 100 Tons, Near Coastal course is a selfcertifying course for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on passenger vessels sailing under U.S. flag or registered/documented under any political subdivision in the United States. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR 10.206(i) for original license, 46 CFR 10.209(c)(iii) for renewal, and 46 CFR 209(f) for reissue. Students who present our certificate of training at a regional exam center within 1 year of the completion of training will satisfy the exam requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i)f or reissuance of a license. After obtaining the requisite sea service and fulfilling other U.S. Coast Guard requirements pertaining to this license, successful students will be able to take responsibility for the safety of an inspected passenger vessel of 100 tons and its passengers; be aware of obligations under Coast Guard regulations concerning safety and protection of passengers, crew, and the marine environment; and, be able to take the practical measures necessary to meet those obligations. Students successfully completing the course will be issued a certificate for successful completion for a Master 100 Ton, Near Coastal license. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCGapproved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.15-5; Fundamentals of Navigation, valid Radar Observer Unlimited certificate; Able Seaman endorsement (any) Terrestrial Navigation (Operational Level) The Paul Hall Center’s 68-hour Terrestrial Navigation at the Operational Level course meets the mandatory minimum requirements for knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in Table A-II/1 of STCW 1995, for the function of Navigation at the Operational Level. This course is a stand-alone course in the Paul Hall Center Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch Program. The functional elements of this course provide the detailed knowledge to support the training outcomes related to Navigation at the Operational Level in planning and conducting a passage and for determining position in terrestrial navigation. Successful students earn a Paul Hall Center course completion certificate. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the follow- 12 Seafarers LOG ing entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCGapproved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license or equivalent military experience; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.15-5 Coastal Navigation (Operational Level) The Paul Hall Center’s 60-hour Coastal Navigation at the Operational Level course meets the mandatory minimum requirements for knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in Table A-II/1 of STCW 1995, for the function of Coastal Navigation at the Operational Level. This course is a stand-alone course in the Paul Hall Center Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch Program. The functional elements of this course provide the detailed knowledge to support the training outcomes related to Navigation at the Operational Level in planning and conducting a passage and for determining position in coastal navigation. Successful students earn a Paul Hall Center course completion certificate. This course specifically addresses Function 1: Navigation at the Operational Level; Competence 1.1: Plan and conduct a passage and determine position; and Knowledge and Understanding (KUP) 1.1.2 Terrestrial and Coastal Navigation from IMO Model course OICNW 7.03 and STCW Code Table A-II-1. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCGapproved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license or equivalent military experience; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.15-5 Emergency Procedures (Operational Level) The Paul Hall Center’s 21-hour Emergency Procedures at the Operational Level course is designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S. flagged vessels. This stand-alone course is a component of the Paul Hall Center’s Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) Program. The functional elements of this course specifically meet Function 1: Navigation at the Operational Level; Competence 1.4 Respond to Emergencies; and Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency 1.4.1 Precautions for Protection and Safety of Passengers of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) OICNW Model Course No. 7.03 and the requirements of USCG Policy Letter 01-02. No OICNW assessments will be conducted in this course. Successful candidates will earn a Paul Hall Center certificate of training Emergency Procedures at the Operational Level. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCGapproved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.15-5 Basic Cargo Handling and Stowage (Operational Level) The Paul Hall Center’s Basic Cargo Handling and Stowage course is a 66-hour course for students who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels as required by STCW 1995, as amended, and are licensed or intending to be licensed personnel. On successful completion of this course, students will be able to use cargo plans and tables or diagrams of stability and trim data to calculate the ship’s initial stability, drafts, and trim for any given description of cargo and other weights. They will also be able to determine whether stresses on the ship are within permitted limits by the use of stress data or calculation equipment, or software. They will understand safety precaution used prior to entering enclosed or potentially contaminated spaces. Students should be able to supervise the preparation and dunnaging of holds and the operation of ships’ cargo gear and will be aware of the importance of adequately securing cargo to prevent damage to the ship or cargo. Trainees will identify dangerous goods and know that they are stowed and separated according to requirements of the IMDG Code. They will also know the hazards related to some bulk cargoes and the precautions to take during their loading, carriage, and discharge. Continued on next page January 2006 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:40 AM G Page 13 Basic Stability (Operational Level) Continued from page 12 Trainees will also have a basic knowledge of the piping and pumping arrangements of oil tankers. This course specifically addresses “Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the operational level” and “Competence: Monitor the loading, stowage, securing, care during the voyage and the unloading of cargoes” and “Knowledge Understanding and Proficiency: Cargo handling, stowage, and securing” found in Table AII/1 of the STCW Code, amended 1995. This is accomplished through classroom lecture and practical exercises. Students successfully completing this course will be awarded a Paul Hall Center Basic Cargo and Stowage at the Operational Level course certificate. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Possess a U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD); provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 13.125; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling USCG approved sea time requirements, completion of Basic Stability course The Paul Hall Center’s 40-hour Basic Stability at the Operational Level course is intended to provide training at the basic level for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. It takes into account STCW Code, Table AII/1, “Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level,” and “Competence: Maintain seaworthiness of the ship,” and “Knowledge, understanding and proficiency, Ship stability.” Upon successful completion of the course, students will have knowledge of the principal structural members of a ship and the proper names of the various parts. They will be able to use tables and diagrams of ship stability and trim data to calculate the ship’s initial stability, drafts, and trim for any given disposition of cargo and other weights. Students will be able to determine whether stresses on the ship are within the permitted limits by use of stress data. They will understand the fundamental actions to take in the event of partial loss of intact buoyancy. At course completion, successful students will receive a Paul Hall Center certificate of completion in Basic Stability at the Operational Level. This course is open to watchkeeping officers, seamen who are training to become watchkeeping officers, and those who are responsible for loading cargoes. Students will be expected to use simple graphs and basic arithmetical skills and must meet the following requirements: USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course, U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license; read, speak and understand the English language at a level sufficient to perform job duties; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.05-7 the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level; Ship construction. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have general knowledge of the principal structural members of a ship and the proper names for the various parts. At course completion, successful students will receive a Paul Hall Center certificate of completion in Ship Construction at the Operational Level. This course is open to watchkeeping officers, seamen who are training to become watchkeeping officers, and those who are responsible for loading cargoes. Trainees will be expected to use simple graphs and basic arithmetical skills and must meet the following requirements: USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course; U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license; read, speak and understand the English language at a level sufficient to perform job duties; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.05-7 Ship Construction (Operational Level) The Paul Hall Center’s 40-hour Ship Construction at the Operational Level course is intended to provide training at the basic level for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.flag vessels whose responsibilities include maintaining the seaworthiness of the ship. It takes into account STCW Code Table AII/1: Function: controlling the operation of ENGINE DEPT. Many engine department courses have prerequisites. For example, to be accepted for Advanced Refrigeration/Containers, students must have successfully completed Basic Marine Electrician and Refrigeration System Maintenance and Operations. COAST GUARD STCW CERTIFICATION COURSES Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation Applicants completing our 140-hour Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course and who present our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 for the General Safety examination module, PROVIDED they have also completed either our 63hour Basic Motor Plant Operations course and/or our 70-hour Basic Steam Plant Operations course. Applicants who have successfully completed our course need not present individually completed “Control Sheets” for the assessments in application for STCW certification. The objective of this course to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders as they sail in the capacity of FOWT. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and shore-side auxiliary plant simulator practical exercises. Prerequisites: Same as FOWT program Fireman, Oiler & Watertender (FOWT) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and both Basic Motor Plant Operations and Basic Steam Plant Operations will meet the requirements for endorsement as FOWT. (These classes are Continued on next page ACADEMIC DEPARTMENT The Academic Department has a long history of providing support and services to members of the Seafarers International Union. Since the founding of the school in Piney Point, Md., there has been academic support for students taking vocational programs as well as for those students who require basic skills, English language skills or wish to continue their education. There are a variety of opportunities offered to all students. Specific questions about the programs can be answered or explained by contacting the Academic Department at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5411. General Education Program The GED program is open to all mariners who do not have a high school diploma. Assistance is offered to prepare students to take the test in Maryland or in their home state. Emphasis is placed on writing skills, social studies, science, interpreting literature and art, and mathematics. GED students receive individualized instruction in preparation for the test. The school for many years has successfully prepared mariners to pass the test. For many students, this is a milestone in their lives. (Prior to taking the test in Maryland, a 12-week residency is required.) Adult Basic Education The Adult Basic Education (ABE) program assists students in improving their basic language, technical vocabulary and mathematical skills. These skills help students experience greater success in both vocational and academic classes. Students who receive low scores on the T’ABE benchmark examinations, given at the Paul Hall Center, are encouraged to enroll in this program. Students may enter these classes while attending upgrader courses or may enroll in an extended ABE course offered throughout the year. English as a Second Language The English as a Second Language course assists students in basic English and technical vocabulary skills. The purpose of the class is to give seafarers who have not learned English as their native language and who have difficulty speaking, hearing, understanding and/or writing the English language, the opportunity to gain proficiency January 2006 in that language. As much as possible, instruction will be provided to give the seafarer the English language skills necessary to perform the essential tasks within the department under which he or she sails. Classes are offered throughout the year for those students requiring in-depth instruction, or students may schedule assistance during their upgrading classes. Basic Vocational Support Program The Basic Vocational Support Program assists students in improving course-specific vocational language and mathematic skills. It is designed to assist with the fundamental understanding of concepts and theoretical ideas which are the fundamentals of a given vocational course. Some of these classes are offered prior to the regularly scheduled courses to provide the student with knowledge and skills that will assist them once the classes have begun. These courses are ideal for those students who have been away from the classroom, need basic skills or do not use English as their native language. College Program The Paul Hall Center is a degree-granting institution approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Vocational courses also are approved for credit by the American Council on Education (ACE). Students may apply for college credit for many of the vocational courses that they take while upgrading at the school. In addition the center offers general education courses required for an associate’s degree. The school currently offers Associate of Applied Science degree programs in nautical science technology (deck department students) or marine engineering technology (engine department students). Both degrees offer concentrations in either the deep sea or inland sections of the maritime industry. There also is a certificate program in maritime technology with concentrations in nautical science or marine engineering. All programs are designed to provide the opportunity for mariners to earn a college degree or certificate in their occupational areas and provide a solid academic foundation in general education subjects. Students are required to have a total of 60 to 70 college hours to earn a degree. Students also may take advantage of remedial programs that help prepare them for college level courses. It is recommended that students meet with a counselor to plan a college program. Seafarers LOG 13 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:40 AM Page 14 G Continued from page 13 described below as stand-alone courses.) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and either Basic Motor Plant Operations or Basic Steam Plant Operations will be eligible for an FOWT (Restricted) endorsement. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program; successful completion of the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage and required sea projects; unlicensed apprentice sea voyage performance evaluations within the engine department as completed by the First Assistant Engineer of at least satisfactory or better; recommendation by the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage participating vessel’s Chief Engineer OR 6 months’ sea time as wiper AND STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training; successful completion of the entry-level sea voyage and auxiliary plant familiarization sea project; total USCG approved sea service or equivalent sea service in the engine room of vessels of at least 6 months; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department Military veterans meeting the prior military sea service requirement in the engine room of vessels must meet the following entrance requirements: Prior approval to the military veterans program for ratings forming part of an engineering watch; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15- 9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the Machinist examination module, provided they also present evidence of completing the requirements to be endorsed with a Junior Engineer rating endorsement prior to commencing the above training. This course provides mariners cognitive and practical mechanical skills in the area of general metalworking and machine tool operations. Prerequisites: STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training, USCG physical standards for QMED OR hold the USCG Oiler Rating endorsement, STCW certificate as a RFPEW, completed QMED Junior Engineer training program, and USCG Junior Engineer rating Marine Electrician Applicants completing our 280-hour Marine Electrician course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the Electrician examination module, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days’ engine room service while endorsed as a QMED–Junior Engineer prior to commencing the above training. This course provides Engine Department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on motors, generators, and controllers on board ship. Prerequisites: 6 months QMED JUNIOR ENGINEER PROGRAM Pumpman Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the General Safety, Junior Engineer, and Deck Engineer examination modules, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: Basic Safety. Recommended: Tankerman Assistant (DL), QMED-Oiler/Motor, Total USCGapproved sea or equivalent service in engine room of vessels for at least 6 months, Fireman/WT or Oiler rating The Paul Hall Center’s Pumpman course is a 70-hour, 10-day course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR Sec. 12.15-9 (c) for Pumpman. The objective of the Pumpman course is to provide engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to operate, maintain, and repair the equipment associated with the handling of liquid cargo onboard a tankship. Topics covered in the Pumpman course are Inert Gas Systems, Crude Oil Washing (COW) Systems, Vapor Recovery, and two days of assessment in the Cargo Simulator. On successful completion of this course, students will be awarded a Paul Hall Center certificate. Each student must meet the following entrance requirements: Paul Hall Center Apprentice Program Phases I, II, and III, including Tanker Familiarization Dangerous Liquids (DL) training, Paul Hall Center FOWT Program, QMED Any Rating, Paul Hall Center QMED Junior Engineer Program Students taking training prior to April 4, 1997 or who did not have access to the Paul Hall Center UA program must satisfy the following requirements: STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training, successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Tanker Familiarization DL course, successful completion of the Paul Hall Center FOWT program (non-rated applicants), USCG-approved sea time and equivalent sea service in the engine room of vessels of at least 6 months, meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department Students entering the industry before August 1, 1998 must hold either the USCG Fireman/WT or Oiler rating endorsements (rated applicants) Machinist Applicants completing our 102-hour Machinist course, and presenting our employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR Section 12.15-9 (b) for Refrigeration Engineer. The objective of the Marine Refrigeration Technician course is to provide engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on ship’s stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo refrigeration, ventilation and dehumidification equipment, as well as pantry refrigerators, water coolers, and ice machines. An introduction to refrigerated container units will also be presented. Successful candidates will earn a Paul Hall Center certificate of training. Each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCGapproved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) or USCG license; speak and understand verbal orders in English; six months at sea as a Qualified Member of the Engineering Department (QMED) Junior Engineer and possess the Electrician’s endorsement or the Refrigerating Engineer’s endorsement; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.15-5 ENGINEERING SPECIALTY COURSES Diesel Engine Technology This 4-week course, leading to certification in diesel engine technology, consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Topics of instruction include diesel engine theory; two- and four-stroke cycle operating principles; and the construction, operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of low-, medium- and high-speed diesel engines. Also covered are associated auxiliaries including intake and exhaust systems, lubrication and cooling systems, and fuel injection and starting systems. Students receive practical training in the operation and repair of diesel engines on board school training vessels. Prerequisites: QMED-Any Rating or equivalent inland experience Automated Cargo Ops This 6-week course of instruction in the pumpman career track includes classroom and simulator training in all facets of liquid cargo loading and discharge. The curriculum consists of cargo properties and emergency procedures, operation and maintenance of valves and pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump operations, cargo measurement, discharging procedures, ballasting procedures, tank cleaning, inert gas systems and more. Prerequisite: QMED-Any Rating Class 3 or QMED Junior Engineer/Pumpman Class 3. Recommended: Basic and Intermediate Math and Computer Basic Advanced plant maintenance must be completed for advancement to QMED Class 2 Refrigeration System Maintenance & Operations Now an elective, this 6-week class blends practical and classroom instruction leading to certification in refrigeration system maintenance and operations. Among the topics covered are theory of mechanical refrigeration, major system components, accessories, cycle controls, refrigerants and oils, and applied electricity. Standard service techniques are emphasized, such as the operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of ships’ stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo ventilation and dehumidifying equipment, and pantry refrigerators, water coolers, and ice machines. Hands-on shop training includes the complete fabrication of a working refrigeration system from basic system components. An introduction to refrigerated container units is also presented. Students must be certified as QMEDAny Rating or have equivalent inland experience or hold Coast Guard endorsements as refrigeration engineer and electrician in order to enroll for this course. Prerequisites: QMED-Any rating, OR Refrigeration Engineer and Electrician OR equivalent inland experience Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance This 4-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of classroom and practical shop training. The training experience enables students to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board ships carrying refrigerated containers.a Students receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. This includes the various types of engines, refrigeration, and electrical systems. Continued on next page Marine Refrigeration Technician The Paul Hall Center’s Marine Refrigeration Technician course is a 6week (210-hour) course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be 14 Seafarers LOG January 2006 �34103_P6_16,22_23X.qxd 12/22/2005 7:42 PM Page 15 G Continued from page 14 The course is designed to help students develop a systematic approach to troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures. Prerequisites: 6-months’ sea time as Wiper, 6 additional months’ sea time in any Engineering Department rating. Must hold a QMED-any rating endorsement, or endorsements as Refrigeration Engineer and Electrician, or possess equivalent inland experience Hydraulics The curriculum in the 4-week hydraulics course blends practical training with classroom work. Fluids, actuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols, and hydraulic systems in marine equipment are among the subjects covered in this class. Also addressed are principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships’ steering systems, ramps, fire doors, and a variety of other shipboard systems. Prerequisite: QMED-Any Rating Welding Classroom instruction and hands-on training compose this 4-week course, which features practical training in electric arc welding and cutting and oxy-acetylene brazing, welding, and cutting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites STEWARD DEPT. Galley Operations The course consists of two 2-week modules (totaling 4 weeks). Each module is 35 hours with additional time participating in the school’s galley operations. This course provides the student with understanding of the basic baking knowledge and skills potentially required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center UA Program and 240 days’ sea time OR 365 days’ sea time as an SA Certified Chief Cook This course consists of six 2-week stand-alone modules totaling 12 weeks. This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. The objective of the Certified Chief Cook (FSM 203) is to provide Steward Department personnel with an understanding and knowledge of sanitation, nutrition, and the preparation and service of soups, sauces, meats, poultry, and seafood. Prerequisites: Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time Advanced Galley Operations This course consists of four 1-week modules (totaling 4 weeks). The course provides students with a thorough grasp of the advanced baking knowledge and skills required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center Certified Chief Cook and 180 days’ sea time Certified Chief Steward The Certified Chief Steward course is a 12-week course for members of the Steward Department. The course is presented in eight modules. Each module is assessed independently of the others. Modules may be taken in 1 week increments with breaks between. This course trains stewards to take charge of production galley, plan and prepare meals, and supervise employees in galley operations for a period of not less than 28 days. January 2006 On meeting the minimum requirements for Certified Chief Steward, culinary students will be competent to take charge of a production galley. The Certified Chief Steward course stresses the competencies related to the supervision of the galley, menu planning, requisitioning of supplies, inventory control, and sanitation. Prerequisites: Advanced Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time SAFETY CLASSES Basic Safety Training Applicants completing our 40-hour Basic Safety Training course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Personal Survival training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(1);—AND— (2) the Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-2 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—(3) the Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(3);—AND— (4) the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-4 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(4). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid & CPR (21-Hour) Applicants completing our 21-hour First Aid & CPR course satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety-Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/ 1-3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(3);—AND— (2)—IF—presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the date of training, the First Aid & CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(h)(1)(ii) and 10.205(h)(2)(iii) for original issuance of a license. Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. Successful students are awarded a certificate from the American Red Cross. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1- 3 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(3). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites (d)(2)(i)(A), 13.113(e)(1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e), 13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) for any tankerman endorsement. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Advanced Fire Fighting Applicants completing our 30-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-2 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—(2) the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license;—AND—(3) the Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d)(2)(i)(A), 13.113(e)(1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e), 13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) for any tankerman endorsement. The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with the chemical process of fire, its behavior and the various methods and equipment used to combat it. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Applicants completing our 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. Prerequisites: Basic Fire Fighting Basic Fire Fighting (16-Hour) Applicants completing our 16-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-2 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);— AND—(2) the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license;—AND—(3) the Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113 Basic Fire Fighting (30-Hour) Combined Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting Applicants completing our 32-hour Advanced Fire Fighting course satisfy: (1) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/3 and Table AVI/ 3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—(2) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license. The objective of this course is to familiarize students with the fundamentals of shipboard and tank barge fire fighting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid (8-Hour) Applicants completing our 8-hour Elementary First Aid course and presenting our Certificate of Training at the Regional Exam Center (REC) satisfy: (1) the First Aid training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(h)(1)(ii) for original issuance of a license;—AND—(2) the Basic SafetyElementary First Aid training requirements Seafarers LOG 15 �34103_P6_16,22_23X.qxd 12/22/2005 7:42 PM Page 16 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 first few months 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 Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman January 23 March 6 February 17 March 31 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 17 April 21 Lifeboatman/Water Survival January 9 February 20 January 20 March 3 Radar April 3 April 14 Course Steward Upgrading Courses Recertification Bosun April 10 May 8 Steward February 6 March 6 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training - AB February 27 March 13 March 3 March 17 Basic Safety Training - FOWT March 27 March 31 Fast Rescue Boat March 20 March 24 Government Vessels - FOWT April 3 April 7 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* February 6 February 17 February 13 Febrary 17 Course (*must have basic fire fighting) 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, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be selfstudy. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning December 26, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT January 30 March 24 Junior Engineer April 3 June 23 Marine Electrician January 16 March 10 Marine Refrigeration January 30 March 10 Welding January 23 February 20 February 10 March 10 � 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 ________________________________________________ 16 Seafarers LOG 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. 1/06 January 2006 �34103p17.qxd 12/20/2005 3:10 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 KARL BENES, 79, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1979. Born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, the engine department member’s first ship was the Overseas Juneau. Brother Benes attended classes in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was on the Prince William Sound. Brother Benes makes his home in LaCrescenta, Calif. JULIUS COPELAND, 67, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Copeland first worked aboard the President Fillmore. In 1982, he completed his steward recertification training at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Copeland last sailed on the Achiever. He calls Chesapeake, Va. home. ANGEL PASSAPERA, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1970. A native of Yabucoa, P.R., he first sailed aboard the Clair Borne. Brother Passapera worked in the deck department. In 2000, he upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Passapera most recently shipped on the Horizon Discovery. He resides in Puerto Rico. 2005: The Year in Review Continued from page 24 Rescues, Safety Awards At least four Seafarers-crewed ships executed rescues at sea, while numerous SIU-contracted companies were recognized for various safety achievements. The ships involved in the rescues were the Lykes Motivator, USNS Seay, Oscar Sette and USNS San Jose. Companies reaching safety milestones and/or receiving awards included Alaska Tanker Company; AMSEA; Maersk Line, Limited; Crowley Marine Services, and many others. Paul Hall Center The union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. continued offering comprehensive training for mariners, from entry-level curriculums to license preparation. More than 5,300 students successfully completed classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The American Council on Education approved 24 Paul Hall Center courses for college credits (meaning students who complete certain classes at the school may receive credits toward a college degree). The Paul Hall Center’s vessel security officer (VSO) course became the first such curriculum approved by the U.S. Maritime Administration. The school added a new two-week Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher course. Health Care Crisis Adjustments to benefits administered through the SHBP reflected a nationwide crisis. There are at least 45 million uninsured Americans, and premium costs rise by double digits every year. On average, 6,000 people lose their coverage every day—an unacceptably high figure that includes too many retirees. Thousands of Seafarers, pensioners and their families attended benefits conferences at 10 SIU halls around the country. Among other facets of this crisis, they touched on the fact that since the turn of the century, the overall expense of job-based health insurance has increased by 60 percent, while the percentage of covered workers has dropped from 65 percent to around 60 percent. Among those who still have coverage, only 24 percent don’t have to pay to carry single coverage. And only eight percent work for employers who pay the full cost of family coverage (meaning there’s no out-of-pocket cost to the worker simply to maintain the insurance benefit). Health insurance remained the dominant component in all contract negotiations. Final Departures Mourning their loss but celebrating their lives, the union said goodbye to a number of individuals whose efforts lifted not only the union but the industry as a whole. Those people included SIU Executive Vice President John Fay, who died Nov. 8 at age 73; SIUNA Vice President Jim Martin (age 70); Joseph Cecire, longtime chair of the SIU’s Board of Trustees (81); Retired ARC Clinical Director Bill Eckles (62); Romeo Lupinacci, former executive chef at the Paul Hall Center (82); Pat Marinelli, retired SIU port agent (age 82); Jack Parcel, retired Paul Hall Center instructor (77); Tom Gilliland, commandant of trainees at the school (57); and Sal Aquia, age 25, son of retired SIU employee Sal Aquia. January 2006 INLAND SAMUEL ESELY, 65, joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Esely first sailed aboard McAllister Towing of Virginia vessels. Born in Ohio, Boatman Esely most recently worked aboard a Moran Towing of Virginia vessel. He now calls Jacksonville, Fla. home. THOMAS PATTERSON, 62, became an SIU member in 1969, first sailing with Moran Towing of Virginia. Boatman Patterson was born in Indianapolis, Ind. He upgraded his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Boatman Patterson last sailed on a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. He is a resident of Burlington, N.C JIMMIE ROSSER, 58, began his seafaring career in 1970, sailing in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Rosser enhanced his skills in 1984 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and last sailed aboard a Crescent Towing of New Orleans vessel. Boatman Rosser lives in Diamondhead, Miss. FREDERICK SHIFERDEK, 62, was born in Jacksonville, Fla. and began sailing with the SIU in 1966 in New York. He worked primarily aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville vessels. Boatman Shiferdek makes his home in Yulee, Fla. BRUCE SNYDER, 62, joined the SIU in 1977. Boatman Snyder shipped primarily aboard Maritrans Operating Company vessels. He was born in Montana and now lives in Nogal, N.M. JOHN TATTERSON, 62, began his seafaring career in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Tatterson initially worked aboard vessels operated by Northeast Towing. The Virginia-born mariner last sailed on an Interstate Oil Transportation vessel. Boatman Tatterson resides in Hudgins, Va. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1945 Ten crew members, seven of them members of the SIU, lost their lives last month when the SS Francis Asbury went down in the English Channel. The Asbury was en route from Dover to Antwerp through the normally safe Channel when she became the latest victim of the Nazi undersea war. The ship was in convoy and experiencing clear weather and a moderate sea when the attacker struck. There was an underwater explosion directly beneath the engine. The explosion broke the back of the ship and she began to settle immediately. As water reached the boilers they exploded, filling the engine room and the entire midship with live steam. Most of the casualties were among the black gang on watch. Within a few minutes the ship had settled with two feet of water above the boat deck, and the skipper gave orders to abandon ship. Several of the rafts and life boats had been smashed by the explosion, and many of the crew had to jump overboard with their life belts. 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. FRANCISCO MIRANDA, 65, joined the NMU in 1979. Brother Miranda was born in the Dominican Republic. His first ship was the Gulf Solar. Prior to retiring, Brother Miranda worked aboard the Lykes Navigator. HENRY RESTO JR., 60, became an NMU member in 1980, initially sailing from the port of New York. Brother Resto is a New York native and worked in the engine department. His most recent voyage was on the Chesapeake Bay. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME AGE Dan Meritt 65 John Sakariassen 62 EDP Dec. 1 Dec. 1 maritime industry. In a telegram sent to President Johnson, the joint committee asked for a meeting to discuss formulation of a progressive policy for maritime. The telegram was sent following a meeting in New York of 10 maritime unions including the SIU. AFLCIO President George Meany was represented at the meeting by his executive assistant, Lane Kirkland. The telegram to the White House asked that the president send no message to Congress on the subject of maritime policy without discussing it with the unions vitally involved. This Month In SIU History 1965 A joint maritime labor committee composed of the SIU and other maritime unions has rapped the wavering federal policy toward U.S. maritime which the committee said was threatening the “annihilation” of the U.S. 1985 Frank Mongelli, one of this union’s most trusted and dedicated officials, died at his home in Valley Lee, Md. January 11. He was 72 years old. At the time of his death, he was vice president of the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. One of the founders of the school, Mongelli was instrumental in helping thousands of young men and women develop a new direction and skills to lead richer and more rewarding lives. A member of this union for more than 40 years, Frank participated in nearly all of its major beefs and organizing drives. He was known for his physical courage, his loyalty and the leadership qualities that he displayed when asked to take charge of a situation. Seafarers LOG 17 �34103p02,18.qxd 12/20/2005 3:12 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE BRYANT JR. Pensioner George Bryant Jr., 66, passed away Aug. 18. Brother Bryant joined the SIU in 1960, first sailing on the Gallaway in the steward department. He was born in Alabama. Prior to retiring in 1997, Brother Bryant shipped on the Tacoma. He made his home in Las Vegas. RAMADAN ELMOBDY Brother Ramadan Elmobdy, 57, died Aug. 14. He was a native of Egypt. Brother Elmobdy became a Seafarer in 1978. He worked in the deck department, last sailing on the P&O Ned Lloyd Buenos Aires. Brother Elmobdy called Trenton, N.J. home. EDWARD HANEY Brother Edward Haney, 65, passed away July 30. He joined the SIU in 1987 after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Haney’s first ship was the American Cormorant. The deck department member, who was born in Stayton, Ore., most recently sailed on the Overseas Vivian. He resided in Lakeside, Ore. MICHAEL HINTON Brother Michael Hinton, 53, died Aug. 20. He began his SIU career in 1969 in the port of Seattle. Brother Hinton first shipped aboard Victory Carrier’s North West. The engine department member last worked on the USNS Bowditch. He was born in Wisconsin and lived in Olympia, Wash. STEVE KARLAK Pensioner Steve Karlak, 80, passed away Sept. 8. Brother Karlak, who was born in Poland, joined the Seafarers in 1946. He first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship vessel in the engine department. His last ship was the Adventurer. Brother Karlak retired in 1987 and settled in Florida. DANNY LABOGIN Pensioner Danny Labogin, 105, died Aug. 12. Brother Labogin started his MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) career in San Francisco. Born in the Philippines, he worked in the steward department. Brother Labogin was a resident of San Francisco. ANTONIO MELENDEZ Pensioner Antonio Melendez, 84, died Sept. 25. Brother Melendez 18 Seafarers LOG became a member of the SIU in 1944 in New York. He was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the steward department. Brother Melendez first shipped on the Elizabeth. He was last employed on the Borinquen. Brother Melendez began receiving his pension in 1983. He made his home in San Juan, P.R. DAVID NEWMAN Pensioner David Newman, 73, passed away Aug. 11. Brother Newman joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Born in Illinois, the deck department member initially sailed aboard the Sampan Hitch. Before retiring in 1998, Brother Newman sailed on the Nuevo San Juan. He called Jacksonville home. SHIRLEY NICHOLSON Pensioner Shirley Nicholson, 84, died July 29. Brother Nicholson commenced his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first vessel was the William Black Yates. Brother Nicholson, who was a member of the deck department, last worked aboard the Overseas Natalie. Born in Portsmouth, Va., he lived in Pensacola, Fla. and began his retirement in 1985. GUILLERMO ORTIZ Pensioner Guillermo Ortiz, 81, passed away Sept. 28. Brother Ortiz joined the union in 1949 in New York. The Puerto Rico-born mariner was a member of the engine department. He last sailed on N.P.R.’s San Juan. Brother Ortiz went on pension in 1986 and settled in Puerto Rico. WILLIAM OSBORN Pensioner William Osborn, 76, died Sept. 8. Brother Osborn began shipping with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Seattle. He was born in Florida and worked in the deck department. Brother Osborn most recently sailed aboard the Economy. He started collecting his retirement stipends in 1988. He resided in his native state. CHESTER OWEN Pensioner Chester Owen, 92, passed away Sept. 5. A native of Georgia, Brother Owen joined the SIU in 1953 in New York. He first shipped on the Alcoa Planter in the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Manhattan. Brother Owen started receiving his pension in 1983. He called Sacramento, Calif. home. ANTHONY PERRY Brother Anthony Perry, 50, died Aug. 9. He became an SIU member in 2001. Brother Perry’s first ship was the Steven L. Bennett. Born in Pensacola, Fla. Brother Perry most recently sailed on the USNS Fisher. He made his home in Washington state. ERNEST RUAUD Pensioner Ernest Ruaud, 84, passed away Aug. 19. Brother Ruaud began his seafaring career with the MC&S in 1979 in the port of San Francisco. He worked aboard the President Van Buren and President Jefferson, among other vessels operated by American President Lines. Brother Ruaud retired in 1983 and lived in San Francisco. CARLOS TRAVIEZO Pensioner Carlos Traviezo, 88, died July 26. Brother Traviezo joined the SIU in 1960 in New York. The steward department member, who was born in Puerto Rico, first sailed on the Yorkmar. Prior to retiring in 1983, he worked aboard the Santa Clara. Brother Traviezo lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. INLAND DENIS ABSHIRE Boatman Denis Abshire, 56, passed away Aug. 24. He was born in Louisiana. Boatman Abshire became a Seafarer in 1973, shipping primarily on vessels operated by Seabulk Towing. Boatman Abshire was a resident of Starks, La. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. CROSBY MILLS Pensioner Crosby Mills, 97, died June 16. Brother Mills joined the union in 1964, first sailing on the Norwalk. The Texas-born mariner worked in both the steward and engine departments. Brother Mills’ last voyage was aboard the Lykes Explorer. He went on pension in 1999. ZOLTON NEMETH Pensioner Zolton Nemeth, 77, passed away July 4. Brother Nemeth became an NMU member in 1945, first sailing on the James Ellwood Jones. He was born in Alpha, N.J. and shipped in the engine department. Before retiring in 1973, Brother Nemeth worked aboard the Gulf Trader. NORMAN NORTH Shepherd’s most recent voyage was aboard the African Meteor. The steward department member went on pension in 1972. JORGE SIGUENZA Pensioner Norman North, 82, died July 5. Brother North started sailing with the NMU in 1970 aboard the Penobscot. Brother North was born in Boston, Mass. His last voyage was on the Massachusetts. Brother North began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1988. Pensioner Jorge Siguenza, 75, died July 2. Brother Siguenza began sailing with the NMU in 1954 in New Orleans. His first ship was the Granada. Brother Siguenza was born in Guatemala. He was a member of the steward department, last sailing on the Gulf Trader. Brother Siguenza started collecting his pension in 1984. JOSE PEREIRA HILDRED SMITH Pensioner Jose Pereira, 79, passed away May 27. Brother Pereira embarked on his seafaring career in 1946, first sailing on the James L. Richards. A native of Portugal, he retired in 1966. His last ship was the American Puritan. MANUEL PEREZ Pensioner Hildred Smith, 80, passed away June 13. Brother Smith embarked on his seafaring career in 1944 in the port of San Francisco. The Louisiana-born mariner sailed in the engine department. Brother Smith’s first ship was the Antigua; his last was the Tonsina. He began his retirement in 1990. Pensioner Manuel Perez, 84, died June 30. Brother Perez joined the NMU in 1947, first sailing on the John A. Quitman. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Perez was a member of the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1972. Brother Perez last worked on the American Apollo. Pensioner Charles Spenner, 88, died May 2. Brother Spenner joined the NMU ranks in 1942 in Baltimore. He first sailed aboard the Zacapa; his last ship was the Pioneer Commander. Brother Spenner went on pension in 1972. ANNELISES SABO FERDINAND STANCHI Pensioner Annelises Sabo, 77, passed away May 3. Sister Sabo joined the NMU in 1977 in Norfolk, Va. Her first ship was the Amoco Delaware. Sister Sabo was born in Germany and shipped in the steward department. She most recently sailed aboard the Marine Princess. Sister Sabo began receiving compensation for her retirement. in 1993. JOSEPH SEMBLY Pensioner Joseph Sembly, 76, died May 12. Brother Sembly began his seafaring career in 1946. He initially sailed from the port of Baltimore on the Louisa M. Alcott. Brother Sembly was a member of the steward department. He started receiving his retirement stipends in 1971. VINCENT SHEPHERD Pensioner Vincent Shepherd, 86, passed away May 4. Brother Shepherd was born in Panama. He joined the union in 1946. Brother CHARLES SPENNER Pensioner Ferdinand Stanchi, 84, passed away May 15. Brother Stanchi joined the NMU in 1942, initially shipping from New Orleans. The engine department member was born in Argentina. Brother Stanchi most recently sailed on the Mormac Lynx. He retired in 1972. WILLIAM WINBERRY Pensioner William Winberry, 85, died June 13. Brother Winberry, who was a native of Hebert, N.C., joined the NMU in 1937 in Norfolk, Va. He sailed aboard the Liberty Glo and the Trojan. Brother Winberry began receiving his pension in 1969. RODERICK YOUNG Pensioner Roderick Young, 78, passed away June 24. Brother Young joined the NMU in 1946 in Seattle. His first ship was the James D. Trask. Brother Young worked in both the engine and steward departments. Prior to retiring in 1971, he shipped on the Ashley Lykes. January 2006 �34103_P3,19,24.qxd 12/21/2005 9:02 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. ACHIEVER (Maersk Line Limited), Oct. 26—Chairman Robert B. Lindsay Jr., Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate Charles Collins, Steward Delegate William Bless Jr. Chairman announced payoff prior to arrival in Charleston, S.C. Secretary reported that Maersk has officially taken over from USSM, therefore ordering procedures and company polices are in transitional phase and OT allowances may vary. Educational director urged crew members to check out upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for next contract. After Charleston, ship heading to Houston, Texas. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker Company), Oct. 11— Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Leland O. Peterson. Chairman asked crew to keep volume down on TV during meal hours. He also reminded them of BP’s policy on remodeling staterooms: it is not to be done. All members are to give secretary suggestions for next contract in writing so they can be documented and forwarded to headquarters. Secretary announced that more than $16,000 was raised by crew and company for Hurricane Katrina victims. Money was sent to American Red Cross. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of upgrading courses available at Piney Point school and advised them to renew documents early so as not to miss any job opportunities. He told them passports can be received in about a week. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers talked about extra bonus vacation and were assured that as long as they are in the ATC hiring pool, they will be eligible for the benefit. Discussion held about communications issues between ship and headquarters. Suggestions made regarding items for new contract, including pay increases for everyone. ATC’s policy of not selling tobacco products in Slop Chest was reiterated. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good meals. CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), Oct. 31—Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Claudia N. Mauricio Brice, Deck Delegate Andrew D. Esteban, Engine Delegate Oliver L. Celestial. Chairman reported smooth sailing with great crew. Secretary asked departing crew members to clean rooms for next person. Educational director talked about upgrading opportunities for seafarers at union-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding prescription plan. Collection fund for Katrina victims netted $330. Engineer informed that dishwasher and ice machine are not working properly. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for excellent food. Next port: Lake Charles, La. COAST RANGE (Intrepid), Oct. 31—Chairman Terry D. Cowans Sr., Secretary Lanette A. Lopez, Deck Delegate Mario Batiz. Chairman urged all mariners to read Seafarers LOG for current information about union and maritime industry concerns. Secretary reported approximately $500 per month spent on satellite TV and DVDs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate requested clarification on company’s policy regarding speaking English only in work areas and that policy be posted. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), Oct. 30—Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Earl A. Olson, Deck Delegate James F. Harris, Engine Delegate Ahmed Salim. Bosun informed crew he has contacted headquarters regarding new contract and requested copies. He also stated he is a firm believer in SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and that money is used to fight forces on Capitol Hill that could take away seafarers’ way of making a living. Crew members were reminded to wear proper safety gear while on deck. Educational With Seafarers on the Lakes Seafarers aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger recently submitted these two photos which were snapped aboard the Hannah Marine vessel. The ship is a self-unloading cement carrier. During a recent shipboard meeting, crew members discussed their contract and also the importance of safety. January 2006 director advised members to upgrade often at Paul Hall Center No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Cherry Point and Richmond, Calif. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), Oct.9—Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary James H. Rider, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Howard G. Blanks Jr., Steward Delegate Isabel R. Sabio. Chairman announced Oct. 18 payoff in Charleston, S.C. He thanked everyone for safe trip and reminded them to report any safety issues to department heads. Secretary reported 60-day stores to be taken aboard in Charleston and expressed gratitude for everyone’s help keeping ship clean. Educational director led discussion about recent health plan changes and reminded all hands to check documents’ expiration dates. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Crew members made suggestions for next contract, including strong wage increases to help offset some of the added medical expenses. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS LUXMAR (OSG Ship Management), Oct. 20— Chairman Albert C. Williams, Secretary Douglas A. Hundshamer, Educational Director William Pough, Deck Delegate Ronald Poole, Engine Delegate Grady Lamontaje, Steward Delegate Alba Ayala. Chairman emphasized importance of working together safely and requested vessel master set up ship’s fund. Educational director urged mariners to keep all documents in order so as not be turned down for employment. He also raised member awareness of SMPPP (Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan) and advised crew to review individual accounts when they receive them in April. Beef reported in deck department. No disputed OT. Professional exterminator requested aboard ship. Vote of thanks given to steward department and OMUs. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), Oct. 30—Chairman George J. Diefenbach, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Chairman announced Nov. 5 payoff in Newark, N.J. Secretary encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD, saying “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters.” Educational director stressed importance of taking advantage of educational opportunities available at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $40 in ship’s fund and $800 in satellite fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. Clarification requested on how SIU-NMU merger affects members’ seniority. Crew would like cost of living increases in pension benefits along with health insurance for spouses. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J.; Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C.; Houston, Texas. COURAGE (Interocean American Shipping), Nov. 15—Chairman Michael Phy, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox Jr., Educational Director Owen A. Gallagher, Deck Delegate Edward Martinez, Engine Delegate Alfred Norris, Steward Delegate Michael Harris. Chairman announced Nov. 16 payoff in Bayonne, N.J. He asked crew for cooperation in sorting plastic items from regular trash. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep common areas clean and thanked deck gang for being quiet in passageways so others can sleep. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade their skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and keep documents up to date. Beef reported in engine department pertaining to tankcleaning procedures; no disputed OT noted. Recommendation made to lower age and seatime requirements for pension benefits. Request made for new mattresses, fountain machine for cold drinks as well as transformer (220v to 110c) for each fo’c’sle. Next ports: Bayonne; Newark, N.J.; Baltimore; Charleston, S.C. GREEN DALE (Waterman Steamship), Nov. 4—Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Allen D. Bright, Steward Delegate Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Educational Director Monroe G. Monseve, Deck Delegate Derrick W. Hurt, Steward Delegate Marie Mitchell. Chairman announced Nov. 21 payoff in Beaumont, Texas and thanked crew for all their support over the long voyage, especially the offloading of equipment in various ports of call. He encouraged members to attend local union meetings—whether at sea or on shore. Secretary educated members as to why union meetings are so important. He also asked those departing vessel to clean rooms. Educational director spoke to crew about upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center and stressed need to keep all docu- Thanksgiving on Empire State Seafarers recently crewed up the Empire State when the vessel was mobilized for hurricane relief operations in the New Orleans area. Some of the crew members are pictured here enjoying their Thanksgiving dinner aboard the ship, which remained in the Gulf Coast region as of mid-December. Recertified Bosun Jamie Miller sent the photos to the LOG. Hamin Sialana. Chairman thanked crew for smooth trip and requested status of contract negotiations. Educational director urged Seafarers to watch safety videos and report any damaged equipment to department head. He also talked about opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for upgrading skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for good food “and plenty of it.” Suggestion made to lower age requirements for pension benefits. Next ports: Vancouver, Wash.; Long Beach, Calif.; Japan. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), Nov. 20—Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Joseph J. Gallo Jr., Educational Director Charles F. Welch, Deck Delegate Isaac Vega-Mercado, Engine Delegate Eliesar Montalvo, Steward Delegate Rafael A. Cardenas Jr. Chairman announced Nov. 20 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He recommended all members keep z-cards and passports current or chance losing a job. Crew members were asked to have union books and dues payments ready for patrolman at payoff. Secretary thanked everyone for great voyage and wished them all a happy holiday season. Educational director talked about upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point facility. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. NORTHERN LIGHTS (Interocean American Shipping), Nov. 6—Chairman Eric A. Berry, ments current. He further advised everyone to read monthly Seafarers LOG for information about union and maritime industry. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read President Sacco’s report in latest LOG and thanked him for his support and continued efforts in getting more jobs for SIU members. Clarification requested on cash limit at draw and payoff. Thanks given to everyone, especially steward department, for jobs well done. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Beaumont, Texas; Mobile, Ala. USNS MENDONCA (American Overseas Marine), Nov. 10— Chairman John A. Mendez, Secretary Robert M. Mensching, Engine Delegate Benjamin A. Stanley, Steward Delegate Nina M. McFall. Chairman urged everyone to read Seafarers LOG, especially president’s report. Secretary asked crew members to do their share in helping keep ship clean. Educational director spoke about benefits of upgrading at Piney Point school. It was noted that the company has initiated a ship’s fund. Report will be given to membership once specifics have been determined. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman will try to get copies of all contracts (Amsea, MSC, etc.) as well as Memoranda of Understanding for crew reference. Question raised whether company would supply movies and gym equipment. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next port: Philadelphia. Seafarers LOG 19 �34103_P01,4,5,20,21.qxd 12/20/2005 3:29 PM Page 20 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea February & March 2006 Membership Meetings NOVEMBER 16 — DECEMBER 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 2 0 2 8 0 9 38 21 1 21 14 40 20 7 0 10 18 0 26 25 262 0 0 9 5 0 9 15 17 1 10 4 16 7 1 1 4 8 3 11 9 4 3 8 12 2 6 32 24 3 8 12 18 18 3 6 5 8 5 36 26 239 0 3 7 8 1 4 10 21 4 7 6 15 12 4 2 2 8 4 21 15 1 2 0 7 1 1 25 6 1 2 9 10 7 0 2 0 6 1 15 12 108 0 0 1 4 1 4 10 14 0 1 3 14 10 0 0 0 4 1 4 10 130 154 81 0 0 3 8 0 13 14 20 1 9 4 25 9 0 7 2 17 0 16 21 0 0 0 11 2 7 6 6 0 2 5 5 12 2 2 1 5 0 9 12 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 1 0 2 1 3 3 0 0 0 1 1 7 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 1 2 1 4 29 22 1 6 9 21 19 3 1 4 13 1 27 15 179 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 0 3 5 3 4 5 20 21 2 7 6 8 9 3 10 6 8 4 29 19 172 0 2 0 3 1 0 10 4 1 3 2 7 4 0 1 1 4 0 14 9 66 0 1 0 2 1 1 17 23 0 8 7 21 10 2 1 11 13 2 25 18 163 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 3 2 1 8 9 12 1 6 4 6 7 0 0 2 5 2 11 7 87 1 0 3 3 3 6 10 12 3 5 3 10 6 3 1 2 5 2 16 10 104 0 0 1 3 1 2 4 3 0 1 2 5 5 0 0 0 1 0 5 3 36 0 0 5 2 0 3 7 16 0 5 3 8 3 2 0 6 5 1 11 6 83 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 2 0 6 12 13 0 2 4 11 10 1 2 0 13 1 15 16 169 87 26 111 0 0 0 0 0 2 8 3 0 0 4 9 1 0 0 1 9 0 5 1 1 4 1 4 0 3 14 13 0 6 5 20 6 0 8 5 16 0 17 16 4 1 4 4 2 6 28 14 0 1 6 29 22 1 23 0 8 2 23 12 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 2 0 0 0 5 1 0 0 1 1 0 3 1 0 0 0 7 3 3 3 4 0 6 2 2 10 0 2 1 3 2 6 6 60 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 2 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 18 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 3 3 2 5 0 4 7 7 0 4 1 8 4 0 7 3 9 1 8 9 0 2 0 2 2 1 17 4 0 0 3 3 11 0 12 0 2 0 11 7 0 0 3 7 0 3 13 9 0 2 2 13 10 2 3 1 8 0 13 7 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 3 0 5 14 0 11 63 44 0 26 26 67 26 5 0 19 36 1 49 44 1 5 1 13 3 4 42 14 2 5 16 21 12 0 1 0 10 2 21 19 439 371 192 0 0 8 7 2 9 23 26 0 14 11 31 8 3 2 4 13 2 15 9 1 5 7 12 3 3 13 27 1 9 7 20 17 6 2 4 11 2 24 20 1 1 2 5 1 4 14 18 0 2 2 15 12 1 0 0 4 1 7 17 187 194 107 0 0 6 11 1 17 29 28 1 13 11 38 14 3 8 3 30 0 28 37 0 0 3 10 1 13 12 11 0 4 8 11 17 2 1 2 7 0 14 17 0 0 1 2 0 1 5 5 1 2 2 7 7 0 1 0 3 0 10 2 96 278 133 49 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 9 3 0 0 4 14 0 0 0 1 10 0 7 1 1 4 1 12 5 15 27 25 0 9 7 55 14 0 9 6 17 0 31 14 6 4 4 10 3 17 34 29 0 1 7 54 24 1 19 1 15 3 33 19 43 139 190 20 85 77 0 52 252 284 604 619 405 397 421 197 342 956 950 632 *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 20 5 11 9 28 7 17 44 24 2 18 16 35 24 5 6 10 13 7 50 40 Seafarers LOG Piney Point .............Monday: February 6, March 6 Algonac ..................Friday: February 10, March 10 Baltimore ................Thursday: February 9, March 9 Boston.....................Friday: February 10, March 10 Guam ......................Thursday: February 23, March 23 Honolulu .................Friday: February 17, March 17 Houston ..................Monday: February 13, March 13 Jacksonville ............Thursday: February 9, March 9 Joliet .......................Thursday: February 16, March 16 Mobile ....................Wednesday: February 15, March 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: February 14, March 14 New York................Tuesday: February 7, March 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: February 9, March 9 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: February 8, March 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: February 16, March 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: February 16, March 16 San Juan..................Thursday: February 9, March 9 St. Louis..................Friday: February 17, March 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: February 24, March 24 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: February 21* .................................Monday: March 20 ............................................(*change created by Presidents’ Day holiday) ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Additional Thanks – More SDRF Contributors The November and December issues of the LOG included lists of individuals who contributed to the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF). Since those lists were compiled, additional contributions were received from people whose names are listed below. Timothy Burke Anthony Maben Lavern McDowell Sr. Donald Melonson Mohsin Nasser Christopher Schneider Ellen Silver Jerome Smith John Walsh 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 January 2006 �34103_P01,4,5,20,21.qxd 12/21/2005 8:12 AM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 21 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report NOVEMBER 16 — DECEMBER 15, 2005 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, 422, Suite 101B 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) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 January 2006 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 15 2 6 11 0 1 1 39 2 3 1 2 3 0 0 0 11 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 4 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 16 0 3 14 3 0 1 40 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 13 1 1 12 1 2 0 31 12 32 5 16 32 0 1 7 105 9 11 1 5 12 0 1 3 42 0 3 1 11 1 0 1 0 17 0 4 3 0 6 1 0 3 17 6 20 6 1 16 1 0 5 55 1 3 7 5 10 0 1 0 27 0 2 3 7 0 1 0 0 13 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 5 6 14 3 4 14 1 0 2 44 3 4 4 1 16 1 0 1 30 0 2 3 6 0 0 0 0 11 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 2 7 0 0 6 0 0 1 16 1 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 7 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 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 4 4 0 0 6 0 0 2 16 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 3 0 1 0 0 1 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 3 0 3 5 1 0 0 13 0 1 2 2 2 0 1 0 8 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 5 Port 1 0 3 0 5 2 0 0 11 1 2 2 1 1 0 1 0 8 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 68 26 13 67 13 14 53 204 99 41 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Jesus V. Garcia of Fort Lee, N.J. It was taken on an SIU-contracted ship “a few years ago,” he wrote in a letter to the LOG that accompanied the photo. “As you can see,” he wrote, “it shows some of my shipmates having coffee at 10:00 a.m.” Brother Garcia, who was born in Fort Worth, Texas, joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of New York sailing as an FOWT. He retired in 1980, last sailing on the Borinquen. 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. Seafarers LOG 21 �34103_P6_16,22_23.qxd 12/21/2005 10:43 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 668 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 668. They are (in alphabetical order) Michael Callahan, Marcus Campbell, Enrique Defendini, Brian Elam, Juan Gonzalez, Legarrius Jones, Benita Long, David Moses, Lee Patrick, Richard Perez, Marvin Porter, Christopher Sahagon, Terrance Sawyer, Gregory Simmons, Jeffrey Tyson, Ryan Wall and Michael Williams. ARPA— With instructor Mike Smith (far right) are Seafarers who completed the ARPA course Aug. 25. They are (in alphabetical order) Andrew Brzezinski, Nikunj Christian, Jeffrey Coble, Alexander Kepchar, Felix Nunez and Michael Presser. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Sept. 16 are (from left, kneeling) Norman Rodriguez, John Maynor Sr., (first row) Jerome Prince, Paul Brown, Ty Varnadoe, Romulo Racoma Jr., Thia-Curon Banks, (last row) Chris Malbas, James Nickerson, Stacy Murphy and Daniel McFarland. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Damage Control — Upgrading Seafarers working aboard MTL vessels who completed the Damage Control course Sept. 23 are (in no specific order) Robet Yates, Terry Popperwill, Keith Kirkeide, Harry Livingston Jr., Robert Taylor, Guy Pruitt, Garnett Leary, Melvin Pendleton, Greg Cherry, Eddie Garner, Riley Johnson, James Hunley, Brian Cherry, Miles Ireland Jr., Bradley Thomas Jr. and Art Schwendeman. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is at far left. Chief Cook — Graduates of the chief cook class in November are (from the left) Charles Davis, Elba Alfaro, Larry Bachelor, Chef John Dobson (instructor), Reynaldo Ricarte, Lisa Favreaux and Mary Whatley. Jr. Engineer — Completing the junior engineer program, which lasted from June 20 through Sept. 9 are (in no specific order) Aaron Matuszny, Kenneth Green, Christopher Eason, Ronald Embody, Darrell Riggins, Demond Williams, Terrance Maxwell, Charles Bennett, Anthony Neathery, Michael Voda, Joseph Krajnik, Jeffrey Hawkins, Eric Mentzer and Bryan Fletcher. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far left. Computer Lab Classes Holding their certificates of achievement for courses recently completed in the computer lab are (from left in the above left photo) Christopher M. Eason, George A. Miller and Joseph Krajnik, with instructor Rick Prucha in the back. In the above right photo, Lon Maduro is awarded a number of certificates of achievement in computer courses from Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Government Vessels — Upgrading Seafarers graduating Aug. 26 from the government vessels course are (in no specific order) Florencio Marfa Jr., Anthony Lieto, Dana Paradise, Rene Rosario, Sylvan Harris, Philip Forman, Wilfred Colon, Radford Rainey, Arnell George and Alexander Rodriguez. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far left. January 2006 �34103_P6_16,22_23X.qxd 12/22/2005 7:43 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Sept. 23 graduates of this class include (in no specific order) George Miller, Gill Sickles, Harold Harper, Joseph Thomas, Joseph Barnes, Jeffrey Moore, Duane Frosburg and Jackie Jones Jr. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center, back) are students who completed the welding course Sept. 9. They are (in no specific order) Michael Murner, Michael Wiley, Paul Voisin, James Watson, Lon Maduro and Hector Solis (Note: Not all are pictured.) Lifeboatman/Water Survival — The following students completed the lifeboatman/water survival course ending Aug. 19. Included in the class, which was taught by Bernabe Pelington (standing aft in both photos), are (in no specific order) Mark Jones, Paul Conway, Radford Rainey, Lawrence Jackcroft, Kenneth Young, Alexander Rodriguez, Chris Malbas, Brian Goodman, Gary Walker, Morris Coronel, Robert Guilmette, Julio Rivas, Glenn Taan and Donaldo Valencia. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Aug. 12 from instructor Tony Sevilla (far right) are (in no specific order) Steven Lonas, Wilfred Colon, Saleh Mothana, Edwin Rivera, Cortney Sacks, Abebe Reda, William Little, Jennifer Souci and Jarret Leask. Radar — The seven Seafarers completing the radar course Aug. 19 are (in alphabetical order) Nikunj Christian, Rafael Clemente, Patricia Hausner, Alexander Kepchar, Michael McCourt, Felix Nuñez and Michael Presser. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, Aug. 12: Nina Holder, Mark Howland, Shala Hunt, Rufus Johnson, Roy Kamehiro, Tin Kyaw, Rokki Lewis, Brandon Lincoln, Michael Lingsch, Amy Linke-Mikles, Elizabeth Lopez, Alejandra Marquez, Nicole Matthews, Sheila McClain, Donald McDavis, Thomas McIntosh, Venecia Meno, Whitney Mitchell and William Tinney. STCW — NCL, Aug. 12: Zinnia Montenegro, Daisy Anne Nalicat, Pablito Pellosis, Diana Peterson, Michael Rudkosky II, Stephen Schwartz, Jeffrey Shedrick, Brian Sheeks, Danielle Siegrist, Jodi Smith, Sheena Smith, Thomas Sover, Jerrald Taylor, Joseph Thiele, Robert Tracy, Magdalena Wiklund, Daniel Wilcox, YuQuan Wu and Nancy Zeoli-Bohanan. STCW — NCL, Aug. 19: Mark Abrincia, Elray Adams, Michael Barton, Kevin Bertelmann, Christine Brown, Monica Brown, Robert Budrick Jr., Jason Carlucci, Lillian Chatwin, Sandra Clyde, Fedd Coleman, Debra Croft, Jarrod Cutchins, Samuel Day III, Jennifer Dunn, Kesha Evans, Tiffany Glenn, Anthony Guzman and SIU members Zedrick Alcantara and Bryan Benak. STCW — NCL, Aug 19: Helen Legaux, James Lundy, Jay Macy, Matthew Martin, Talon McKinney, Laura Mertes, Emily Miller, Karsten Murray, Ivana Norgah, Danilo Pacia, Joseph Padden, Shawn Pajeaud, Angeline Palisoc, Rebecca Patrick, Vanessa Patterson and SIU members Lawrence Lewis and Benjamin Medrano. STCW — NCL, Aug. 19: Rachel Piceno, STCW — NCL, Aug. 19: Carolyn Hathorn, Gregory Hayes, Sharon Henderson, Andrew Hinds, Carole Horn, Heather Hughes, Michelle Ireland, Talita Jefferson, Janice Johnson, Megan Johnson, Douglas Jones, Corey Keigler, Nicole Kilmer, Shelley Kimball, Chetan Kumar, Rebecca Lee and SIU members Albert Haarmann, Leslie Hewett Jr., and Robert Lerma. (Note: Not all are pictured.) January 2006 Bon Phoaphai Pornchai, Ronald Reed, Jamilynn Rosario, Larry Ross, Mitchell Ross, Leonard Rugante, Erika Schoenknecht, Kendra Stivers, Clint Stubblebine, Michael Tracy, Erika Vanderzon, Grant Van Ulbrich, John Vertin, Aldrin Villaluz, Mike Wabst, David West, Christa Wichert, James Young and SIU members Ethan Mims and Rene Rosario. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �34103_P3,19,24.qxd 12/21/2005 9:02 AM Page 24 Volume 68, Number 1 January 2006 A R V P 8 2005 in Review Seafarers Answered Calls for Disaster Relief, Ongoing Troop Support In a year bracketed by bittersweet stories of disaster relief, the SIU enjoyed exceptionally good news throughout 2005 concerning its contracted fleet. Whether gaining new tonnage, maintaining jobs aboard ships previously under contract or learning of plans to build more vessels in American shipyards, Seafarers had plenty to applaud. SIU members also continued supporting U.S. troops in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, sailing aboard dozens of ships in the Middle East and elsewhere. As with any year, 2005 brought its share of challenges. It began with Seafarers mobilizing to support victims of the tsunami which struck in late 2004, and ended with SIU members still on duty in the U.S. Gulf Coast where they helped provide relief for hurricane victims. While the members were duly credited for their efforts in both missions, the extensive storm damage saddened all concerned. Seafarers also couldn’t escape the burgeoning health care crisis —a nationwide emergency that threatens to cripple the U.S. economy. Following is a look back at some of the key stories from 2005. Job Growth Continues The year started with the government announcing operating contracts for the extended, expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program and ended with Seafarers crewing up the MSP’s newest ships. Overall, the program grew from the old number of 47 U.S.-flag vessels to the current 60, beginning in October. SIU members sail on every one of those ships, so the union gained 13 vessels in the updated MSP. Not to be overlooked in the program’s growth were the many supportive comments from highranking military officials who participated in “flag-in” ceremonies. Their enthusiastic recognition of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s vital role as part of America’s fourth arm of defense reflects the bond between mariners and the troops for whom they deliver. In a blockbuster declaration in mid-April, SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group announced it will operate 10 U.S.flag tankers scheduled for construction at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (formerly Kvaerner Philadelphia). The company said the five-year construction plan is “believed to be the largest of its kind in American commercial shipbuilding.” Plenty of fanfare accompanied the launch of NCL America’s second ship, the Pride of America. Christened in New York in June, the state-of-the-art cruise ship represents not only new jobs for Seafarers, but also the continued revitalization of an important segment of the U.S. fleet. Other areas saw growth, too. On the Great Lakes, American Steamship Company added the 1,000-foot self-unloader Burns Harbor, while the riverboat Detroit Princess also came under SIU contract. Members of the union’s Government Services Division crewed up the USNS Lewis and Clark, the first of eight vessels in a new T-AKE class. There are options to order four more of the dry cargo/ammunition ships, for a potential total of 12 vessels. Matson’s containership Manulani entered service, and the company ordered two more ships from Aker Philadelphia. The second and third Alaska class tankers—the Alaskan Explorer and Alaskan Navigator —were delivered and sailed with SIU crews. One more such ship is being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. Like the others, it will be operated by Alaska Tanker Company. Maritrans announced a contact to build three new ATBs. Seafarers crewed up the new car carrier Jean Anne, owned by The Pasha Group and operated by Interocean Ugland Management. The coastwise tanker Sea Venture came under SIU contract, operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning, Inc. Seafarers also saw significant job retention in 2005 with the awarding of various contracts. None was bigger than the U.S. Maritime Administration’s announcement of operating agreements for the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Overall, Seafarerscontracted companies won contracts to operate all 54 ships in the RRF fleet. Similarly, Maersk Line Limited won an operating agreement for eight fast sealift ships, while Ocean Ships won a separate contract for four of the T-5 tankers. Seafarers already sailed aboard those ships, but as the operating agreements expired, there was no guarantee that the new ones would go to SIU-contracted employers. In Peace and War While the SIU’s support of our troops in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom predates 2005 and continues into the New Year, the disaster relief operations—particularly in the U.S.—once again showed that the merchant marine is reliable not just in times of conflict but whenever needed. More than 100 SIU members crewed 14 ships that sailed in relief missions to Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Indonesia and other Indian Ocean nations hit by the tsunami right after Christmas 2004. Additionally, the SIU One of the year’s highlights occurred June 17 in New York as the SIUcrewed Pride of America was christened by U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao. Pictured at the ceremony are (from left) U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Thomas Gilmour, SIU President Michael Sacco, Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay, NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch, Secretary Chao and her father, James Chao. donated $10,000 to the International Red Cross for use in that region. Seafarers remain very active in the Gulf Coast relief efforts following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Altogether, SIU members sailed aboard no fewer than 18 ships involved in the situation— whether moving them from initial danger or subsequently bringing assistance not only to the storm victims but in some cases to the government relief workers themselves. Moreover, the union quickly established the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund so that those wishing to directly assist their fellow SIU members could do so. Hundreds of people contributed. Perhaps overlooked, but also noteworthy, were the mobilizations of the USNS Mercy and USNS Niagara Falls in late March. Seafarers aboard those ships helped bring assistance to earthquake victims in northern Sumatra. Political Action and More In the U.S. maritime industry, announcements don’t come much bigger than the one from SIUcontracted Overseas Shipholding Group confirming that it will operate 10 new tankers like the one pictured here. The vessels are scheduled for construction at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. The union remained extremely active in politics because such practice is vital to the survival of not only the SIU but the entire U.S. Merchant Marine. In addition to supporting pro-maritime candidates in the off-year elections, the SIU backed (among other bills and proposals) the Employee Free Choice Act; the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act; and opening the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for safe exploration. SIU officials and members continued their full involvement in everything from local and regional port security committees to shipboard security teams. Seafarers reelected Michael Sacco as union president in an election that ended Dec. 31, 2004. The tallying committee approved election results for officials who will serve four-year terms (from 2005-2008). The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) awarded scholarships worth a combined $132,000 to three SIU members and five dependents. Facing defections from a handful of unions, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney vowed to persevere and took steps to ensure the federation’s prosperity. The addition of two other unions following the abandonment by others, along with the approval of Solidarity Charters late in the year, both reflected as well as reinforced his determination. ITF The union remained active in the International Transport Workers’ Federation, an organization dedicated to protecting workers’ rights around the world. SIU ITF inspectors secured $347,000 in back pay plus repatriation for 43 crew members on the runaway-flag passenger and gaming vessel St. Tropez. They also brought seven Panamanianflag vessels under ITF contract and secured back pay for crew members on the Sumida. The ITF and international shipowners’ Joint Negotiating Group reached a new agreement covering 55,000 mariners on more than 3,200 ships. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, participated in the negotiations. Continued on page 17 � 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 January 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES STEADY PROGRESS CONTINUES IN ITF’S FOC CAMPAIGN SIU-CREWED SHIPS DELIVER FOR U.S. TROOPS 3RD BP TANKER DELIVERED MAERSK AWARDED MSC CONTRACT FOR AMMO SHIPS PAGE, CARTER NEW TRACTOR TUG JOINS BRUSCO FLEET CAPE TRINITY HONORED FOR PERFORMANCE IN ENDURING FREEDOM SEAFARERS RECOGNIZED FOR SAFETY ISPS CODE GETS MIXED REVIEWS RALLIES FOCUS ON WORKERS’ RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS CLEVELAND HOSTS UNION INDUSTRIES SHOW HIGH COST OF HEALTH CARE CONTINUES TO MAKE HEADLINES FLEET EXPANSION YEAR’S BRIGHTEST STORY 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 01/01/2006 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. 1 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/c35abf0716a355e6c96051468d13f688.pdf b33b9debf0d19f0fab5758081a056ace PDF Text Text 33300_P1,3,9,15_17x1.qxd 11/29/2005 8:00 AM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 12 December 2005 SEASON'S GREETINGS Beck Notice Page 6 Union Mourns John Fay Pages 2, 3, 9 �33300_P2x1.qxd 11/28/2005 9:13 PM Page 2 President’s Report Remembering John Fay For those of us in the SIU who worked closely with John Fay, this is a bittersweet time. The holiday season always brings a certain amount of joy, but at the same time we definitely miss our union brother and good friend, who passed away on November 8. The people who knew John the best understand what he meant not only to the SIU but really to our entire industry. Most recently serving as the SIU’s executive vice president, Michael Sacco he was everything you could hope for in a coworker and friend: intelligent, dedicated, fair. He was a good guy to have on your side, and I will always be grateful for the support he gave me from the moment I became president of our union. John was someone I turned to more than once, and I never regretted doing so. For some of our newer members who may not have known John quite as well, let me just say that while he brought his own unique contributions, he very much fit the mold of so many of our officials and members who truly devoted their lives to this organization. He also did outstanding work through the International Transport Workers’ Federation on behalf of all mariners. There is a saying in sports that when a player turns in a particularly strong effort, he “didn’t leave anything on the field,” meaning he gave his all. When it came to his work, which he performed for nearly a half-century as an SIU official, John Fay didn’t leave anything on the field. It may sound a little bit corny to say that we can honor John’s memory by building upon our union’s success, but, knowing his strong faith and his love for the SIU, I’m sure he would expect nothing less. In fact, at this point I can almost picture him peering over his glasses and with a wry smile saying, “Thanks for the tribute, but don’t you guys have work to do?” And of course the answer would be yes. Our union continues to take great strides, but not without smart, sustained effort. We have made numerous gains in the past year alone, but none happened by accident. Whether we’re talking about the new Maritime Security Program ships, or the latest Alaska Tanker Company vessel, or NCL America’s newest cruise ship, or IUM’s new car carrier or any of a number of other new SIU-contracted ships or tugboats, we have succeeded because of hard work. We have succeeded because of rock-solid support from the membership. We have succeeded by not being afraid to make difficult decisions. We have succeeded because of men like John who are committed to our team—to our SIU family. I will always remember his fine example as our union moves forward. I extend our union’s deepest thanks and sympathy to John’s wife, Phyllis, and to his entire family. Season’s Greetings To all of our union brothers and sisters, our retirees and their families, may you have a happy, safe and healthy holiday season. Whether you’re at sea or home for the holidays, I hope you can enjoy the spirit of this time of year, and I hope we all get to experience at least one or two quiet moments in which to count our blessings. Once again I also would ask that you join me in reserving some of your thoughts and prayers for our SIU brothers and sisters still sailing in support of our armed forces. They continue to do outstanding, important work as part of America’s fourth arm of defense, and it goes without saying that we all wish safe returns for every one of them along with all of our troops. Volume 67, Number 12 December 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 Augie Tellez Appointed Exec. VP; George Tricker Named Contracts VP The union’s executive board last month approved SIU President Michael Sacco’s recommendations that Augie Tellez become the executive vice president of the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU and that George Tricker serve as vice president of contracts and contracts enforcement. These appointments were made in accordance with Article X of the union’s constitution. Tellez succeeds the late John Fay as executive vice president. He has a long record of service and accomplishment with the SIU, including serving the past 14 years as vice president contracts. Tellez was appointed to that position in 1991 and subsequently was elected to the same post by the union’s membership in 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004. Tellez worked his way up through the ranks, starting with the SIU in 1975 after graduating from the entry program at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. He sailed from the union’s Brooklyn, N.Y. hiring hall as an able bodied seaman before coming ashore. He served the union in various capacities in Jacksonville, Fla.; Mobile, Ala.; Tampa; Paducah, Ky.; Baltimore; and Houston. In 1980, he became the port agent for the SIU’s headquarters port, located in Brooklyn. Tellez in 1987 relocated to what Augie Tellez George Tricker had become the union’s new headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., where he served as special assistant to the president. That same year, he was elected as the vice president for the Seafarers International Union of North America—the parent union of the SIU’s seagoing component. A year later, he became the assistant vice president for contracts and contracts enforcement. Tricker also joined the SIU after completing the trainee program, in 1979. He sailed in the deck department aboard deep sea vessels and also sailed in the inland division with Crowley. He upgraded three times at the Paul Hall Center before coming ashore in 1990 to work for the union. In 1991, Tricker served as a patrolman on the West Coast. Later that year, he became port agent in Wilmington, Calif. Tricker was active in the local port council and the central labor council throughout his years in Wilmington. In 1997, Tricker transferred to SIU headquarters after being appointed assistant vice president contracts—a position he has held ever since, and to which he was elected in 2000 and again in 2004. He extensively has been involved in most of the union’s contract negotiations since then, and in many cases played a leading role in helping secure favorable agreements. He also helped organize the cruise ship Pride of Aloha when the vessel joined the U.S.-flag fleet last year. Additionally, the executive board approved the appointments of Steve Judd as assistant vice president contracts and Chris Westbrook as New Orleans port agent. Labor Gets Out the Vote The power of labor unmistakably was demonstrated Nov. 8 during the off-year elections in California, New Jersey, Virginia and Ohio. Tens of thousands of union volunteers distributed worksite fliers, made phone calls to other union household voters and knocked on hundreds of thousands of doors to get out the vote that helped win stunning Election Day victories against what were once considered long odds. Working families in each state voted overwhelmingly for workers’ rights, good jobs and a continuing voice in politics and legislation. What the AFL-CIO described as the attempt to silence the voice of public workers in politics was defeated in California. In New Jersey and Virginia, two champions for working families who will fight for good jobs, workers’ rights and affordable health care were elected as governors. And in Ohio, an initiative that will bring in good union jobs with good wages was passed. “Labor’s voice was not silenced—we spoke loud and clear. This victory was the result of a massive effort by all of California’s unions,” said Art Pulaski, executive secretary-treasurer of the California Labor Federation, which successfully mobilized to defeat all four of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s ballot measures attacking union members’ political freedom, teachers’ jobs and school funding. Maritime Trades Department (MTD) port maritime councils— and their affiliated unions including the SIU—actively participat- ed in a determined effort to defeat Proposition 75 in northern and southern California. If passed, the measure would have resurrected a discredited “paycheck deception” idea put forward several years ago as well as initiatives that would have had devastating effects on teachers’ jobs and school funding. According to the AFL-CIO, the proposal “sought to silence public employees’ voice in politics by placing massive reporting and administrative burdens on unions before union dues could be used for political expenditures— such as educating members about issues and lobbying for pro-working family legislation.” “Some people doubted the ability of a divided labor movement to beat back Proposition 75, but the unions came together and an intensive education and mobilization campaign really worked,” said AFL-CIO Political Director Karen Ackerman. New Jersey voters elected U.S. Sen. Jon Corzine (D), who in his Senate career has a 100 percent AFL-CIO voting record on working family issues. The New Jersey State AFL-CIO continued its leading-edge efforts to elect union members to political office, winning 42 of 60 races where union member candidates were on the ballot, including four state assembly and three state senate seats. Some 7,000 union volunteers made 250,000 phone calls to union homes and passed out hundreds of thousand of workplace fliers to mobilize the Garden State’s 1.5 million union household voters. “This was our most aggressive political program ever. Once again, speaking in a united voice and working for a common goal, the labor movement solidified our movement as the strongest voter base in the state,” said New Jersey State AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech. With nearly 400 union members elected at local, county and state levels, “our ability to shape public policy and win support for organizing drives and labor disputes is stronger than ever,” he said. Working family-backed Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine (D) defeated Attorney General Jerry Kilgore (R) in the race for the governor’s Continued on page 5 SIU Assistant VP West Coast Nick Celona (right) joins San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom (center) and International Association of Fire Fighters Local 798 President John Hanley in a rally in San Francisco for workers’ rights prior to Election Day. December 2005 �33300_P3,9,15_17.qxd 11/23/2005 6:22 PM Page 3 SIU’s John Fay Dies at 73 Executive VP Was Advocate for All Mariners John Fay never called attention to himself, but he leaves a highly respected legacy that truly stretches around the world. In part, that’s because when it came to effectively promoting and defending the rights of all merchant mariners, he never took a backward step. Fay, who served as the SIU’s executive vice president since 1997, passed away Nov. 8 in New Jersey at age 73. He had undergone surgery earlier the same day for an aneurism. Fay’s death spurred an outpouring of sympathy, not just from within the SIU but also from other maritime unions across the globe and from other segments of the maritime industry. In those expressions, people remembered Fay both for his lifelong career with the Seafarers (he started sailing with the union in 1949) as well as his decades of service in the International Transport Workers’ Federation. Believed to have been the longest-serving official in SIU history, Fay sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions after joining the union as a teenager. The Boston native came ashore in 1957 and stayed on the job ever since. Fay served as the union’s port agent in Philadelphia from 196680. Previously, he held various port-level positions in Baltimore, Boston, Brooklyn and elsewhere. He worked as the SIU’s assistant secretary-treasurer from 1980-87 and then as vice president of the union’s Great Lakes and Inland Waters District from 1988-90. Fay served as secretary-treasurer from 1990-96 and then as executive vice president beginning in 1997. Beginning in 1975, he participated in forums and other activities involving the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF); the International Maritime Organization; and the International Labor Organization. He was the first American ever to serve as chairman of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, a position he held from 1995-2002—and one in which he helped make groundbreaking strides not only for the rights of U.S. mariners but for foreign seamen, too. “John was one of the most loyal and trusted officials I’ve ever worked with,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was especially instrumental in helping me during the earliest stages of my presidency—a critical time not just for me personally but for the organization that John loved. He was someone I always turned to when I needed help or advice.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel remembered Fay as “a true brother, a true colleague and a true friend. He was my mentor. John is known throughout the world as a man of great leadership skills and a facilitator of compromise. He was such a genuine person and someone I will always call my friend. I and all seafarers around the world will miss him dearly.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez said Fay’s commitment to the union particularly stood out. “In our business, you meet people who bleed labor and people who bleed maritime, but John Fay bled SIU,” he stated. “His life and career reflected that fact.” ITF General Secretary David Cockroft pointed out that in his John Fay began sailing with the SIU in 1949 and stayed with the organization for the next 56 years, the last eight of which he served as the union’s executive vice president. work with the federation, Fay completely focused on the job. “John was never ambitious for high office in the ITF,” Cockroft observed. “He was happy to serve as vice chair until the sudden resignation of the Swedish chair thrust him into the limeContinued on page 9 Alliance New York Joins SIU Fleet Military Leaders Voice Support for Merchant Mariners The growth of the SIU-contracted U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet continued last month with the formal reflagging of the car carrier Alliance New York under the Stars and Stripes. Ceremonies took place Nov. 10 in Baltimore and included addresses by Gen. Robert Magnus, assistant commandant, United States Marine Corps; Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); Vice Adm. David Brewer, commander, United States Military Sealift Command (MSC); SIU President Michael Sacco; United States Deputy Maritime Administrator John Jamian; and officials from the respective companies Liberty Global Logistics, Alliance New York and Hoegh Autoliners. Unlicensed apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education served as the honor guard. Turn to pages 12 and 13 for more photos from the Alliance New York ceremony. Sacco described the MSP as “clearly a great value for our nation. It’s a program that’s working exactly as intended, and the United States is better off as a result.” He told the audience of approximately 200 individuals from throughout the U.S. maritime industry that SIU members “are extremely proud to sail SIU President Michael Sacco describes Seafarers as “patriotic men and women who are ready, willing and able to deliver the goods—anytime, anywhere.” aboard the Alliance New York, and we’re equally proud to continue serving as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. Our members are the best-trained seafarers in the world, and I know for a fact that they are patriotic men and women who are ready, willing and able to deliver the goods—anytime, anywhere.” Magnus delivered the keynote address during an early afternoon ceremony that immediately followed a separate celebration closer to the vessel. Speaking on the 230th anniversary of the Marine Corps, he described SIU President Sacco as “a great labor leader” and added that sea power boosts national power. Magnus underscored the need for America to maintain a “sovereign (maritime) capability.” He Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, Jan. 2, 2006 for the observance of New Year’s Day, and Monday, Jan. 16, 2006 for the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. December 2005 noted that while the majority of this nation’s “expressions of power” are peaceful, in times of conflict, vessels such as the Alliance New York “support America’s military power.” He further pointed out that the U.S. Merchant Marine continues supporting American troops involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Schwartz gave the keynote address in the earlier ceremony. He stated that the addition of the Alliance New York is significant for the companies, the mariners “and in fact for our nation.” He touched on the long and proud history of the U.S. Merchant Marine and said that in modern times, “We rely heavily on our commercial partners and associated labor organizations. We cannot do business without you. That’s a reality that’s not about to change.” Schwartz pointed out that the expanded MSP (increasing the fleet from 47 to 60 U.S.-flag vessels) is helping to augment the pool of well-trained, reliable, U.S. citizen mariners who sail aboard civilian-crewed military support ships. He credited those mariners for their performance during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Brewer said that the addition of the Alliance New York “marks the beginning of another great chapter in the continuing story of freedom, strength and liberty. It is always a comfort to know that ships such as Alliance New York stand ready to serve, helping protect America’s shores and projecting combat power and strength wherever it’s needed in our turbulent world. “This ship will be one of the most useful ships to come under the Department of Defense umbrella,” he continued. “She also has the added plus of allowing access to the Hoegh network and infrastructure. That means more flexibility, which means quicker response in time of need.” He added that the new vessel “joins dozens of other ships bearing the U.S. flag—ships that demonstrate the strong partnership between the U.S. maritime industry, the U.S. maritime unions and the Department of Defense. This is a partnership for America, a partnership for strength, a partnership for the future. The need for a strong merchant marine and a strong industry to build the ships those merchant mariners will sail is as crucial to America today as it was 230 years ago when the first sea engagement of our American Revolution was fought by civilian mariners aboard the privately owned sloop, Unity.” Jamian said that the U.S. Merchant Marine “is critical to our national and economic health. America has seen the important role of the U.S. Merchant Marine as our ships deliver in Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf.” He emphasized that the MSP creates thousands of shipboard jobs, which helps ensure the availability of U.S. crews during times of conflict. Without mariners who sail in times of peace, the U.S. fleet itself would disappear—something that simply cannot be allowed to happen, Jamian said. Jamian also called the Alliance New York “an outstanding addition” to the MSP fleet. Alliance New York At a Glance Built: April 2005, Daewoo, Korea Propulsion: Diesel Length: 656 feet Beam: 105.8 feet Speed: 20.5 knots Draft (loaded): 32.8 feet Total deck area: 584,361 sq. ft Container capacity (TEUs): 840 Speaking on behalf of the respective companies were (in order of appearance) Robert Wellner, executive vice president, Liberty Global Logistics; Philip Shapiro, president and CEO, Liberty Global Logistics and Liberty Maritime Corp.; James Butcher, chairman and CEO, Alliance New York; and Erik Falkenberg, senior vice president, Hoegh Autoliners. The vessel is operated through a newly formed strategic alliance between those organizations. General Magnus’ wife, Rose, served as the ship’s U.S.-flag sponsor. As previously reported, the new MSP which took effect in October increases the number of participants to 60 ships; provides financial assistance to construct Continued on pages 12-13 The SIU-crewed car carrier Alliance New York offers around-the-world service. Seafarers LOG 3 �33300_P4x1.qxd 11/29/2005 6:15 AM Page 4 Seafarers Honored at AOTOS Event General Handy, 2 Others Receive Top Annual Awards The crew members and officers from three SIU-crewed vessels, along with an individual Seafarer aboard a fourth unioncontracted ship are recent recipients of the United Seamen’s Service (USS) “Honored Seafarers Awards.” Receiving recognition in the form of the Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) Mariners Plaque were SIU members who, on specific dates, were aboard the Keystone Shipping Co.-managed MV Cape Knox and MV Cape Kennedy; and the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy. AB Brett Sunderland, who was aboard CP Ships USA’s MV Lykes Motivator, was lauded as the recipient of the AOTOS Mariners’ Rosette. The honors were bestowed on the mariners Nov. 7 during the 35th annual AOTOS dinner in New York. Nearly 1,000 industry leaders, including SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, attended the outing that has been dubbed the maritime industry’s most prestigious honor. The event took place at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers. The crews and officers from the Cape Knox and Cape Kennedy were recognized for saving not only their own vessels, but also others in New Orleans’ Poland Street Wharfs during Hurricane Katrina. As 145 mph winds snapped mooring lines on both vessels and the Chios Beauty (a bulker), a small force of mariners was deployed. By tyingoff, tightening and securing mooring lines, they saved the otherwise doomed vessels. These same platforms were used as shelters for members of the Coast Guard and emergency workers during relief operations. Meanwhile, those aboard the USNS Mercy garnered laurels for disaster relief and humanitarian assistance for the people of Southeast Asia. The Mercy was activated Jan. 1 and departed San Diego for Indonesia in support of Operation Unified Assistance. From Feb. 6 to March 16, the vessel’s crew of 1,000 Navy and support personnel treated more than 9,500 tsunami survivors ashore and aboard the ship. Crew members helped rebuild Banda Aceh’s Abidin University Hospital that had been inundated with mud and debris. They also used the ship’s equipment and supplies to restore hospital services by providing the hospital with drainage pipes, Receiving the 2005 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards are (from left) Anthony A. Scioscia, president, APM Terminals, North America; Ron Davis, president, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; and retired Air Force Gen. John W. Handy, immediate past commander, U.S. Transportation Command. Construction Begins On 1st of 10 Tankers Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (formerly known as Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard) on Oct. 28 achieved an assembly milestone when it began construction on the first of 10 new double-hulled product tankers. The historic signpost was marked by the installation of the first massive section of the new vessel’s keel. These are the first new product tankers to be built in Philadelphia since 1981. When completed, each vessel will weigh 46,000 deadweight tons (dwt) and will be the most modern tankers in the U.S. domestic fleet. The tankers are capable of holding 14 million gallons of liquid—the same volume as 26 Olympicsize swimming pools. SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) will operate the vessels. The first vessel in the 10-ship program is expected to be delivered by the end of 2006, with the final vessel scheduled for completion in 2010. The tankers will be owned by American Shipping Corporation, a subsidiary of Aker American Shipping, and chartered to OSG. Dave Meehan, president and CEO of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, said, “The keel laying represents a noteworthy achievement in the construction of any vessel, and today it also represents a major milestone in our entire 10-ship tanker build program. Last April, we announced the 10-ship contract, the partnership with OSG, and a commitment to build ships in Philadelphia for a long time to come. Today, we demonstrated how we are delivering on the promises made six short months ago.” As part of the ceremony, four coins were placed under the keel block in a practice which recreates a long-standing tradition whereby shipbuilders hide special coins in the keel section of a ship as a permanent symbol of good fortune and safe travels. 4 Seafarers LOG A number of SIU members were honored at this year’s AOTOS event, which took place Nov. 7 in New York. mosquito netting, screens and hundreds of tools. AB Sunderland, during the early hours of March 29 was aboard the MV Lykes Motivator when it received a call from the U.S. Coast Guard in Norfolk to change course and assist a 37foot vessel, Aurora, which was disabled. The three Swedish mariners aboard the Aurora had departed Bermuda and charted their course for the Azores with Sweden as their final destination. In 15-foot seas and winds squalling in excess of 30 knots, the mariners found themselves at the mercy of the deep. The Lykes Motivator with its crew, returning to the U.S. after making its usual run to Northern Europe, was situated some five hours away from the Aurora’s location. Captain Richard Johnson altered his course and steamed toward the Aurora. At daybreak, the sailing vessel was spotted and the crew was readied for rescue operations. The Aurora Pictured at the AOTOS dinner are (from left) Roger Korner, executive director of the United Seamen’s Service; SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez; SIU President Michael Sacco; Mrs. Claire Hamlin and Bill Hamlin, NCL America executive VP of fleet operations. was listing badly to starboard and still taking on water. The stricken sailors did not have survival suits or a survival raft. They were equipped only with a six-foot inflatable dinghy and lightweight rain suits. When the endangered sailors saw the Motivator, they prepared to abandon ship. Clad in the rain suits, they lowered the dinghy into the Ft. Lauderdale Hall Mostly Undamaged Following ‘Wilma’ The SIU hall in the Port of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. escaped Hurricane Wilma virtually unscathed, according to SIU Port Agent Kenneth Moore. The storm, a Category 3 when it roared across the Gulf Coast of South Florida Oct. 24, with sustained winds in excess of 100 mph, took the lives of at least six Floridians, caused extensive damage and left some 4.3 million homes and businesses without power. “We did sustain some minor damage to our roof,” said Moore, “but aside from that, everything else remained very well intact. It certainly could have been a lot worse. “The good news as I see it is that none of our members who live in the area experienced serious injuries,” Moore continued. “They did suffer a lot of damage to their residences…. A lot of roofs were ripped off and flying debris also took a heavy toll.” The hall, like just about every other facility in the affected area, lost power. “Power was out from Sunday through Wednesday (Oct. 24 – Nov. 2),” Moore said. “Thanks to our generator power, we remained operational during that period and even shipped several people. One of our members, QEE Rich Williams, came in Tuesday and wired the hall up so that electricity could be restored. We owe him a great deal of thanks, because without his skills, we might still be in the dark.” Wilma made landfall near Naples, Fla. at about 6:30 a.m. Oct. 24 and moved northeast over Everglades City, bringing down power lines and trees, peeling off roofs and breaking water mains, according to several sources. The quantity of debris was daunting: Pieces of roofs, trees, signs, awnings, fences, billboards and pool screens were scattered water and attempted to shuttle equipment to the Motivator. Several transfer attempts ended in failure with the inflatable being swamped. The only remaining option to extract the sailors was for the Motivator to come alongside the Aurora. During the transfer, rough seas Continued on page 5 across several counties. It then raced across the state, causing damage from Palm Beach to Miami, and as far south as Key West. The aftermath of damage left by Wilma around South Florida received minor national attention compared to Louisiana and Mississippi in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, but more than 478,000 households in 13 Florida counties have applied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for individual help. Thousands of people formed long lines in various cities across the affected area following the storm to sign up for temporary food stamps, and more than 3 million people were expected to qualify for the aid because of damaged homes, ruined food and lost jobs. By mid-November, most schools had reopened and most of the 3.2 million customers who lost electricity had power restored. Some of the worst damage was in downtown Ft. Lauderdale, where Wilma was the strongest hurricane to strike since 1950. Winds of more than 100 mph blew out windows in high-rises, many built before Florida enacted tougher construction codes following Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Agriculture officials said damage to their industry would be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The greatest losses were believed to be to the winter vegetable crop, which provides more than half of the nation’s supply from November to February. Also hurt were sugar cane fields and ornamental-plant nurseries. The twenty-first storm in the worst Atlantic hurricane season on record, Wilma was blamed for at least five deaths statewide. Before hitting the United States, it killed at least six people in Mexico, one in Jamaica and 12 in Haiti as it swirled across the Caribbean. Wilma knocked out power for hundreds of miles, cutting off electricity to a staggering one out of three Florida residents. Florida Power & Light, the state’s biggest utility, said Wilma affected more of its 4.3 million customers than any other natural disaster in the company’s history. Damage estimates ranged up to $10 billion. December 2005 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:36 PM Page 5 AFL-CIO Rolls Out Solidarity Charter Program While discussions with the recently disaffiliated national unions continue, the AFL-CIO last month reported that it is moving forward with a Solidarity Charter program that will unite the labor movement at the local level. The program reflects changes made in discussions with the Change to Win national unions. “We are now ready to roll out the program and get about the work of building strong, united state and local labor movements,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. Noting that while discussions on some issues continue, Sweeney said “no other differences remain that would prevent the Solidarity Charter program’s implementation.” Solidarity Charters offer a way to reunite state and local labor movements by bringing locals of recently disaffiliated national unions back into the AFL-CIO’s state and local organizations. “Solidarity Charters will enable the labor movement to remain united at the local level where everyone wanted to stick together,” said Sweeney. “Local unions will be able to continue working together to advance the interests of working families in organizing campaigns, strikes, boycotts and political activities, and that’s a real plus for our movement.” Change to Win local unions that are given Solidarity Charters will make per capita tax payments based on their membership to local and state AFL-CIO organizations at the rates applicable to other affiliated local unions. They will have the same rights and obligations as other affiliated local unions, including participation in governance and affairs of the state or local body, eligibility of their members to run for and hold office in the state or local body, and the status and treatment of their members within the state and local body. Discussions are continuing on the specific amount and mechanism for a solidarity fee to be paid by the Change to Win unions to help the national AFL-CIO cover administrative overhead and costs of supporting its state federations Senator Stevens States Ongoing Support for Maritime Senator Ted Stevens (RAlaska), speaking Oct. 31 to the Washington, D.C. chapter of the Propeller Club, covered a number of topics that are important to the U.S. maritime community. Among other points, Senator Stevens noted the U.S.-flag fleet’s role in hurricane recovery missions in the Gulf. He said that the Senate Commerce Committee, which he co-chairs, “continues to seek help from your industry to determine how we might assist in quickly recovering from these crises and maintain U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed vessels to meet the challenges of business and transportation. That is one of our top priorities.” He expressed continued sup- port for the U.S. Maritime Security Program and the nation’s cabotage laws. Additionally, he voiced strong backing of the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee program. “With the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, and now, with all of the problems related to these hurricanes, it’s essential that we all realize the value of Title XI,” he said. Senator Stevens concluded, “I think this industry of yours is the best part of the maritime industry in the world. We can keep that going if we maintain the relationship between labor and management that I’ve known in this association since I first appeared before the Propeller Club.” and central labor councils. If AFL-CIO trade and industrial departments request them, Solidarity Charters with the same or similar requirements will allow Change to Win unions to join their local or regional councils. “The heart and soul of the union movement is at the local level, in union halls across this nation,” said Sweeney. “The Solidarity Charter program unites our local labor movements to be the strongest fight-back machines possible against anti-worker cor- Margaret “Maggie” Bowen is the new SIU Plans Administrator, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (chairman of the union trustees) announced last month. “Maggie’s charming personality and ability to carry out her responsibilities professionally has been a great asset for the union for over 15 years,” Heindel stated. “Now, she can apply her skills to directly benefit our members, and I’m confident that she will serve them and the plans well.” Formerly the SIU Controller, Bowen replaces Bill Dennis, who had held the Plans Administrator post since December 2004. Dennis retired effective Nov. 30 following more than 11 years of combined service to union members eligible for and enrolled in the various employees benefit plans of the SIU, its affiliate unions and the now merged National Maritime Union Benefits Plan. Bowen served in her previous position for seven years. Prior to that, she held the title of SIU assistant controller for eight years beginning in 1990. A native of Marlow Heights, Md., Bowen graduated from Potomac High School in Oxon Hill, Md. and attended Prince The entire crew of the Cape Jacob appreciates the efforts of the vessel’s SIU steward department. Pictured aboard the ship, which is prepositioned in the Far East, are (from left) SA David Mohamed, Chief Steward Gary Dottino, ACU Mo Munassar, SA Silvana Clark, Chief Cook Erik Loret and SA Abdulhalim Ali. The Cape Jacob is managed by Matson Navigation for the U.S. Maritime Administration. Continued from page 2 office in Virginia. Kaine won by a 52–46 percent margin. He is considered not only an ally to labor but also a strong advocate for the maritime industry. The governor-elect has toured several SIU-contracted vessels in the port of Norfolk, Va. and also visited the union hall. More than 400,000 members of Virginia union households and the 50,000 new members of Working America—the community affiliate of the AFL-CIO—were a deciding factor. December 2005 „ Agree not to raid or support raiding of any other local union participating in the state or local central body; „ Support the regular struggles of unions in their jurisdiction, including organizing campaigns, strikes, boycotts and other activities; „ Recognize that local unions of national unions not affiliated with the national AFL-CIO may not participate in any governing body or convention of the national AFL-CIO. Bowen Is New Plans Administrator Kudos for Cape Jacob Galley Gang Labor Gets Out the Vote porations and politicians.” Under Solidarity Charters, Change to Win local unions will: „ Participate fully in the federation’s member mobilization and political programs, including granting access to membership lists via a mechanism mutually agreed upon by the AFL-CIO and Change to Win, and be bound by whatever actions or decisions of the federation that are binding on all affiliated local unions; Working America volunteers focused on two Northern Virginia counties that helped prove decisive in Kaine’s victory, reversing those counties’ respective voting patterns from previous elections. More than 50,000 Virginians joined Working America in just five months and played a vital role in registering voters and getting out the vote on Election Day. In Northern Virginia alone, Working America volunteers reached some 600 to 800 voters a night in the past two months of the campaign. Ohio voters capped off a successful off-year election for working families by approving a ballotmeasure to boost the state’s economic vitality and create jobs. Margaret “Maggie” Bowen Georges Community College in Largo, Md. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Southeastern University in Washington, D.C. and is credentialed as a Certified Public Accountant. Bowen has spent her entire professional career to date in the accounting/finance arena. She was employed as a CPA in public accounting for a Lanham, Md.based firm from 1982 to 1990. At that juncture, she moved under the labor umbrella and began working for the SIU at headquarters in Camp Springs. Md. “I look forward to the challenge of enhancing the level of service that the Plan provides to our membership,” Bowen said. “Like my predecessors, I have an extremely high level of concern for the welfare of the membership. “I’m surrounded by a great cast of team members,” she added. “They are extremely competent in their various areas of expertise. Nonetheless, I’ll encourage everyone concerned to take advantage of all opportunities to enhance their skills whenever possible. We have a lot of experience here, and I’ll rely on it often.” She concluded, “Evaluating and upgrading procedures to further benefit the membership will be one of my primary goals. Ultimately, what I hope to achieve is the best possible service to Plan participants.” Bowen and her husband, Robert, have been married for 22 years. They are the proud parents of two children: Joseph, 17; and Brittany, 12. Seafarers Are Among Recipients Of Annual AOTOS Awards Continued from page 4 caused one of the sailors, weak from an asthma attack the previous night, to fall off the ladder into the water. He swiftly drifted aft and struggled to stay afloat as his suit was filling with water. At the initiative of Sunderland, the Motivator crew reacted quickly; using the ship’s crane to lower a basket into the water and hoist the mariner to safety before he could slip under the vessel. Once the sailor was safely aboard the Motivator, the other two were transferred without incident. As the Motivator left the area, the Aurora’s mast could be seen ripped completely off, and the vessel soon succumbed to the sea. Sunderland was commended for his quick thinking and courageous action. In addition to the foregoing honors for mariners, several other awards were presented during the maritime industry gathering. The USS 2005 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award was bestowed upon three individuals: retired Air Force Gen. John W. Handy, immediate past commander, U.S. Transportation Command; Ron Davis, president, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; and Anthony A. Scioscia, president, APM Terminals, North America. Handy, an ally of the SIU and a strong supporter of U.S.-flag shipping, worked many years with ocean carriers and their principals who deal with the international and Jones Act trades and during his distinguished military career actively supported the Maritime Security Program. He served simultaneously as the commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) and the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command. As TRANSCOM commander, he managed all global sea, air and land transportation for the Department of Defense. Seafarers LOG 5 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:37 PM Page 6 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS MONEY PURCHASE PENSION PLAN SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS PENSION TRUST This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (Employer Identification No. 52-1994914, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Pension Trust (Employer Identification No. 13-6100329, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $993,167. These expenses included $277,980 in administrative expenses and $715,187 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 10,143 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $27,693,471 as of December 31, 2004 compared to $22,415,912 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $5,277,559. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $6,270,726, including employer contributions of $4,622,158, employee contributions of $83,428, gains of $532,928 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $1,032,212. Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $36,816,896. These expenses included $6,785,930 in administrative expenses and $30,030,966 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 16,629 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $640,306,747 as of December 31, 2004 compared to $638,855,090 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $1,451,657. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $38,268,553, including employer contributions of $4,164,002, losses of $20,320,937 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $54,235,009. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Minimum Funding Standards Enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.25 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, DC 20210. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.95 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-5638, Washington, DC 20210. BECK NOTICE Notice to Employees Covered by Union Agreements Regulated Under the National Labor Relations Act The Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU assists employees by representing them in all aspects of their employment and work aboard vessels which sail deep sea, on the Great Lakes and inland waters throughout the country. For the most part, the union spends a majority of its financial resources on collective bargaining activities and employee representation services. In addition to these expenditures, the union also spends resources on a variety of other efforts such as organizing, publications, political activities, international affairs and community services. All of these services advance the interests of the union and its membership. This annual notice is required by law and is sent to advise employees represented by the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU about their rights and obligations concerning payment of union dues. This notice contains information which will allow you to understand the advantages and benefits of being a union member in good standing. It also will provide you with detailed information as to how to become an agency fee payor. An agency fee payor is an employee who is not a member of the union but who meets his or her financial obligation by making agency fee payments. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision about your status with the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU. 1. Benefits of union membership — While non-members do receive material benefits from a union presence in their workplace, there are significant benefits to retaining full membership in the union. Among the many benefits and opportunities available to a member of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU is the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play a role in the development and formulation of union policies. 2. Cost of union membership — In addition to working dues, to belong to the union as a full book member the cost is $400.00 (four hundred dollars) per year or $100.00 (one hundred dollars) per quarter. Working dues amount to 5 percent of the gross amount an employee receives for vacation benefits and are paid when the member files a vacation application. 3. Agency fee payors — Employees who choose not to become union members may become agency fee payors. As a condition of employment, in states which permit such arrange- 6 Your Rights to Additional Information Seafarers LOG ments, individuals are obligated to make payments to the union in the form of an agency fee. The fee these employees pay is to support the core representational services that the union provides. These services are those related to the collective bargaining process, contract administration and grievance adjustments. Examples of these activities include but are not limited to, the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the enforcement and administration of collective bargaining agreements and meetings with employers and employees. Union services also include representation of employees during disciplinary meetings, grievance and arbitration proceedings, National Labor Relations Board hearings and court litigation. Employees who pay agency fees are not required to pay for expenses not germane to the collective bargaining process. Examples of these expenses would be expenses required as a result of community service, legislative activities and political affairs. 4. Amount of agency fee — As noted above, dues objectors may pay a fee which represents the costs of expenses related to those supporting costs germane to the collective bargaining process. After review of all expenses during the 2004 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representation amounts to 73.29 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $293.16 (two hundred ninetythree dollars and sixteen cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2006 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2005 and November 30, 2006 will have this calculation applied to their 2006 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2007 your objection must be received by December 1, 2006. A report which delineates chargeable and non-chargeable expenses is available to you free of charge. You may receive a copy of this report by writing to: Secretary-Treasurer, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2004. Please note that as the chargeable and non-chargeable expenses may change each year, the agency fee amount may also fluctuate each year. Individuals who are entitled to pay agency fees and wish to pay fees rather than dues, must elect this option each year by filing an objection in accordance with the procedure noted below. 5. Filing of objections — If you choose to object to paying dues, an objection must be filed annually. To receive the deduction beginning in January of each year, you must file by the beginning of December in the prior year. An employee may file an objection at any time during the year, however, the reduction will apply only prospectively and only until December 31 of that calendar year. Reductions in dues will not be applied retroactively. As noted above, each year the amount of the dues reduction may change based upon an auditor’s report from a previous year. The objection must be sent in writing to: Agency Fee Payor Objection Administration, Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 6. Filing a challenge — Upon receiving the notice of calculation of the chargeable expenditures related to core representation activities, an objector shall have 45 days to submit a challenge with the Secretary-Treasurer’s office if he or she believes that the calculation of chargeable activities is incorrect. Every person who wishes to object to the calculation of chargeable expenses has a legal right to file such an objection. 7. Appeal procedure — Upon receiving the challenge(s) at the end of the 45-day period, the union will consolidate all appeals and submit them to an independent arbitrator. The presentation to the arbitrator will be either in writing or at a hearing. The method of the arbitration will be determined by the arbitrator. If a hearing is held, any objector who does not wish to attend may submit his/her views in writing by the date of the hearing. If a hearing is not held, the arbitrator will set the dates by which all written submissions will be received. The costs of the arbitration shall be borne by the union. Individuals submitting challenges will be responsible for all the costs associated with presenting their appeal. The union will have the burden of justifying its calculations. The SIU works very hard to ensure that all of its members receive the best representation possible. On behalf of all the SIU officers and employees, I would like to thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer December 2005 �33300_P5,6,7,10,14,19,24x1.qxd 11/28/2005 11:08 PM Page 7 11 Recertified Bosuns Keep Up With Changes To Protect Interests of U.S. Maritime Industry The maritime industry is constantly changing, and being able to adapt is one way the Seafarers International Union is not merely surviving but flourishing. Of the 11 Seafarers who recently completed the bosun recertification program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., some already have seen many of the changes that have occurred since they first started sailing. During the month-long course, they and their fellow classmates learned more in depth about the industry in which they work, and all are now well equipped to assume leadership roles by taking this knowledge back to their shipmates at the hiring halls and aboard individual vessels. The course included a mixture of classroom and practical training as well as visits to the headquarters building in Camp Springs to meet with representatives of the various departments and to the Maritime Trades Department at the AFL-CIO building in Washington, D.C. After being presented with their graduation certificates during the November membership meeting at Piney Point, the recertified bosuns approached the podium to address the officials, members and guests in attendance. All gave a few words of thanks for the opportunities they were given at the school and imparted a few personal words of wisdom to the unlicensed apprentices who are following in their footsteps. Completing the recertification program were Anthony Carvalho, Brian Corbett, Morris Foster, Peter Frigoletti, James Joyce, Christopher Kicey, John Lamprecht, Jesse Natividad Jr., Dana Naze, Frank Thompson and Salvador Villareal. This is the third time back at the school for Villareal, who joined the union in 1994 in Hawaii and now sails from Tacoma, Wash. He expressed his appreciation for being given the opportunity to attend the recertification class and noted that being a member of the SIU has afforded him a good living and a comfortable lifestyle. Pictured after last month’s membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. are (from left) SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Frank Thompson, Peter Frigoletti, Salvador Villareal, Morris Foster, Jesse Natividad Jr., John Lamprecht, SIU President Michael Sacco, Christopher Kicey, Brian Corbett, James Joyce, Anthony Carvalho, SIU VP East Coast Joseph Soresi, Dana Naze, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. Throughout his month-long studies, he enhanced his knowledge about how contracts are negotiated and how being informed about the shipping rules can help him, as a ship’s chairman, communicate better with his crew. He also spoke about the importance of contributing to SPAD. He said that the results of SPAD donations may not be immediately visible, but that in the long run it is an important tool to help the union remain strong. Thompson has been sailing with the SIU since 1960 and has seen many changes over the years. The recertified bosun, whose home port is Jacksonville, said that the industry has provided his livelihood and, unlike many of his friends, he has never had to go out and look for a job; the union has always had one for him. He told the assembled crowd that the course helped him gain a greater understanding of the relationship between the union, the companies, crews and laws that govern them. He now sees that the show of the union’s strength is through the politics of job performance and personal responsibility, and he stressed to the unli- Small arms training was one of the courses completed by the 11 recertified bosuns in their month-long program. December 2005 censed apprentices in the audience to come together and help keep the union strong. Frigoletti began sailing 32 years ago on board almost every type of ship in the MSTU and NMU fleets. After learning a great deal about how the union operates in the political and maritime arenas, he stated he is proud to be a member of the SIU. He encouraged the trainees to take advantage of the opportunities offered to them at the Paul Hall Center and upgrade their skills as often as possible. Kicey, who began sailing in 1990 from the port of Seattle, feels very fortunate to belong to the SIU. He has traveled to the Far East, Middle East, Europe, Africa and Antarctica, and for the last five years has worked on the West Coast aboard tankers carrying crude oil. Kicey said he learned a lot about the political and inner workings of the union during the course and believes the changes that have been made to the trainee and upgrading programs will help supply the most qualified mariners that are needed aboard the ships of today and tomorrow. Sailing from the port of New Orleans for the past 10 years— first as an OS and AB and then as a bosun—Foster thanked the union leadership for the opportunity to complete the bosun recertification program. He stated that there’s a lot of misinformation being spread aboard ship about the maritime industry, and he was happy to be able to communicate directly with the union officials and learn the truth about how the organization is run. Foster spoke to the trainees about the importance of upgrading and contributing to SPAD. He advised them to “stay on course” by listening to their supervisors when they go aboard ship and to learn all they can. Corbett came to the SIU as a result of the merger with the NMU. He sailed first as an OS and AB and, for the past 18 years, as a bosun. During those years, he has worked on just about every type of ship and has been fortunate to see most of the world. “Shipping has been great to me,” he told those present at the meeting. “I have friendships with wonderful people, financial security, enjoyable and ample time off, so many things you may not be able to obtain in the normal eight-to-five grind.” power, and that if they seriously want to make the maritime industry their chosen career, they should work hard and never stop learning. “The only thing that can stop you from getting to the top is you!” When aboard a ship, he continued, “be where you are supposed to be, when you are supposed to be there, and doing what you are supposed to be doing.” Corbett concluded by saying that now that the course is over, his real job has just begun— going out into the industry and passing on what he has learned. “That’s what it’s all about.” It has been 15 years since Natividad came to the Paul Hall Center as a trainee. Now sailing from the port of San Francisco, the recertified bosun has returned to the school four times to enhance his maritime education. “What I’ve seen from the time I started is the increased numbers of trainees coming through the ranks, from a class every few months to a class every month. Apparently, we’re doing something right,” he stated. He thanked the union officials as well as the staff at the school for giving him the opportunity to complete the recertification course. As an added piece of advice to the trainees, he told them never to be afraid to ask questions. “It helps us help you.” The recertified bosuns completed fire fighting and other safety and health training while at the school. Corbett, who has upgraded his skills at the school a number of times, noted that he has learned some very valuable tools this time around that he can take with him for the rest of his life— not only on ships, but in everyday activities. Two of the most important things the recertified bosun said he learned were (1) how vital SPAD is to the survival of the U.S. Merchant Marine fleet, and (2) that there are no bigger advocates of the U.S. Merchant Marine than SIU President Mike Sacco and his team of officials. He directed some comments to the unlicensed apprentices, urging them to keep an open mind when they board a ship. He told them that knowledge is Lamprecht also started his seafaring career as a trainee at Piney Point and has returned a number of times to upgrade his skills. Now sailing from the port of New York, Lamprecht found the month-long course was able to provide him with a lot of information that can help him do a better job aboard ship, particularly with respect to answering questions about how contracts work and how the SIU is staying competitive in an ever-changing industry. He noted that Seafarers have a first-class facility at their disposal as well as a first-rate rehabilitation facility—“which I am glad Continued on page 8 Seafarers LOG 7 �33300_P7,8,11_14,18,20_23.qxd 11/23/2005 7:29 PM Page 8 11 Bosuns Graduate from Center’s Top Deck Department Curriculum advantage of all the opportunities they have been given to better themselves. Naze began sailing inland in 1984 from the port of Mobile, Ala. In 1988, he switched over to the deep sea division and has never looked back, working aboard ships that have taken him all around the world. Antarctica, he noted, was the most fascinating of the destinations to which he has sailed. The recertification course proved to be extremely beneficial to Naze, who said he, as a ship’s chairman, is often asked questions he just wasn’t informed enough to answer. With this course under his belt, he now believes he can be more effective as a communicator aboard ship. He told the trainees to study hard, listen and always ask questions, particularly when they board a ship for the first time. Continued from page 7 to say turned my life around.” He told the trainees to “keep a good attitude and good things will happen.” Carvalho has been going to sea some 31 years, the last 15 of which have been with the SIU. Having spent the first half of his seagoing career in non-union jobs, Carvalho said he was grateful “to stand before you today as a member of this great union.” Sailing from the port of Tacoma, Carvalho has circumnavigated the globe six times and visited countries he had never heard of before. “The SIU and this school have helped me to not only better focus on my seagoing career, but also given me financial security, lasting friendships and more life experiences than landsmen may have in many life spans,” he stated. Turning his attention to the trainees, Carvalho said for them to think of themselves as ambassadors of the SIU and conduct themselves in a positive manner, be good shipmates, do their duties thoroughly and cheerfully and keep their skills up to date by returning to the school for upgrading classes. Now sailing from the port of New York, Joyce joined the NMU in Boston in March 1990. He has sailed aboard all NMU-contracted ships and said he was extremely impressed with how the NMU members have been welcomed into the SIU. Joyce spoke about his positive experiences at the school, visiting the headquarters building in Camp Springs and meeting face to face with many of the officials and department heads. Proud to be an SIU member and a recertified bosun, Joyce told the unlicensed apprentices to be good to each other, always be ready to give somebody a helping hand, and take Recertified Bosuns Morris Foster, John Lamprecht and James Joyce help tie up the Osprey at the Piney Point dock. Monthly Membership Meetings Keep Seafarers Informed SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (Employer Identification No. 13-5557534, Plan No. 501) for the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $6,868,009 as of December 31, 2004 compared to $4,199,920 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,668,089. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $70,801,607. This income included employer contributions of $69,902,578, realized gains of $356,944 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $479,691. Plan expenses were $79,522,916. These expenses included $6,249,823 in administrative expenses and $73,273,093 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1 An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4 Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.85 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits, Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, DC 20210. One way to keep track of all the news which affects the lives and livelihoods of Seafarers is by attending monthly membership meetings. Held in each SIU hall around the country, the monthly membership meeting is a forum to keep members abreast of any and all issues of importance to them. Below is the schedule of meetings for 2006. Each issue of the Seafarers LOG also lists the dates for the next two meetings scheduled in each port. Membership Meetings in 2006 Port Traditional Date January February March April May June July August September October Pineyy Point Monday after first Sunday 3* 6 6 3 8 5 3 7 5* 2 6 4 New York Tuesday after first Sunday 3 7 7 4 9 6 5* 8 5 3 7 5 Wednesday after first Sunday 4 8 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 4 8 6 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 11 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 11 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 11 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 11 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 6 10 10 7 12 9 7 11 8 6 10* 8 Boston Friday after first Sunday 6 10 10 7 12 9 7 11 8 6 10* 8 Houston Monday after second Sunday 9 13 13 10 15 12 10 14 11 9 13 11 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 10 14 14 11 16 13 11 15 12 10 14 12 Wednesday after second Sunday 11 15 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 11 15 13 Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 Port Everglades Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 Joliet Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 19 16 14 18 15 13 17 15 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 19 16 14 18 15 13 17 15 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 17* 21* 20 17 22 19 17 22* 18 16 20 18 Guam m Thursday after third Sunday 19 23 23 20 25 22 20 24 21 19 24* 21 Friday after third Sunday 20 24 24 21 26 23 21 25 22 20 24 22 Philadelphia Mobile San Francisco Tacoma November December *Piney Point changes created by New Year’s and Labor Day holidays; New York change created by Independence Day holiday; Algonac and Boston changes created by Veterans’ Day holiday; Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King’s birthday, Presidents Day and Paul Hall’s birthday holidays; Guam change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday. 8 Seafarers LOG December 2005 �33300_P3,9,15_17.qxd 11/23/2005 6:23 PM Page 9 Executive VP John Fay Dies at 73 Enjoying a lighthearted moment at the MTD convention earlier this year in Chicago are (front row, right to left) John Fay, NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. Continued from page 3 light. Both for ITF staff and for John himself, it was a delight to see how he adjusted to the new situation. He was always ready to take advice, but also determined to stand up for what he believed was right. American seafarers as well as seafarers of all nationalities benefited enormously from his wisdom and good humor.” In a joint letter from Cockroft, Jon Whitlow and Stephen Cotton of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section, the trio noted, “John played a major role in the ITF for many years, and was deeply committed to our organization. He was a true internationalist and a tower of strength in all his work for the ITF, and he will be remembered for this and for his humor and kindness to his colleagues.” Ake Selander, retired ITF general secretary who worked with Fay since the early 1970s, stated, “John and I traveled the world together in pursuance of our work on behalf of the ITF, and the ITF owes John a lot for keeping the Seafarers’ Section on the right keel. He was a very loyal ITF servant and was always anxious not to offend people. He was eager to learn and very able to assess scenarios and above all he was a realist.” Strong faith played a key role in Fay’s life—a quality that proved evident in remembrances Nov. 12 at Our Lady’s Church in Leonardtown, Md., where his memorial service took place. SIU President Sacco noted that whenever he and Fay traveled together, John made sure that one of the first things they did was to locate a nearby Catholic church so they could attend mass. “John was a true believer,” Sacco said. “He never missed a mass, but religion was more than just a weekly service to him. It was a way of life. It was his foundation.” Father Sinclair Oubre, who celebrated (presided over) the funeral service (and who also is an active SIU member), noted that Fay’s work reflected selfless beliefs that are consistent with his faith. Fay often spoke on behalf of foreign mariners who otherwise wouldn’t have had any voice, Oubre pointed out, and he also devoted his career to the betterment of others. ‘American seafarers as well as seafarers of all nationalities benefited enormously from his wisdom and good humor.’ — ITF General Secretary David Cockroft “For me as an Apostleship of the Sea priest, it was a great honor to be present and bring the prayer of the church for John,” Oubre stated. “It’s a great privilege for a minister of the Apostleship of the Sea to be able to do that for one of its brothers.” Individuals from all parts of the industry appreciated Fay’s work. “He exemplified everything about good sense and gentleness with people, whether discussing issues or chatting about life,” said Chris Krusa, maritime training specialist at the U.S. Maritime Administration. “He was a true gentleman and a seafarer’s seafarer. I will never forget how he helped me work with Piney Point’s first towboat operator/ pilot candidates for the U.S. Coast Guard written license exam in Philadelphia in 1972 or thereabouts, and they all passed.” “I will always think of John as a very courteous person, always trying to help,” said Jean-Yves Legouas, senior maritime specialist with the ILO in Geneva. “For the union as well as for the ITF, I know he’ll be sorely missed.” Leow Ching Chuan, general secretary of the Singapore Organization of Seamen, said that Fay “will be fondly remembered by us.” Paddy Crumlin, National Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia, said Fay “was a tough man shaped by tough times. His wisdom and strength of character translated well into the international labor movement where he became chair of the Seafarers’ Section of the ITF and also one of the leaders of the seafarers group at the International Labor Organization Maritime Preparatory Conferences and Maritime Conferences. His deep knowledge of the industry was instrumental in our campaign to develop decent standards of work and protection for international seafarers, particularly in the flagof-convenience shipping.” While it may surprise those who didn’t know him well, a number of condolences received at SIU headquarters noted Fay’s wry sense of humor. “He had an incredible wit,” observed SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “John could come across as a very stoic figure, but the more you got to know him, these one-liners would come out and it was just hysterical. That’s something I’m going to Taken in 1957, this photo shows Seafarers marching in a Labor Day parade in New York City. In the front row, from right to left, are Joe DiGiorgio, John Fay and Al Kerr—each of whom served the SIU as secretary-treasurer. miss.” donations are sent to the “He had a way of making peo- American Cancer Society. ple laugh,” said SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram. “He was a great guy, a straight-up guy. I’m going to miss him.” SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone credited Fay with being “one of the establishing forefathers of this great union. I very much appreciate and give thanks for all the hard work and sacrifices John made over the years to the betterment of this organization.” “John was a tremendous union John Fay is honored in 1988 in official and an even better per- Philadelphia for his contributions son,” said SIU Vice President and assistance to a local hospital. Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. “He Presenting him with the Humanwas completely dedicated to the itarian Award is a member of the hospital’s executive board, union and its membership.” In addition to the memorial Jeffrey Gloss. service, John Fay’s life was celebrated during a private ceremony Nov. 13 on the Chesapeake Bay, where his ashes were sent to their final resting place. Survivors include his wife, Phyllis; sons John Jr., Patrick and Michael (an active SIU member); daughter Kelly Fay; four siblings and seven Brother Fay’s ashes are sent to their final restgrandchildren. The family asks ing place Nov. 13 on the Chesapeake Bay in that in lieu of flowers, Southern Maryland. Fay’s work at the international level on behalf of all mariners is a strong part of his legacy. Fay attends an SIUNA gathering at the school in Piney Point in 1981 (left photo) and, a decade later, sits with SIU President Michael Sacco, also in Piney Point (above photo). December 2005 The former executive VP addresses a crowd in Long Beach, Calif. on behalf of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers. Seafarers LOG 9 �33300_P5, 6, 7,10_14, 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:46 PM Page 10 Medicare’s New Prescription Drug Coverage and You Notice to Medicare Eligible Participants Creditable Coverage The following letters were mailed last month to pensioners covered under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan from the SHBP Board of Trustees. Please note that separate information was mailed to Marine Cooks & Stewards pensioners who were covered under the MC&S Welfare Plan before that union merged into the SIU in 1979 and who also retired before the merger. November 9, 2005 Dear Medicare Eligible Participant: You may have heard about Medicare’s new prescription drug coverage, also known as Medicare Part D, and wondered what this new coverage might mean to you. Starting January 1, 2006, the Federal Government will be providing limited prescription drug coverage to retirees eligible for Medicare. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is pleased to inform you that the current prescription drug coverage you have now with SHBP is superior coverage to the standard Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Since the prescription drug benefit provided by SHBP provides you with better coverage than the coverage offered under Medicare Part D, this means that SHBP provides you with “creditable prescription drug coverage.” Enclosed is your notice of creditable coverage which the government requires us to send to you. Be sure to read the notice carefully and keep it in a safe place where you can find it. It may be necessary to refer back to the notice should you decide to change your pharmacy benefit coverage in the future. To maintain coverage through SHBP, you do not need to take any action. The SHBP will continue your coverage at no cost to you, other than the applicable co-payments and annual deductible. In order to maintain the coverage that you currently enjoy through SHBP, you should not enroll in any Medicare prescription plan offered through other insurance companies licensed to sell these plans. If you enroll in one of the Medicare prescription drug plans, you may lose your coverage under the SHBP prescription plan. In addition, you may have to provide the insurance company with a copy of this notice to prevent them from charging you a higher premium than what other enrollees pay. Again, no action is required by you to maintain your coverage through SHBP. If you have any questions concerning your SHBP prescription drug plan and Medicare Part D, please call the Plan’s membership services line at 1-800-252-4674. Sincerely, BOARD OF TRUSTEES Important Notice from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan About Your Prescription Drug Coverage and Medicare Creditable Coverage November 9, 2005 Dear Plan Participant, By now you may have heard about Medicare’s new prescription drug coverage. This letter will provide a description of your options for pharmacy benefit coverage after January 1, 2006. This letter will also tell you where to find more information to help you make decisions about your prescription drug coverage. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is sending this letter to retired participants to make sure that retirees understand what options are available. This notice provides plan participants with important information. Please read this notice carefully. It can help you decide whether or not you want to enroll in Medicare’s new Part D program. Please keep this notice in a safe place. It may be necessary to refer back to this letter should you decide to change your pharmacy benefit coverage in the future. What is Medicare Part D? Medicare Part D is a new benefit for all individuals entitled to Medicare. Medicare currently provides eligible individuals coverage for hospitalization and doctors visits under Medicare Parts A and B. After January 1, 2006, Medicare Part D will provide Medicare recipients with a certain amount of pharmaceutical benefit coverage as well. This new program means that Seafarers retirees and others eligible for Medicare now have a choice. You can choose to keep pharmacy benefits from the SHBP or you can pay to join another plan serving your area. How will Medicare Part D affect my Seafarers’ pharmacy benefits? SHBP would like all participants to know that the Plan’s drug benefit is, on average, expected to provide a benefit that is as good as what would be available to you in the standard Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. If you choose to stay in the SHBP, you do not have to take any other action. You pay the same co-payments and deductibles in effect at this time. Currently, there is no insurance premium to pay as there will be for the new Medicare pharmaceutical plans. A summary of your prescription coverage under the SHBP is attached to this letter. You will not need to go through any additional enrollment process if you choose to stay in the SHBP. There will also be deductibles and co-payments in the Medicare plans which will be offered in your area. If you continue to receive pharmacy benefit coverage through the SHPB and decide to switch to another plan in the future, there will be no additional penalty to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan. Since spouses do not receive benefits from the SHBP, they should seek information from any employer sponsored coverage they may have or enroll in a Medicare Part D plan. What happens to my Seafarers’ prescription drug coverage if I enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan? This year, if you enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, you will lose prescription drug coverage from the SHBP. You will still be eligible for other benefits available from the plan if you are retired with enough eligibility time for medical health care coverage. When do I have to make a decision about which coverage I want? Everyone entitled to enroll in the new Medicare Part D must do so between November 15, 2005 and May 15, 2006. Once again, if you choose to continue to receive benefits from the Seafarers Plan, you do not need to do anything. What happens if I choose to enroll in a Medicare part D plan but do not make a decision to participate by May 15, 2006? If you wish to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan but do not take action for 63 days or longer after May 15, 2006 you will have to pay an increase in the monthly premium that will be charged for your Medicare prescription plan. That increase will be 1% per month of the premium charged by the plan. You will have to pay this increased premium for as long as you have Medicare prescription drug coverage. You may also have to wait until November 2006 to enroll. If I choose to remain in the SHBP this year, may I switch plans in the future? Yes, you may choose to switch to a Medicare part D prescription drug plan in the future. You may do so without paying a higher premium as long as you provide that new plan with this document to prove that you have had coverage by another plan that was as good as the benefit offered by the standard Medicare plan. If you do decide to choose coverage under Medicare Part D, you must make sure that your Seafarers benefit will remain in effect until you are new coverage becomes effective. As in all cases, the SHBP reserves the right to modify benefits at any time, in accordance with applicable law. How can I get more information about this notice or my current pharmacy benefit coverage? To receive another copy of this notice, you may contact the Plan’s membership services at 1 800-252-4674. If you have questions about the current Seafarers prescription plan coverage, you may contact Express Scripts at 1800-467-2006. You may receive this notice at other times in the future such as before the next enrollment period for Medicare prescription coverage or if this coverage changes. Is there any help if I am on a limited income and need extra resources? For people with limited income and resources, extra help paying for the Medicare prescription drug plan is available. Information about this extra help is available from the Social Security Administration (SSA). For more information about this extra help, contact SSA by calling 1-800-772-1213. For TTY call 1800-325-0778. How can I learn more information about my options under the Medicare Part D prescription drug program? More detailed information about Medicare plans that offer prescription drug coverage will be available to you in a publication entitled the Medicare and You 2006 handbook. You will be receiving this handbook in the mail from Medicare. You may also be contacted directly by Medicare prescription drug plans offered in your area. You can also get more information about Medicare prescription drug plans by contacting the following sources: „ Medicare’s web site: www.medicare.gov „ Medicare’s telephone number: 1-800-633-4227. TTY users should call 1-877-4862048. „ Your state health insurance assistance program. These programs are listed in the phonebook and will be listed in the Medicare handbook. Once again, we provide this information to you in accordance with federal government requirements. Sincerely, BOARD OF TRUSTEES IT TAKES A FOUR-LETTER WORD TO BE HEARD Taking a Pierhead Jump; Need Meds? When a Seafarer is at the hiring hall and a job comes up, usually there is no problem making it to the ship within the span of a few hours. But when medication is a concern, the situation becomes a bit more problematic. With the new prescription mail order program (Prescription Solutions), Seafarers can get 90 days worth of their maintenance medicines, which is usually adequate. But if they are going to be on a ship for six months, for example, and have only a 30-day supply of medicine on hand, what can they do? There is no perfect solution in this case. If they want to take the job and they do need a drug refill, there are a couple options. Time is of the essence in taking a pierhead jump. A member can obtain a prescription override form at the port office for required medications, immediately call their doctor and have him or her call in a new prescription to a nearby participating pharmacy, and then pick it up. As a last resort for late evening or weekend pierhead jumps, the member can call his or 10 Seafarers LOG her doctor for the required medication, pick it up, pay for it out of pocket and then submit the receipt to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan for reimbursement. It may happen that the doctor is not in the office that particular day, but by already having developed a relationship with one’s caregiver, this should not be a problem. The Seafarer should communicate with his or her doctor beforehand, finding out the best way to contact the doctor after hours and on weekends in such cases. That could eliminate problems such as the one involving a pierhead jump. The SHBP will do what they can to assist each SIU member in this predicament but, ultimately, it is the responsibility of the Seafarer to be ready to take a shipboard job when it comes along. And that means being prepared by having the names, addresses and telephone numbers of their doctors and local pharmacies as well as a list of the medications they take. ATTENTION SEAFARERS: Contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation HELP US HELP YOU! December 2005 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:37 PM Page 11 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU 401K PLAN SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR WELFARE FUND OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU 401K Plan, EIN 136592643, Plan No. 002, for the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). This is a summary of the annual report of the Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6700827, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through insurance. Plan expenses were $346,911. These expenses included $346,911 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,083 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $3,197,802 as of December 31, 2004, compared to $2,941,892 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $255,910. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $602,821 including employee contributions of $451,013 and earnings from investments of $151,808. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information; 3. assets held for investment; 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Margaret Bowen who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.80 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $0 as of December 31, 2004, compared to $10,996,837 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $10,996,837. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $2,104,126 including employer contributions of $2,008,436, realized losses of $209,692 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $279,976, and other income of $25,406. Plan expenses were $6,961,808. These expenses included $691,034 in administrative expenses and $6,270,774 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. In addition, during the plan year, $6,139,155 of assets were transferred to Seafarer’s Health and Benefits Plan. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of Margaret Bowen who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.10 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. NMU SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU VACATION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the NMU Vacation Plan, EIN 13-6700828, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU PENSION TRUST OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Trust of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $32,039,492. These expenses included $2,897,086 in administrative expenses and $29,142,406 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 8,740 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $318,635,814 as of December 31, 2004, compared to $324,293,997 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $5,658,183. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $26,381,309 including employer contributions of $923,128, realized losses of $1,934,504 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $27,006,968 and other income of $385,717. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: December 2005 6. an accountant’s report; financial information and information on payments to service providers; assets held for investment; transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen who is Plan Administrator, Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $8.90 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $1,075,526 as of December 31, 2004, compared to $1,937,315 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $861,789. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $8,316,894 including employer contributions of $8,267,268 and earnings from investments of $49,626. Plan expenses were $9,178,683. These expenses included $1,237,505 in administrative expenses and $7,941,178 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. assets held for investment; and 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of Margaret Bowen who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.10 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. Seafarers LOG 11 �33300_P5,6,7,10_14,19,24x1.qxd 11/28/2005 11:53 PM Page 12 John Jamian U.S. Deputy Maritime Administrator Gen. Norton Schwartz Commander, TRANSCOM Vice Adm. David Brewer Commander, MSC G Assist Seafarers Welcome Alliance New Yo New Addition to MSP Fleet Strengthens The initial flag-in ceremony took place next to the vessel in Baltimore. Continued from page 3 five newly built tankers in the Un of carrying military petroleum pr lishes a 30-month period to repla Defense Department-approved a and increases the annual paymen The MSP has been a key elem ic and defense security since its e sels are available to the Departm war or national emergency, and th access to program participants’ communications networks and m Philip Shapiro President/CEO Liberty Global Logistics Bosun Rafael Clemente Tom Keenan, Liberty Global Logistics VP Augie Tellez, SIU Executive VP Robert Wellner Executive VP Liberty Global Logistics James Butcher Chairman/CEO Alliance New York 12 Seafarers LOG Vice Admiral Brewer, General Magnus, President Sacco, Mrs. Ros Chief Cook Joey Clements SA Sisto Deanda AB Ed Rockinger (right) helps guide guests during shipboard tours of York. December 2005 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd Gen. Robert Magnus Assistant Commandant, USMC 11/23/2005 7:39 PM Michael Sacco SIU President Page 13 Apprentices from the Paul Hall Center served as the honor guard. York ns America he United States that are capable m products during a war; estabreplace older ships with newer ved and militarily useful ships; yment to ship operators. element of America’s econome its enactment in 1996. Its vespartment of Defense in times of and the MSP also gives the U.S. ants’ infrastructure, terminals, nd more. Students from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education march past the Alliance New York following the morning ceremony. The vessel is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. Rose Magnus rs of the Alliance New December 2005 Chief Steward Wadsworth Jarrell OMU Virgil Craige gives a pointer to Unlicensed Apprentice Nicholas Bridges during a shipboard tour. Seafarers LOG 13 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:40 PM Page 14 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREAT LAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan (Employer Identification No. 131953878, Plan No. 003) for the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). This is a summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan (Employer Identification No.51-6097856, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $1,483,195. These expenses included $241,827 in administrative expenses and $1,241,368 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 268 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $24,191,340 as of December 31, 2004 compared to $24,672,779 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $481,439. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $1,001,756, including employer contributions of $164,594, losses of $682,643 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $1,519,805. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Minimum Funding Standards Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.90 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-5638, Washington, DC 20210. Apply Now for 1 of 8 Scholarships to Be Awarded to Seafarers, Dependents in ’06 I t’s the holiday season, and one of the best gifts you can give yourself is the chance to fulfill your dreams of a college education. Completing the coupon below is the first step toward realizing that dream. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to send away for the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet. It contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. (The program books also are available at all SIU halls.) Eight monetary grants will be awarded in 2006 to three SIU members and five dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $20,000 and is intended to help cover the costs of attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. Five scholarships are to be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information to make sure that certain conditions are met. After checking for eligibility, applicants should start collecting other paperwork which must be submitted P along with the full application by the April 15, 2006 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. The selection committee looks at the high school grades of all applicants and also checks the scores of either their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT). Therefore, arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 2006 to ensure 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. No one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Scholarship Program by April 15. Enjoy the holidays, and don’t just wish for the gift that can affect the rest of your life—go for it today. lease send me the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ ( ) This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 14 Seafarers LOG Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $655,985. These expenses included $204,674 in administrative expenses and $451,311 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 928 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $8,531,657 as of December 31, 2004 compared to $8,844,324 as of January 1, 2004. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $312,667. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $343,318, including gains of $151,226 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $176,029. 12/05 An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; 5. Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 6. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $5.10 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N5638, Washington, DC 20210. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 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. December 2005 �33300_P3,9,15_17.qxd 11/23/2005 6:34 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea January & February 2006 Membership Meetings OCTOBER 16 — NOVEMBER 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 3 0 2 7 1 4 40 25 0 8 14 36 16 1 0 8 22 2 25 25 239 1 0 4 4 1 7 14 15 1 5 8 15 4 2 2 3 8 0 17 5 2 6 5 11 6 15 22 21 0 17 9 21 12 4 5 8 12 10 24 22 232 1 0 2 6 2 4 11 16 0 2 3 10 5 5 3 5 6 1 16 9 2 4 1 5 3 3 21 12 1 4 8 14 6 3 0 1 4 1 14 9 116 2 1 1 3 0 2 7 5 0 2 2 5 8 0 0 0 1 0 5 5 116 107 49 1 0 5 5 1 9 11 17 0 6 9 17 9 2 2 1 21 2 19 25 0 0 3 8 2 7 4 5 0 4 6 6 14 0 1 2 4 0 9 9 0 0 0 2 0 1 6 4 1 0 1 6 5 0 0 0 2 0 3 2 162 0 0 0 0 0 5 3 5 0 0 1 9 0 0 0 1 2 0 4 0 84 2 3 3 11 3 8 12 17 0 4 3 35 5 1 6 5 9 1 18 7 33 2 1 0 9 2 8 20 22 0 0 5 24 18 0 17 0 8 1 22 9 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 2 0 3 7 2 13 17 17 0 5 6 22 4 1 0 3 18 0 19 19 158 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 0 1 6 12 4 4 11 19 0 8 8 18 9 4 17 7 12 6 26 17 189 3 2 0 4 0 3 12 1 0 1 5 8 8 4 0 0 1 0 6 9 67 0 1 2 4 1 5 13 13 0 4 2 15 4 2 0 7 16 1 13 16 119 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 5 2 0 3 8 11 1 5 5 7 10 1 2 3 7 1 15 4 90 0 2 1 7 1 5 7 9 0 3 2 4 3 2 1 4 9 2 17 3 82 3 1 0 1 0 2 5 3 0 1 1 3 1 0 0 2 0 1 2 4 30 100 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 3 0 0 2 3 1 0 0 2 4 0 3 2 0 0 2 5 1 7 5 9 0 0 2 5 12 0 0 2 3 2 5 6 0 0 1 0 0 1 8 6 0 3 0 5 2 1 0 5 3 0 11 1 47 67 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 2 1 0 3 1 0 2 3 0 3 4 1 0 0 2 4 1 1 0 2 4 1 8 10 16 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 2 2 5 14 9 0 1 2 18 8 1 14 4 7 0 11 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 4 8 0 1 3 12 8 0 25 0 2 1 4 9 1 0 4 10 2 7 67 48 0 13 24 56 30 1 2 14 35 2 56 34 406 5 14 7 26 10 19 45 31 1 23 13 35 23 6 14 12 16 7 51 41 399 0 7 1 11 3 3 38 15 2 7 11 28 10 1 0 2 9 1 23 19 191 1 0 4 5 3 11 17 23 0 12 11 24 9 2 1 2 12 1 18 8 2 3 3 7 5 7 19 26 0 6 5 21 14 6 3 5 11 0 26 15 1 2 2 6 2 2 11 8 0 3 1 13 10 1 0 0 2 1 10 10 164 184 85 0 0 8 6 1 13 36 25 0 8 12 28 15 4 5 2 33 2 28 38 0 0 3 7 3 10 11 13 1 7 5 11 17 0 2 3 8 2 15 12 0 0 0 3 0 2 7 6 2 0 1 8 9 0 1 0 3 0 5 5 47 264 130 52 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 4 2 0 0 0 15 0 0 0 1 6 0 6 1 5 3 3 13 5 15 22 25 0 10 3 49 19 0 10 4 15 1 29 9 3 7 0 14 4 14 34 32 0 1 4 41 19 0 15 1 16 1 28 17 30 153 168 24 103 84 0 42 240 251 547 576 366 372 440 197 213 876 953 579 *“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. December 2005 Piney Point .............Tuesday: January 3* ................................Monday: February 6 ................................(*change created by New Year’s Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: January 6, February 10 Baltimore ................Thursday: January 5, February 9 Boston.....................Friday: January 6, February 10 Guam ......................Thursday: January 19, February 23 Honolulu .................Friday: January 13, February 17 Houston ..................Monday: January 9, February 13 Jacksonville ............Thursday: January 5, February 9 Joliet .......................Thursday: January 12, February 16 Mobile ....................Wednesday: January 11, February 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: January 10, February 14 New York................Tuesday: January 3, February 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: January 5, February 9 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 0 1 5 1 6 9 10 1 0 6 5 4 2 2 2 14 3 14 13 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Philadelphia ............Wednesday: January 4, February 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: January 12, February 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: January 12, February 16 San Juan..................Thursday: January 5, February 9 St. Louis..................Friday: January 13, February 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: January 20, February 24 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: January 17*, February 21* ............................................(*changes created by Martin Luther King holiday ............................................ and Presidents Day holiday) ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals SONNY THE SAILOR Jimmy D found your seat. Please call him at (734) 732-7581. LOUIS K. HARDY Your son, Louis M. Scott Hardy, would like to hear from you. He may be reached at (985) 2959206, or e-mail tylertownone@yahoo.com. Hard Work Pays Off for 3 Trainees Three unlicensed apprentices were congratulationd by SIU officials when they were presented with their GED certificates at the November membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. From the left are SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Dean Bettis, Jacob Kamp, SIU President Michael Sacco, Gabe Williamson and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. In addition to receipt of his GED, Bettis was given a certificate of achievement for exemplary scores on his test. Seafarers LOG 15 �33300_P3,9,15_17.qxd 11/23/2005 6:40 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report OCTOBER 16 — NOVEMBER 15, 2005 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, 422, Suite 101B 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) 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 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 7 14 2 4 16 1 1 5 50 6 1 0 0 8 0 1 0 16 1 3 1 0 4 0 4 3 16 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 12 2 2 13 1 1 2 37 1 0 0 0 7 0 1 0 9 1 4 1 0 4 0 4 3 17 0 7 0 0 8 0 1 3 19 11 39 4 14 38 2 1 8 117 7 8 2 5 11 0 1 5 39 0 2 4 16 2 0 2 0 26 0 1 2 0 3 1 0 0 7 10 19 6 1 15 1 0 6 58 0 4 7 5 7 0 1 0 24 0 2 6 10 0 1 1 0 20 1 1 4 1 3 0 1 0 11 6 10 6 3 14 2 0 2 43 4 6 4 0 16 1 0 1 32 0 3 3 10 0 0 2 1 19 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 2 6 1 0 5 2 0 1 17 0 1 1 1 3 1 0 0 7 0 4 2 0 1 0 1 4 12 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 5 1 0 4 2 0 0 12 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 0 4 0 4 2 0 1 0 1 4 12 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 3 7 5 0 7 2 0 0 24 4 0 0 0 5 1 0 0 10 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 5 Port 3 3 1 1 2 0 1 0 11 1 0 1 1 3 2 0 1 9 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 91 33 33 60 22 33 37 218 95 65 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Horace A. Wiltshire of Norfolk, Va. The photo at right is of the deck gang on the Mission Sandvan in March 1946. It was taken in Mobile, Ala. Wiltshire is the one kneeling. Directly below are the steward and cook on the Liberty ship John Ross. That picture also was taken in 1946. Below right aboard the Penn Challenger are Wiltshire (left) and another crew member on the tanker. This photo was shot Dec. 19, 1970 in Da Nang, Vietnam. Brother Wiltshire joined the union in May 1946 in the port of Norfolk. The Virginia native had his deck department career interrupted by service in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955. He retired from the union Jan. 1, 1990. SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage unionrelated 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. December 2005 �33300_P1,3,9,15_17x1.qxd 11/28/2005 8:53 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 CHARLES BETZ, 65, joined the union in 1988 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Betz was born in Philadelphia. His first ship was the USNS Lynch. The engine department member most recently worked aboard the PFC Dewayne T. Williams. He makes his home in Swansboro, N.C. DEMONT EDWARDS, 66, became an SIU member in 1993, first working on the SPC 5 Eric G. Gibson. Brother Edwards, who was born in Florida, sailed as a member of the steward department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Atlantic Forest. Brother Edwards settled in his native state. ALBERTO FALCON, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1960 from the port of Houston. The steward department member first worked aboard ISCO vessels; he last shipped on the USNS Potomac. Born in Texas, Brother Falcon calls Houston home. PETER FRIED, 54, began his SIU career in 1972 in New York. Brother Fried first worked aboard Steuart Transportation Company vessels in the engine department. Before retiring, he shipped aboard the Elizabeth. Born in New York, Brother Fried now lives in Howell, N.J. EDWARD HANEY, 65, hails from Stayton, Ore. Brother Haney joined the SIU in 1987 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first voyage was on the American Cormorant. Brother Haney was a deck department member and last worked aboard the Overseas Vivian. He is a resident of Lakeside, Ore. WALTER HUTCHINSON, 66, embarked on his seafaring career in 1989 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Hutchinson’s first voyage was on the USNS Chauvenet. He was born in New Jersey and sailed in the engine department. In 2000 and 2004, Brother Hutchinson upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, December 2005 Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the Horizon Navigator. He resides in Oakland, Calif. INLAND GUILLERMO CRUZ, 55, is a native of Puerto Rico. Boatman Cruz started sailing with the SIU in 1980 from San Juan. Throughout his seafaring career, he primarily shipped on vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation. Boatman Cruz worked in the steward department. He makes his home in San Juan, P.R. THOMAS DELAUNE, 62, began working on SIU-contracted ships in 1994 in New Orleans. Boatman Delaune primarily shipped with Westbank Riverboat Services aboard the Boomtown during his seafaring career. The engine department member calls Harvey, La. home. WILLIAM FITZGERALD, 62, joined the SIU in 1997 in the port of Houston. Boatman Fitzgerald was born in Velasco, Texas. The deck department member worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Boatman Fitzgerald took classes on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He makes his home in Alvin, Texas. WALTER HARSCHE, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1963 in New York, first sailing aboard a Taylor Marine Towing vessel. Boatman Harsche was a member of the engine department. The New York native attended the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. in 1963 to upgrade his skills. Boatman Harsche last shipped on a McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessel. He lives in Mt. Laurel, N.J. GARY JARVIS, 62, became an SIU member in 1965, first shipping from the port of Houston aboard the Alcoa Master. Boatman Jarvis worked in the engine department in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He trained at the Paul Hall Center in 1979. Boatman Jarvis’ most recent voyage was on the Laura Haden, a G&H Towing Company vessel. He is a resident of Henderson, Texas. JOSEPH STEPHENS, 58, hails from Ohio. Boatman Stephens joined the union in 1978 in Puerto Rico. While an active member of the SIU, he sailed in both the engine & deck departments. Boatman Stephens’ first ship was operated by Z Tug Management; his last by Crowley Towing of Jacksonville. He was a frequent upgrader at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Stephens calls Dade City, Fla. home. Gleason first worked aboard the Walter J. McCarthy in the steward department. Her most recent voyage was on the Adam E. Cornelius. Sister Gleason was born in Duluth, Minn., where she continues to reside. 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. GREAT LAKES RICHARD ARNOLD, 45, was born in Michigan. Brother Arnold launched his career with the SIU in 1979. He mainly shipped with Luedtke Engineering. In 2001, Brother Arnold enhanced his seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He now resides in Frankfort, Mich. MARIANNA GLEASON, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1985 in New Orleans. Sister JAMES NARCISSE JR., 70, became an NMU member in 1962, initially shipping from the port of New Orleans aboard the Hess Trader. Brother Narcisse sailed in the steward department. The Louisiana native last worked on the Lykes Explorer. VINCENTE TARRATS, 69, commenced his career with the union in 1964 in New York. Brother Tarrats first worked on the Hope. The Puerto Rico-born mariner sailed as a member of the Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1952 The SIU and its contracted companies met today to put their signatures to a brand new dry cargo contract which will provide considerable monetary and working rule boosts for Seafarers. The new agreement is the first standard dry cargo contract of its kind in the SIU, providing wage increases of from 5 to 15 percent for all ratings. In addition to wage gains, all general and working rules have been revised and strengthened, meaning more overtime for SIU crews. There are 14 brand new provisions as well as considerable improvements in the 21 repeated provisions. These, coupled with wage gains and standardization of the agreement for all freight ships, will make it by far the best contract ever negotiated in the maritime industry. steward department. Brother Tarrats most recently sailed aboard the Export Challenger. MICHAEL STEVENS, 55, joined the NMU in 1979 in Charleston, S.C. Brother Stevens’ first voyage was aboard the Buyer. The steward department member was born in South Carolina. He most recently sailed on the Cape Domingo. CHARLES THORNTON, 70, started shipping with the NMU in New Orleans. Born in Gulfport, Miss., Brother Thornton first sailed aboard the Meteor. Prior to retirement, he worked on the Elizabeth Lykes. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME AGE EDP Reyes, Marcial 68 Oct. 1 Smith, David 91 Nov. 1 sidered every factor of the economy “except the quality of life for human beings. And people is what our country is about. We cannot overlook the human element.” He added that the country is suffering from the high price of energy and the multinational oil corporations’ lack of concern for America’s wellbeing. “I’m not against free enterprise, but we cannot allow the free enterprise system, as practiced by the multinational oil companies, to be used to destroy democracy.” This Month In SIU History 1974 SIU President Paul Hall joined one of President Ford’s top economic advisors, L. William Seidman, and B.F. Goodrich Rubber Co. Chairman O.P. Thomas to address the Republican Governors’ Conference held in St. Louis earlier this month on the condition of America’s economy. Speaking between the business and government representatives, President Hall told the members of the prestigious Republican Governors’ Association that the solutions offered by economists have con- 1995 Two SIU-crewed Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships are sailing in support of NATO peacekeeping troops in Bosnia. The Cape Race and the Cape Rise, roll-on/roll-off cargo ships, each 648 feet in length, were activated by the U.S. Defense Department’s Transportation Command this month. They sailed from Portsmouth, Va. in early December, ahead of their four-day activation schedules. The ships delivered materiel to the Croatian port of Split in late December. They picked up the cargo at Antwerp, Belgium and Marchwood, England. “Once again, America’s maritime industry and merchant mariners have answered the call to duty,” stated U.S. Secretary of Transportation Federico Peña in announcing the breakout of the vessels. “America’s skilled merchant mariners and the entire maritime industry remain vital to our national defense, peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.” Seafarers LOG 17 �33300_P8,18,20_23x1.qxd 11/29/2005 6:48 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA ABRAHAM ARAGONES Pensioner Abraham Aragones, 92, passed away Sept. 7. Brother Aragones joined the SIU in 1944 in his native Puerto Rico. His first voyage was aboard the Suzanne, where he worked in the steward department. Before retiring in 1978, Brother Aragones sailed on the Guayama. He resided in Puerto Rico. HERBERT ARCHER Pensioner Herbert Archer, 74, died July 8. Brother Archer embarked on his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He shipped as a member of the engine department. Born in Virginia, he last worked aboard the Seabulk Power. Brother Archer began his retirement in 1996. He was a resident of Houston, Texas. the Achilles in the deck department. Brother Foster was born in Texas. His last voyage was aboard the Newark Bay. Brother Foster started collecting his retirement stipends in 1996. He resided in his native state. DAVID GILBERT Pensioner David Gilbert, 56, passed away May 31. Born in New York, Brother Gilbert joined the Seafarers in 1967 in Brooklyn. He first worked in the deck department on the Albion Victory. Brother Gilbert last sailed aboard the Developer. He went on pension in 1989. Brother Gilbert called Crawfordville, Fla. home. EDUARDO GONZALEZ Pensioner Roald Bliksvaer, 75, passed away Aug. 20. A native of Oslo, Norway, Brother Bliksvaer became an SIU member in 1956 in New York. He worked in the deck department, last sailing on the Long Lines. Brother Bliksvaer went on pension in 1991. He called Abingdon, Md. home. Pensioner Eduardo Gonzalez, 74, died March 14. Brother Gonzalez became an SIU member in 1978. His first ship was the Ogden Traveler; his last was the Robert E. Lee. Brother Gonzalez shipped in the steward department. Born in Honduras, he made his home in New Orleans. Brother Gonzalez began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1999. KENNETH CASTEEL JOSEPH GRAVES Brother Kenneth Casteel, 23, died July 27. He joined the union in 2004 in Piney Point, Md. and sailed in the engine department aboard the Horizon Fairbanks. Brother Casteel made his home in Frostburg, Md. Pensioner Joseph Graves, 72, passed away July 3. Brother Graves started sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 in San Francisco. The Texas-born mariner was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Brother Graves first worked aboard the Our Lady of Peace in the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1998, he sailed on the Horizon Navigator. Brother Graves lived in Houston. ROALD BLIKSVAER WILLIAM DESKINS Pensioner William Deskins, 84, passed away April 13. Brother Deskins began his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The steward department member’s first ship was the Choctaw. Brother Deskins was a native of West Virginia. He last worked aboard the CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. In 1985, Brother Deskins began receiving compensation for his retirement. He resided in Virginia Beach, Va. JOSEPH DUNN Pensioner Joseph Dunn, 70, died April 3. Brother Dunn began sailing with the SIU in 1958 in New York. His first ship was the Steel Artisan. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Dunn sailed in the deck department. He most recently worked on the Defender. Brother Dunn retired in 2000 and lived in Redmond, Wash. LEOPOLD FAULKNER Pensioner Leopold Faulkner, 80, passed away March 18. He joined the SIU in 1945 in New York. The steward department member, who was born in the Virgin Islands, last shipped aboard the Integrity. He began his retirement in 1988 and was a resident of Tuskegee, Ala. JESSIE FOSTER Pensioner Jessie Foster, 73, died March 28. Brother Foster joined the union in 1966. He initially sailed on 18 Seafarers LOG WALTER GROSVENOR Pensioner Walter Grosvenor, 98, died July 5. Brother Grosvenor was born in New York. He began his SIU career in 1941 in Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Grosvenor sailed as a member of the steward department. In 1973, he started collecting his retirement pay. Brother Grosvenor resided in Brooklyn. WALTER GUSTAVSON Pensioner Walter Gustavson, 80, passed away Aug. 8. He embarked on his seafaring career in 1944 in New York. The deck department member was born in New York. Prior to retiring in 1980, Brother Gustavson worked aboard the Houston. He resided in Staten Island, N.Y. KARL HANSON Pensioner Karl Hanson, 72, died March 5. Brother Hanson joined the SIU in 1962 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Navy. He initially went to sea on the Keva Ideal, working in the engine department. Brother Hanson was a native of California. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Navigator. Brother Hanson called Reno, Nev. home. He went on pension in 1997. NICHOLAS HOLLANDER Pensioner Nicholas Hollander, 81, passed away May 18. Brother Hollander began sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1954 in the port of San Francisco. The steward department member was born in South Africa. Brother Hollander retired in 1978 and made his home in Redwood City, Calif. ELVIN HUDSON Brother Elvin Hudson, 81, died July 4. He joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Brother Hudson was born in Little Rock, Ark. He sailed as a member of the steward department and lived in Vancouver, Wash. WYDELL HUGHES SR. Brother Wydell Hughes Sr., 81, passed away June 8. He joined the union in San Francisco and sailed in the steward department. Born in Oklahoma, he called Torrance, Calif. home. SCOTT HUNG Brother Scott Hung, 79, died March 22. He became a member of the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Brother Hung was a member of the steward department. He resided in California. MOSES JOHNSON Pensioner Moses Johnson, 87, passed away July 25. Born in Mississippi, Brother Johnson joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. The steward department member made his home in Bakersfield, Calif. Brother Johnson started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1976. ANTHONY KAZMIERSKI Pensioner Anthony Kazmierski, 84, died May 18. Brother Kazmierski joined the SIU in 1951. The deck department member was born in Bayonne, N.J. Before retiring in 1985, Brother Kazmierski sailed on the Courier. He was a resident of New York. WILLIAM KUNAK Pensioner William Kunak, 77, passed away March 26. Brother Kunak became a Seafarer in 1951 in the port of Baltimore, Md. Born in Maryland, he worked as a member of the deck department. His last voyage was aboard the Northern Lights. Brother Kunak lived in his native state. He retired in 1988. CARL LARSON Pensioner Carl Larson, 70, died March 13. Brother Larson commenced his seafaring career in 1989 in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the USNS Harkness. Born in Rhode Island, Brother Larson shipped in the deck department. He last worked aboard the USNS Mt. Washington. In 2004, Brother Larson retired and settled in Middletown, R.I. INLAND CRAIG BRIDGES Boatman Craig Bridges, 35, passed away July 5. He started sailing with the SIU in 1992 in New Orleans. Boatman Bridges worked primarily aboard the American Queen as a member of the steward department. He made his home in his native state of Louisiana. CHARLES EGAN Pensioner Charles Egan, 69, died March 21. Boatman Egan joined the union in 1981. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1999 and called Elizabeth City, N.C. home. ALFRED HASSETT Boatman Alfred Hassett, 64, passed away April 9. He was born in Massachusetts. Boatman Hassett began sailing with the SIU in 1965, working in both the deep sea and inland divisions. His first ship was the Equality State; his last was the Sugar Island. Boatman Hassett resided in Virginia Beach, Va. DEWITT HOLLOWELL Pensioner Dewitt Hollowell, 78, died June 5. Boatman Hollowell joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard the City of Alma. Born in North Carolina, he was a member of the engine department. Boatman Hollowell’s last ship was the Sugar Island. He lived in Windsor, Va. and went on pension in 1991. RUSSELL HUBBARD Pensioner Russell Hubbard, 79, passed away March 18. Born in Virginia, Boatman Hubbard joined the union in 1960 in the port of Norfolk. He sailed in the engine department. In 1988, Boatman Hubbard retired and settled in Nags Head, N.C. GREAT LAKES DANIEL GARDINER Pensioner Daniel Gardiner, 86, died Feb. 28. Brother Gardiner became an SIU member in 1960 in the port of Detroit, Mich. He was born in Illinois and worked in the deck department. Brother Gardiner began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1986. He was a resident of Midland, Mich. GEORGE LALLEMONT Pensioner George Lallemont, 82, passed away March 22. Brother Lallemont began his SIU career in 1959. He worked in the engine department. The Wisconsin native last sailed aboard the Henry Steinbrenner. Brother Lallemont began collecting his pension in 1993. He resided in his native state. EUGENE SOYRING Pensioner Eugene Soyring, 89, died April 10. Brother Soyring joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Detroit, Mich. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Soyring was born in Wisconsin. His last ship was the Frank Denton. In 1981, Brother Soyring began his retirement and made his home in Superior, Wis. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. GEORGE HIBBERT Pensioner George Hibbert, 82, passed away May 28. Brother Hibbert joined the NMU in 1945 in Philadelphia. His first ship was the Gulf Breeze. Brother Hibbert shipped in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1969, he worked on the Export Champion. RALPH HODGE Pensioner Ralph Hodge, 86, died May 19. Brother Hodge began his seafaring career in 1944 in the port of Philadelphia. His first ship was the Dorchester. Born in Maine, Brother Hodge last shipped on the American Leader. He went on pension in 1968. CLEVELAND HUNTER Pensioner Cleveland Hunter, 67, passed away May 14. Brother Hunter became an NMU member in 1980. His first ship was the Dawn. Brother Hunter was born in North Carolina. Most recently sailing on the Paul Buck, Brother Hunter started receiving his pension in 2001. JEFFREY MOSCHI Pensioner Jeffrey Moschi, 82, died May 31. Brother Moschi was born in Rhode Island. He began sailing with the union in 1956 out of New Orleans. Brother Moschi’s first ship was the Cefalu. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1982. December 2005 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:40 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 pub blication. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), Sept. 4— Chairman Joseph J. Olson, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Deck Delegate David L. Parks, Steward Delegate Norman Adler. Chairman announced ship schedule extended to pick up 60 miles of old telephone cable that connects Hawaii to U.S. mainland. Treasurer stated $4,000 in ship’s fund. Deck and steward delegates stated OT sheets not yet returned. No beefs reported. Notice pertaining to hurricane relief was read and discussed. Suggestion made for expansion of long-term healthcare coverage. Questions raised about seatime needed to be eligible for medical and pension benefits. Crew would like ice-chilled salad bar to be replaced with an electric one. COAST RANGE (Intrepid Personnel), Sept. 26—Chairman Terry D. Cowans Sr., Secretary Lanette A. Lopez, Educational Director George B. Lockett, Deck Delegate Travis S. Stringer. Educational director advised mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated new DVDs to be purchased. He also spoke with captain about getting new chairs and recliners. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that company policy states that English is to be spoken in all work areas. Members were asked to be considerate while others are sleeping. USNS FRED STOCKHAM (American Overseas Marine), Sept. 15—Chairman Andrew B. Barrows, Secretary Stephen M. Avallone, Educational Director Joseph J. Jenkins Jr., Steward Delegate Allen N. Van Buren. Bosun expressed “Bravo Zulu” to fellow crew members on their performance during recent military operations. Tasks were performed flawlessly under difficult conditions. Treasurer stated $500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to contact Guam hall for contract information. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. USNS JOHN McDONNELL (Horizon Lines), Sept. 30— Chairman Casey B. Coddington, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director John S. Penrose. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade their seafaring skills at Piney Point school and at no cost to them, especially small arms training needed aboard MSC ships. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. Seafarers were asked to close watertight doors for fire integrity. Discussion held regarding holiday pay. Next port: Singapore. ADVANTAGE (Sealift), Oct. 8— Chairman Terry Goodwin, Secretary Jeanette Bosworth, Engine Delegate David L. Claypool, Steward Delegate Gerardo Frederick. Chairman requested clarification on recent SMU vote and thanked steward department for great barbecues. Educational director talked about educational opportunities available at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received from headquarters regarding hurricane relief fund. Crew requested information about new SIU contract for this vessel. They also expressed concern over not having enough medication for 120day voyage. Next port: Houston. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), Oct. 18— Chairman Rudolph W. Tahtinen Jr., Secretary David S. Greig, Educational Director Don L. Barnett, Steward Delegate MacGregor J. Davis. Chairman discussed consolidation of Duluth, Minn. hall. Educational director urged Seafarers to attend classes at Paul Hall Center. Beefs reported in all departments. Next ports: Zug Island, Mich. and Two Harbors, Minn. COURAGE (Interocean American Shipping), Oct. 9—Chairman Michael S. Phy, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox, Educational Director Owen A. Gallager, Deck Delegate Edgardo Martinez, Engine Delegate Alfred Norris Jr., Steward Delegate Michael A. Harris. Chairman announced Oct. 18 payoff in Baltimore and asked crew members for cooperation in sorting garbage. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep common areas clean. Educational director urged members to take advantage of upgrading facilities and training available at Paul Hall Center. He also reminded them to check expi- The Last of the San Clemente Tankers Enjoying the final barbecue Nov. 6 aboard the Overseas Washington in the South China Sea are “senior citizens” (from the left) Pumpman/ Electrician Kevin Hall, AB Doug Gantenbein and Bosun Tim Koebel, who have a combined 14 years aboard the ship. December 2005 ration dates on all MMDs. No beefs; disputed OT reported in all three departments. Suggestion made to reduce age and seatime required for pension benefits. Crew asked for new ice maker. Request also made for at least one transformer for each cabin. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent food and service. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Oct. 9— Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate James D. Rader. Chairman asked Seafarers to have all documents ready upon arrival Oct. 12 in Oakland, Calif. for payoff. Secretary thanked crew for safe trip. He noted vessel is scheduled to go to shipyard in early February and that captain has given him long-range schedule. Copies are available upon request. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point school and keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made pertaining to pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Oct. 23— Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Michael J. Gramer, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan, Engine Delegate Prentiss R. Smith, Steward Delegate Erni P. Lizada. Chairman announced Oct. 29 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He advised crew to read 10 tips for renewing MMDs published in September issue of Seafarers LOG. Secretary informed crew of sanitary inspection Oct. 26 and asked that everyone leave room clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. Educational director reminded mariners to check expiration dates on all documents as they may expire at different times during the year. Start renewal process at least six months before expiration. He stated that upgrading at Paul Hall Center would not only increase pay, it also would open new doors to employment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made to raise vacation pay, change language regarding monetary draws and amend shipping rules. Crew requested larger soup and dessert spoons. Vote of thanks given to steward department for wonderful barbecue. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong; Taiwan. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), Oct. 16—Chairman Michael G. Watson, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Donald D. Williams Jr., Deck Delegate Augustus C. Udan, Engine Delegate Mariano C. Ylaya, Steward Delegate Sam Y. Kassem. Bosun discussed importance of donating to SPAD and explained how it benefits members and maritime industry. He reminded crew to check in with port agent as well as customs and immigration. Departing Seafarers were asked to leave clean towels and sheets for relief person. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary urged everyone to upgrade skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $220 in ship’s fund and $1,020 in cook-out fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain congratulated Seafarers for good job on sanitary inspection. Crew commended steward department for great food and cook-outs. Mariners were asked to keep noise down while watchstanders are resting. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam; Hong Kong; Taiwan. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), Oct. 23—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Shawn L. Clark, Steward Delegate Jioia J. DeLeon. Chairman stated Oct. 25 payoff and union meeting to take place upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He encouraged crew members to keep dues paid up and support SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck and steward Act and the union’s efforts to defeat them. He updated everyone on dry tow preparations and its effect on crew rotations. Educational director instructed mariners to upgrade and take full advantage of facilities available at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Some issues in all departments still to be resolved with boarding patrolman. Steward delegate would like dishwasher relocated outside galley to alleviate high noise level and steam in food prep area. Recommendation made regarding reducing time required to file for vacation benefits. Vote of thanks given Aboard the Integrity The Seafarers-crewed RO/RO Integrity is one of the new additions to the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. Pictured aboard the vessel are QMED Mike McQueary (left) and Chief Steward Stephen Bird. The American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier ship sails between U.S. East Coast ports and overseas locations sometimes including Antwerp, Bremerhaven and Southampton. departments were thanked for maintaining ship cleanliness. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. OCEAN TITAN (Pacific Gulf Marine), Oct. 13—Chairman Shawn Williams, Secretary Norman S, Bush, Educational Director Stanley D. Castro, Deck Delegate David B. House, Steward Delegate Ida J. Batain. Chairman noted manning needs and requested water fountains be installed around ship. Educational director advised Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members would like an ice machine and better e-mail system as well as new movies, DVDs, books and exercise equipment. SBX-1 (Interocean American Shipping), Oct. 12—Chairman William E. Bragg, Secretary Greg Anderson, Educational Director Kirk M. Benton, Deck Delegate William L. Bushy, Engine Delegate Jason Powell, Steward Delegate Brandy M. Parmer. Chairman announced Oct. 28 payoff in Corpus Christi, Texas. He informed crew of movement by farm interests to infringe on Jones to steward department for tireless efforts to provide and maintain level of quality that SIU can be proud of. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Alaska Tanker Company), Nov. 4—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Donnell Lewis, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate Douglas R. Gantenbein, Engine Delegate Jason L. Flesner. This is final meeting on Overseas Washington, according to ship’s chairman. Ship will anchor in Singapore Nov. 8 and be turned over to foreign crew on the 10th. This is the last of the San Clemente tankers built and the last to go out of service. Bosun Koebel noted that although our tanker future looks good at this time, it is still a sad day to see this chapter of seafaring history come to a close. “A lot of good men toiled on these decks.” Bosun reminded everyone to make sure they receive a supplemental vacation day form when signing off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to reinstitute penalty meal hours. Recommendation also made for items for next contract. Seafarers LOG 19 �33300_P7,8,11_14,18,20_23.qxd 11/23/2005 7:11 PM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Changing of the Flag I am a recertified steward currently aboard the MV Courage (formerly the MV Aida). This vessel was a Swedish-flagged car carrier. A U.S. crew consisting of AMO officers and SIU members took the ship under the U.S.flag on Sept. 15, 2005. I just wanted to relate some interesting things to the LOG. We boarded the vessel in Charleston, S.C. on Sept. 15. It was quite an experience to change flags with an entirely new crew. All crew and officers were polite and respectful of the departing Swedish officers and Filipino crew. All sorts of challenges were immediately present. In the steward department, we had to deal with galley equipment that we were not used to, such as oven temperatures in centigrade instead of Fahrenheit. We also were immediately expected to participate in Coast Guard drills and inspections as well as ABS inspections and interviews to see if we knew our station bills. I am happy to report that the crew passed USCG inspection and ABS certification without one problem. It is a testament to the training and seamanship that we have received from the SIU—just another case of the best trained and qualified seamen in the world. Robert Wilcox, Steward MV Courage Protecting the U.S. Flag Since I am neither an academic nor an economist, I will defer to others the discussion of the economic viability of operating and maintaining a strong American Merchant Marine fleet. As a retired merchant marine officer, however, I feel very passionate about the continued support of America’s “Fourth Arm of Defense” and its role in transporting key materiel to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. During the first Gulf War, while the U.S. was struggling to break out old ships from the reserve fleets in Virginia and California, the Department of Defense was contracting with foreign counties for specific type vessels and manned by foreign seamen. Some of these ships and their crews refused to sail in harm’s way due to political considerations. This was and remains entirely unacceptable. The U.S. government, the American seafaring unions and the shipping companies realize that it is in the best interest of all to maintain an American-flag fleet, however strong. The United States Coast Guard does an excellent job of regulating and licens- ing U.S. seamen, insisting on background checks and proper training. Flag-of-convenience countries, havens for companies looking to minimize safety and security and to maximize profits, in some cases employ ill-trained personnel who are not seafarers. On another note, numbers can be deceiving. One hundred and fifty merchant ships denies the existence of thousands of vessels, seagoing tugs and barges that carry anywhere from 100,000 to 300,000 and 400,000 barrels of petroleum products per trip, container barges and tugs, dredges, coastal passenger ships, and a host of brown-water boats of all types, that are protected by the Jones Act. I can think of no more of a comforting thought than to see the American flag flying on a vessel docked at a U.S. port. In his National Maritime Day proclamation this year, President Bush noted, “America’s merchant mariners make our nation more secure and our economy stronger ...merchant mariners have served in every conflict in our nation’s history.” Ninety-five percent of the soldiers’ supplies move by sea, and we need a strong U.S. Merchant Marine to accomplish the task. We have the base to man and maintain a strong U.S. fleet. Seven maritime academies, an excellent unlicensed seamen’s school at Piney Point, Md. and other localized training programs operated by various companies all contribute to the highly trained labor force needed to man our ships. If there’s a problem, it is that the merchant marine is invisible. It has scant public relations apparatus and no mass grassroots support. Education is the key word here. Harry T. Scholer, 2nd Mate USMM, retired (Harry T. Scholar is a retired SIU and AMO member who feels very are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. strongly about the U.S. Merchant Marine. This past summer, he revisited the Paul Hall Center, where he still feels at home, having upgraded there in the 1980s and ’90s.) Pensioner Liberatore Designs Commemorative Medallion “I will hold no branch in higher esteem than the Merchant Marine Service.” — Gen. Douglas MacArthur With that statement in mind, pensioner Frank Liberatore of Winter Park, Fla., himself a U.S. merchant mariner during the war, decided to design, produce and copyright a commemorative medallion in tribute to all mariners—past and present—but especially those who sacrificed everything in defense of our country and its freedom. The antique-bronze finished, hand-buffed medallions, doublestruck in 10-gauge material, were first authorized and copyrighted by Liberatore in 2004. One side is imprinted with “U.S. Navy Armed Guard” and an insignia; the other side has information pertaining to the American Merchant Marine (see photo below). At almost 2 inches in diameter, Liberatore has a limited number of them for sale on a first-come, first served basis. Each coin is enclosed in a clear plastic capsule and can be shipped to the customer for $15 each (plus $2 postage and handling). They may be ordered from: Frank Liberatore, 7133 Timber Dr., Winter Park, FL 32792; telephone (407) 678-2190. Checks should be made payable to Frank Liberatore. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Liberatore joined the U.S. Merchant Marine in 1943 and sailed on a variety of vessels in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Middle East and Pacific War Zones. He also sailed during the Vietnam War. The former NMU member retired in 1988 after 45 years at sea and has a number of U.S. and foreign medals and awards to show for his honorable service to his country. He also is a member of the East Central Florida Chapter of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works 20 Seafarers LOG and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. December 2005 �33300_P7,8,11_14,18,20_23.qxd 11/23/2005 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. through the beginning of next 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 Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman January 23 March 6 February 17 March 31 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 17 April 21 Lifeboatman/Water Survival January 9 February 20 January 20 March 3 Radar April 3 April 14 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) December 5 December 16 Course Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT January 30 March 24 Junior Engineer April 3 June 23 Marine Electrician January 16 March 10 Marine Refrigeration January 30 March 10 Welding January 23 February 20 February 10 March 10 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training - AB December 5 February 27 March 13 December 9 March 3 March 17 Basic Safety Training - FOWT March 27 March 31 Fast Rescue Boat March 20 March 24 Government Vessels February 20 April 3 February 24 April 7 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* February 6 February 17 February 13 Febrary 17 Course (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning November 28, 2005. Recertification Bosun April 10 May 8 Steward February 6 March 6 (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, 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 ________________________________________________ December 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. 12/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �33300_P8,18,20_23.qxd 11/26/2005 7:42 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Bridge Resource Management — Graduating from this course Aug. 5 are MTLX boatmen (in no specific order) Peter Funk, John Lavergne, Robert Albe, Bradley Burkart, Wes Bertrano, William Davis, Henry Costner, George Sadler, Christopher Stringer and Igor Loch Jr. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 667 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 667. They are (in alphabetical order) Alexander Banky IV, Gustavo Brown, Patrick Devlin, Jeremy Finley, Brian Finney, Isaac Garrido, Matthew Green, Vadym Gutara, Martin Hamilton, Cornell Harris, James Jones, Timothy Kauble, Lorenzo Kenon, Victor Malave Jr., Agustin ManzoSandoval, Francis Miller, Raul Morales Vargas, Dorthea Roxas, Manuel Tan, Ryan Tompkins and Jesse Tornabene. Celestial Navigation— With instructor Stacey Harris (left) are upgrading students who completed the celestial navigation course Aug. 12. They are (in alphabetical order) Johnie Chavis, Ronel Guerzon and Paul Voisin. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Aug. 5 are (in no specific order) Bryan Benak, Robert Lerma, Leslie Hewett Jr., Kent Harper, Donaldo Valencia, Benjamin Anderson, William Born, Michael Price, Ben Medrano, Gregory Ralston, Sean Mitchell, Christopher Dickens, Zsuzsanna Balla, David Elles, Ronald Williams Jr., Ethan Mims and Jeffery Martin. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Advanced Fire Fighting — Graduates of the advanced fire fighting course that ended July 29 are (in alphabetical order) Julio Alvarez, Armando Bermudez, Rafael Clemente, Robert Guilmette, Patricia Hausner, Antoine Jennings, Alexander Kepchar, Larry Morisette, Willie Myrick and DeGutenberg Poitevien. HAZWOPER — Upgrading Seafarers working aboard MTL vessels who completed the HAZWOPER course Aug. 15 are (in alphabetical order) Rodney Aucoin, Kenneth Graybill IV, Tom Lenfestey, Ronnie Poole, John Quagliano Jr., Sherman Sakatani. Lawrence Soulier and Leo Venegas. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Computer Lab Classes Larry Morisette (standing), Philip Forman (left) and Danilo Achacoso have been quite busy in the computer lab, as is evidenced by their various certificates of achievement received July 15. At right is their instructor, Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Radford Rainey (seated) receives a certificate of achievement in Excel for Windows from instructor Rick Prucha. Medical Care Provider — Completing the medical care provider course Aug. 15 are (in no specific order) Larry Morisette, Darryl Alexander, Ovidio Santos, Andrew Brzezinski, Alexander Kepchar, DeGutenberg Poitevien, Patricia Hausner, Rafael Clemente and Antoine Jennings. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is standing at far right. December 2005 �33300_P7,8,11_14,18,20_23.qxd 11/23/2005 7:25 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Under the instruction of Jim Shaffer (far left) are graduates of the tanker assistant class ending Aug. 12. They are (in no specific order) Mark Strong, Julio Alvarez, Gerard Hayes, Anthony Lieto, Michael Allain, René Rosario, Willie Myrick, Joseph Huff, Philip Forman, Sylvan Harris, Harvey Carvajal, Velicia Williams and Armando Bermudez. FOWT — Graduating from this course Aug. 5 are (in no specific order) Kyle Pillsworth, Sigfrid Mayer, Terry Chance, Cody Stasch, Jerome Torrence, Damian Wall, Zedrick Alcantara, Clark Howard, Antoine Rainey, Lon Maduro, Charles Johnson, Rolin Crump, De’Shanna Sherrod, Ramli Sulaiman, Reynaldo Lacayo, Jervona Vorise, Robert Oliveto Jr., Brian Goodman, Fredrick Hall and Joseph Waller Jr. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is second from left. Fast Rescue Boat — Aug. 6 was gradua- Water Safety — NCL, July 22: Guadalupe Cadena, Felix Corpuz, Andrew Cruz, Jesse Lewis, Cassandra Raffo, Federico Ocampo Jr, Patricia Rodgers, Oliver Vazquez III, Josh Johnson, Clay Johnston, Renee Noschka, Dawniell Willingham, Sarah Weber, Kathryn Weber, Cerrisca Reese, Amber Lakes, Delekia Washington, Javier Torres, Renee Smith and Larina Oecchio. tion day for those in the fast rescue boat course. They are (in no specific order) Ronnie Jackson, Kevin Schroder, William Rose, Joseph Walker, Dominic Bailey, Travis Jackson and William Dunney. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is standing aft. (Note: not all are pictured). Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Aug. 12: NCL employees Andrew Damon, Amanda Ardavany, Antolin Avorque, Kevin Bartscht, Margaret Bencivenga, Alicia Blackett, Clint Blankenship, Ruby Borja, Stanley Bowen, Jesse Boyd, Melinda Breaux, Randall Butterfield, Gary Campbell, Eloy Contreras-Flores and SIU members Aley Beckford, Simar Beckford, Robert Martin, Michael Murner, Jeff Obney, Jesse Turner and Gregory Wathel. STCW — NCL, July 22: Roland Aflague, Floyd Aguilar, Brian Allen, Matthew Alton, Adam Alvarez, Gerald Anderson, Bracey Barrett, Swayne Bellini, Lamont Bey, Jeanette Blackshear, Candace Brown, Michael Brown, Cornelius Buckley, Mark Bumanglag, Wilbert Carthen, Jeonard Castilan, Cassandra Castleberry, Roger Chrappa, Angelina Constancio, Angie Davis, Milagros De Leon and David Echevarria. STCW — NCL, Aug. 12: Bertha Credit, Bryan Danko, Amanda DeLoach, Rose Dresback, Rico Ecalnir Jr., Juan Esquivel, Roberline Fluces, Shawn Forno, Ronald Garcia, David Gilland, Richardo Gonzales, Brian Gonzalez, Scott Gridley, Albert Guazon, Charles Hangge, Jacqueline Healy, Matt Heikkinen, Andre Herald and Peter Hoefler. STCW — NCL, July 22: Crystal Perryman, Christopher Placid, Michael Riff, Adrian Rincon Jr., Edwin Roa, Luis Rochez, Loretta Rollins, Jonathan Schmidt, Benjamin Schwartz, Daniel Sharp, Daniel Sholder, Aaron Smith, Wilson Solano, Joseph Stewart, Djoko Susilo, Elaine Sykes, Meghan Taillie, Richard Valentino, Tessie Ventura, Manuel Williams, Patricia Woodley, Sarah Yardley and William Williamson. STCW — NCL, July 22: Robert Lonno, STCW — NCL, July 22: .Alvin Ellis, Eric Estrada, Dwain Ferguson Jr., Benjamin Garcia, Mary Garrett, Paul Gernhauser, Danielle Gregory, Joey Guzman, Seth Hamilton, Hannah Henning, Sun Hwang, Jamiea Jackson, Joseph Jackson, Isaac Johnson, Jo Ann Kitagaki, William Kuehn, Klint Kuykendall, Salvador Lascano, Natasha Leybe and Nina Gibson. December 2005 Alicia Lopez, Adrian Lucio, Casandra Luke, James MacLean, Cody Manuel, Matthew Mashall, Cory Mattson, Mick McCarthy, Michael McDermott, Jess Jerry Meno, Russel Meyke, Jamar Montgomery, Doris Moore, Andrew Mulhern, Edward Nauta, Joe O’Neill, Roberto Oceguera, Neri Hanalei Ogo, Cheryl Patnode and Cecilio Perryman. Seafarers LOG 23 �33300_P10, 5, 6, 7, 11_13 19, 24cx.qxd 11/23/2005 7:41 PM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 12 December 2005 A P 6 8 a P 1 1 Coast Guard Opens Temporary RECs in Memphis, Morgan City Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG thanks SIU member Wardell Paze and retiree Arthur Machado for providing the photos accompanying this story. The pictures were taken from late September to late October throughout the New Orleans area in an effort to provide a slightly different view of not only the destruction left by Hurricane Katrina but also some of the earliest stages of recovery. A s the long process of rebuilding in the Gulf after Hurricane Katrina continues, SIU-crewed ships continue serving in the relief efforts. In mid-November, Seafarers were sailing aboard at least six vessels involved in hurricane relief in the New Orleans area: the Empire State, Wright, Cape Vincent, Sirius, State of Maine and American Queen. The Sirius and State of Maine normally are used as training vessels but were called into service after Katrina struck the U.S. Gulf Coast in late August. Another training ship, the Texas Clipper, previously had been utilized with an SIU crew. Officials at the SIU hall in Harvey, La. (just outside New Orleans) reported that the hall has been fully operational for some time but still needs cosmetic and other fairly light repairs. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard has opened temporary offices in Morgan City, La., and Memphis, Tenn. to provide services to mariners affected by the closure of the regional examination center in New Orleans. The Morgan City office accepts completed applications and offers fingerprinting services, identity verification, and administration of oaths for mariners. The Coast Guard’s temporary full-service REC in Memphis is staffed by employees from the REC in New Orleans that flooded after Katrina. The agency has waived user fees for duplicate credentials to replace those lost as a result of the hurricane. The waiver only applies to mariners whose homes of record are in Louisiana, Mississippi or Alabama and who apply for a duplicate credential before Feb. 28, 2006. The duplicate document will show the same qualifications and bear the same expiration date as the original credential. All other regulatory requirements for issuance of a duplicate credential remain in effect, according to the Coast Guard. Mariners meeting the criteria who have already paid the user fee for a duplicate credential may apply to the issuing REC for a refund. The Morgan City office is located at 800 David Dr., Morgan City, La., 70380. It is open Tuesday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Applicants may reach the office by phone at (985) 380-5310. The Memphis office is located at 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 1301, Memphis, Tenn., 38103 and may be contacted by phone at (901) 544-3941 (select “1” for New Orleans REC). The office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed from noon to 1 p.m. (2 p.m. on Wednesday). The office will also be closed on the last Wednesday of each month. Retired Seafarer Arthur Machado helps unload relief supplies at the SIU hall in Harvey, La. Additional Thanks – More SDRF Contributors The November issue of the Seafarers LOG included a list of individuals who had contributed to the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF). Since that list was compiled, additional contributions were received from people whose names are listed below. Kasim Ahmed John Alicea Robyn Anderson Kent Arnold Julian Avila E. Mauricio Brice Danny Brown James Buckowski Ernest Cannon O. Celestial Lisa Clark Juan Colon Michael Congress Leonardo Cortez John Crawford Jerome Culbreth Gerard Dhooge Joseph Egan A. Esteban John Foster A. Glebov Andrew Greenwood Dorothea HoffmanBarr Kathleen Hunt Hussein Jinah Fareed Khan Edward Krebs V. Labrilla T. Lane Breon Lucas C. Lynch Arthur Machado Juan Gomez Donna Massucco Francisco Munoz James Murphy Sadeq Nasser Raford Nixon R. Ong Selcuk Ozdencanli R. Quioto David Rivera Michael Russo Jamal Sailan Fahd Saleh Russell Shaw Benjamin Stanley John Wessels Price Willoughby � 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 December 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES AUGIE TELLEZ APPOINTED EXEC. VP; GEORGE TRICKER NAMED CONTRACTS VP LABOR GETS OUT THE VOTE SIU’S JOHN FAY DIES AT 73 EXCECUTIVE VP WAS ADVOCATE FOR ALL MARINERS ALLIANCE NEW YORK JOINS SIU FLEET MILITARY LEADERS VOICE SUPPORT FOR MERCHANT MARINERS SEAFARERS HONORED AT AOTOS EVENT GENERAL HANDY, 2 OTHERS RECEIVE TOP ANNUAL AWARDS FT. LAUDERDALE HALL MOSTLY UNDAMAGED FOLLOWING ‘WILMA’ CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON 1ST OF 10 TANKERS AFL-CIO ROLLS OUT SOLIDARITY CHARTER PROGRAM BOWEN IS NEW PLANS ADMINISTRATOR SENATOR STEVENS STATES ONGOING SUPPORT FOR MARITIME 11 RECERTIFIED BOSUNS KEEP UP WITH CHANGES TO PROTECT INTERESTS OF U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY SEAFARERS WELCOME ALLIANCE NEW YORK SEAFARERES STILL PITCHING IN WITH RELIEF EFFORTS COAST GUARD OPENS TEMPORARY RECS IN MEMPHIS, MORGAN 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 12/01/2005 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. 12 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/d4df7637fc92a883a998e2f46a6663c7.pdf 036dc5310d30cc5ce0535b6b3c41aba8 PDF Text Text 32670_P1,2,5,6,7X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:28 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 11 November 2005 s w r o G t e e l F U. S. P S M w e N r Unde Expanded Program Means More SIU Jobs, Improved American-Flag Sealift Capability Last month marked the start of the expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program—a boon to America’s national and economic wellbeing and a boost to the SIU-contracted fleet. Altogether, the union gains 13 additional vessels in the expanded program (which now totals 60 ships). Pictured here are several of those new ships, including (clockwise, from upper left) the Overseas Luxmar, the Ocean Titan and the Integrity. (Continued below) In the foreground, celebrating the expansion of the U.S.-flag fleet aboard the Integrity in Baltimore are (far left) Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; (seventh from left) Gen. John Handy, who recently retired as commander of TRANSCOM; (sixth from right) SIU President Michael Sacco, a strong proponent of the expanded MSP; (fourth from right) ARC President and Chairman Ray Ebeling; and apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. MSP coverage is included on pages 2, 3, 5, 8 and 11. Seafarers Proudly Sail in Operation Iraqi Freedom As the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) continues, SIU members remain on the job, both on mobilized ships overseas as well as Ready Reserve Force vessels back in the United States that may be activated for additional support of U.S. troops. Several Seafarers who have made multiple voyages in OIF recently spoke about their pride in serving as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense, including some of those pictured on the Cape Washington in Baltimore (from left): QEE Eric Mentzer, GUDE Michael Alghafeili, AB Farah Mrimri, QMED George Murphy and Bosun Rick James. Pages 12-13. Union Continues Hurricane Relief Seafarers were among the first to provide relief during and after Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, and there has been no letup in those efforts. Above, Seafarers, SIU officials and family members at the union’s hall in New Orleans are pictured in front of a truck carrying relief supplies donated by SIU-contracted Crowley. Page 7. �32670_P02X.qxd 10/27/2005 4:23 PM Page 2 President’s Report MSP’s Growth and Lessons For Seafarers, there’s no better sight than the American flag being raised on modern ships as they join the SIU-contracted fleet. Lately, that has been a very familiar sight—and certainly one that’s never taken for granted. In particular, with the expansion of the Maritime Security Program (MSP) from 47 to 60 ships, the union gains new jobs aboard 13 vessels. Many of those ships are pictured in this issue of the LOG, starting on the front page. This is a great moment for our union because it means new jobs, new ships and a brighter future. Michael Sacco And there’s no question that the expanded MSP also is good news for our nation as a whole. As so many of the program’s supporters have noted, the growth of the MSP fleet protects America’s national and economic security—and does so at great value. It helps expand the pool of well-trained, U.S. citizen mariners, which is a big consideration in these unstable times. In short, it’s a win-win situation. A feel-good story for our union and our industry, and a definite plus not only for America’s defense capabilities but also her economic safety. But amid the reflaggings and celebrations, let’s not overlook the important lessons we can learn from a quick review of the MSP’s history. As many Seafarers remember, the original program was enacted in 1996 as part of broader legislation known as the Maritime Security Act. That law itself took years to pass—the initial maritime revitalization program was proposed back in 1992. The updated version of the MSP, which took effect in October, also was the result of years of work by pro-U.S.-flag interests, the SIU most definitely included. Basically, the program provides partial reimbursement to certain U.S.-flag ship operators who agree to make their vessels available to the government in times of war or other emergency. (A related component of the Maritime Security Act, known as the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement or VISA, also provides access to important infrastructure.) It’s a great bargain for our country. Extremely credible, high-level studies have shown that the cost for each MSP vessel is less than one-tenth of the estimated annual operating cost of providing the same capability for our military using government-owned ships. In fact, the U.S. military itself has stated it would cost literally billions of dollars to duplicate everything they get with the MSP and VISA. So, I think it’s very safe to say that the MSP is valuable and affordable. It’s also important to note that the program has received support from the highest levels—from President Bush, who signed the expanded program into law, to top military leaders, to the Defense Department and the Transportation Department, to senators and congressmen. That support didn’t happen without a sustained effort to spread the word about the U.S. Merchant Marine and what it means to our country. And this is where political action comes into play. Without political action, our industry never would have been able to consider the MSP, let alone expand it. On that note, I thank our rank-and-file members for your consistent understanding of the importance of politics, and for your consistent support of SPAD, our union’s voluntary political action fund. Finally, the new MSP wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding shipboard work of American mariners, including, of course, SIU members. It is your dedication—your reliability and professionalism and patriotism—that helps inspire so much confidence in the program and in the U.S.-flag fleet as a whole. So, when you read about—and sail on—these new MSP ships, give yourselves a pat on the back. Perhaps most of all, the lesson of the MSP is that significant growth in the American-flag commercial fleet continues. Like anything else that’s worth achieving, it doesn’t come easy. But with the cooperation that exists today in our industry, and with the knowledge and appreciation of our leaders in the military and in government, and with the continued outstanding performance of our crews, I know that we’re headed for even greater success. Volume 67, Number 11 November 2005 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2005 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Task Force: Support for Cabotage Law Still Strong The Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF), a broad coalition devoted to protecting laws that strengthen domestic U.S.-flag shipping, last month issued a letter offering many important points in the wake of two Jones Act waivers related to Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita. “From the outset, we would like to emphasize that the general state of the Jones Act and long-term outlook are strong,” the MCTF letter noted. “President Bush has been a strong supporter of the Jones Act since before he was elected, and he understands that the Jones Act is the foundation of our industry. The unique circumstances resulting from the unprecedented devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, followed almost immediately by Hurricane Rita, and resultant pressure on the Federal Government to respond in any manner possible, which have given rise to limited waivers of the Act, will ease over time as sufficient U.S.-flag Jones Act vessel capacity is demonstrably available and Gulf Coast refineries return to production.” On Sept. 1, in response to Hurricane Katrina, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced a temporary waiver of the Jones Act for the movement of certain petroleum products. A subsequent waiver, scheduled to expire late last month, was issued following Hurricane Rita. “Because of the blanket nature of these waivers, no official government data is available as to the extent they have been used,” the letter stated. “Based on industry sources, however, it appears that 4-6 foreign vessel movements occurred under the first waiver and that three vessels moved immediately under the second from the New York area to the Gulf. No movements under the waiver have been reported since.” The task force noted that it did not oppose the initial petroleum waiver “for a variety of reasons, including the extreme human tragedy and loss of life in the Gulf region, and significant interruptions to the production and transportation of refined petroleum products…. “However, in contrast to generally supporting the President on the initial waiver, the MCTF and domestic industry have taken the public position that the second waiver was neither necessary nor justified by any demonstrated need, notwithstanding the devastating impact of Rita on American refinery capacity. In meetings with government officials, we stress that we understand what they are trying to accomplish—the seamless movement of refined product throughout the U.S.—but that we do not understand how a Jones Act waiver helps achieve that objective. We don’t understand which transportation movements are made more efficient by the waiver. We also have emphasized that there is a substantial fleet of U.S.-flag tank vessels standing by and ready to assist in the movement of refined product within the U.S. We also point out the absurdity of a situation where U.S.-flag vessels manned by American crews stand idly by while foreign vessels with foreign crews transport domestic cargoes. “Moreover, we remind them that these waivers could substantially harm the American maritime industry. This is particularly true in the Gulf region, where the maritime industry is a major employer and where there is an urgent need to get American workers back on the job.” The MCTF did credit the administration for listening and responding to the industry’s needs, which resulted in the curbing of proposed waivers that were comparatively extreme. In part, the letter concluded, “The extraordinary circumstances created by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have placed unprecedented strain on the U.S. refineries and the transportation system for refined petroleum products. They are also creating an opportunity for the industry to do what it does best —transporting U.S. goods to U.S. markets in support of our domestic economy. The ability of the industry to do so, and the MCTF’s efforts to educate policy-makers to that effect, are our best weapons to gain continued support for the Jones Act and related cabotage laws.” The SIU is one of more than 400 member organizations of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force. Runaway-Flag Cruise Line Comes Under Scrutiny Legislators from both houses of Congress—and political parties—are turning up the heat on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for its now infamous $236 million contract with Carnival Cruise Lines (CCL) to house Hurricane Katrina evacuees from New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. Ranking Democratic Minority Leader Henry A. Waxman, in an Oct. 20 letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, registered his concerns on the highly contentious hurricane evacuee housing agreement. Referring to new information his office obtained from an internal financial review prepared by Carnival in January 2002, Waxman noted, “This financial data reveals that the federal government appears to be paying Carnival significantly more under the federal contract than the ships earned on their own, while Carnival’s expenses appear to be significantly less under the federal contracts than the ships normally incur. The net result is a contract that looks lucrative for Carnival but exceptionally expensive for the taxpayer.” In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, through a hastily arranged deal, millions of dollars from U.S. taxpayers will flow to CCL, a tax-exempt Israeli-founded corporation registered in Panama. The deal, reached on Sept. 2, will pay CCL some $236 million ($192 million for base costs for the ships for six months and $44 million for reimbursements that cover fuel, dock fees, and other expenses) for the use of 7,100 berths aboard three of the company’s full-service cruise ships for six months. A closer look at the numbers reveals that each berth will cost U.S. taxpayers $5,540 per month, or more than $184 per night. The cost per bed could actually be much higher because not all berths will be occupied for the entire six-month period of the contract, according to several reports. In fact, the three ships now are more than half empty as they bob in the Mississippi River and Mobile Bay. A national newspaper reported that “most evacuees rejected the offer” to stay on the Carnival ships—the Ecstasy, Sensation, and Holiday—which are reportedly being used to house city employees from New Orleans and emergency workers involved in the cleanup effort. Faced with a growing crisis as evacuees fled New Orleans and elsewhere, the deal was put together in about 36 hours, CCL and the government have said. In the wake of Katrina, sources say a government agency approached 75 different companies or brokers of ships seeking bids on ships with at least 1,000 berths to be available within 10 days. Only Carnival and a Canadian compa- ny that provided a single ship met the terms established by FEMA. To critics, the price is exorbitant. Angela Styles, a political appointee who headed the Office of Federal Procurement Policy between 2001 and 2003, questioned the government’s handling of the contract. Even under circumstances requiring great haste, she said, the government has mechanisms to obtain goods and services at a fair price. For example, she said, a contract can be concluded with the final price to be determined during subsequent negotiations. “In this case, they executed a contract without ensuring that they had a fair price,” she said. If the ships were at capacity, with 7,116 evacuees, for six months, the price per evacuee would total $1,275 a week, according to calculations by aides to Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.). A seven-day western Caribbean cruise out of Galveston can be had for $599 a person—and that would include entertainment and the cost of actually making the ship move. “When the federal government would actually save millions of dollars by forgoing the status quo and actually sending evacuees on a luxurious six-month cruise it is time to rethink how we are conducting oversight. A short-term temporary solution has turned into a long-term, grossly overpriced sweetheart deal for a cruise line,” said Coburn and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) in a joint statement which called for a chief Continued on page 6 November 2005 �32670_P3,11,21X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:53 PM Page 3 ARC Fleet Expands by 3 TRANSCOM Leader Cites Mariners’ Importance As part of the expansion of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet, the union recently welcomed three newly reflagged vessels added by SIU-contracted American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier (ARC). SIU President Michael Sacco; Gen. Norton Schwartz; Gen. John Handy; and ARC President and Chairman Raymond Ebeling were the featured speakers at a Sept. 29 naming ceremony aboard the Integrity in Baltimore, one of the company’s three new additions. The others are the Courage and the Honor. Other SIU officials and members as well as students from the union’s affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also attended the ceremony. Schwartz, the newly appointed commander of TRANSCOM, delivered the keynote address. He called the growth of the MSP “a critical expansion of our nation’s Newly Reflagged ARC Ships at a Glance Courage Built: 1991 Length: 652 feet Beam: 105 feet Draft (design): 38.13 feet Speed: 18 knots Deadweight: 29,213 metric tons Below Deck Total Area: 562,123 square feet Honor Built: 1997 Length: 623 feet Beam: 105 feet Draft (design): 33 feet Speed: 18 knots Deadweight: 19,844 metric tons Below Deck Total Area: 544,072 square feet Integrity Built: 1992 Length: 652 feet Beam: 105 feet Draft (design): 38 feet Speed: 18 knots Deadweight: 29,213 metric tons Below Deck Total Area: 565,223 square feet Other U.S.-Flag ARC Ships: Freedom Liberty Independence Patriot Resolve maritime capability.” He also noted that the military “relies heavily on our commercial partners and associated labor organizations…. This increase in fleet size plays a critical role in expanding our U.S. mariner base.” Additionally, he pointed out that Operation Iraqi Freedom has reinforced the fact that the “vast majority” of materiel is moved via sealift. Handy, who recently retired as head of TRANSCOM, said that the fleet’s growth is important to the nation. “Thousands of jobs for American seamen means that when we need seafarers to man our military ships, they will be there,” he told the audience of approximately 300 people. “Reflagging these ships (under the Stars and Stripes) is the right thing to do.” Ebeling described the event as “an unprecedented day in American maritime history. No one has ever brought more tonnage under the U.S. flag than we are today.” He then provided insight regarding the work involved in preserving and growing the MSP. In so doing, he called Sacco and Continued on page 11 Ocean Titan Joins SIU Fleet More SIU deep sea jobs recently appeared on the horizon when the Pacific-Gulf Marine (PGM) operated Ocean Titan began sailing under the red, white and blue. Formerly the Industrial Chief, the Ocean Titan was reflagged under the Maritime Security Program and brought under U.S. registry Sept. 21 in the port of Houston. Prevailing weather conditions during the event were far from ideal according to PGM Chief Executive Officer Todd Johnson. The reflagging took place during the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and just prior to the landfall of Hurricane Rita in Texas. Given the impact the hurricane had on both personnel and the shipyard, conditions were difficult but spirits were high, Johnson said. A heavy lift vessel, the Ocean Titan is the sister ship of the Ocean Atlas. PGM operates both vessels for Intermarine Inc. The Ocean Titan was undergoing modifications at Atlantic Marine Shipyard in Mobile, Ala., when Hurricane Katrina and subse- The Ocean Titan now flies the American flag and carries an SIU crew. quent flooding hit the Gulf Coast at the end of August. It was moved to the port of Houston to complete the reflagging process and conversion to U.S. registry. “It was a team effort and a tribute to the vessel’s officers, crew and the shore-side management team who played a significant role in the re-flag process,” said Johnson. “On behalf of the owners, we look forward to many successful years of operation under the U.S. flag.” The Ocean Titan took on cargo in Houston and put out to sea for South America Sept. 27 on its first voyage under the U.S. flag. The Ocean Titan as well as the Ocean Atlas are 8,000 dwt Century Class vessels, are 393 feet long and feature two 200-ton heavy-lift deck cranes, which can be operated in unison to lift 400 tons. In addition, both are registered in the MSP, which as of Oct. 1 was renewed for 10 years. The renewed MSP expands the fleet enrollment from 47 to 60 vessels and increases the operating assistance for each vessel gradually over 10 years from its previous level of $2.1 million per year. The MSP was authorized in the Maritime Security Act of 1996. The law provided limited direct operating assistance to U.S.-flagged vessels that have military utility and can be used by the Department of Defense in times of war or national emergency. Legislation enacted in 2003 renewed the program through September 2015. Ocean Titan Specs Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, Dec. 26, 2005 for the observance of Christmas Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 2005 Year Built: 2000 Type: Heavy-lift, box-hold, multipurpose vessel Service Speed: 16.5 knots Length: 393 feet Beam: 65 feet Draft: 23.2 feet DWT: 8,000 metric tons Grain/Bale capacity: 395,000 cubic feet Clockwise from upper left, addressing the audience aboard the Integrity were SIU President Michael Sacco; Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); ARC President and Chairman Raymond Ebeling; and Gen. John Handy, recently retired commander of TRANSCOM. OSG Adds 3 Tankers Three OSG Ship Management (OSG) tankers during the last two months surrendered their Marshall Islands flags in favor of the Stars and Stripes—and SIU crews—and in the process earned the authorization to convey military cargo overseas during war and emergencies. The vessels, Overseas Maremar, Overseas Ambermar and Overseas Luxmar were reflagged to the American registry during separate ceremonies Sept. 6, Sept. 12 and Oct. 8, respectively. With the addition of these three vessels, OSG now has nine SIU-crewed ships sailing under the American flag. The ships have contracts under the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), which was OSG’s Newly Reflagged Tankers Overseas Maremar Built: 1998 Dwt: 47,225 Length: 564 feet Breadth: 105 feet Overseas Ambermar Built: 2002 Dwt: 35,970 Length: 572 feet Breadth: 89 feet Overseas Luxmar Built: 1998 Dwt: 46,162 Length: 601 feet Breadth: 105 feet recently expanded to 60 from 47 vessels. The contracts run through 2016. OSG has 10 U.S.-flag Jones Act product carriers aggregating on order at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard which are scheduled for delivery between late 2006 and early 2010. In addition, OSG has on order four 216,200-cubic meter LNG tankers (two at Hyundai Heavy Industries, Ltd. and two at Samsung Heavy Industries, Ltd.) scheduled for delivery in late 2007 and early 2008. Above: The Overseas Luxmar is one of three OSG tankers that recently hoisted the Stars and Stripes. Right: Seafarers aboard the Overseas Luxmar proudly display the United States flag as the vessel transfers to American registry. Seafarers LOG 3 �32670_P4,8,12,13,19X2.qxd 10/28/2005 7:46 PM Page 4 Construction Starts on 3 T-AKE Ship rd Construction recently started on the third ship in the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) T-AKE program at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division will fill the unlicensed positions on the new ship when it is completed. During a September ceremony marking the start of manufacture for the third vessel, Jennifer Stanton, wife of U.S. Navy Captain Mike Stanton, commanding officer, Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Bath, Maine, made the first cut on the ship’s first steel plate to signify the start of construction. Captain Stanton’s San Diego detachment is responsible for overseeing construction on the T-AKE program. The U.S. Navy has awarded NASSCO contracts for eight dry cargo/ammunition ships and holds options for an additional four ships. If all the options are exercised, the 12-ship program would have a total value of $3.7 billion. The first T-AKE, named the Lewis and Clark to honor the two legendary explorers who led an expeditionary force from 1804 to 1806 to travel around the American West, was launched on May 21, 2005. The ship is in the final stages of construction alongside NASSCO’s pier, with delivery scheduled for early next year. The second T-AKE, to be named the Sacagawea in honor of the Shoshone Indian woman who acted as guide and interpreter for Lewis and Clark, is scheduled to be launched in the spring of 2006. The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. The T-AKEs will be the first modern Navy ships to combine proven international marine technologies such as an integrated electric-drive propulsion system that can achieve a speed of 20 knots, and commercial design features that will minimize their cost of operation and maintenance over their expected 40-year lives, according to the shipyard. When MSC announced the TAKE program, the agency reported, “As an auxiliary support ship, the T-AKE will directly contribute to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence. The T-AKE’s primary mission will be delivering supplies to Navy ships from sources of supply like friendly ports, or from sea using specially equipped merchant ships. The T-AKE will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, limited quantities of fuel, repair parts, ship store items and The first ship in the new T-AKE program, the USNS Lewis and Clark, is pictured during launch this past May in San Diego. expendable supplies—at sea to station ships and other naval war- Vice Admiral Brewer Honored by NDTA Vice Adm. David L. Brewer, USN, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC), on Sept. 13 received the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) Department of Defense Distinguished Service Award. As MSC commander since August 2001, Brewer has directed the ocean transport of 95 percent of all combat cargo used by U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terrorism. “Beginning with the (Seafarerscrewed) hospital ship USNS Comfort sailing to New York City to provide relief to emergency workers after Sept. 11, and continuing through Operation Iraqi Freedom, Vice Adm. Brewer directed the efforts of more than 120 ships and their crews worldwide,” said the citation. “Vice Adm. Brewer is the epitome of a Sailor’s Sailor whose leadership and professionalism have contributed immeasurably to America’s national security and humanitarian missions.” With more than 8,500 members (including the Seafarers Inter- national Union of North America), the NDTA fosters partnerships between government, military and industry to maintain a strong global transportation and distribution system. Each year, the nonprofit organization recognizes a DOD senior executive who has shown outstanding service to the nation in the field of transportation and logistics. MSC has moved 78 million square feet of U.S. military cargo in support of the global war on terrorism, much of it aboard SIUcrewed ships. That’s equal to more than 827,000 SUVs that, if lined up bumper-to-bumper, would stretch from Washington, D.C., to Las Vegas. In addition, MSC ships have delivered more than 7.7 billion gallons of fuel to U.S. forces—enough to fill up the Empire State Building nearly 28 times. MSC operates 120 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that move combat cargo for U.S. forces, replenish U.S. Navy ships at sea, chart ocean bottoms and strategically preposition equipment and supplies at sea around the world. Retired Port Agent Marinelli Dies at 82 Pasquale “Pat” Marinelli, retired SIU port agent and an active figure in many of the union’s earliest organizing drives, passed away Sept. 7 at age 82, following a heart attack. Marinelli had a well-earned reputation for being tough when the situation called for it, but he got along well with his SIU brothers and sisters, and he was committed to the union. “He was a good official, one of the old-timers,” recalled SIU President Michael Sacco. “He sailed in the deck department and he did a lot of organizing. He also helped provide stability on the West Coast for the SIU.” Retired SIU Vice President Contracts Red Campbell remembered Marinelli as “goodnatured and very dedicated when it came to union matters. He carried his weight.” Retired Bosun Kenny Roberts periodically worked with Mari- 4 Seafarers LOG fare forces. In its secondary mission, the T-AKE may be required to operate in concert with a Henry J. Kaiser-class (T-AO 187) oiler as a substitute on-station ship, providing direct logistic support to ships within a single carrier strike group. “The primary goal of the TAKE program is to provide effective fleet underway replenishment capability at the lowest life cycle cost. To meet that goal, the ship is being built to commercial specifications and standards and will be certified/classed by the American Bureau of Shipping, the United States Coast Guard and other regulatory bodies. The ships will be operated by Military Sealift Command with civilian mariner crews (123 personnel) augmented by a military department (49 personnel).” nelli throughout his own 33-year career with the SIU. “He was a nice guy and always helpful to the men,” Roberts said. “Any time you asked him to have a drink or shoot the bull or whatever, he’d do it.” Marinelli served in the armed forces during part of World War II, and then joined the union in 1945 in the port of New York. He sailed as an AB and bosun until coming ashore to work for the SIU in 1956. His career with the union was anything but dull. Marinelli in the 1940s took part in the Isthmian beef and the garment strike, and later walked the picket lines in both the Greater New York Harbor beef and the Robin Line strike, among others. Marinelli served as the union’s port agent in San Juan, P.R. in 1960. At various other times, he worked as a patrolman in San Francisco; Wilmington, Retired SIU Port Agent Pat Marinelli took part in many of the union’s key organizing drives. Calif.; and Brooklyn. He retired to New York State in 1977, largely due to health issues, and most recently lived in North Babylon, N.Y. Burial took place at St. John’s Cemetery in Middle Village, N.Y. Vice Adm. David L. Brewer, left, accepts the National Defense Transportation Association’s 2005 Department of Defense Distinguished Service Award from NDTA Vice Chairman General Walter Kross. Reciprocal Seniority Takes Effect Nov. 1 During the October membership meetings, Seafarers approved a long-intended modification to the Seafarers Appeals Board shipping rules which will allow for reciprocal seniority between SIU members and mariners who were in the old National Maritime Union (NMU) when those organizations merged back in 2001. As reported at the membership meetings, the merger agreement specified that the unions’ respective seniority systems initially would remain separate. At that time, maintaining separate seniority was the most practical thing to do. “However, more than four years later, contract negotiations and other circumstances clearly dictate that the time has come for reciprocal seniority between the SIU and the old NMU,” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez noted in his monthly report. “This was always the long-range intent of both unions and it helps break down the last remaining barriers.” Effective at the start of this month (Nov. 1, 2005), the Seafarers Appeals Board will amend the shipping rules as follows: As an “A” seniority man with the SIU, a member may sail in Group 1 under an NMU contract. If a member is in Group 1 NMU, he effectively has “A” seniority in the SIU. The same would be true for people with B seniority and people in Group 2, right on down the line. Again as amplified during the membership meetings, this is partly a matter of fairness now that the unions essentially have become one organization. It’s also a matter of practicality, because as the old NMU contracts expire, they are being replaced by SIU contracts that will cover all members. That last point is essential to understanding why reciprocal seniority makes sense. The timing of this consolidation is based in part on upcoming, industrywide contract negotiations. “At that point it will simply be a case of good common sense for us to consolidate our shipping rules, using the SIU shipping rules as the model,” Tellez noted in his report. “We are one union. It’s logical for us to have one set of shipping rules.” November 2005 �32670_P1,2,5,6,7X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:40 PM Page 5 ITF, Owners’ Group Reach ‘Significant’ Agreement The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the international shipowners’ Joint Negotiation Group announced favorable results following their negotiations in the International Bargaining Forum Oct. 5-6 in Tokyo. Negotiations concluded with a settlement described by both sides as a “significantly successful outcome.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, took part in the bargaining. Building on the first ever international collective bargaining agreement for workers across the world, and now covering 55,000 seafarers on more than 3,200 ships, the new agreement includes a twostage increase, based on the IBF model ship of 23 seafarers, from $46,170 per month to $48,478 beginning at the start of 2006 and to $50,787 beginning in 2007. The updated agreement also calls for a two-stage increase on contractual death and disability compensation of five percent as of January 2006 and an additional five percent as of January 2007. Additionally, the agreement includes the provision of free shipboard e-mail access for all seafarers, where appropriately equipped. In a joint statement following the negotiations, the groups noted, “In particular, significant aspects of cooperation have been reached between the ITF and JNG on initiatives aimed at addressing the concerns on employment security held by seafarers from developed economies. An agreement has also been reached that the JNG will recommend to their shipowner principals that they should not use the services of non-union dockworkers.” The ITF commented that “the negotiations had been difficult Homeland Security Dept. Issues National Strategy For Maritime Security The U.S. Department of Homeland Security in late September released its longawaited National Strategy for Maritime Security (NSMS). A 31-page document, the strategy discusses threats to national security (such as terrorism and piracy); strategic objectives (such as prevention and recovery); and strategic actions (such as international cooperation, domain awareness, and continuity). The new approach is the end product of an effort led by the Secretaries of the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security to develop a comprehensive NSMS that would “better integrate and synchronize existing department-level strategies and ensure their effective and efficient implementation,” the agencies said when issuing the report. This project was launched in December 2004 via direction of President Bush. In addition to the new strategy, the departments developed eight supporting plans to address the specific threats and challenges of the maritime environment. The supporting plans include: The National Plan to Achieve Maritime Domain Awareness, which lays the foundation for an effective understanding of anything associated with the maritime domain that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment of the United States, and identifying threats as early A port security drill is conducted earlier this year in Anchorage, Alaska. A Coast Guard cutter sits off the vessel Nord Sea during a homeland security boarding in the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port in Mobile, Ala. in mid-September. November 2005 and touched on sensitive issues on both sides. However, there’s no doubt that the ITF and JNG relationship has reached a level of mutual respect that demonstrates what can be achieved through cooperation and a positive approach. “We have consolidated the innovative negotiating process and in doing so materially advanced the protection of seafarers’ employment and improved the conditions under which they serve.” The spokesman for the shipowners commented that “the negotiations had been long and complex as both sides had made proposals that involved both cost items and policy issues. Overall the settlement would strengthen the IBF system, provide mechanisms for discussing a number of outstanding issues as well as provide a satisfactory settlement that would appeal to seafarers and shipowners alike.” and as distant from our shores as possible. A Maritime Transportation System Security Plan that responds to the president’s call for recommendations to improve the national and international regulatory framework regarding the maritime domain. A Maritime Commerce Security Plan establishing a comprehensive diagram to secure the maritime supply chain. A Maritime Infrastructure Recovery Plan recommending procedures and standards for the recovery of the maritime infrastructure following attack or similar disruption. An International Outreach and Coordination Strategy providing a framework to coordinate all maritime security initiatives undertaken with foreign governments and international organizations, and soliciting international support for enhanced maritime security. A Global Maritime Intelligence Integration Plan using existing capabilities to integrate all available intelligence regarding potential threats to U.S. interests in the maritime domain. A Maritime Operational Threat Response Plan aiming for a coordinated United States government response to threats against the nation and its interests in the maritime domain by establishing roles and responsibilities that enable the government to respond quickly and decisively. A Domestic Outreach Plan engaging non-federal input to assist with the development and implementation of maritime security policies. While the foregoing tactics address different aspects of maritime security, said DHS, they nonetheless mutually are linked and reinforce one another. Together, the NSMS and its supporting plans represent the beginning of a comprehensive national effort to promote global economic stability and protect legitimate activities, while preventing hostile or illegal acts within the maritime domain, according to the DHS. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (first row, third from right) participates in the International Bargaining Forum Oct. 5-6 in Tokyo. Negotiations resulted in a favorable agreement for both sides. Raising the Stars and Stripes! As part of the newly expanded Maritime Security Program, Seafarers recently welcomed the car carrier Alliance New York, operated by Liberty Maritime. Representing new jobs for SIU members, the vessel hoisted the Stars and Stripes on Sept. 28 in Yokohama, Japan and then sailed for ports in Korea, Puerto Rico and the Gulf Coast. The Alliance New York will offer around-theworld service. Seafarers LOG 5 �32760_P1,2,5,6,7.qxd 10/27/2005 2:47 PM Page 6 Americans Forced to Pay More As Insurance Coverage Goes Down If there is any positive news in the health insurance crisis, it is that premiums climbed only 9.2 percent this year as compared to 11.2 percent in 2004 and 13.9 percent in 2003. But that is little consolation to those workers who find that the increased cost of health insurance is still more than three times the growth in their earnings (2.7 %) and twoand-a half times the rate of inflation (3.5%)—and that nearly 47 million Americans have no insurance at all. These statistics were made available in the 2005 Annual Employer Health Benefits Survey recently released by the Kaiser Family Foundation and Health Research and Educational Trust. The survey found that only 60 percent of companies offered coverage to their employees in 2005, down from 66 percent in 2003 and 69 percent in 2000. “It is low-wage workers who are being hurt the most by the steady drip, drip, drip of coverage draining out of the employer-based health insurance system,” said Kaiser Family Foundation President and CEO Drew E. Altman, Ph.D. In 2005, the “preferred provider organization” (PPO) plans—like that offered by the SIU—were more common than ever, with 61 percent of all employees with health coverage enrolling in a PPO (up from 55% the previous year). In a PPO, there is a network of doctors, hospitals and other health professionals who have agreed to provide care for a set price. The other popular arrangement is the “health maintenance organization” (HMO), which showed a decline in enrollment this year. Family coverage under a PPO costs an average of $11,090 of which the employer pays $8,449 and the worker pays $2,641 (just to carry the coverage). Employers predict an increase of about 10 percent next year in their health care costs. Some of these firms will likely ask their workers to pay more in premiums, raise deductibles, raise office visit copayments or raise prescription drug co-payments. Only about 1 percent of firms say they are “very likely” to drop health coverage entirely in the near future. The United Auto Workers (UAW), for example, last month said its leadership had unanimously endorsed a deal with General Motors Corp. (GM) to reduce its health care costs by cutting benefits for UAW workers and pensioners. The proposal would mean that health care would no longer be free for many of GM’s retirees and their families and that drug co-payments would be increased for active GM hourly employees. GM said that the proposed pact with the UAW would reduce its employee health-care expenses by $3 billion annually before taxes. No time frame was given as to when the agreement will be put to union members for ratification. One outcome of the rising cost of health care is that American workers are beginning to change their attitudes and actions in an effort to cope with the increased co-pays and deductibles. According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2005 Health Confidence Survey, 79 percent of those persons questioned said they are now choosing generic drugs over name brands, and 71 percent said they are taking better care of themselves. Retired Instructor Jack Parcel Dies Jack Parcel, a retired instructor at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. passed away Sept. 13. Parcel was 77. “As I recall, Jack entered the U.S. Navy in 1945 and retired some 30 years later as a master chief electrician,” said Eric Malzkuhn, a long-tenured instructor at the Paul Hall Center and one of Parcel’s closest friends. “During his distinguished naval career, he not only trained electricians, but also instructors.” Shortly after his retirement from the armed forces, he came to the Paul Hall Center. Many students, particularly electricians, benefited from his instruction. “In truth, though, his impact has been felt throughout the maritime industry,” Malzkuhn added. “He was a mentor figure to many instructors. We all owe Jack a debt of gratitude. We all mourn his passing, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.” Born in Missouri, Parcel served in the U.S. Navy as an electrician and retired as a master chief petty officer. Parcel launched his career as a maritime educator in 1974 when he signed on at the Piney Point school as an engine department instructor. Electrical maintenance, crane maintenance, electro hydraulics and variable speed dc drivers were among the courses he taught over the years. An achiever as well as an educator, Parcel rarely missed out on an opportunity for advancement. He became a department head at the school in 1977 and a senior instructor in 1978. After training hundreds of merchant mariners and making a difference in the lives of countless others, Parcel called it quits in the academic arena. He retired on Jan. 1, 1991 and established his residence in Tampa, Fla. Parcel was preceded in death by his wife Margaret. He is survived by one son, James; and a daughter, Margaret Dugan. Agency Issues Revised STCW Endorsement The U.S. Coast Guard in late September began issuing a newly revised U.S. STCW Endorsement, Form CG-5611 (Rev. 0105), to qualified licensed and unlicensed merchant mariners. According to the agency, more than 59,000 U.S. merchant mariners hold a valid STCW endorsement. Mariners’ existing endorsements will be replaced at the time of their scheduled expiration or when their qualifications are upgraded. The new document contains “significant security and accountability enhancements,” according to the Coast Guard. The design is based on the U.S. Merchant Marine Officer License (Form CG-2849) and advice by senior intelligence officers at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Forensics Document Laboratory for costeffective, fraud-resistant features; and the Production and Design Team of the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). The revised U.S. STCW Endorsement “exceeds International Maritime Organization standards on anti-fraud measures and forgery prevention features for seafarers’ certificates,” the agency noted in a news release. financial officer to oversee Katrina spending. Meanwhile, congressional calls for an investigation of the contract have increased, with Republicans as well as Democrats seeking action. Three Republicans, Reps. Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), and Todd Tiahart (R-Kan.), sent a letter to House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.), calling for “an immediate investigation into all matters related to the contract.” “We have concerns about a broad range of issues,” the letter said, citing the total price tag, the economics of housing evacuees under the contract terms and the speed with which the deal was negotiated. Not only are questions being raised over the Carnival contract’s cost, but congressional investigators also are examining the company’s tax status. CCL, 6 Seafarers LOG Jack Parcel conducts a class during the 1970s at the Paul Hall Center. Parcel, who became an instructor at the SIU-affiliated school in 1974, passed away recently in Tampa, Fla. CIVMAR Notes Internet Issue Resolved FY2005 Wage Update Each year, in accordance with federal law, the union submits private sector collective bargaining information to MSC as a basis for the agency to make a determination about an adjustment of CIVMAR wages. As previously reported in the June 2005 edition of the Seafarers LOG, the SIU had been waiting to learn about the finalization of certain private sector collective bargaining agreements in order to provide MSC with relevant wages and conditions of employment. Once MSC reviews these agreements, the agency generally makes adjustments to yearly wages, in this case, FY05 wages for MSC CIVMARS. On Oct. 4, 2005, the SIU notified MSC that the union was prepared to make the required submissions. Further, in a spirit of cooperation with the agency, the SIU asked the responsible subject-matter personnel at MSC headquarters to meet with the union for an in-depth discussion of wage matters affecting MSC CIVMARS. The union believes such talks could be quite productive and beneficial for all parties, especially in light of MSC’s intention to establish the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command early this year. As of press time, the union was awaiting a response from the Command. This is a time-consuming process. The union will continue providing updates when appropriate. Recently, without appropriate notice from MSC, the union learned that CIVMARS’ access to commercial web sites was to be blocked beginning Oct. 18, 2005. The union submitted a formal information request to MSC in order to determine the reasons for this proposed change. The union objected to this policy change and questioned MSC regarding privacy issues as well as CIVMARS’ opportunity to receive private e-mail under a military address, access to banking and other financial sites, and use of other webbased services such as news and other commercial sites. As this edition of the LOG went to press, it appears that the issue tentatively was resolved in the members’ favor. The union is awaiting final confirmation from MSC. If CIVMARS experience difficulties accessing their web-based e-mail, they may contact their union representatives at (415) 8613400 on the West Coast, (718) 832-8767 or (757) 622-1892 on the East Coast. Union Files Grievance The union’s Government Services Division has filed a safety and health habitability grievance regarding MSC’s selection of a local hotel in Norfolk, Va. used for housing CIVMARS who are required to report to the CSU East Coast. After a thorough inspection by the Government Services representative, the hotel was deemed unsatisfactory for a variety of reasons including evidence of a roach problem, mold and mildew smells, uncleanliness, rooms in poor condition with broken furniture and poor maintenance. Additionally, the union discovered that this hotel is in an area of town with a high crime rate, making it unsafe for mariners. In addition to this grievance, the union is evaluating other legal options to try to correct this situation. CIVMARS who experience habitability problems should contact the union at 415-861-3400 (on the West Coast), 718-832-8767 or 757-622-1892 (East Coast), or via email at civmarsupport@seafarers.org. Additionally, a revised U.S. STCW Endorsement information sheet was designed and printed by the BEP and has been distributed domestically to Regional Line Comes Under Scrutiny For Evacuee Housing Contract Continued from page 2 Exam Centers (RECs), inspectors, unions and industry; and internationally to the IMO and foreign national maritime administrations. A copy of the Revised U.S. STCW Endorsement Information Sheet can be obtained by registering for a free subscription of the USCG Proceedings of the Marine Safety & Security Council at http://www.uscg.mil/proceedings/. It is posted on the National Maritime Center’s website, h t t p : / / w w w. u s c g . m i l / s t c w. Mariners with additional questions may contact their nearest REC or Jon Furukawa at (202) 493-1014 or jfurukawa@ballston.uscg.mil. which is headquartered in Miami but incorporated for tax purposes in Panama, paid just $3 million in income tax benefits on $1.9 billion in pretax income last year, according to company documents. “That’s not even a tip,” said Robert S. McIntyre of Citizens for Tax Justice. U.S. companies in general pay an effective income tax rate of about 25 percent, analysts say. That would have left Carnival with a $475 million tax bill. Carnival’s public records boast “that substantially all of our income in fiscal 2004, 2003 and 2002 . . . is exempt from U.S. federal income taxes,” largely because it maintains that its operations are not in the United States but on the high seas. November 2005 �32670_P1,2,5,6,7X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:41 PM Page 7 SIU Continues Hurricane Relief Efforts On several fronts, the SIU continued with its hurricane relief efforts late last month even as yet another storm—this one named Wilma—battered the southeastern United States. In late October, Seafarers were sailing aboard eight vessels— including training ships mobilized during Hurricane Katrina— helping provide aid along the Gulf Coast. Earlier in the month, the hospital ship USNS Comfort —crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division—returned to Baltimore following a deployment to the New Orleans area. Additionally, the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund gave assistance to hundreds of members and their families (see sidebar), while the Seafarers Pension Plan and the NMU Benefit Plans, respectively, approved a supplemental payment to eligible retirees. In Beaumont, Texas, the SIUcrewed Cape Vincent and Cape Victory were dubbed “Noah’s Arks” by the Associated Press after the Ready Reserve Force ships took aboard police dogs as well as substantial numbers of emergency equipment and personnel during Hurricane Rita. They weren’t the only SIUcrewed ships to provide shelter to animals. The U.S. Military Sealift Command reported that mariners from the USNS Bellatrix helped Louisiana veterinarians save orphaned pets in New Orleans’ St. Bernard parish, an area devastated by Hurricane Katrina. The 946-foot fast sealift ship returned to Louisiana soon after Katrina to join relief efforts. Helping staff the Sirius steward department are (from left) Chief Cook Jeff Power, Chief Cook Helen Mitchell and Chief Steward Andrew Austin. In their spare time, the 27 civilian mariners (including SIU members) who crew the Bellatrix used various supplies and spare parts to build cages and shelters for more than 300 cats and dogs separated from their owners. Mariners volunteered to walk and groom the homeless pets. The ship also took on relief workers—17 U.S. Marines from the 4th Civil Affairs Group, based in Washington, D.C., two Navy doctors and 10 local veterinarians and vet assistants. When the outer bands of Hurricane Rita struck the New Orleans area Sept. 24, the Bellatrix housed five sick canines in the ship’s massive cargo hold. The homeless pets were sheltered from the wind and rain and received medical attention from vets during the storm. The ship is usually kept in reduced operating status in Violet, La. At the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala., the union offered its facility as a staging area for members of the United Food and Commercial Workers who had transported relief supplies from Philadelphia. “We appreciate the Seafarers putting us up,” stated Wendell Young, business agent for UFCW Local 1776. “Our members are grateful.” At least two SIU-contracted companies, Crowley and Express Marine, donated relief supplies Thanking Those Who Contributed As the extent of Hurricane Katrina’s damage became evident, the union quickly established the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) in order to provide financial assistance specifically to Seafarers, their families and union employees in the affected areas. This included members of the SIUaffiliated United Industrial Workers and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union. Lito Acosta Abdulgabar Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Ueli Alataua Ahmed Ali Luqman Ali Seddik Ali Wadeea Alnasafi Christopher Altieri Santiago Amaya D.C. Anderson Calvin Andrews Eugene Aruta Shwe Aung Gloria Baker Joseph Barnes Cornelio Bartolome Joseph Baselice Marlon Battad Benjamin Bess Clinton Betties Joseph Bidzilya Jordan Biscardo Robert Blair Margaret Bowen Michael Boyle Michael Brady Thomas Bray Todd Brdak Ethel Brooks Robert Brooks Davon Brown James Brown Monte Burgett James Callahan John Carr Robert Cartmel Nicholas Celona Patti Christian Peter Ciddio Alvin Clark Casey Coddington Octavian Cojocaru Ronald Cokes Dave Coleman Victor Cooper Tina Corbin Dean Corgey Vincent Coss November 2005 Terry Cowans John Cox Amancio Crespo Arthur Cross Dante Cruz Ambrose Cucinotta Joshua Davenport George Decossio Lou Delma Shawn Deloach James DeMouy William Dennis Susan Derseweh Neil Dietz Alshea Dixon Daniel Duncan Robert Duncan Wilbert Earl Darrin Eastridge Thornton Elliott Frank & Kitty Eno Jessie Espiritu O.G. Evora Rey Farinas Suree Farrell John Fay Audrey Feffer Mario Fernandez Ronald Fields Robert Firth Ronald Fluker Salman Frederick Emiliano Garcia Richard Gegenheimer Carolyn Gentile Eric Grant Godwin Gregg Herman Hall Kenneth Hamilton Thomas Hawkins Frederick Hayston David Heindel Wilmer Herrera Alexander Hill Michael Hill Teresa Hoinsky David Hollenback John Huggins Regie Ignacio The intent was for quick and virtually complete disbursement, and that goal had been achieved by late October. Hundreds of members, their families and employees have been helped in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. With the fund essentially exhausted, the union thanks those who contributed to the SDRF. The names of all who contributed follow: Frank Iverson Leportre Jasper Neil Johnson Thomas Johnson Stephen Judd Timothy Kacer David Kelch Ed Kelly Angela Kendall Georg Kenny Enrico LaMarca Michael Lau Philip Lau Charlotte Leblanc Andrew Linares Rene Lioeanjie Steven Lonas Lanette Lopez Rudy Lopez Russell Luther Kermett Mangram Kenneth Marceski Kevin Marchand Erik Marlowe Nicholas Marrone Moises Martinez Domingo Martinez Reyes John McCabe Henry McCullough Jim McGee Kenneth McLamb Ronald Mena Dennis Metz Joseph Mieluchowski George Miller Thomas Miller Valerie Miller Yaser Mohamed Kenny Moore Edd Morris Mark Morris Roger Mosley Mothana Mothana Diane Muratalla Lupe Murillo Nagi Musaid Gheorghe Mustata Paul Nathan Ryan Neathery Jonathan Nielson William Nihem Don Nolan Lorraine Nuno Abdulla Omar Tommy Orzechowski Richard Owusu Fabian Palacios Ronald Paradise Earl Parker Jeffrey Parsley Chad Partridge Miles Partridge Arthur Patterson Frank Pecquex Herb Perez Philip Pifer Bryan Powell Francis Quebedeaux Arthur Quinney Reynato Ramos Dadang Rashidi John Repose Lawrence Richard Lance Riggs Paul Riley Nick Rios Irving Rochez Juan Rochez Edward Rockinger John Ropp John Sacco Michael Sacco Tony Sacco Ali Saleh Raymond Samaria Jason Schoenstein Peter Schuetz Garland Scott Robert Selzer Randy Senatore David Sexton Michael Shay Jack Sheehan Mohamed Shibly Karen Shuford Becky Sleeper John Solano Joseph Soresi John Spadaro Samuel Spain Louella Sproul Joseph Stanton Robert Stellon Charlie Stewart Jeffry Stuart Orlando Suazo Kenneth Sullivan Steven Sun Randolph Sutton William Tanksley James Taranto Leslie Tarantola Raymond Tate Eric Taylor Kenneth Taylor Simeon Taylor Augustin Tellez Don Thornton George Tricker Robert Troy Jeff Turkus James Tyson Eddy Usmany Thomas Vain Bryan Vallecillo Patrick Vandegrift John Vierra Joe Vincenzo Annie Walker Kareem Walters Archie Ware Mohamed Wasel Antjaun Webb John Wells Mark Wertanen Christian Westbrook Chester Wheeler Jimmy White Walter White Betty Wierschem Curtis Williams Richard Wilson Robert Wisler Wilbert Wood Martin Zeidenberg Ann Marie Zwerlein Pictured aboard the Sirius are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (third from left) and Seafarers including Bosun Wayne Casey, AB Fred Shannon, OS Gary Auzston and AB Roger Phelps. The ship has provided housing and support for police and military personnel and others in the New Orleans area. and had them scheduled for delivery to the SIU hall in Harvey, La., which is near New Orleans. “Certainly the recovery will take years, but in the short run there is light at the end of the tunnel,” noted SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd. “All the employees are back at the hall, functioning like normal. The office is normal. Outside the hall, there are still plenty of reminders that it’s not normal overall. It’s not pictures on a TV screen to us.” Judd said that family members of a number of Seafarers lost their lives in the first hurricane, bringing the devastation into tragic focus. As in other national tragedies, however, the professional and humane response from SIU members has been hard to overlook. As previously reported, Seafarers in the New Orleans area were among the first to provide assistance to hurricane victims. In at least one case they provided invaluable assistance to local medical personnel, relief workers and members of the National Guard before any other help was available. Upon reporting to the Texas A&M training vessel Sirius, activated for Katrina relief, Seafarers performed at a level that caught the attention of the ship’s master. “The 41 crew members from the SIU and AMO have been outstanding,” noted Captain Sam Stephenson. “I have never sailed with such a hard-working crew that has been so mission-focused. In four days, two months of work was accomplished. “SIU crew members did whatever it took to make sure the Sirius was ready to sail on time,” he continued. “The maritime unions of the United States have pulled together for our fellow citizens in distress and it makes me proud to be part of the U.S. Merchant Marine, working with some of the finest mariners in the country thanks to the SIU.” The SIU-crewed Cape Vincent provided shelter for emergency vehicles and other equipment as well as personnel in Beaumont, Texas. Local workers rest on the Cape Victory, which offered a respite from Hurricane Rita. Seafarers LOG 7 �32760_P4,8,12,13,19.qxd 10/25/2005 8:41 PM Page 8 Seafarers Help Rebuild Florida Coastline L ast year—long before the nation had even heard about Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which came ashore with a fury in cities along the U.S. Gulf Coast—Florida was hit with four hurricanes in a row: Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne. Southwest Florida’s coast, including the resort communities of Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, were decimated. And while some of the resorts were able to reopen fairly quickly, many of the buildings in those communities, as well as the shoreline, were destroyed. Kevin Marchand, an SIU patrolman in Ft. Lauderdale, recently toured the area. He noted that the SIU-crewed hopper dredge Dodge Island, operated by NATCO, is working with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to help rebuild the shoreline. NATCO, a subsidiary of Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Co., is a leader in restoring eroded recreational and commercial waterfronts. The destruction wrought by the 2004 hurricanes is still visible a year later. Harborside and oceanside resorts and docks are being rebuilt, but the foul smell of dead fish from the Red Tide fills the air and is but another reminder of Mother Nature’s last visit to this once lovely and picturesque community. The shoreside resort on Captiva Island will someday be filled with tourists once again, Marchand stated, but for now, it is inhabitated by workers who live on the island to rebuild the houses, roads and bridges that have been washed away. The Dodge Island pumps sand to the beaches off Captiva Island along the southwest Florida coastline. Left: Bernard Mood, a launch boat operator, has been with NATCO for 28 years. Mike Horn is captain aboard the Dodge Island. Left: QMED Mike Brady is ready to take on stores. Sand is pumped ashore to rebuild the beach line on Captiva Island. A Coastal Research Amphibious Buggy (CRAB) is a three-wheeled vehicle built by the Wilmington District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to monitor beach nourishment projects. It’s Business as Usual For Seafarers Following Acquisition of CP Ships The bargaining agreements of five Seafarerscrewed vessels managed by Marine Transport Management, Inc. (MTM) will continue to be honored following the Oct. 1 acquisition of CP Ships by Hapag-Lloyd. The Lykes Navigator, Lykes Liberator and Lykes Discoverer, three Pacific-class vessels currently participating in the Maritime Security Program (MSP), will be renamed the CP Navigator, CP Discoverer and CP Liberator. Under the new, expanded MSP—a vital component of America’s national defense capabilities— these three vessels, along with the Americana-class Lykes Motivator (renamed the CP Motivator) will be replaced by four more modern vessels by March 31, 2008. They will be sister ships to the Pacific-class vessel, the CP Yosemite (formerly the Lykes Explorer, which was withdrawn from the U.S.-flag trade Sept. 24, 2005 and was replaced with the reflagged Yucatan and then re-named the Yosemite). These five ships will join the updated MSP fleet, which now includes 60 vessels, an increase of 13 ships compared to the MSP which expired at the end of September. President Bush authorized the expanded MSP as part of a Defense bill that he signed in late 2003. The program initially was established through the Maritime Security Act of 1996. It helps retain “a labor base of skilled American mariners who are available to crew the U.S. government-owned strategic sealift fleet, as well as the U.S. commercial fleet, both in peace and war,” according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. The acquisition of CP Ships by Hapag-Lloyd will create the world’s fifth-largest container shipping company with more than 100 routes spanning the globe. The combined assets of the new company will continue to support national defense through participation in the MSP and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). 2 Unions Join 54 Others as AFL-CIO Affiliates The AFL-CIO recently welcomed two unions into the federation. Early last month, the 60,000member United Transportation Union (whose members include railroad conductors at Amtrak) rejoined the AFL-CIO following a four-year absence. Also, in late September, the 65-member California Nurses Association (CNA) indicated that it wants to affiliate with the federation. The respective affiliations are subject to final approval from the memberships. Not including those additions, the AFL-CIO has 54 affiliate unions, including the SIU, representing a combined 9 million members. During a CNA conference in 8 Seafarers LOG Oakland, Calif., association officials and delegates noted that joining forces with the AFL-CIO would enable CNA to help champion a transformation of the nation’s health care system and provide strong allies in a common front to resist the “aggressive agenda of the corporations and the far right and their allies in Washington and Sacramento and their escalating attack on workers, low and moderate income people, and unions,” said CNA Executive Director Rose Ann DeMoro. “Now more than ever we need a cohesive, powerful labor movement.” Meanwhile, the federation on Oct. 17 announced that it had reached an “agreement in principle” over terms for local unions affiliated with the Change to Win (CTW) federation to join AFLCIO state federations and central labor councils via “Solidarity Charters” and enjoy full voting and participation rights. In a memo to AFL-CIO state and local bodies, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney outlined the terms agreed to by officials of CTW. “In view of the agreement that we believe we have in principle,” he wrote, “the AFL-CIO has agreed to extend the deadline for reaching final terms through the November elections, to November 15. In the meantime, the AFL-CIO will not object to members of CTW locals that intend to apply for Solidarity Charters running for office in the state and central bodies in question.” Crew members aboard the Dodge Island include Dragtender Darryl Nelson, AB Arnold Sypongco, Wiper Elvis Sumaria, QMED Mike Brady, AB Confesor Arzu, SA Carlos David, Chief Cook Mario Fernandez and AB Domingo Martinez. SIU-Contracted Companies Receive Safety Awards Six SIU-contracted companies were presented with safety awards by American Maritime Safety, Inc. at their 2005 annual membership meeting and award ceremony last month in New York. American Maritime Safety, Inc. is a not-for-profit trade association established in 1987 to facilitate the maritime industry’s compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and international protocols. The organization has grown from seven deep-sea operators in 1987 to more than 370 today, many of which are under SIU contracts. As of 1993, the group began giving out safety awards to member companies, mostly U.S.-flag operators, based on input and other feedback from Coast Guard captains and others with regard to safety, training and environmental issues. An advisory board of six persons evaluates the nominees and makes the final recommendations, according to Lou Meltz, president of American Maritime Safety, Inc. This year, all six awards went to SIU-contracted companies. The companies and their awards follow: Keystone Shipping Co.—The American Maritime Safety Award Liberty Maritime Corp.—Marine Environmental Preservation Award Interocean Ugland Corp.—Tank Vessel Safety Award Moran Towing and Transportation—Safe Working Practices Award Alaska Tanker Co.—Quality Ship Management Award Crowley/MTL—Safe Navigation and Operation Award November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:35 PM Page 9 ‘Union Yes’ Race Car Takes Labor’s Message On the Fast Track August was a big month for the “Union Yes” race car. After being temporarily plagued by mechanical problems early in the 2005 season, the union-sponsored race car came back with a vengeance. Both the car’s driver, Greg Hindman, and his wife, Brandi, come from families with very strong union backgrounds. Hindman is a member of UA Local 290, and the union message is something that is very important to the couple. “We are going to take it as far as we possibly can,” said his wife, who is president of B.I.O. Racing, Inc. The first stop was the 34th Annual Pepsi Nightfire Nationals in Boise, Idaho. The four-day event provided an opportunity to highlight the message of solidarity as it won the top fire full-bodied class in front of an estimated 10,000 fans. “With the somewhat resistant response we are getting from Idaho’s many non-union fans, it was important to continue to make an impression,” said Hindman. “We came into this race with goals we wanted to meet, but the outcome was so much more than we would have ever hoped for. “Not only did we get to visit with Idaho union members, we were thrilled to be approached by non-union workers who wanted to learn more about how union membership could impact their lives,” the steamfitter went on to report. The next stop for the “Union Yes” drag racer was Port Orchard, Wash., where it laid down a career best 7.04 second, 199 mph run. This pass secured the top qualifying position for the Bremerton Raceway event. The results also included a second-place finish in the Top Comp race and a third place finish in Street Outlaw. The couple took the car to several Labor Day picnics sponsored by Oregon locals, where they snapped photos of members and their families with the car. The team also plans to return to Idaho for a big race where Hindman won the Top Gun race last year—an honor held by only six drivers across the U.S. He will be returning to defend his title and use his recognition in the racing world to bring attention to the union movement. According to the race car team, they also will focus on contacting unions that are not yet involved with the “Union Yes” racing program. “We have been thrilled with the response the program has received within the labor movement,” noted Brandi Hindman. “We want all of the families of organized labor to view this as their car, giving them a voice with which to reach the 70 million fans of drag racing. We will do our best to win them over one victory at a time.” The “Union Yes” race car is sponsored by the Oregon State Building Trades Council, the Oregon AFL-CIO, AFSCME Council 75 and Painters District Council 5, as well as several Oregon and Washington locals and union vendors from across the nation. “We’re proud to be supporters of the ‘Union Yes’ car, bringing the ‘Union Yes’ message to the track and America’s workplaces,” said Tim Nesbitt, president of the Oregon AFL-CIO. With its car painted in red, white and blue, the ‘Union Yes’ team spreads the message of the labor movement on and off the track. Driver Greg Hindman qualified in the top position for the Bremerton (Wash.) Raceway event (above). Service Call on the Louis J. Hauge James Foley is the bosun aboard the CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. These photos were taken by Port Agent Jeff Turkus when the Hauge recently stopped off in Guam. As one of the container and roll-on/rolloff ships in the Military Sealift Command fleet, the vessel carries a full range of Marine Corps cargo. It is prepositioned in Diego Garcia. ABs Russell Lofing and Ed Rockinger keep busy on deck. Former NMU Member Frede Frost Dies at 84 Former NMU member Frede Frost passed away July 1 following a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 84. A retired captain, Brother Frost hailed from Denmark. “Captain Frost left lasting impressions of seamanship, integrity, practical knowledge and common sense on all those he met and worked with throughout his distinguished career,” said Capt. Frede Frost longtime friend and fellow mariner Capt. Christopher Yearwood of Severna Park, Md. “His greatest trait was as a mentor to all those who sailed with him.” Born in 1920, Brother Frost launched his seagoing career in 1937 in his native country. Brother Frost leaves behind a long legacy of seagoing relatives back home. He followed in the footsteps of his father, worked his way all the way to the top and become a captain. Some 56 years later, in 1993, he retired as a captain while at the helm of the Aspen, a Trinidad Shipping Co.-operated tanker. Brother Frost commanded Trinidad Shipping vessels for 42 years. He was a member of a host of professional and fraternal organizations including: the Masters, Mates & Pilots; Grand Lodge #195 (Masons); the American Merchant Marine Veterans-Puget Sound Chapter; the American Legion; and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Brother Frost is survived by his wife, Toni; one step-daughter, Kelly McGinnis; two grandchildren, Robert and Rebecca; and several relatives in Denmark. November 2005 Working in the galley are ACU Roy Harris and Chief Cook Stephan Osovitz. The Hauge’s chief electrician is David Castro. Seafarers LOG 9 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez (right) poses with Lt. Col. Todd Robbins of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM). The photo was taken following a TRANSCOM executive working group meeting at SIU headquarters in early August, where the topics covered included sealift and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Page 10 At Sea And Ashore With the SIU Retiree Richard Rigney and his wife, Regina, vacation in Piney Point every year, usually around their anniversary. This year marked an extra special occasion as the happy couple celebrated their 50th anniversary on July 2 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rigney sailed for more than 30 years as a bosun and AB. He retired in 1982. Seafarers sail aboard many different types of vessels, but the SBX (pictured at left) is oneof-a-kind within the SIUcontracted fleet. The semi-submersible craft—part of a U.S. operation called groundbased midcourse defense (GMD)—recently underwent modifications in Brownsville, Texas before sailing to Alaska. It is operated by Interocean American Shipping (formerly IUM) for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Right: SIU President Michael Sacco addresses the membership (in photo above) at the September monthly meeting in San Francisco. With him on the dais are (from left) Port Agent Vincent Coss, Vice President Nicholas Marrone, Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Left: Three Seafarers were congratulated by SIU officials when they were presented with their ”A“ Books at the October membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. From the left are SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Gill Sickles, Zlatko Lucic, SIU President Michael Sacco and Harold Harper. Julio D. Lobo, chief cook aboard the Green Point, receives the “Award of Safety Recognition and Awareness” from Capt. John E. Belcourt during a voyage from Naha to Yokohama, Japan. Capt. Belcourt said that Lobo is “a fine shipmate and a professional seaman. While transiting suspect waters in the Red Sea, Mr. Lobo displayed both courage and foresight of ensuring that the hotel area of this good ship was well protected.” Below: Seafarers take advantage of a training course on security awareness offered at the Jacksonville hall in July. At right with Port Agent Bryan Powell (right) is Mitch Oakley, an instructor from the Paul Hall Center, who taught the course. Photo by Carole Caravaggio Staffed by SIU members in the engine and deck department, the Detroit Princess is Detroit’s newest entertainment and dining riverboat. This photo was taken in September on the Detroit River. 10 Seafarers LOG The above photo was snapped in July at the SIU hall in Jacksonville. From the left are Patrolman Joe Vincenzo, Safety Rep Tony Elliott and Port Agent Bryan Powell. November 2005 �32760_P3,11,21.qxd 10/25/2005 7:18 PM Page 11 3 Ships Added to ARC Fleet Continued from page 3 Handy two of the “fathers” of the program. Ebeling also cited support from the Defense Department for U.S.-flag shipping; the “virtually unprecedented” partnership among maritime labor and businesses working to increase the fleet; and the “team of great Americans that make ARC work,” including the SIU crew members. Sacco declared that the growth signaled good news not only for the industry, but for the entire nation, “Because what’s good for the U.S.-flag fleet is good for the United States of America.” He credited Ebeling and Handy for their respective efforts and also welcomed Schwartz, who already has voiced his strong support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. “When you put all of these pieces together, you’ve got a genuine success story,” the SIU president continued. “You’ve got an expanded MSP that is bringing new tonnage into the Americanflag fleet and new jobs to this nation. You’ve got a company that already has been very active in supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. You’ve got top military leaders who understand the importance of U.S.-flag sealift and the value of American mariners. And you’ve got a union in the SIU that is extremely proud to serve as part of this country’s fourth arm of defense.” He reminded the audience that Seafarers are “out there right now, sailing aboard military support ships in the Middle East in support of our armed forces. Our members are the best-trained seafarers in the world. They’re safe, they’re reliable, they’re courageous—and just as importantly, they love their country. That’s who mans the MSP fleet and the other American-flag ships that support our troops: SIU members —and other U.S. mariners—who are proud to deliver the goods.” Before and after the ceremony, Seafarers aboard the Integrity said the ships are welcome additions not only because they bring new jobs, but also because the vessels themselves are first rate. “It really is state-of-the-art,” said Bosun Carl Pedersen. QMED Mike McQueary said the ship has “great layout and creature comforts.” The ship normally will sail between U.S. East Coast ports and overseas locations that may include Antwerp, Bremerhaven and Southampton. The SIU had a strong presence at the ceremony, including (from left) President Michael Sacco, AB Javier Ureta, AB Scott Stanley, Bosun Carl Pedersen, VP Contracts Augie Tellez and others. QMED Mike McQueary Pictured from left to right are AB Scott Stanley, SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and Bosun Carl Pedersen. A view from the Integrity’s deck Left: Helping keep the Integrity crew well-fed are (from left) Chief Steward Stephen Bird, Chief Cook James Wadsworth and SA Nagibe Alhaj. The naming ceremony for all three vessels took place aboard the Integrity Sept. 29 in Baltimore. Three newly reflagged vessels were added to the fleet of SIU-contracted ARC. They are (from left) the Courage, Honor and Integrity. November 2005 Seafarers LOG 11 �32760_P4,8,12,13,19.qxd 10/25/2005 8:43 PM Page 12 A Logistical Amphibious Recovery Craft (LARC) launches from the Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command sea barge heavy lift ship Cape Mohican near Indian Island, Wash. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Rainier provides fuel to the guided missile destroyer USS Pinckney off the coast of California. Mariners aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Rainier prepare to load ordnance underneath an MH-60S Knighthawk attached to the “Black Jacks” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two One during a vertical replenishment somewhere in the Pacific Ocean with the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. ‘READY to go again’ B QMED Bob Oppel Cape Wrath Recertified Steward McKinley Jones Cape Wrath AB Farah Mrimri Cape Washington DEU Al Barnett Cape Wrath DEU Bruce Milburn Cape Wrath 12 Seafarers LOG oth at home in the U.S. and at str locations overseas, SIU members co supporting U.S. troops in Oper Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. By late last month, Seafarers were s aboard at least a dozen vessels involved in operations in the Middle East. Other SIU me were manning U.S. Ready Reserve Force ships, keeping them prepared in case of acti for military or humanitarian missions. Seafarers’ positive and patriotic attitudes evident aboard the RRF ships Cape Wrat Cape Washington in Baltimore on an ov afternoon in mid-October. Most of the ma ships already have made multiple trips supp “We’re doing our part and ready to go a Billy Dowzicky aboard the Wrath. “Person trips, all to Kuwait. During the last deploym for 179 days, because it was two trips back“We’ve had great crews every time He added tha smooth U.S.-flag throughout OIF an that the RRF sys deploy on time or the program work Bosun Rick Ja made three trips to Rick James “I joined in 1991 a and it’s a lot differ ten to the point where we really hav younger crowd this time. I think more the importance of the U.S. Merchant M The bosuns and their fellow marine cated that there is much more to these tics. Asked for candid replies and assu if desired, the mariners in Baltimore— Bosun Billy Dowzicky Cape Wrath November 2005 �32760_P4,8,12,13,19.qxd 10/25/2005 8:43 PM Page 13 In the South China Sea, a Seahawk helicopter prepares to land on the flight deck of the Seafarers-crewed underway replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe. A diesel generator is loaded aboard the SIU-crewed LMSR USNS Red Cloud in Rota, Spain. ’ Seafarers Continue Supporting U.S. Troops in Operations Enduring Freedom & Iraqi Freedom U.S. Army High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) are loaded onto the SIU-crewed LMSR USNS Pililaau. at strategic rs continue Operations value the chance to support our troops. “It makes you feel patriotic, big time,” declared Recertified ere sailing Steward McKinley Jones. d in sealift “Especially when [the U.S. U members Maritime Administration] gives orce (RRF) you the medal when you get McKinley Jones f activation back, to show their appreciaThe SIU-crewed RRF ships Cape Wrath (left) and Cape tion. tudes were Washington have made numerous trips in support of U.S. troops “We’ve had quite a few scary moments in port Wrath and involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom. overseas, but I’m very willing to go back.” n overcast QMED Bob Oppel noted, “You definitely feel e mariners aboard those like you’re doing something for the country, for the troops. It’s supporting OIF. a good feeling.” go again,” stated Bosun DEU Al Barnett said that interacting with the military secuersonally I’ve made four rity teams aboard SIU-crewed ships “makes you see the war ployment we were gone more personally, because you get to know them pretty well. back-to-back. We’ve gotten along with them with no problems and we’ve also time.” had great crews on all four trips I’ve made (for OIF).” Bob Oppel d that the consistently Billy Dowzicky James said he estimates that the vast majority of mariners he -flag sealift operations has sailed with during these operations “feel patriotic about it. IF and the war against terrorism help prove What we’re doing, it means something. The results (in Iraq) F system “is working. Our ships always may be more evident in 10 years than they are today, but they’re me or ahead of schedule. It’s a testament that proud they’re doing something positive.” works.” Overall, thousands of Seafarers have sailed in support of the ck James aboard the Washington, who has missions since September 11, 2001. During the all-out combat ips to the Middle East during OIF, agreed. phase of OIF, more than 5,000 American mariners sailed aboard 991 as an OS during the Persian Gulf War, hundreds of U.S.-flag ships in support of our troops. They perdifferent this time,” he noted. “We’ve gotformed what has been described by top government and miliAl Barnett y have it down pat, and it’s also a much tary leaders as the most efficient sealift operation in history. more people are realizing hant Marine.” ariners also strongly indithese voyages than logisassured of confidentiality ore—to a man—said they arnett rath The Seafarers-crewed USNS Red Cloud offloads coalition combat equipment and supplies in Souda Bay, Crete, Greece after returning from deployment in Iraq. Pictured on the deck of the Cape Washington are (from left) QEE Eric Mentzer, GUDE Michael Alghafeili, QMED George Murphy and Bosun Rick James. November 2005 Seafarers LOG 13 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM Page 14 SIU Plan Offers Eight Scholarships For Members and Dependents in 2006 Don’t let the high cost of a college or W e’ve all been hearing and reading about the soaring costs of medical care. And, just like medical care, the price tag for higher education also has been increasing significantly faster than the rate of inflation or the growth in family incomes. According to The Washington Post, the average annual tuition and fees this year at a public fouryear college are around $9,000; at a private institution, that figure is around $20,000. Those figures are only going to increase. These continually upward spiralling costs are causing many to question the value of continuing education beyond high school and to wonder whether the high cost of tuition is worth the investment. But there is good news for Seafarers and their eligible dependents who want to continue their dreams of attaining a higher education without taking on any great financial burdens: the scholarship program offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. This year, the Plan is funding eight scholarships to SIU members, their spouses and dependent children to help offset the rising rates for a college education. Three of the scholarships for 2006 are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Getting Started Now is a great time to begin the application P process. The first step is sending away for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon below and return it to the address listed on the form. Alternatively, pick up a copy of the booklet at your nearest SIU hall. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information and, if they are eligible, should start collecting some of the other paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15, 2006 deadline. These items include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools often are quite slow in handling transcripts requests, the sooner the requests are made, the better. Another part of the application package includes letters of recommendation solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals. A photograph of the applicant as well as a certified copy of his or her birth certificate also need to be included. The selection committee looks at the high school grades of all applicants and also checks the scores of either their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT). Therefore, arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 2006 to ensure the results reach the committee in time to be evaluated. Those Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for a Seafarers scholarship and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet all the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the steadily increasing costs of a college education stop you from reaching your goals. The Seafarers Scholarship Program can make a difference. lease send me the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ ( ) Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 14 Seafarers LOG 11/05 university degree stop you from applying to the school of your choice. Fill out the form on this page and send away for your program booklet today. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 2005 & January 2006 Membership Meetings SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 0 0 6 8 2 6 31 33 0 6 14 19 10 2 2 5 23 0 41 14 1 6 9 22 5 6 26 18 2 10 8 18 13 7 23 7 13 6 40 27 2 3 1 12 0 3 21 4 1 5 5 21 8 2 1 0 8 0 18 11 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 9 7 0 6 22 21 0 4 2 17 12 4 1 5 7 0 27 18 222 267 126 162 1 0 3 3 2 5 12 13 0 11 8 13 9 3 2 2 4 1 12 6 0 5 1 4 2 4 11 13 0 6 2 9 12 5 1 2 10 3 23 6 3 1 1 4 1 2 8 5 0 2 0 7 1 1 0 0 0 0 7 9 1 0 0 2 0 9 6 14 0 6 5 9 8 2 1 2 5 0 13 8 110 119 52 1 0 3 6 2 3 20 10 0 0 8 16 8 4 3 2 13 2 18 16 0 0 2 4 2 10 12 11 0 5 1 6 12 1 2 2 5 4 4 8 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 4 5 1 1 0 2 0 1 2 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 2 4 11 2 5 24 19 0 8 2 9 9 4 7 5 6 5 23 17 164 1 0 4 6 0 3 14 4 0 3 1 12 4 1 1 0 3 0 13 7 0 0 2 5 0 2 17 12 0 2 3 7 4 2 2 6 8 3 17 11 77 91 99 1 0 1 4 0 2 10 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 0 0 2 0 4 6 39 135 91 22 108 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 1 0 1 0 7 0 0 0 1 5 0 3 2 1 1 5 6 4 12 19 12 0 4 4 27 13 0 18 1 15 0 16 4 1 5 2 8 1 5 14 15 0 1 5 29 7 0 22 1 7 0 14 18 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 4 0 4 1 0 0 0 5 1 3 6 9 0 5 0 6 5 1 4 2 1 1 5 11 65 10 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 1 2 5 1 2 6 12 5 0 3 3 10 5 0 7 2 12 0 4 3 1 2 3 2 0 1 13 5 0 0 2 18 11 0 14 0 8 0 10 4 1 5 0 13 0 5 43 10 2 8 12 35 14 3 0 1 7 0 24 21 421 204 0 0 2 2 0 1 6 7 0 2 1 7 1 4 1 3 4 0 9 4 0 0 5 3 2 7 17 23 0 13 11 20 13 1 1 1 16 2 17 7 1 6 2 8 4 8 20 22 0 8 8 16 13 3 1 5 15 2 32 10 2 3 1 6 2 2 13 10 0 2 1 13 7 1 0 2 2 2 8 8 54 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 5 12 11 32 9 10 39 35 3 17 15 38 25 8 27 13 18 5 61 38 388 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 2 2 5 13 14 0 1 2 11 9 1 1 0 22 0 17 8 1 0 6 13 4 16 51 46 0 13 24 50 23 3 2 11 37 0 57 31 98 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 3 1 3 0 4 5 13 0 6 0 6 11 4 3 4 5 2 20 8 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 1 0 2 0 3 6 9 0 0 0 8 2 0 0 0 8 0 7 5 159 184 85 2 0 6 10 2 14 35 19 1 4 10 22 11 4 5 3 30 3 28 35 1 0 2 5 2 13 12 19 1 3 2 11 19 0 1 3 10 3 11 13 0 0 2 1 0 2 6 7 1 0 2 7 7 0 1 0 3 1 4 9 51 244 131 53 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 6 1 0 0 1 12 1 0 0 3 10 0 6 3 4 0 3 9 4 15 28 26 1 8 6 46 22 0 19 6 20 1 31 7 2 8 0 11 6 11 27 26 0 3 11 44 14 1 31 2 13 1 17 21 26 162 155 19 83 94 0 49 256 249 493 639 355 380 411 220 203 840 992 591 *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. November 2005 Piney Point .............Monday: December 5 ................................Tuesday: January 3* ................................(*change created by New Year’s Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: December 9, January 6 Baltimore ................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Boston.....................Friday: December 9, January 6 Guam ......................Thursday: December 22, January 19 Honolulu .................Friday: December 16, January 13 Houston ..................Monday: December 12, January 9 Jacksonville ............Thursday: December 8, January 5 Joliet .......................Thursday: December 15, January 12 Mobile ....................Wednesday: December 14, January 11 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: December 13, January 10 New York................Tuesday: December 6, January 3 Norfolk ...................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: December , January 4 Port Everglades.......Thursday: December 15, January 12 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 15, January 12 San Juan..................Thursday: December 8, January 5 St. Louis..................Friday: December 16, January 13 Tacoma ...................Friday: December 23, January 20 Wilmington ...............Monday: December 19 .................................Tuesday: January 17* ............................................(*change created by Martin Luther King holiday) ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals BRUCE E. BUTLER Your wife, Marvis, loves you and misses you. Please call her at home. THOMAS G. DECOTEAU Please e-mail Glynn or Earline at gsdeco67@vvm.com. They’re concerned as to how you fared the hurricanes. Change of Address The SIU hall in Guam will be moving to a new location, effective Dec. 1, 2005. Street Address Cliffline Office Center, Bldg. B, 422 Suite 101B West O’Brien Drive Hagatna, Guam 96910 Mailing Address P.O. Box 315242 Tamuning, Guam 96931 Contact Numbers Phone: (671) 477-1350 (or 1353) Fax: (671) 477-1360 Seafarers LOG 15 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 10 3 2 15 1 0 0 36 1 4 0 0 3 2 1 3 14 0 6 0 0 5 2 1 3 17 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 15 3 1 9 1 0 1 33 0 3 0 0 1 2 1 1 8 0 5 0 0 4 2 2 3 16 0 7 0 0 9 2 1 2 21 10 34 6 13 33 3 1 7 107 2 8 3 6 11 0 1 6 37 0 2 4 18 2 0 2 0 28 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 6 8 14 7 1 13 2 1 5 51 0 5 9 4 10 0 1 0 28 0 1 6 12 0 1 1 0 21 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 2 7 6 8 3 4 10 1 0 2 34 2 5 7 2 15 1 0 2 34 0 3 3 10 0 0 2 1 19 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 4 2 0 3 0 0 3 13 0 1 0 1 4 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 5 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 13 0 0 2 0 0 1 16 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 5 0 2 0 6 0 0 0 13 1 0 3 0 5 1 0 2 12 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 9 Port 3 4 1 2 5 0 0 0 15 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 2 7 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 9 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 62 32 31 64 18 30 34 192 99 68 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Gordon P. Driscoll of Warren, Ore. The snapshot on the right was taken in 1946 when Driscoll was a saloon pantryman aboard the SS Central Victory, an American-Hawaiian Steamship Co. vessel sailing from the West Coast to the East Coast. Driscoll was on a beautiful beach in Mayaguez, P.R. that was practically deserted. He is drinking milk from a coconut that one of the locals had given him. The other is a recent photo of him in his large garden with one of his prized watermelons. Driscoll, who said he’s sometimes called “the watermelon man,” grows the delicious vegetables (yes, they’re vegetables) and has won several prizes at the state fair. Brother Driscoll, now 78, sailed with the SIU in the steward department for 33 years (with a two-year stint in the Army in the middle). He retired in 1978 but keeps abreast of SIU activities by reading the Seafarers LOG . . . and he wonders what that beautiful deserted beach in Mayaguez looks like today. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:37 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA EARL CHAPPEL, 63, began sailing with the SIU in 1968 in New York. Brother Chappel first worked aboard the Chatham in the engine department. His most recent trip to sea was on the Cape Orlando. Brother Chappel, who was born in Maryland, resides in Jacksonville, Fla. CECIL GUBISCH, 64, became a Seafarer in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Gubisch first sailed aboard the Charleston. Born in the Philippines, he shipped as a member of the steward department. Brother Gubisch last worked aboard the Mahimahi. He makes his home in Las Vegas. PEDRO LOPEZ, 52, joined the union in 1975 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lopez first sailed on the Yukon. The deck department member upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked on the Performance. Brother Lopez was born in New Jersey and lives in Delaware. WILBERT WILLIAMS JR., 58, started his seafaring career in 1969 in New Orleans. Brother Williams initially worked aboard Alcoa Steamship Co. vessels. The Louisiana native was a member of the steward department. Brother Williams attended the Piney Point, Md. school in 2002 to upgrade his seafaring skills. Before retiring, he shipped on the Chemical Pioneer. Brother Williams is a resident of New Orleans. INLAND ROBERT BATSON, 61, joined the SIU in 1968 in Norfolk, Va. Boatman Batson’s first voyage was aboard a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. Born in North Carolina, he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Batson upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He calls Gatlinburg, Tenn. home. VERNON CAHOON, 62, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Cahoon, who was born in North Carolina, first worked with Southern November 2005 Carriers Corporation. His last trip to sea was with Charles H. Harper & Associates. Boatman Cahoon resides in Belhaven, N.C. JOHN PRIMEAUX SR., 68, began sailing with the union in 1986 in Houston. Boatman Primeaux hails from Louisiana. During his seafaring career, he shipped primarily aboard Higman Barge Lines vessels. Boatman Primeaux was a member of the deck department. He makes his home in Abbeville, La. VIRGIL QUILLEN, 62, began his seafaring career in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Quillen worked primarily aboard Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessels. He was born in Delaware and sailed in the deck department. Boatman Quillen attended the union’s affiliated school in 1973, 1984 and 1989. He lives in Warminster, Pa. WALTER RETTERSHOFER, 63, became an SIU member in 1960 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Rettershofer first shipped with Meyle Towing Company. The engine department member, who was born in Pennsylvania, last sailed on a Taylor Marine Towing vessel. He is a resident of Williamstown, N.J. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM ENGLISH, 65, joined the union in 1993 in Duluth, Minn. Brother English shipped on vessels operated by Great Lakes Associates, including the Kinsman Enterprise and the Kinsman Independent. He worked as a member of the engine department. Born in Canada, Brother English currently lives in Ontario. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. HASKELL BLACK, 68, joined the NMU in 1964. The Georgia native first sailed aboard the American Producer. Brother Black worked in the steward department. His last ship was the Cape Alexander. EDWARD BROWN, 65, began his NMU career in Charleston, S.C., first sailing on the Sheldon Clark. Brother Brown was a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed aboard the Gulf Pride. EARL GRANT, 58, became an NMU member in 1969. Brother Grant, who was born in Savannah, Ga., first shipped on the Explorer. He last worked in the steward department aboard the Cape Orlando. MAGNO GUILLEN, 66, launched his seafaring career with the NMU in 1965. Brother Guillen first sailed on the Green Island. The steward department member was born in Honduras. He last worked aboard the Chilbar. SALFUS KELLY, 55, hails from Louisiana. Brother Kelly began his seafaring career in 1976, first shipping from worked on the Gulf Bear. Brother Williams’ most recent voyage was aboard the Chilbar. Port Arthur, Texas aboard the Export Brooks. A member of the steward department, Brother Kelly last worked aboard the Galveston Bay. JEROME POPE, 65, began his NMU career in 1977, initially sailing from the port of New Jersey. Brother Pope is a native of Charlotte, N.C. Prior to retiring, he shipped on the Margaret Lykes. JULIO ROLON, 62, joined the NMU in 1968 in Philadelphia. Brother Rolon first worked aboard the Gulf Oil as a member of the steward department. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner last went to sea on the Green Cove. RAYMOND SHEA, 68, began his NMU career in 1991, shipping from the port of Boston. Brother Shea’s first ship was the Green Lake; his last was the Ocean City. The engine department member was born in Boston. HENRY WILLIAMS, 55, was born in Mobile, Ala. Brother Williams first donned the NMU colors in 1972. He initially Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1952 Tanker operators contracted to the SIU have reported unanimous agreement on the general and working rules of the proposed new tanker contract, which was submitted to them last week by the operators’ committee. Talks between the union negotiating committee and the operators are now revolving around the settlement of monetary matters. The union’s negotiating committee has worked constantly toward not only improving the working and general rules, but also toward clarifying all clauses which have previously resulted in problems between crew members and department heads and delayed the smooth payoff of vessels. JOHN WILLIAMS, 69, joined the NMU in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Williams first sailed on the American Pilot. Born in Pennsylvania, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Williams’ last trip to sea was on the Endeavor. DAVID WRIGHT, 62, joined the NMU in 1966 in New York. He first sailed aboard the Export Champion. The Lynn, Mass. native last went to sea on the Energy Enterprise. Also retiring: Name Age EDP Aviles, Tomas 65 Sept. 1 Calhoun, Lloyd 78 Oct. 1 Cantalejo, Juan 65 July 1 Chartier, Alfred 57 July 1 De La Fuente, Jesus 62 Sept. 1 Erese, Benjamin 65 Oct. 1 Laureano, Rafael 62 Sept. 1 Mathews, Edgar 65 Aug. 1 booked with cargo within the next several days, making them the first American vessels to participate in the movement of grain under terms of the Soviet-American shipping agreement signed recently. The Maritime Administration has subsidy applications for grain carriage from approximately 35 American-flag vessels, among them other SIUcontracted ships. This Month In SIU History 1972 Two SIU-contracted vessels were the first to be awarded conditional subsidy contracts for participation in the carriage of grain to the Soviet Union. The Maritime Administration announced that the vessels are the tankers National Defender and Western Hunter. The actual amount of subsidy for these two ships will depend on the charter rate to be negotiated with the Soviet Union. It is expected that the two SIU tankers would be formally 1992 The SIU continued its efforts to secure enactment of legislation which would correct an administrative error and give World War II veterans’ status to merchant mariners who began sailing between August 15, 1945 and December 31, 1946. In testimony submitted to the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, the SIU called for passage of the Merchant Mariners Fairness Bill (H.R. 44). “As the bill’s name indicates, this is simply a question of fairness— fairness to Americans who risked their lives for their country during World War II,” the SIU said in its testimony. “Approximately 2,500 retired merchant mariners are being denied something which they clearly earned: veterans’ status.” Seafarers LOG 17 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22_24X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:53 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE CHUNG Pensioner George Chung, 89, passed away April 22. Brother Chung joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. He sailed primarily aboard Matson Navigation vessels, including the Maunalei and the Manukai. Brother Chung was born in Hawaii and lived in Honolulu. The steward department member retired in 1981. JOHN COOK Brother John Cook, 39, died April 4. He joined the union in 1991 in New Orleans. Brother Cook’s first ship was the Pioneer Contractor. The New Orleans native worked in the deck department, most recently sailing on the Cape Ducato. He made his home in Louisiana. MARSTON FREEMAN Brother Marston Freeman, 49, passed away April 13. Born in California, he began shipping with the SIU in 1977. Brother Freeman initially went to sea aboard the Zapata Ranger, working in the engine department. His last voyage was on the USNS Bowditch. Brother Freeman lived in Pensacola, Fla. BILLY RUSSELL Pensioner Billy Russell, 75, died March 24. Brother Russell started his seafaring career in 1951 in New York. His first ship was operated by Sprogue Steamship Company. Brother Russell was born in Tennessee and sailed in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1989, he worked on the Falcon Princess. Brother Russell called Memphis, Tenn. home. JOSEPH SANFILIPPO Pensioner Joseph Sanfilippo, 77, passed away April 4. Brother Sanfilippo embarked on his career with the SIU in 1950 in the port of Houston. The U.S. Navy veteran was a member of the deck department. Brother Sanfilippo first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Co. vessel. His last ship was the Cape Catoche. Brother Sanfilippo was born in Boston and resided in San Francisco. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1992. ROBERT SAWYER Pensioner Robert Sawyer, 69, died April 15. Brother Sawyer joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard the Suzanne, where he worked in the engine department; his last was on the Charleston. Brother Sawyer was born in Virginia. He retired in 1990 and continued to live in Virginia. RICHARD SHERMAN Pensioner Richard Sherman, 86, 18 Seafarers LOG passed away June 17. After serving in the U.S. Army & U.S. Navy, Brother Sherman began sailing with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Houston. He initially went to sea aboard the Rose Knot. Brother Sherman was born in Minnesota and worked in the steward department. He last sailed aboard Westchester Marine’s Golden Endeavor. Brother Sherman started collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. He made Beaumont, Texas home. JOSE SOTO Pensioner Jose Soto, 66, died May 16. Brother Soto joined the SIU in 1969 in New York. The deck department member was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Soto’s first vessel was the Joplin Victory; his last was the Horizon Mayaguez. He retired in 2000. MICHAEL SWEENEY Brother Michael Sweeney, 59, passed away Feb. 23. He joined the union in 1994; his first vessel was the Buffalo Soldier. Brother Sweeney was born in Boston. He most recently shipped on Pacific Gulf Marine’s Resolve. Brother Sweeney was a resident of Williston, Fla. JAMES TERRELL Brother James Terrell, 83, passed away April 14. He began his seafaring career in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Terrell shipped primarily aboard Delta Steamship Lines vessels. Born in New York, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Terrell called Vallejo, Calif. home. INLAND HYBERT DEES Pensioner Hybert Dees, 82, died May 29. Boatman Dees joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Boatman Dees worked for Dravo Basic Material Company while sailing with the SIU. The deck department member was born in Alabama. Boatman Dees went on pension in 1989 and lived in Atmore, Ala. JOHN LEWIS JR Pensioner John Lewis Jr., 82, passed away May 20. Boatman Lewis joined the union in 1976 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He sailed mainly aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Boatman Lewis, who was a member of the deck department, was born in the West Indies. He began his retirement in 2001 and made his home in Miami. WILLIAM RUDD Pensioner William Rudd, 76, died March 23. Boatman Rudd began his career with the SIU in 1953 in the port of Houston. He first worked aboard Delta Steamship Lines vessels as a member of the deck department. Boatman Rudd was born in Virginia. He concluded his career aboard the Gopher State, retiring in 1989. He was a resident of Norcross, Ga. GREAT LAKES ROBERT BILLMEN Pensioner Robert Billmen, 77, passed away March 12. Brother Billmen started shipping with the Seafarers in 1960 in Detroit, Mich. Born in Minnesota, he first sailed on an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Billmen was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1990, he worked on the Richard J. Reiss. Brother Billmen made his home in Two Harbors, Minn. RICHARD McPHEE Brother Richard McPhee, 68, died Feb. 14. He joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother McPhee first sailed aboard the American Sea Ocean in the engine department. He was a native of Michigan and last shipped on the St. Mary’s Challenger. Brother McPhee lived in Lapeer, Mich. CHARLES ROBERTS Pensioner Charles Roberts, 80, passed away Jan. 8. Brother Roberts embarked on his seafaring career in 1968 in Detroit, Mich. He was born in Kentucky and worked in the engine department. Brother Roberts sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Associates; his last ship was the Kinsman Independent. He retired in 1992 and called Lorain, Ohio home. OREN RUSS Pensioner Oren Russ, 78, died Jan. 13. Born in Louisiana, Brother Russ started sailing with the union in 1952 in Detroit, Mich. The deck department member initially shipped with Eagle Carriers Inc.; his last voyage was on the American Republic. He began receiving retirement stipends in 1992. Brother Russ resided in Bastrop, La. GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION YUL VANTERPOOL Brother Yul Vanterpool, 38, died Aug. 9. He began sailing aboard vessels operated by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) in 1988, initially working on the USNS Vanguard. Brother Vanterpool shipped in the steward department, most recently sailing on the USNS Santa Barbara. He was born in New York, and called Jacksonville, Fla. home. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. SAM ABDULLAH Pensioner Sam Abdullah, 99, passed away June 22. Born in Indonesia, Brother Abdullah joined the NMU in 1944. His first ship was the Chantilly; his last was the Transgulf. Brother Abdullah retired in 1969. CHARLES BARLOW Pensioner Charles Barlow, 78, died July 1. Brother Barlow became an NMU member in 1944. His first voyage was aboard the Andrew Moore. His last trip was on the Texaco Massachusetts. Brother Barlow was born in Mississippi. He went on pension in 1968. SANTOS BENITEZ Pensioner Santos Benitez, 81, passed away May 30. Brother Benitez began shipping with the union in 1962 aboard the United States. The Puerto Rico-born mariner started receiving his retirement stipends in 1987. Brother Benitez last worked on the American Liberty. GORDON BRISTER Pensioner Gordon Brister, 78, died July 7. Brother Brister joined the NMU in 1944. His first voyage was aboard the Ponca City. Brother Brister, who was a native of Kentucky, began collecting his pension in 1967. ARTHUR CAMPBELL Pensioner Arthur Campbell, 88, passed away June 23. Brother Campbell joined the NMU in 1937 in New York. He initially sailed on the Buffalo Wallow in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1982, Brother Campbell shipped aboard the Mormacdraco. JOSEPH CLEMENTS Pensioner Joseph Clements, 78, died June 17. Brother Clements began his career with the NMU in 1943. He first shipped from the port of New Orleans aboard the Tampa. Brother Clements was a member of the steward department. He most recently sailed aboard the Louise Lykes. Brother Clements went on pension in 1987. RALEIGH DELESBORO Pensioner Raleigh Delesboro, 81, passed away July 19. Brother Delesboro started his seafaring career in 1942 sailing from Port Arthur, Texas. His first voyage was aboard the Gulfland, where he worked as a member of the steward department. Brother Delesboro was born in Louisiana. His last voyage was on the Constitution. Brother Delesboro became a pensioner in 1969. DO DENISON Pensioner Do Denison, 87, died June 29. Brother Denison was born in China and joined the NMU in 1947 Brother Denison initially shipped from the port of New York aboard the America. The steward department member last went to sea on the St. Maria. Brother Denison retired in 1970. CLIFFORD DIXON Pensioner Clifford Dixon, 75, passed away June 1. Brother Dixon began his NMU career in 1955, sailing from the port of New Orleans aboard the Cefalu. Born in Honduras, Brother Dixon most recently worked on the Ashley Lykes. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1995. ERNEST EBANKS Pensioner Ernest Ebanks, 84, died May 19. Brother Ebanks began his seafaring career in 1944, first sailing aboard the Chirripo as a member of the steward department. Brother Ebanks’ last voyage was on the Moore McTide. He started collecting his pension in 1983. JOURIOUS EVANS SR. Pensioner Jourious Evans Sr., 77, passed away May 30. Brother Evans joined the NMU in 1946 in Port Arthur, Texas. His first ship was the Jalapa; his last was the Texaco Mississippi. Brother Evans was a native of Texas and shipped in the steward department. He retired in 1989. ABDULLAH FARES Pensioner Abdullah Fares, 88, died June 2. Born in Syria, Brother Fares joined the NMU in 1948. He last worked aboard the African Mercury. Brother Fares began receiving his pension in 1979. JAMES GREEN Pensioner James Green, 77, passed away May 3. Born in Charleston, S.C., Brother Green started sailing with the NMU in 1952. His first vessel was the Pan Pennsylvania. A member of the steward department, Brother Green last shipped on the James Lykes. He went on pension in 1995. Continued on page 20 November 2005 �32670_P4,8,12,13,19X2.qxd 10/28/2005 7:48 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occassion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the uniion’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publicatiion. H. LEE WHITE (American Steamship Company), Aug. 7— Chairman William H. Mulcahy, Secretary Penny S. Polland, Educational Director Carl W. Huffman. Chairman requested information on changes to medical plan. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer discussed cost of satellite TV. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate reported a spider bite incident on deck and urged everyone to be aware. Request made to have more frequent disposal of garbage. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), Aug. 31—Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary George Vorise Jr., Educational Director Roy S. Frett Jr., Deck Delegate Macario I. Torre, Engine Delegate Eliesar Montalvo, Steward Delegate Anselmo A. Lopez. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 2 in Jacksonville, Fla. and asked crew members to have union books and dues payments ready for patrolman. He reminded ABs to check IDs of all visitors boarding ship while in port. All three departments were thanked for working well together, and secretary expressed gratitude for cooperation in helping keep ship clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. He also advised them not to let STCW or z-cards expire and suggested renewing one year ahead of time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding death benefits for dependents and increased pension benefits. Next Port: Jacksonville. JOHN J. BOLAND (American Steamship Company), Aug. 21— Chairman Paul S. Gohs, Secretary Khaled M. Musleh, Educational Director Richard I. Frederick, Engine Delegate David E. Werda, Steward Delegate Ahmed M. Kaid. Bosun requested information on medical benefits, including coverage amounts. He stressed importance of contributing to MDL and SPAD. Educational director recommended every member upgrade at Paul Hall Center as soon as they have sufficient sea time and noted that courses available are listed in each issue of Seafarers LOG. Deck “Hi” from the Maremar Omaha Redd is the bosun on the Overseas Maremar. November 2005 delegate informed members of Weingarten Rights and advised new members to keep dues paid up to stay in good standing. Crew was asked to give bosun their shipping tickets when signing articles. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate asked crew members to help keep galley clean. Relief men requested company supply work coveralls after two years of work with company. Clarification requested on wages for DEU filling in for gateman and time allotted for meal relief for wheelsman on 4-8 watch. METEOR (Maersk Line Limited), Aug. 19—Chairman Richard L. Volkart, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Donnell C. Tagart Jr., Deck Delegate Ahmed M. Baabbad, Engine Delegate Salvador A. Baclayon Jr., Steward Delegate Larry D. Pugh. Chairman reported safe trip. He asked departing Seafarers to leave rooms clean and return keys for next person. Secretary gave special thanks to Chief Electrician Tagart for installing new steam table and refrigerator in galley. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Larger refrigerator needed for crew lounge. Next ports: Oakland and and Los Angeles, Calif. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK (Waterman Steamship Corp.), Aug. 29—Chairman Angelo S. Urti Jr., Secretary Stephen W. Roth, Educational Director Bobby L. Jones, Deck Delegate Donald M. Hood, Engine Delegate Robert C. Hines, Steward Delegate Carlos A. Rosales. Chairman urged crew members to wear steel-toed shoes while working (which are reimbursable up to a certain amount) and to take care in cargo areas during loading periods. He advised mariners to secure cabin belongings for 30-day voyage to Diego Garcia. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade seafaring skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for job well done. SPC5 ERIC G. GIBSON (Osprey Ship Management), Aug. 13— Chairman Robert A. Hinkley, Secretary Karl E. Meyer, Educational Director Vincent L. Kirksey, Deck Delegate Michael C. Penkwitz, Engine Delegate Alexander Young, Steward Delegate Elizer R. Saintvil. Bosun reviewed new requirements needed to maintain health benefits, which goes in effect Jan. 1, 2006. He recommended all Seafarers maintain complete copies of discharges, dues receipts and vacation check stubs and have them on hand when visiting union hall. Chairman spoke about revived cruise ship market in Hawaii and increased job availability in maritime industry. Chairman thanked all departments for their part in keeping ship clean, with special thanks going to steward department for great barbecues and fresh sashimi. Clarification requested as to Osprey Ship Management’s participation in SMPPP. Secretary will follow up on any outstanding issues while in port in San Francisco. Educational director stressed need to upgrade at Piney Point to further career. He also talked about benefits derived from contributing to SPAD. Treasurer stated $200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held concerning retirement benefits and seatime needed to qualify. It was reported the captain gets new movies on regular basis and has purchased satellite radios for crew lounge and mess hall. Ship will pay for subscription to premium channels to include CNN, FOX and BBC. Crew morale good considering long voyages with no shore leave available in China or Middle East. Next ports: Singapore; Hong Kong; Egypt; Oman. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), Sept. 7—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary Kathleen A. Johnson, Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Couture. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point facility in order to improve job skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested pertaining to OT distribution and riding gangs. Chairman will contact headquarters for response. Next port: Guam. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 12—Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Howard H. Hendra, Deck Delegate Stanley W. Parker, Steward Delegate Chris Stearns. Chairman reported smooth sailing and announced payoff in Los Angeles, Calif. Secretary urged crew to allow plenty of time when renewing MMDs. Educational director encouraged everyone to attend Piney Point school to enhance seafaring skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made for contracts department to consider when negotiating new agreement. COMMITMENT (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 18—Chairman Allan A. Rogers, Secretary Thomas W. Milovich, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Gerard Rogers, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Bosun requested written clarification pertaining to payoffs; he’ll discuss questions with patrolman in Houston. Secretary encouraged all members to check expiration dates on z-cards and other necessary documents. Educational director urged crew to speak up at safety meetings if they have concerns. Disputed OT reported in deck department; no beefs reported by other department delegates. Repair needed on main deck water fountain. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Sept. 18— Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Michael J. Gramer, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan, Engine Delegate Prentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Erni P. Lizada. Chairman stated vessel will spend at least five days in Tacoma, Wash. for engine repairs and will bypass Oakland next voyage and proceed directly to Honolulu. While in Tacoma, an IMO audit will take place. Secretary noted captain’s sanitary inspection will take place Sept. 21. He asked members to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for replacement crew. Educational director reminded everyone to check expiration dates on all documents. Different documents expire at different times throughout the year. He posted schedule of classes offered at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read letter from President Sacco regarding “Hurricane Relief Fund” and how to contribute. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong. LIBERATOR (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 4—Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Brandon Maeda, Educational Director Michael S. Kirby, Deck Delegate Edwin Ortega. Bosun reported good trip and thanked crew for hard work. Crew requested patrolman be present at Sept. 7 payoff in Newark, N.J. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Chairman posted headquarters pertaining to “Hurricane Relief Fund” was read. Steward department given vote of thanks for excellent cuisine. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 18—Chairman George J. Diefenbach, Secretary Joel A. Molinos, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth, Deck Delegate Ralph K. Kir, Engine Delegate Fadel H. Ghaleb, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Chairman encouraged crew members to contribute to SPAD and Seafarers Relief Fund. He also Working on the SIU-Crewed Maremar The Overseas Maremar, which was recently reflagged to the U.S., participates in the Maritime Security Program. Seafarers aboard the OSG oiler include Recertified Bosun Omaha Redda, ABs Simeon Valencia, Felipe Zepeda and Romulo Gutierrez, OS Luis Ruiz and Fernando Mesa, Chief Pumpman Wayne Roberson, Oilers Russell Lino, Edward Thompson and Alex Oliva, Chief Steward Osvaldo Castagnino, Chief Cook Timothy Taylor, and SA Delfino Castro. (Note: not all are pictured.) correspondence received from headquarters in response to previous questions and suggestions. Chairman was asked to look further into specifics of health care plan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 11— Chairman Bernard J. Baker, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidji, Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Secretary expressed appreciation to fellow crew members for efforts made in keeping ship clean. Chief Cook Almaklani was congratulated for good service. Educational director reminded mariners about educational opportunities available at school in Piney Point and about need to keep all documents up to date, allowing plenty of time for renewal. Treasurer stated $3,725.95 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report was read along with a letter from VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Clarification requested on pay of daymen standing watches. Suggestions made for items to be included in next contract. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Alaska Tanker), Sept. 4— Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Gloria Holmes, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate Daniel P. Lovely, Engine Delegate Jason L. Flesner, Steward Delegate Albert L. Sison. Chairman encouraged Seafarers to submit contract recommendations in a timely manner, as negotiations are to begin soon. Crew was asked to help keep lounge clean and not to tamper with satellite TV controls. Bosun notified crew members as to what forms he had on hand. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from announced upcoming payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary thanked crew for keeping ship clean and separating plastics from trash. He praised Wiper Ghaleb for his quick thinking, which resulted in saving the life of fellow crew member. Educational director advised SIU brothers and sisters to keep upgrading at Paul Hall center for job security and increased knowledge. He also reminded everyone to check z-cards and other documents and renew as early as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for ways to improve health plan. Seafarers asked for regular schedules for shuttle service in European ports. New DVD and VCR player requested for crew lounge. Ship heading to South Carolina. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk International), Sept. 10—Chairman Juan Castillo, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Deck Delegate Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Engine Delegate Mekgar D. Daguio, Steward Delegate Lemuel E. Robinson. Chairman announced docking in San Francisco Sept. 11. Following discharge at three docks in San Francisco, ship will proceed to Anacortes, Wash. Sept. 16. He reminded crew that raises take effect Oct. 1 as per contract. Secretary asked crew for assistance in keeping messhall, lounges and house clean. Seafarers were reminded to check expiration dates on all documents, upgrade at Piney Point and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested new mattresses, ice machine, washers and dryers, repair of lounge furniture and computer access to e-mail. Next ports: San Francisco; Anacortes; Point Wells, Wash.; Barbers Point, Hawaii. Seafarers LOG 19 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:37 PM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Thanking and Serving Seafarers I am the executive director of the Tacoma Seafarers Center in Tacoma, Wash. I received a letter from a former master of the Sealand Defender expressing his and his crew’s appreciation for our services rendered to them while they were here in port. He explained that the Sealand Defender no longer would be calling upon the port of Tacoma and that the collective decision to disburse the ship’s fund to the Tacoma Seafarers Center was due in recognition of our good work and good will toward the seafarer. I must say that such letters of recognition definitely validate all of the work that our volunteers put in on behalf of mariners. Speaking for everyone at our center, I wish to express my deepest appreciation of the donation to our facility. It will help enable us to continue the work of service to the seafarer as we strive to serve them in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As you may know, we are a Christian ministry reaching out to the seafarer in a holistic way (physically, emotionally and spiritually). We are here to serve the needs of all seafarers from every nation regardless of religious affiliations. Once again, we are extremely grateful for this generous donation. H. Gene Lawrence Tacoma, Washington Time Has Come for ‘Belated Thank You’ This letter is to thank you for the information in a short article in your Seafarers LOG about WWII Merchant Marine veterans’ status and the bills S.1272 and H.R. 23 (the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2005). I was not aware how to start the process for obtaining veterans’ status. I called your office and talked to a lady there and she steered me in the right direction. In 1944 I was in the deck department and later in the engine department. My full book was given to me because I helped organize some non-union shipping companies. Walking the picket lines on the docks in the winter was not fun, but look what has happened with our efforts from back then. The SIU has grown into a fantastic union. I am happy to have had a small part in it. I hope they approve the Belated Thank You legislation being introduced in Congress. They should not be concerned about the cost because there can’t be many of us left. Thanks again and I really enjoy getting the LOG. James P. Lyons Orlando, Florida Recertified Steward’s Book Published I wanted to let you know that one of your own merchant sea- Final Departures Continued from page 18 Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME Alarico, Pedro Arena, Joseph Augustsson, Anders Bilbao, Andres Boynon, Robert Braithwaite, John Brubaker, Louis Brunson, Thornton Buford, Robert Carrington, L.V. Chee, Chan Cofressi, Domingo Cooper, Spurgeon Cruz, Pedro Da Cunha, Oswaldo Della-Fazia, Francis Diaz, Rennie Dickens, Joseph Gonzalez, Julio Gray, James Gutierrez, Dios Hackett, William Hammond, William Harris, Ernest Harris, Raeford Hensley, Paul Irizarry, Jose Isreal, Hemen John, Max King, Edward 20 AGE D.O.D. 88 92 88 87 81 93 81 88 74 78 90 82 87 75 85 84 85 78 79 81 79 94 92 78 77 73 75 86 77 78 Sept. 4 Aug. 31 June 6 Aug. 14 March 3 June 13 July 29 Sept. 10 July 26 June 07 Sept. 11 Aug. 29 July 24 Sept. 4 July 18 Jan. 23 Feb. 16 Sept. 16 June 27 July 21 May 18 June 05 Aug. 28 July 19 July 3 July 29 July 17 Aug. 14 July 21 July 6 Seafarers LOG Kirk, James Koski, James Leger, Jesse Lewis, Charlie Lewis, Ernest Lopes, Joseph Low, Robert Melendez, Hector Misura, Vjekoslav Moses, Henry Mousetis, Jack Nakamoto, Richard Nerl, Harry O’Callahan, Joseph Oliveras, Ramon Otero, Adon Quinones, Jose Reed, Norman Reprogle, Vern Reynolds, William Roa, Robert Robertson, Leo Rosario, Fred Rosewell, Thomas Samet, Abbas Schultz, Charles Smith, Mose Smith, Wellford Stevens, Willie Stukes, John Tinsley, Cornelius Warren, James Washington, Edwin Wells, George Williams, James Wood, Wayne Wyatt, Daniel Yates, George Zuniga, Jose men, Recertified Steward James E. Harper, has a new book on the market. Brother Harper has been going to sea for more than 22 years with the SIU and has an impeccable record. I’m confident that the publication of this thought-provoking book will be successful for all concerned. The title is “Fools and Money Will Soon Depart.” It is a 99-page paperback in which Brother Harper offers a collection of thoughts concerning the typical individual who may be in search of an economic system taking into account Christian principles. Marrying research, advice and observation, the work revolves around the assumption that money has traditionally created various types of hardships and upheavals throughout human history. W.A. Harper Publisher/Editor Donavyn Publishing Perris, California LOG editor’s note: The book may be ordered online through amazon.com or Book Clearing House at bookch.com, (800) 4311579, orders@bookch.com. As of mid-October, the book was listed as costing $10.95. THE SLOP CHEST The Slop Chest is the exclusive store for Seafarers International Union insignia merchandise. All items available at the Slop Chest—including shirts, jackets, caps, jewelry, bags and other gear—are union made and/or made in the U.S.A. Go to www.seafarers.org and click on Slop Chest. If you have any questions, please email info@siustore.com. We'll be more than happy to help! 63 94 70 78 71 82 70 84 85 86 79 74 95 81 85 78 89 79 77 82 78 79 71 77 90 89 77 78 87 76 82 67 62 79 81 76 88 85 91 Sept. 13 May 22 Sept. 11 July 24 Aug. 31 May 31 July 23 Aug. 1 Aug. 30 July 1 Aug. 6 March 30 Sept. 10 Sept. 6 July 24 June 25 Aug. 11 Aug. 10 Aug. 28 Sept. 6 Aug. 21 July 21 May 12 Sept. 11 July 21 Aug. 11 Sept. 16 Aug. 8 Aug. 19 June 22 June 16 Aug. 28 July 24 Aug. 16 May 18 Sept. 3 Sept. 5 Sept. 20 Aug. 16 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. November 2005 �32670_P3,11,21.qxd 10/27/2005 2:27 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 14 December 9 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman December 5 December 16 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training November 21 November 25 December 5 December 9 November 14 November 18 Government Vessels Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. A future edition of the Seafarers LOG will contain a complete guide of all the upgrading courses available to Seafarers in the year 2006. (STOS) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning October 31, 2005. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations November 21 December 16 Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher November 28 December 9 Welding November 28 December 16 � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ November 2005 SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 11/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22_24X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:45 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 666 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 666. They are (in alphabetical order) Anthony Anderson, Brandon Blees, Chris Cain, Thomas Clements, Damon Cole, Duvon Cooper, Christina Earhart, Archie Eldridge, Dominic Gilmartin, Theodore Gonzales, Isaac Jackson, Rickey Jackson, Trevor Jaradine, Amber Jewell, Lorenzo Kenon, Richard Kight, Conan Leegard, Robert Light, Angelo Moletla, Michael Ostrom, Christopher Phillips, Sean Sammacicci, Ryan Scott, Lukas Short, James St. Amand, Tiffany Thompson and Vincent Vivie. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two tanker assistant classes, both ending July 8, included the following students (in no specific order): Saleh Mothana, Lloyd Riddick, Eric Dorsey, Dean Bettis, Chris Doucet, Mario Moralita, Edwin Rivera, Robert Hardesty, Chris Cipres, Justin Jarmolowicz, Jillian Barker, Jack Gainers, James Gano, Justin Sleator, Edwin Feliciano, Renaudo Pierce, Edwin Ruiz Jr., W. Tyson Little, Graham Jones, David Bennett, Cortney Sacks, George Berkovich, Cory Gardner, Roger Dillinger Jr., Mark Fitzgerald, Francis Gallagher Jr., Peter Meglow, Terry Lane, Nicholas Dippel, Kimberly Katua, Devin Savoir, William Simms, Jennifer Souci, Patrick Guertin, Abebe Reda and Jarret Leask. GMDSS — Finishing the 70-hour GMDSS course July 8 are (in alphabetical order) Thomas Burke, Robert Lutz Jr., Peter Madden, De Gutenberg Poitevien, Neonito Sodusta, Paul Voisin and John Zabielski. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far left. Government Vessels — Upgradng Seafarers graduating July 8 from the government vessels course are (in no specific order) Amador Mendez, John Greubel, Jaromir Ondruch, Michael Ratigan, Latoya Nix, Raymond Lackland, Miguel Rivera, Michael Smorowski, Anthony Jacobson and John Shank. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Tankerman (PIC) Barge — With instructor Herb Walling (standing, second from left) are July 1 graduates of the tankerman (PIC) barge course. Included are (in no specific order) Jon Whittaker, Joseph Violante, David Mattson Jr., James Kruger, Michael Parks Jr., Todd McDonough, Fred Hamilton, Mark Jones, Vasilijs Semesjuks, John Cronan, Gerard Hayes, Greg Kuglis, Daniel Lewis, Patrick Morse, Edward Milstead, James Stimage and James Reece. Water Survival — The photos at left and below are of the lifeboatman/water survival course ending July 8. Included in the class, which was taught by Bernabe Pelingon, are upgrading Seafarers (in no specific order) Steven Lonas, Dale Harrison, Wilfred Colon, Joseph Huff, James Oling, Danilo Chacoso, Nigel Williams, Abraham Straughter, Oscar Palacios, Leslie Hewett Jr., Arnie Borja, Larry Morisette, Robert Lerma, Philip Forman, William Feazel, Bryan Benak, Ethan Mims, Steven Sanderson, German Oliva and Benjamin Wilson. Computer Lab Classes These upgrading students have been quite busy in the computer lab. Showing off their certificates of achievement in various computer courses are (from left) Neftali Erausquin, Barney George, Martin L. Simmons Jr. and Keith H. Rost. In the center is their instructor, Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Vasilijs P. Semesjuks receives a certificate of achievement in computer basics from instructor Rick Prucha. November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:38 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Lifeboatman/ Water Survival NCL, July 1: Dinae Brooks, Jonah Amodt, Jamal Bomani, Myra Brown, Zenaida Martin, Angelina Gaspard, James Eaton, Charles Stewart, LaShawn Adams and Katie Campbell. Their instructor was Stan Beck (not pictured). NCL, July 1: Aristotle Savaiki, Samanthe Chinigo, George Collier, Kevin Burns, Jessica Wrubel, Theresa Carswell, Christopher Craig, Kathleen Freeman, Susan Holzem, Caitlin Merdian, John Hawk, Noel Nededoh, Laura Johnson, Chris Gray, Susan Maisenbach, Erin Swetkoff, Brook Bender, Sandra VanRyckegheon and Pamela Eaverage. Their instructors were Tony Savilla and Ben Cusic. NCL, July 15: David Jellison, John Viazcon, Ann Sammon, Renee Hill, Marc Jacobson, Tammy Thompson, Romel Medina, Sinan Wiley, Robert Zeman, Emmett Morarie, Joseph Fleming, Timothy Mains, Victoria Grant, Victor Phillips, Sarah Englehart, Lilac Alfke, Ember Brettmann, Carrie Anthony, Joshua Wilson, Miranda Van Cleave, Tim Clay, Michelle Gallo, Victor “Craig” Rodriguez, Maurica Fournier, Ahmad Saleh, Jonathan Toves, Juan Quintana, Helen Garza, Tina Vestal and Amanda Wall. Their instructors were Stan Beck, Tony Sevilla and Stacey Harris. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, July 15: Rafael Aguilar, Robert Albrecht, STCW — NCL, July 1: Ashley Kaufman, Eric Knowles, Timothy Mains, Jeremy Maldonado, Paul Mejia, Bess Milligan, Emmett Morarie, Aldo Moreno, Michael Narquini Jr., Brandon Nicholas, Marc Nicholls, Victor Phillips, Lisa Placona, Martha Potter, Juan Quintana, Diego Ramirez, Cerrisa Reese, David Richardson, Kristi Ringis, Victor “Craig” Rodriguez, Ahmad Saleh and SIU members Edwin Pelingon and Michael Ratigan. STCW — NCL, July 1: John Crampton, Deborah Duhon, George Duncan, Sarah Englehart, Terri Ewton, Maurica Fournier, Michelle Gallo, Robert Garner, Helen Garza, Jason Grant, Julie Green, Grant Gregorio, Dawn Hall, Verlinda Hendrix, Renee Hill, Amber Holcomb, Nicholas Hreha, Marc Jacobson, David Jellison, Thomas Jones Jr. and SIU member Jaromir Ondruch. (Note: not all are pictured.) Pedro Alcantara, Carrie Anthony, Robyn Bechtel, Ryan Berretta, Dale Berry, Karl Billman, Joseph Breton, Ember Brettman, Thomas Brown, Richard Buck, Michael Burgan, DeQuisha Burrell, Erin Burry, Turejai Cammon, Ana Castaneda, Liliana Catillo, Timothy Clay, Sylvianna Clyde, Craig Conway and Chad Cook. Also: SIU members Douglas Lewis, Latoya Nix and Stephen Gray. (Note: not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, July 15: Adam Malek, Shere Marcus, Ava McNulty, Roberto Mendez, Djamila Moorehead, Elizabeth Morgan, Dennis Muhi, Kimberly Natemeier, Sommer Normandy, Mark Nosser, Daryl Peterson, Rosemary Robie, James Robinson, Algernon Russell, Irma Salazar, Jamaal Scott, Rizza Sese, LeQuan “Dante” Silas, Lula Solomon, Jason Sullivan, Jessica Torrey, Richard Ward, Gerald Washington, Sam Wilkinson, John Wilson, Enio Wissel and Traci Wright. STCW — NCL, July 1: Elizabeth Sammon, Paul Slaght II, Rubert Taylor, Tammy Thompson, Velentine Thompson, Eulogio Tolentino Jr., Augustus Torralba, Jonathan Toves, Miranda Van Cleave, Tina Vestal, Juan Viazcon, Amanda Wall, Marta Ward, Lonnie Weigel, Louis Wessel, Troy White, Sinan Wiley, Kelley Williams, Josh Wilson and Ryan Wilson. (Note: not all are pictured.) November 2005 STCW — NCL, July 15: Justin Ayer, Jeffrey Batac, Donald Bellefeuile, Samuel Berg, Deborah Clopton, Gary Costin, Rhonda Costin, Mason Cummings, Danielle Curtis, Theresa Denley, Lucia Estrada, Alejandro Flores, Daniel Garza, Anthony Grana, Phillip Guerrero, Shay Gunn, Carla Hankel, Kami Harris,Ryan Ingles, Don Jayamaha, Damon Johnson, Emily Jones, Catherine Justice, Tylor Kolter, Erin Kuba and David Langner. Seafarers LOG 23 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:38 PM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 11 November 2005 Remembering R emembering o ur veterans f rom all w ars November 1 1, 2 005 Unlicensed U nlicensed Apprentice Program Provides Thorough Training Paul Hall Center Curriculum Blends Practical, Classroom Instruction T The program’s second phase offers valuable experience aboard U.S.flag ships, as shown in these three photos. Companies participating in this segment include NCL America, Alaska Tanker Company, American Steamship, Hannah Marine, Liberty Maritime, Interocean American Shipping, Ocean Ships, Horizon Lines, Overseas Shipholding Group, Marine Transport Lines, Intrepid Marine Management, Crowley, Maritrans, and Allied Towing of Virginia. he unlicensed apprentice (UA) program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has been a staple of the Piney Point, Md. facility since it opened in 1967. By design and necessity, the program has evolved consistently in order to help the school continue fulfilling its mission of turning out the world’s best-trained mariners. Today, the apprentice program consists of multiple phases—all U.S. Coast Guard-approved—that blend practical training with classroom instruction. One of the more useful components is Phase II—a 90-day period in which students sail aboard a U.S.-flag vessel, alternately working in each of the three shipboard departments. Mariners and instructors alike have pointed to Phase II as an important reason why students who complete the entire UA program are likely to remain in the industry. According to Paul Hall Center officials, more than 75 percent of students who graduate from the program still are sailing four years later (the most recent calculation made by the school). Companies participating in Phase II include NCL America, Alaska Tanker Company, American Steamship, Hannah Marine, Liberty Maritime, Interocean American Shipping, Ocean Ships, Horizon Lines, Overseas Shipholding Group, Marine Transport Lines, Intrepid Marine Management, Crowley, Maritrans, and Allied Towing of Virginia. While the shipboard training has proven successful, Phase I, at the school itself, lays the foundation for becoming a mariner. This phase also lasts three months and includes the following training: vessel familiarization; STCW basic safety training (BST); basic fire fighting; first aid; water survival; vessel operations; and social responsibilities. During Phase III (which also takes place in Piney Point), students begin to specialize their training. Deck personnel head to courses titled (respectively) specially trained ordinary seaman and tankship familiarization/dangerous liquids, while engine department mariners enroll in the basic auxiliary plant operations class. Those who choose the steward department take four weeks of upgrader-level galley operations. Completion of Phase III is considered official graduation, but the school doesn’t abandon students after that point. What is considered Phase IV consists of an additional four months’ sea service, followed by the appropriate upgrading course (able seaman, for instance). For additional information about the program, visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org, or call toll-free at 1-877-2353275. Hands-on training is featured in most Paul Hall Center courses, including the first phase of the apprentice program. The trainee program (above and below) dates back to the school’s founding in 1967 but has been modified many times in order to stay ahead of the industry’s needs. Occasionally, students break from the normal schedule and seize chances to visit landmarks (the White House, above) or participate in ceremonies (at left) like the Department of Labor’s Hall of Fame induction featuring the school’s namesake, Paul Hall. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES TASK FORCE: SUPPORT FOR CABOTAGE LAW STILL STRONG RUNAWAY-FLAG CRUISE LINE COMES UNDER SCRUTINY ARC FLEET EXPANDS BY 3 OCEAN TITAN JOINS SIU FLEET CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 3RD T-AKE SHIP VICE ADMIRAL BREWER HONORED BY NDTA RECIPROCAL SENIORITY TAKES EFFECT NOV. 1 RETIRED PORT AGENT MARINELLI DIES AT 62 ITF, OWNERS’ GROUP REACH ‘SIGNIFICANT’ AGREEMENT HOMELAND SECURITY DEPT. ISSUES NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR MARITIME SECURITY AMERICANS FORCED TO PAY MORE AS INSURANCE COVERAGE GOES DOWN RETIRED INSTRUCTOR JACK PARCEL DIES AGENCY ISSUES REVISED STCW ENDORSEMENT SIU CONTINUES HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS THANKING THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED SEAFARERS HELP REBUILD FLORIDA COASTLINE IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL FOR SEAFARERS FOLLOWING ACQUISITION OF CP SHIPS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES RECEIVE SAFETY AWARDS ‘UNION YES’ RACE CAR TAKES LABOR’S MESSAGE ON THE FAST TRACK FORMER NMU MEMBER FREDE FROST DIES AT 84 3 SHIPS ADDED TO ARC FLEET READY TO GO AGAIN SEAFARERS CONTINUE SUPPORTING U.S. TROOPS IN OPERATIONS ENDURING FREEDOM AND IRAQI FREEDOM UNLICENSED APPRENTICE PROGRAM PROVIDES THOROUGH TRAINING Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/2005 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 67, No. 11 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/775cff5318b4769ecfe943799cede4ac.pdf d706e9e559a554715036d291eb910981 PDF Text Text 32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/28/2005 7:30 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 10 October 2005 SIU Helps Deliver Relief As Nation Faces Crisis, Seafarers Answer the Call SIU members were among the first to engage in relief operations following Hurricane Katrina’s devastating tear through the U.S. Gulf Coast. Seafarers already on the scene in New Orleans provided fuel, shelter and makeshift medical facilities. Others crewed up RRF ships that were mobilized for hurricane relief. The union quickly established a relief fund and also offered the use of its hiring hall in Mobile, Ala. for assistance in AFL-CIO relief operations. Pages 2, 3, 12, 13. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) LEFT: Flood waters from Hurricane Katrina fill the streets near downtown New Orleans on Aug. 30. Hurricane Katrina did extensive damage when it made landfall a day earlier. BELOW: The Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort pulls into Naval Station Mayport, Fla., to take on supplies en route to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina. (AP Photo/ Steve Ruark) RIGHT: The SIU-crewed SS Wright, part of the Ready Reserve Force, prepares to leave Baltimore for New Orleans, where it was expected to house more than 300 workers and support helicopters aiding in the relief effort. INSIDE Federation Approves Solidarity Charters Page 5 Safety Directors Train at Piney Point Page 8 Snapshots from the Great Lakes Page 24 ABOVE: In the first days after the hurricane, employees at SIU headquarters and at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education donated enough supplies to fill 11 pallets. Union Welcomes New Ships, Jobs The SIU recently welcomed several positive developments concerning new shipboard job opportunities for Seafarers as well as the preservation of existing jobs. Those events include the expansion of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (whose fleet includes the SIU-crewed Green Lake, below); Maritrans’ announcement that the company is building new ATBs; Maersk Line, Ltd.’s new contract to operate fast sealift ships; and Ocean Ships’ new agreement for operation of the T-5 tankers. Pages 2, 3, 4. LEFT: The USNS Pollux welcomed personnel from a local hospital who desperately needed power, not to mention a dry space. SIU Labor Secretary Chao Tours Paul Hall Center U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, an ardent backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine, toured the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education following her address to the United Industrial Workers convention August 30. She is pictured here (seventh from left) along with SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from right) with students at the Paul Hall Center’s Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. More photos of the tour are on page 7. UIW convention coverage appears on page 6. �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/26/2005 7:58 AM Page 2 Expanded MSP Begins President’s Report Once Again, Seafarers Deliver As this issue of the LOG went to press, our nation was holding its collective breath while Hurricane Rita veered into the Gulf. On the heels of Hurricane Katrina, forecasters took a cautious approach, saying the newer storm eventually might hit areas already battered by Katrina—but then again, it might not. Regardless, I think all Americans shared the same thought when news of Rita surfaced: Our brothers and sisters in the Gulf already are hurting. No more hurricanes! Michael Sacco And yet, our nation will battle through Rita if needed, just as we are responding with sacrifice and dedication as America starts recovering from the massive Katrina. Because of the loss of life and enormous damage in sections of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, that hurricane brought all of us together as fellow Americans—just as we were four years ago when America was attacked. Yes, there is ongoing controversy about some of the initial relief efforts—but no one can ignore the outpouring of kindness and generosity from all across the United States and from many of our international allies, including the International Transport Workers’ Federation and the SIU of Canada. Americans have responded with normal relief efforts but also with unconventional, over-and-above tactics. Cities throughout the nation offered transportation, shelter and fresh starts for those who lost everything. Rank-and-file workers, many of them our fellow trade unionists, sacrificed vacation time and income to join in the Gulf-area recovery and rebuilding. I’m proud to say that the SIU has been a positive contributor to those ongoing efforts, every step of the way. Our members aboard Ready Reserve Force ships stationed in New Orleans were among the first to offer shelter and other aid, even before government relief workers could travel to the affected areas. Seafarers also crewed up other RRF ships along with training vessels and the hospital ship USNS Comfort that have been deployed to aid in the recovery. Many of our port officials and manpower office staff came to work throughout a holiday weekend to help ensure timely crewing of the vessels that were activated and mobilized. It may seem like a small sacrifice when looking at the big picture, but it didn’t go unnoticed—and it helped make a difference in the lives of Katrina’s victims. Additionally, a number of employees at SIU headquarters and at our affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education took the initiative and donated relief items. We invited the AFL-CIO to use our union hall in Mobile as a “Workers’ Center,” part of the federation’s relief efforts. The union itself quickly established a relief fund specifically intended for Seafarers, SIU retirees and employees and their families, as well as for our affiliated unions, the United Industrial Workers and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union. I encourage each member to donate to the relief efforts, whether it goes to the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund, the American Red Cross, the Union Community Fund, the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund or another charitable outlet of your choice. No donation is too small. I extend my sympathy and prayers to the hurricane victims and their families. I offer my heartfelt admiration to all those who have helped in the relief efforts. Most of all, I salute the Seafarers who once again have come through with flying colors in the face of a national crisis. Anyone who knows our history knows that the SIU always has been a reliable part of America’s fourth arm of defense. We earned our solid reputation beginning in World War II and have built upon it ever since, right through to the present in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. And now, in relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina. We were chartered in 1938, and our world, of course, has seen many changes since then. But at least one thing has remained the same: Then and now, America can count on the SIU. Volume 67, Number 10 October 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 SIU Gains 13 Ships in New Program October marks the start of the renewed, expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP)—a vital component of America’s national defense capabilities. As reported early this year, the SIU gains 13 additional ships under the new MSP, which lasts from 2005-2016. The updated MSP fleet includes 60 vessels overall, an increase of 13 ships compared to the MSP set to expire at the end of September. Each of the 13 additions to the MSP fleet is operated by an SIU-contracted company. Meanwhile, the 47 Seafarerscrewed vessels already enrolled in the MSP remain in the new program. President Bush authorized the expanded MSP as part of a Defense bill that he signed in late 2003. The program initially was established through the Maritime Security Act of 1996. It helps retain “a labor base of skilled American mariners who are available to crew the U.S. Government-owned strategic sealift fleet, as well as the U.S. commercial fleet, both in peace and war,” noted the U.S. Maritime Administration. The 13 new MSP slots are assigned to OSG Shipholding Group (three ships), Central Gulf (one), Fidelio (ARC) (four), Liberty Global Logistics (one), Lykes Lines (two), and Patriot (two). Overall, the awards are as follows, with the company name followed by the vessels: APL Marine Services, Ltd. — APL Korea, APL Philippines, APL Singapore, APL Thailand, President Adams, President Jackson, APL China, President Polk and President Truman. Central Gulf Lines, Inc.— Green Cove, Green Point, Green Lake and Hercules Leader. American Auto Carriers, Inc.—Liberty. Fidelio Limited Partnership —Patriot, Freedom, Takasago, Resolve, Otello and Aida. Farrell Lines Inc.— Chesapeake Bay, Delaware Bay, Endeavor, Endurance and Enterprise. Liberty Global Logistics, LLC—Alliance New York. Lykes Lines Limited, LLC— Lykes Navigator, Lykes Discoverer, Lykes Liberator, Lykes Motivator and Tmm Yucatan. Maersk Line, Limited— Maersk Missouri, Maersk Virginia, Maersk Georgia, Maersk Carolina, Sealand Achiever, Sealand Florida, Sealand Pride, Sealand Motivator, Sealand Commitment, Sealand Atlantic, Sealand Charger, Maersk Alabama, Sealand Lightning, Sealand Meteor, Maersk Arkansas, Sealand Intrepid, Sealand Comet, Sealand Performance and Sealand Quality. OSG Shipholding Group, Inc.—Overseas Joyce, Maersk Rapier, Maersk Regent and Maersk Richmond. Patriot Shipping, LLC— Industrial Challenger and Industrial Chief. Waterman Steamship Corporation—P&O Nedlloyd Vera Cruz, Atlantic Forest, Green Dale and P&O Nedlloyd Buenos Aires. In announcing the operating contract awards early this year, the Maritime Administration noted, The SIU-crewed Patriot is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. “The MSP serves to maintain a7n active, privately owned, U.S.-flag and U.S.-crewed liner fleet in international trade. This fleet also is available to support the Department of Defense sustainment in a contingency.” Support for the program has been widespread, including from the top levels of government and the military. In October 2000, President Bush noted, “In time of war or national emergency, the U.S. military depends on shipping and seafarers drawn from the U.S.-flag commercial fleet to deploy our military overseas and, once deployed, to transport the supplies necessary for them to fight, and win anywhere in the world. . . . Programs . . . that guarantee intermodal cargo lift and management services when needed in times of crisis or conflict, such as the Maritime Security Program, should be maintained.” In 2002, the head of the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) urged Congress to reauthorize the MSP. U.S. Air Force General John W. Handy told Congress, “I wholeheartedly support reauthorization of MSP beyond expiration of the current authority on September 30, 2005. The MSP is a vital element of our military’s strategic sealift and global response capability. As we look at operations on multiple fronts in support of the war on terrorism, it is clear that our limited defense resources will increasingly rely on partnerships with industry to maintain the needed capability and capacity to meet our most demanding wartime scenarios. That makes MSP reauthorization even more important as we look toward the future.” MSP ships—and crews—continue to play important roles in supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Maritrans to Build 3 ATBs Seafarers-contracted Maritrans Inc. last month announced that it has signed a contract with Bender Shipbuilding & Repair Co., Inc. to build three new articulated tugbarge (ATB) units, each having a carrying capacity of 335,000 barrels. Each barge will be connected to a 12,000 horsepower tugboat utilizing the latest version of the Intercon connection system. The company also announced that it has signed a long-term volume contract for lightering services with Sunoco Inc. Maritrans estimates that approximately 70 percent of the annual total barrels lightered by the company will be fulfilled through the Sunoco contract, while the remaining volume will be delivered to other Maritrans lightering customers on the Delaware River. Construction of the three new vessels will take place at both the Bender Shipbuilding facility in Mobile, Ala. and at their affiliated company, the Tampa Bay Shipbuilding & Repair Company, in Tampa, Fla. Maritrans estimates that the total cost of construction, including owner furnished equipment, will be approximately $77.5 million for each tug-barge unit. Maritrans expects to take delivery of the first unit in October 2007, with the remaining two vessels slated for delivery seven months apart in May and December of 2008, respectively. With the addition of the three units, Maritrans will become not only the largest owner/operator of vessels in its class size, but will also be the largest tug and barge U.S. coastwise operator based on carrying capacity. “Maritrans has a well-earned reputation for safety, and certainly their SIU crews share in both the credit for that reputation as well as the responsibility to uphold it,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “Along those same lines, the announcement that they’re building three new ATBs reflects well on the crew members, because companies don’t make that type of investment without having confidence in their shipboard manpower.” Jonathan Whitworth, chief executive officer of Maritrans, commented, “We are extremely pleased to announce that Maritrans is building three of the largest and most modern tugbarge units in the Jones Act fleet and entering into a long-term contract with Sunoco. Today’s announcements not only demonstrate our commitment to execute on our strategic growth initiatives outlined earlier in the year, but they also strengthen our relationship with two important strategic partners … while positioning the company to take advantage of strong long-term lightering demand in the Delaware Bay region.” October 2005 �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/28/2005 6:34 PM Page 3 SIU Delivers Katrina Relief Seafarers Mobilize Ships, Union Establishes Fund From the earliest moments after Hurricane Katrina devastated parts of the Gulf Coast states, hundreds of SIU members sprang into action, providing help in many different ways. Seafarers already in the affected areas joined forces with the U.S. Coast Guard and other government entities, providing shelter on Ready Reserve Force ships. SIU members crewed up several other RRF vessels and training ships that were sent to New Orleans, and members of the union’s Government Services Division helped mobilize the hospital ship USNS Comfort, which also was deployed for relief operations. The SIU-crewed USNS Pollux, in reduced operating status near New Orleans, provided some of the first assistance available, well before relief agencies could reach the area (see separate story, page 12). Meanwhile, the SIU quickly established a relief fund for members, pensioners, employees and Employees at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. (above) and at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center donated clothing, food items and more in the days following the flooding in New Orleans. their families, as well as for members from the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) and Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). (Information on that fund and others is listed separately on this page.) The union also donated use of part of its hall in Mobile, Ala. as an AFL-CIO “Workers’ Center” —one component of the federation’s disaster relief efforts. Additionally, employees at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and at the union’s affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. donated clothing, food items and toiletries immediately after the flooding in New Orleans. Altogether, they collected 11 pallets of material that was shipped to the Gulf Coast. Due to widespread damage and disrupted communications, there is no practical way for now to completely account for the fate of each member and pensioner in the areas hit by Katrina. However, the union as of late September was unaware of any SIU fatalities related to the hurricane. Property damage is another story. According to SIU port officials in New Orleans and Mobile, some members, pensioners and employees escaped with little or no harm to their respective homes. Others lost everything, while still others experienced substantial—but not total—loss. The union estimates that approximately 1,300 SIU members reside in the affected areas along with nearly 600 SIU pensioners. Two SIU halls directly were affected by the hurricane. The facility in Harvey, La. (near New Orleans) sustained roof damage Continued on page 12 The Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort moors at the port of Pascagoula, Miss. before proceeding to New Orleans, where it is providing medical assistance to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Friday, Nov. 11, 2005 for the observance of Veterans Day and Thursday, Nov. 24, 2005 for the observance of Thanksgiving Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. October 2005 How You Can Help Other Opportunities to Donate Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund The union has established a disaster relief fund for members, pensioners, employees and family members of the SIU as well as our affiliated unions the United Industrial Workers (UIW) and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). Donations may be sent to: Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund c/o Secretary-Treasurer’s Office Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/ 1-800-HELP-NOW (1-800-435-7669) Union Community Fund https://secure.ga3.org/08/UCF_Katrina_Relief? (also accessible via www.aflcio.org) Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund http://www.bushclintonkatrinafund.org/ Other Red Cross Resources Seafarers also may make a one-time donation to the fund from their vacation check, via a special check-off. Vacation applications and check-off forms are available at all SIU halls. Also, cash donations to the fund are being accepted at all SIU halls. Anyone making a cash donation will receive a receipt. Please note that because the fund is limited to our union brothers and sisters (along with the rest of those mentioned above), donations are not taxdeductible. Also please note that in order to be eligible for the fund, active Seafarers must have at least 30 days’ shipping in the last 12 months and also must be in good standing. For more information about the fund, contact headquarters at (301) 899-0675, extension 4438. An application form for those individuals requesting assistance through the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund—in PDF format—is available online at the following link: http://www.seafarers.org/members/SDRFapplication05.pdf A check-off authorization form, also in PDF format, is available at the following link: http://www.seafarers.org/members/CheckoffAuthorizationSDRF.pdf Copies of both forms have been sent to all SIU halls. If you would like to receive a copy of the application or check-off authorization via fax, please contact your union hall or the headquarters number and extension listed above. This fund will be used, on a continuing basis, to provide assistance to members, pensioners, employees and family members of the SIU, SEATU and the UIW who find themselves in need of emergency financial assistance due to an unexpected disaster or crisis. Evacuees may call 1-800-975-7585 for information on disaster assistance “Family Links Registry” (also called Find a Missing Loved One): 1-877-568-3317 Other AFL-CIO Resources For Hurricane Katrina survivors and volunteers: 1-877-235-2469 Workers’ Centers (for job information, access to computers and basic relief) Harris County Central Labor Council 2506 Sutherland Street Houston, Texas 77023 (713) 923-9473 United Association of Pipe Fitters 1060 Commercial Park Drive Pearl, Mississippi 39208 (601) 664-3897 Seafarers International Union 1640 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, Alabama 36605 (251) 478-0162 Hurricane Katrina Official Government Website http://www.firstgov.gov/Citizen/Topics/PublicSaf ety/Hurricane_Katrina_Recovery.shtml U.S. Coast Guard Site with Katrina-Related Links and Phone Numbers http://www.uscg.mil/katrina/ Ocean Ships, Inc. to Operate T-5 Tankers The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently awarded the operating contract for four of the T-5 Tankers to SIU-contracted Ocean Ships, Inc. (OSI) of Houston, Texas. The vessels are the double-hull, icestrengthened petroleum products tankers USNS Paul Buck, USNS Samuel Cobb, USNS Lawrence Gianella and USNS Richard Matthiesen. This contract was awarded to OSI on what is known as a “best value basis” under an MSC classification called a small business set-aside. The T-5 Tankers were constructed in 1985 and 1986 under a build and time charter contract awarded to OSI, and the Seafarers have manned these ships from their inaugural voyages. Over the 20-year time charter period, these vessels were available for “on hire” service to MSC 99.5 percent of the time, and there have been no cargo oil spills, according to OSI. In 2003, the Navy purchased the tankers from the shipowners. The fifth ship in the series, M/V Gus Darnell, has been sold to U.S. Shipping and continues to be crewed by SIU members. Two of the tankers, the Gianella and Matthiesen, are equipped with Modular Fuel Delivery Systems for underway replenishment of naval combat ships. T-5 tankers have been involved in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Desert Storm. The dedicated contribution of the Seafarers in those missions was commended in a letter to OSI by General John Handy, commander of TRANSCOM. In addition, the tankers have been operated in the ice-bound waters of Greenland and Antarctica. Each year, for 20 years now, a T-5 tanker has resupplied the scientific mission of the National Science Foundation in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. The Lawrence Gianella (left) and Samuel Cobb (right), pictured this past July in Thule, Greenland, are part of the T-5 tanker fleet operated by SIU-contracted Ocean Ships, Inc. In these photos, the vessels are participating in an annual resupply mission for MSC known as Operation Pacer Goose. Seafarers LOG 3 �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/26/2005 7:30 AM Page 4 Maersk to Operate Fast Sealift Ships MSC Agreement Signals Job Retention for SIU Members The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) has awarded a contract to Maersk Line, Ltd. of Norfolk, Va. for the operation and maintenance of eight Seafarers-crewed fast sealift ships. Like the vessels’ previous operator, Maersk is an SIU-contracted company. According to MSC, “The contract is valued at $26 million for its initial year and includes four one-year options that, if exercised, would bring the total value of the contract to $135 million. Under this contract, Maersk will be responsible for providing qualified ship officers and crews to operate the ships, as well as the technical support and supplies needed to maintain them.” These ships—the fastest cargo ships in the world, traveling at speeds of up to 30 knots or more —are used for the rapid deployment of U.S. military equipment or humanitarian aid supplies to contingency sites around the world. They have been utilized during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, and they were a major asset during the Persian Gulf War. The ships that fall under this contract are the USNS Algol, USNS Altair, USNS Antares, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Capella, USNS Denebola, USNS Pollux Notice Union’s Duluth Operations Consolidate into Joliet Hall Effective Oct. 1, 2005, the SIU office in Duluth, Minn. will be consolidated into the SIU hall in Joliet, Ill. Contact information for the Joliet hall is as follows: 10 East Clinton St. Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 723-8002 Records for members previously shipping from Duluth will be housed in the Joliet hall. For more information, please call the phone number listed above. For a complete list of SIU halls, see page 16. and USNS Regulus. Ordinarily, the vessels are maintained pierside in reduced operating status at U.S. East Coast and Gulf ports. When needed, they can be activated and under way in less than 96 hours, ready to deliver the supplies needed for military or humanitarian crises anywhere in the world. In fact, the Pollux recently played a key early role in helping provide relief after Hurricane Katrina near New Orleans. (See story beginning on page 3.) The fast sealift ships were built as containerships but have been converted and given rollon/roll-off features, cranes and a series of decks connected by ramps so that vehicles can be driven in and out of storage areas for rapid loading and unloading. On an average day, MSC operates more than 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships at sea, The SIU-crewed USNS Antares loads 138,000 square feet of equipment in the port of Charleston, S.C. in early June. chart ocean bottoms, conduct undersea surveillance and strategically preposition combat cargo Seafarers-crewed fast sealift ships support U.S. troops wherever and whenever needed. In this U.S. Navy photo from last year in Kuwait, a U.S. Marine Corps field artillery ammunition supply vehicle is offloaded from the SIUcrewed USNS Bellatrix. General Handy Joins Horizon Lines U. S. Air Force Gen. John W. Handy, retiring commander of the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) and the United States Air Mobility Command, will affiliate with SIU-contracted Horizon Lines, TRANSCOM announced last month. He will work directly with Charles G. (Chuck) Raymond, who is chairman, president and CEO of Horizon Lines. General Handy, an outspoken advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine who has headed the two military transportation commands, retired last month, following a distinguished 39-year career in the U.S. Air Force. He has served for more than four years as Commanding General of TRANSCOM, the single transportation manager for air, land and sea transportation for the Department of Defense. In describing his role at Horizon Lines, General Handy said, “In carrying out my military responsibilities, I have been quite impressed with the customer focus and delivery reliability at Horizon Lines. Chuck Raymond and his team have taken the company to new service levels and I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to Horizon’s growth.” “John Handy will contribute in many ways to the strengthening of Horizon Lines and to the capabilities we offer our customers today and for the future,” Raymond said. “He has been a forceful and creative leader at the U.S. Transportation Command and a bold and steady supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine who has consistently spoken out for a strong U. S.-flag fleet to support the defense of our country.” Commenting on General 4 Seafarers LOG at sea around the world. Many of those vessels are crewed by SIU members. Trainee Commandant Gilliland Dies at 57 U. S. Air Force General John W. Handy was quick to credit U.S. mariners during his tenure as commander of TRANSCOM. Having retired from the agency, he will work with Horizon Lines. Handy’s announcement for a TRANSCOM news release, SIU President Michael Sacco said, “We at the Seafarers International Union are thrilled to see General Handy working with Horizon Lines. Horizon has the heritage of Sea-Land, the strength of our maritime legacy and the leadership to play a significant role in the defense of our nation. John Handy has always reached out to labor to partner in creative ways and has our deepest respect. As a labor partner with Horizon Lines we welcome this American hero to our fold.” General Handy is a graduate of Methodist College of Fayetteville, N.C., earned his master’s degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California, attended the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and received his Honorary Doctor of Humanities from Methodist College (1992). In November, General Handy will be a recipient of the Admiral of the Ocean Sea award. Tom Gilliland, commandant of trainees at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., passed away Sept. 4 following a stroke. He was 57. “He touched the lives of so many trainees,” said Bart Rogers, manpower director at the Southern Maryland-based maritime institution. “Tom always believed that each trainee would be successful with the right leadership, and he worked tirelessly to that end. It was his belief that no obstacle was too large that it could not be overcome. “You don’t replace a man like Tom,” Rogers concluded. “You learn from him.” Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan remembered Gilliland as someone who “truly cared about people and went out of his way to help. He was devoted to his job and he certainly will be missed.” J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the Paul Hall Center, said Gilliland emphasized “respect for yourself and others, and responsibility for all of your actions. That’s what he preached to the trainees. “He was salty from his time in the Navy, but he always provided those apprentices with steady guidance and an even keel.” Born in Washington, D.C., Gilliland was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He served 25 years and rose to the rank of senior chief petty officer. Among his military decorations were the National Defense Medal and several Vietnam service medals. He was a naval instructor, first class Navy diver, tug captain, and landing craft utility captain. Gilliland held a captain’s license of 100 tons near coastal and was a specially trained search and rescue expert. He joined the staff of the Paul Hall Center in May 1990 and dedicated the next 15 years of his life serving as a deck instructor. He once conduct- Tom Gilliland, the late commandant of trainees at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., briefed students earlier this year during an indoor formation. ed lifeboat training aboard the old cruise ships Independence and Constitution in Honolulu over the Christmas holiday, stepping forward to help meet an immediate need for such instruction. Gilliland most recently served as commandant of trainees at the Paul Hall Center, assuming command in March of this year. It was in this position that he particularly is credited with making a huge difference. Gilliland is survived by his wife, Dawn; two daughters, Eva Marie Connelly of Jacksonville, Fla., and Kelly Marie Castle of Lexington Park, Md.; two brothers, Charles Gilliland of Altoona, Pa., and Michael Gilliland of Johnstown, Pa.; and two grandchildren, Sara Marie and Annabella Grace. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Rick and Norman Gilliland. A private memorial service was conducted by Gilliland’s family members shortly after his death. The trainees and staff of the Paul Hall Center on Sept. 18 said their goodbyes to Gilliland during a special tribute ceremony in his honor at the school. October 2005 �32578p5,6,10,15,16,18.qxd 9/28/2005 8:48 PM Page 5 AFL-CIO OKs ‘Solidarity Charters’ Action Allows Locals to Participate In Labor Councils, State Federations The AFL-CIO executive council last month approved a proposal by the federation’s president, John Sweeney, to provide for continued participation of disaffiliated unions in state federations and central labor councils through Solidarity Charters. Under Solidarity Charters, if a local union of a disaffiliated union wants to be part of a united local movement in their city and state, they can apply to be part of the central labor council or state federation. Three unions—the Teamsters, UFCW and SEIU— disaffiliated from the AFL-CIO in July. Local unions who are part of these unions and the Carpenters are all eligible for Solidarity Charters. (As this issue of the LOG went to press, another union, UNITE-HERE, also reportedly was set to leave the federation. That defection was taking place after the executive council action on Solidarity Charters.) They will sign up with the same level of membership they had before their union left the AFL-CIO, or sign up at the average membership level for that city or state, whichever is higher. They also will pay a 10 percent solidarity fee to the labor council or state federation to help offset the cost of services and mobilization systems provided by the national AFL-CIO and supported by its affiliated unions. The solidarity fee will go into the Solidarity Fund, which was established during the federation’s July convention and helps support local bodies affected by the unions’ decision to leave the federation. In a recent letter signed by officials from various state labor federations and central labor councils, union leaders wrote: “The very concept of allowing continued participation in our local central bodies by unions which have disaffiliated from the national AFL-CIO is as unprecedented as it is important.” Sweeney on Aug. 11 initially announced the new proposal for Solidarity Charters. “It’s not these locals’ fault that their national unions left the AFL-CIO, and it’s not working peoples’ fault. They shouldn’t have to bear the brunt of a decision by their leadership,” said Sweeney. “Solidarity Charters will allow unions to work together and let working people still benefit from a united grassroots movement that works for good jobs, health care, and a voice in issues that matter to them.” The AFL-CIO came up with the Solidarity Charters after locals of disaffiliated unions contacted the national AFL-CIO during the weeks since its convention and expressed a desire to remain in the AFL-CIO at the local level. The AFL-CIO Constitution is clear that if a union leaves the national AFLCIO, they also leave the AFLCIO at the local level. However, delegates to the AFL-CIO convention in late July discussed the need to find a creative solution to support the grassroots labor movement. “These Solidarity Charters will allow unions in New York to continue to work together and maintain a united front to fight for working people’s issues,” said Denis Hughes, president of the New York State AFL-CIO. “I’m pleased that our locals have this unique option.” Locals who receive Solidarity Charters will need to honor basic principles of solidarity. They will agree not to raid their brother and sister unions, participate fully in the local political mobilization efforts, and support other working people in their area who are on strike, organizing, or in other AFL-CIO President John Sweeney struggles. Unions will have the same voting rights as other locals—except that members of unions with a Solidarity Charter can’t hold top offices, although individuals already in office can finish out their terms. Interfaith Worker Justice Meeting ITF Slams New Iraqi Crackdown on Unions The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has condemned a new decree in Iraq that the federation said crushes trade unions’ right to operate free of government interference or harassment. The decree, passed on Aug. 7, revokes decisions taken on union rights by Iraq’s provisional government and permits the control and confiscation of trade union monies by the current authorities, the ITF stated. The pronouncement also states that the right to carry out union activities is to be reviewed. In a letter dated Aug. 24, ITF General Secretary David Cockroft told Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim Al Jaafari, “We are concerned that control of Iraqi trade unions’ monies might lead to the weakening of the Iraqi unions’ capabilities. This is considered a clear breach of the International Labor Organization (ILO) core labor standards on freedom of association and a direct attack on human rights in Iraq.” He also called on the government to discuss any future review of trade union activities with the unions themselves and raised concerns that laws dating from 1987, forbidding union organization in the public sector, remain in place. Cockroft pledged to raise these issues with the ILO through the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions. Commenting on the situation, Bilal Malkawi of the ITF Arab World Offices said, “While the ITF, Global Union Federations, and many international trade ITF General Secretary David Cockroft union organizations are working intensively to support Iraqi workers, the government is taking this action instead of helping unions to face the challenges ahead. I am really shocked by these measures, but I know for sure that the Iraqi unions are in a strong enough position to keep moving forward.” High Cost of Medical Premiums Is Astounding The soaring costs of health care was one of the chief topics at the UIW convention, held last month in Piney Point, Md., just as it has been in offices and board rooms across the country. Higher co-pays and deductibles are now a fact of life for the overwhelming majority of Americans who have health insurance, noted SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel during an address to the UIW convention. More than 45 million (including 12 million children) are without any coverage at all, and many of these uninsured Americans do have full-time jobs or have someone in their immediate family who does. The problem is that a majority of the uninsured are not offered benefits through their employers. Heindel said that, like countless other organizations, the SIU and UIW are making adjustments to their health plans and taking the necessary steps to ensure that their memberships have access to health care. The Kaiser Family Foundation reported last month that premiums continue to rise much faster than overall inflation and wage growth. The foundation, which specializes in health care research, stat- October 2005 ed that premiums increased 9.2 percent between spring 2004 and spring 2005, while the average employee saw only a 2.7 percent increase in wages. And while the rate of growth was only slightly lower than last year, when it was in the double digits, it still means that premiums are going up three times faster than wages. These high rates are taking a toll not only on individuals, but also on unions and corporations and other employers. Seattle-based Starbucks Corp., for example, is expected to pay more on health insurance this year for its 80,000 U.S. employees (it has about 100,000 employees worldwide) than it will on materials needed to brew its coffee. Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks, said that the company expects to spend about $200 million this year for health care for its U.S. employees—more than the total amount it spends on green coffee from Africa, Indonesia and other countries. He urged congressional leaders to put this issue at the top of their agenda. The labor-backed organization Interfaith Worker Justice conducted its board of directors meeting Sept. 12-13 at the SIU hall in Houston. Seafarer Sinclair Oubre, head of the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States, serves on the board. The meeting addressed several key concerns, including establishment of a committee of religious leaders who can monitor the redevelopment of New Orleans and other areas affected by Hurricane Katrina. The board also discussed the need to protect laws covering U.S.-flag shipping and wage standards. Pictured at the meeting are (seated, from left) Fr. Oubre, Rev. Nelson Johnson, Edith Rasell, Charese Jordan, Imam Mahdi Bray, (middle row) Rev. Jim Sessions, Kristi Sanford, Elisabeth Solomon, Kim Bobo, Monroe Sullivan, Bill Quigley, (back row) Rev. Chris Lockard, Thom Shellabarger, Bob Hulteen, Bob DeRose and Jeff Korgen. On its web site, Interfaith Worker Justice states that it “calls upon our religious values in order to educate, organize, and mobilize the religious community in the U.S. on issues and campaigns that will improve wages, benefits, and working conditions for workers, especially low-wage workers.” Among Firms Not Offering Health Benefits, Reasons for Not Offering, 2005 Very Important Somewhat Important Not Too Important Not At All Important Don’t Know 73% 13% 5% 9% <1% Employees Covered Elsewhere 33 26 13 25 3 High Turnover 16 13 23 49 0 Obtain Good Employees Without Offering a Health Plan 22 32 18 27 2 Administrative Hassle 14 29 25 28 3 Firm Too Newly Established 2 9 9 80 0 Firm Is Too Small 52 21 9 19 0 Firm Has Seriously Ill Employee 4 6 5 82 3 High Premiums Source: Kaiser/HRET Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Benefits, 2005 Seafarers LOG 5 �32578p5,6,10,15,16,18.qxd 9/27/2005 12:53 PM Page 6 UIW Sets Organizing as Top Goal Convention Honors Victims and Heroes of September 11 Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW), assembling Aug. 30-31 for their 12th quadrennial convention, designated organizing new members as their chief objective for the next four years. The UIW represents workers employed in manufacturing, service and government sectors. In Dr. James Fielder, Md. State Secretary of Labor Licensing & Regulation addition to delineating strategies for providing union representation to workers who currently are not members of labor organizations, convention delegates also reaffirmed their commitment to political action, outlined various goals and elected new officers. The mood of the event’s initial proceedings was somber and respectful as UIW President Michael Sacco, shortly after calling the convention to order, reflected back on the horrendous events which occurred on September 11, 2001—the opening day of the UIW’s previous conference. “I was right here, on this same stage. Obviously, it’s a morning that none of us will ever forget,” stated Sacco, who during the convention was reelected as UIW president. “In fact, when I sat down with some of the other officials and staff members to begin planning this current convention, we all immediately realized that we would have to start with 9-11. “It was one of the worst days in our nation’s history,” he continued. “The attacks that took place on that day re-shaped our country forever. We continue feeling the effects today. “And yet, when you look at how individual people and organizations like our own union responded to the attacks, there’s no question that it shows the good side of human nature. It shows that Americans can and will pull together. “For one thing,” Sacco said, “since September 11 itself, thousands of trade unionists—including UIW members and members of our parent union, the SIU— have answered our nation’s call for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom…. UIW members and their families in the military reserves have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. SIU members have delivered the goods for our armed forces overseas, and Labor Secretary Lauds Union, School The Honorable Elaine Chao, U.S. Secretary of Labor, recently lauded the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center and the union for the quality-of-life upgrades each over the years has afforded individuals preparing for seafaring careers. The labor secretary gave the tributes Aug. 30 during remarks to the officers, delegates and rank-and-file members who were in attendance during the SIUaffiliated United Industrial Workers’ 12th quadrennial convention in Piney Point, Md. “It has been three years since the last time I visited Piney Point,” Chao told those in attendance, “and let me tell you, you have a first-rate training center, and it keeps getting better.” Making reference to the SIU trainees who were in attendance at the convention, the labor secretary offered, “It is so exciting to see these soon-to-be-graduates with such big smiles on their faces. That’s because they know that they’re in a great union and have great futures ahead of them. “I’ve been told that more than 10,000 workers have been trained since my last visit alone. And these workers are being placed in good-paying jobs with benefits. That is great news!” Secretary Chao said that it was fitting that the training center is named after Paul Hall. In addition to noting that Paul Hall founded the UIW and that he was inducted into the Department of Labor Hall of Fame in 2003, she pointed out that Hall fought for a better life for seafarers, a strengthened U.S. Merchant Marine, a stronger labor movement and better opportunities for young people and people of color. “And that legacy continues today with President (Michael) Sacco,” she said. “President Sacco has focused on a better life for all of his members and he has also taken a special interest in helping young people who have had a difficult start in life. He 6 Seafarers LOG Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao delivers remarks to the 12th quadrennial convention of the United Industrial Workers at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. encourages them and provides them with not only the skills of the trade, but also the soft skills, which are so important for success in the workplace, so they can better themselves and the lives of their families. “That is a truly laudable and remarkable endeavor,” she continued. “And so I commend President Sacco, the Seafarers Union and the UIW for providing opportunities for those who need it most.” Secretary Chao stated that earlier this year—during the launch of the Pride of America cruise ship in New York City—she had an opportunity to meet some of the well-trained SIU members, all products of the Paul Hall Center. “As you know, this is the first brand-new U.S.-flagged passenger ship in nearly 50 years,” the secretary said. “So when her sister ship, the Pride of Hawaii, joins her in 2006, a total of three U.S.-flagged cruise ships will cruise Hawaii. And as you heard me say during the launching ceremony of the Pride of America, together these three ships will create 20,000 American jobs, of which 3,000-4,000 will be seafar- ers’ jobs. I want to say those jobs came about because of the leadership, the partnership and the determination of your president to secure these jobs for your members.” Turning her attention to homeland security, Secretary Chao reminded her audience of the horrible events of 9-11. “You held your last convention on September 11, 2001,” she said. “You have commemorated the innocent people who lost their lives four years ago with a special tribute—‘UIW Remembers.’ While many of you watched these developments unravel on television, your brothers and sisters in the Seafarers International Union were on the job. The Seafarers helped evacuate more than 160,000 people from Lower Manhattan and return them to their loved ones. “You should be so proud of the courageous chapter in our nation’s history that you and your brothers and sisters wrote on that pivotal day,” Secretary Chao said. “Those families—and America—will never forget what the Seafarers did on that day.” Recognizing the fashion in which Seafarers always have delivered the goods for our country, especially during time of conflict, the labor secretary said, “Since the mobilization for the war against terror began, the Seafarers have been there for our country—as they have been throughout our nation’s history. They, and members of the UIW, have served in the armed forces, reserves or National Guard. Others are crewing Ready Reserve vessels, delivering munitions, vehicles and rations wherever they are needed. “It is because of the service of your brothers and sisters in the Seafarers International Union that America sustains the strongest military force the world has ever known,” Secretary Chao concluded. “We are grateful for those sacrifices so that we may enjoy our freedom here and abroad.” Michael Sacco (standing), UIW president, and David Heindel, UIW Secretary-Treasurer they are continuing that mission even as we speak. Members from other unions also have answered the call, both in the reserves and in the merchant marine and in every branch of the armed forces.” Transitioning back to the business of the convention, Sacco noted that while there is no comparing the UIW’s current economic challenges with the tragedy of the terrorist attacks, he did see a parallel between what our nation faced on September 11 and what the UIW as a union currently faces. “After the attacks, our nation was wounded—down, but not out,” he stated. “Since then, we have rallied with incredible strength and bravery, making our nation and our world a safer place. “Economically, the labor movement faces its own life-anddeath struggle,” Sacco continued. “We in the UIW are right in the middle of it—under attack, along with our brothers and sisters throughout labor. These are tough times for unions. The first and most important way that we will turn it around is by organizing…. I am challenging every single official and every single delegate to walk the walk.” UIW National Director John Spadaro, elected to remain in his post for the next four years, echoed Sacco’s thoughts on organizing and added, “We must organize. Our very future depends on it.” Spadaro said that the history of the American labor movement is filled with examples of workers overcoming obstacles and achieving better lives for themselves and their families. Reflecting on the story of the late Cesar Chavez, Spadaro pointed out that the dedicated leader of Valerie Lilja AFL-CIO Union Plus Rep. John Spadaro UIW National Director the United Farm Workers faced a myriad of obstacles and had many opportunities to throw in the towel during his quest for better working conditions for his people. “For a time, he (Chavez) was homeless as a child, “Spadaro said. “As a young adult, his first attempts to unionize farm workers were turned down by his own Community Services Organization. Many more challenges followed, and they often were of such magnitude that Chavez could have been forgiven if he resigned himself to defeat. “Thank heaven he kept trying. As many of you know, he went on to become one of the most influential labor leaders in our nation’s history.” Spadaro then challenged those in attendance to step forward, take the organizing torch and run with it. “Every UIW member is a potential organizer, he said. “For example, when you are active in your community—and you make it a point to mention your union membership—you are serving as an organizer. That doesn’t mean that we need to discuss unions all the time, but by simply introducing the topic—whether you’re socializing with neighbors, or volunteering at church, or helping run a youth sports league—and by carrying yourself with dignity, you help promote growth in the labor movement.” He reminded shop stewards and other rank-and file members that they may be called upon to volunteer for specific UIW organizing campaigns. “Our union depends on shop stewards and other rank-and-file members to assist the regional officials in Continued on page 9 October 2005 �2005-October7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 1:56 PM Page 7 Secretary Chao Tours Paul Hall Center U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, a longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, toured the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education following her address to the United Industrial Workers convention Aug. 30. Showing a genuine interest in both the students and the Piney Point, Md.-based facility itself, Secretary Chao was inquisitive, unhurried and upbeat throughout the afternoon tour, which included stops at the full mission bridge simulator, a water survival class, the manpower office and the fire fighting and safety school, located on a nearby cam- Pictured at the fire fighting school immediately following the tour are (from left) Labor Department Counsel John Flynn, President Sacco, Secretary Chao and Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jimmy Hanson. pus. She was accompanied by SIU President Michael Sacco, among others. Founded in 1967, the Paul Hall Center is a premier training facility for deep sea merchant seafarers, inland waterways boatmen and cruise-ship crew members. The school has developed a pioneering approach to education that has successfully integrated vocational training, academic enrichment and trade union responsibility. The center is named after Paul Hall (1915-1980), an outstanding past president of the SIU. In October 2003, Hall was inducted into the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hall of Fame. During the induction ceremony in Washington, D.C., Secretary Chao stated, “Paul Hall fought for good pay and benefits for American mariners, and he also fought for their education. It’s fitting that the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education today is instrumental in ensuring that young people have the opportunity to pursue careers at sea.” U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao (seventh from left) and SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from right) chatted with students enrolled in a water survival class at the Paul Hall Center and then got together for this photo outside the classrooms. Secretary Chao checks out the full mission bridge simulator, with demonstrations from instructor Mike Smith. She later took the wheel and successfully guided the “vessel” through a virtual Baltimore Harbor. Manpower Coordinator Bart Rogers and Secretary Chao discuss how vessels are crewed up and monitored. SIU President Michael Sacco points out some of the general contents of the union’s training record book to Secretary Chao and Paul Hall Center Admissions Director Priscilla Senatore. During an impromptu stop in one of the unlicensed apprentice classrooms (above), Secretary Chao wished the students well and said she was impressed with the campus. Secretary Chao greets instructor Dick Tyson at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School (right) and asks students about their water survival training (left). October 2005 While reviewing some of the equipment used for GMDSS training, Secretary Chao sat down for a closer look along with AB Jeff Coble, who is enrolled in the course. Seafarers LOG 7 �2005-October7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 2:08 PM Page 8 Safety Directors Sharpen Skills at Paul Hall Center SIU safety directors from 10 ports recently completed valuable training at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. designed to help promote safe operations and security aboard Seafarers-contracted vessels. The five-day agenda (Aug. 22-26) constituted the seventh annual meeting of SIU safety directors and included plenty of hands-on training. It also featured close examinations of key port and shipboard safety and security regulations. Completing the program were: Robert Duncan (Tacoma), Thornton Elliott (Jacksonville), Frank Iverson (Honolulu), Andrew Linares (Wilmington), Kevin Marchand (Ft. Lauderdale), Randy Senatore (New York), Samuel Spain (Norfolk), Archie Ware (San Francisco), Chris Westbrook (New Orleans) and Jimmy White (Houston). Several of the safety directors stated that they believe the training will prove especially useful when they conduct vessel inspections. The SIU representatives met with instructors at the Paul Hall Center, including several from the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Among other topics, they studied galley sanitation; confined-space safety; eye, hand, foot and back protection; ship inspection procedures; fire extinguishers; power tools; the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code; general safety awareness and precautions; techniques for uncovering hidden hazards; and various ways that the Paul Hall Center can help port officials better serve crew members. Pictured at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, part of the Paul Hall Center, are (from left) Jimmy Hanson, safety director at the Piney Point, Md. facility; and SIU Safety Directors Thornton Elliott (Jacksonville), Randy Senatore (New York), Kevin Marchand (Ft. Lauderdale), Andrew Linares (Wilmington), Samuel Spain (Norfolk), Robert Duncan (Tacoma), Frank Iverson (Honolulu), Chris Westbrook (New Orleans), Archie Ware (San Francisco) and Jimmy White (Houston). Group Covers Wide Range of Topics Andrew Linares Instructor Joe Zienda (left) and Houston Safety Director Jimmy White review proper placement of fire extinguishers aboard vessels. Kevin Marchand The safety directors’ schedule included lots of hands-on training, including refreshers at the fire fighting school. Samuel Spain (top photo) and Randy Senatore (at right) practice galley inspections, part of the program known as “Serve Safe.” Instructor Bobby Dean (left) and the safety directors examine fire fighting gear. 8 Seafarers LOG October 2005 �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/28/2005 6:35 PM Page 9 For Seafarers, It’s Always ‘Safety First’ Union, School, Companies Team Up to Help Ensure Smooth Sailing Shipboard safety is more than a mere frame of mind for the men and women who don the SIU colors. To them, it’s really a way of life. As evidenced by the myriad of safety-related awards and accolades that SIU-contracted companies and their vessels over the last several years have received, the “Seafarers’ lifestyle” and the benefit it affords the maritime community is fast becoming the industry standard. “Going to sea is one of the most dangerous jobs in the maritime industry,” said J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “Each ship has its individual and often unique safety concerns. This is true whether it’s a cruise ship carrying passengers or a tanker carrying dangerous liquid. “For these and other reasons, each crew member must be safety conscious—alert to assess risk and report hazards, insure they wear safety equipment and take actions that foster safe work environments during their daily shipboard activities.” To prepare mariners to meet these rigid safety requirements, safety training—and heaps of it—is incorporated in virtually all phases of the Paul Hall Center curriculums, Wiegman pointed out. “Safety training is included in every course taught at the school,” he said. Altogether, at least 35 different courses are available to trainees and up- graders addressing some area of shipboard safety. “Not only do we teach a large variety of safety courses to all students who come to the school, we also have safety personnel located in most of the ports where SIU-contracted vessels call on,” said Jimmy Hanson, safety director at the Paul Hall Center. “Their primary function is to help crew members and the companies with assorted safety issues.” In addition to providing assistance at the various ports around the country, Hanson and his safety colleagues regularly call on companies and board their vessels to conduct training. “We visit companies and ships and teach safety on-site in a myriad of safety modules including fire fighting, First Aid & CPR, back safety, slips, trips and falls, eye, hand and foot protection and many more,” Hanson said. “For example, we have an ongoing program with Delta Queen Steamboat Company where we visit each of their ships three times per year and teach a wide variety of safety programs. We do this with a number of other companies as well.” Some companies also have their own safety programs, according to Wiegman, many of which are required by regulatory agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency. The U.S. Coast Guard also has specific mandates for safety training. “Remember,” Hanson concluded, “a good safety program at all levels makes safety take off and set sail.” Shipping company executives are not shy about elaborating on the fundamental necessity of safety in their operations, nor of the tremendous contributions Seafarers make in their overall safety programs. “Safety is our number one priority,” said Bill Cole, Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) director of labor relations. “It is a prerequisite for every job we do and is embedded in every job on our ships. Our philosophy is that each crew member has to go home in the same condition he or she arrived for duty—without injury. We have implemented various programs to facilitate and expand this type of environment.” Cole said SIU members have been crewing vessels for his company since 1999. “We have had some injuries and accidents, but those were in the early days,” he said. “Since then, we have gone 8 million man-hours without a losttime injury. This is a direct result of all crew members practicing and observing good safety practices. We initiated a Near Miss Program that requires members of the crew to report potential accident areas, so that they can be prevented. This program has worked out extremely well for us and, as a result, we have landed several safety awards.” Cole noted that SIU crew members played a significant role in ATC’s winning the awards because they are the ones who do the work: “It’s them who are there when the rubber meets the Organizing Deemed Top Goal for UIW Continued from page 6 organizing campaigns,” he said. “It takes a group effort because, quite frankly, the deck is stacked against any union in most cases.” Health care, its soaring costs and actions taken by the UIW to cope with this ongoing crisis were among the chief topics discussed by UIW SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel during his report to the convention. Higher co-pays and deductibles are a fact of life for the overwhelming majority of Americans who have health insurance, Heindel told his audience. Further, he pointed out, health care cost across the country continue to surge as family premiums in employer-sponsored plans are reaching epidemic proportions. “Like countless other organizations, we made adjustments in our health care plans since the last convention,” the secretarytreasurer said. “We are taking the necessary steps to ensure our viability and long-term prosperity. In the short run, this includes contracting with First Health Network and Prescription Solutions, respectively. Those agreements are part of the foundation that is aimed at helping us recover from this crisis.” Heindel reminded those present that almost without exception, no organization—no union, no trade association, no manufac- October 2005 turer or other business—has enjoyed income at a rate that outpaces the steadily increasing cost of health care. “Relatively speaking, the UIW Health and Benefits Plan and our union have fought off this crisis better than most,” he said. “The UIW has every reason to be proud of maintaining good benefits for members and their dependents. However, we simply are not immune to this crisis. We are committed to emerging from this battle in the best possible shape for the future.” A number of other UIW officers also spoke at the convention. They stressed the importance of organizing new members time and again as they delivered their individual reports. In addition, they briefed those in attendance Donna Edwards Secretary-Treasurer Md. State & D.C. AFL-CIO Frank Pecquex Executive Secretary-Treasurer Maritime Trades Department on the membership in their respective regions. Finally, they voiced their collective belief that the UIW’s continued involvement in political activities is essential. Several guest speakers addressed the convention. These included Dr. James Fielder, Maryland State Secretary of Labor, Licensing, & Regulation; Donna Edwards, secretary-treasurer of the Maryland State & D.C. AFL-CIO; Frank Pecquex, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department; and Valerie Lilja, AFL-CIO Union Plus representative. Edwards stressed the importance of political action and cited several recent accomplishments by the labor movement at the state level. Safety Classes Available at PHC Editor’s note: The following is a list of some of the safety classes available to students at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education: Adult First Aid/CPR (8-hour) Hazard Communication Advanced Fire Fighting (37-hour) Hazmat Refresher (8-hour) Back Injury Prevention Hazmat Technician (24-hour) Basic Fire Fighting (16-hour) Hearing Conservation Benzene Safety (16-hour) Heat Stress Blood-Borne Pathogens Incident Commander (16-hour) Confined Space Awareness (8-hour) Knife Safety Confined Space Permit Entry Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Confined Space Rescue (35-hour) Hazmat Specialist (40-hour) Lock Out Tag Out Oil Spill Response (35-hour) Electrical Safety Personal Protective Equipment Emergency Egress Power Tool Safety Eye Safety Respiratory Protection First Responder Awareness Level (8-hour) Right to Know Food Safety/Sanitation Welding Safety Foot Protection Working Aloft Forklift Safety Working over the side road. The SIU has embraced our company’s safety culture and has done an excellent job in communicating that concept to the rankand-file members,” Cole said. “The members, in turn, have done a tremendous job in formulating and nurturing a safety-conscious work environment. “We look forward to a continued positive working relationship with the SIU leadership and rankand-file members,” he concluded. “Collectively we will continue to improve the work environment so that no one ever gets hurt.” Tony Naccarato of SIU-contracted Crowley also views safety as an essential feature in the daily operations of his company’s vessels. “Safety is the most important activity in the operation of Crowley vessels,” said Naccarato “First and foremost, we do not want any of our crew members injured. Then there’s the company image—the perception that our customers have of us and we of ourselves. As a world-class leader in safe and quality transportation services, our image is continually improved and polished by job performance done right—with zero accidents.” SIU members have crewed Crowley vessels for decades, according to Naccarato. “This is a valued relationship because of the professionalism and excellent safety record of the SIU seafarers,” he said. Naccarato noted that while his company’s safety program has not yet realized its goal of zero accidents, they definitely are headed in the right direction. “Crowley vessels have continued to improve their safety performance,” he noted. “Our accident rates have significantly decreased over the last few years. Our goal, to be recognized as the global safety leader in the transportation industry, will be achieved Slips, Trips and Falls through all of our efforts. It is a voyage with a fixed destination— zero accidents. Our safety partnership with the SIU is a critical step to achieving a world class safety culture.” Crowley officials and employees understandably are very proud of the company’s awardwinning safety performance. Like ATC, Crowley frequently has visited the winner’s circle when hardware recognizing excellence in shipboard safety has been handed out. “The SIU crews throughout our fleet, both owned and managed, are to be congratulated for helping us earn our various safety and environmental protection awards,” Naccarato noted. “Transferring over 50 million barrels of oil without a spill (one of the company’s recent awards) is an outstanding job. This takes constant attention to transfer procedures, equipment maintenance and repair, watchstanding, and bridge team management. “The crews demonstrate the importance of teamwork in spill prevention and vessel safety,” he continued. “The extensive training which they have received at the school in Piney Point has solidified the culture of safety throughout the industry. The net result of all these efforts is that Crowley and the SIU have set the model for operation of ATBs on the West Coast. Crowley’s working relationship with the SIU is one that is based on a safety partnership. “Our long-term and valued relationship is like a good shipmate—you can count on them getting the job done right and safe,” Naccarato concluded. “Crowley is very proud of the safe work performance of our employees and SIU members. Safety is not only the right thing to do—it is our future.” Seafarers LOG 9 �32578p5,6,10,15,16,18.qxd 9/28/2005 9:15 PM Page 10 Cruise Vacations Offered to Union Members, Families An innovative program— Union Plus Freestyle Cruising— was announced Aug. 31 by NCL Corporation and Union Plus, a non-profit organization founded by the AFL-CIO to secure a variety of high quality, discounted products and services for union members and their families. As the only Union Plus cruise line partner, NCL offers members and their families up to 5 percent off the rate of any NCL America, Norwegian Cruise Line, or Orient Lines cruise vacation. In addition, NCL will offer additional discounts up to 30 percent off the rate on certain ships and sailing dates during the year. NCL America operates the only deep sea, U.S.-flag passenger cruise ships employing unionized workers. The vessels are represented by unlicensed crew from the SIU and its affiliate, the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU), and by licensed crew from the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA). Among the featured cruise ships are the Seafarers-crewed Pride of Aloha and Pride of America, which was christened at the beginning of the summer. Both sail year-round in the Hawaiian Islands. When the Pride of Hawaii joins the NCL America fleet in 2006, it will be included in the program as well. Once this third vessel is in operation, NCL America’s U.S.flagged passenger ships will provide employment for some 4,000 U.S. seafarers, making NCL the largest private employer in the world of unionized U.S. mariners. “This summer, we christened the Pride of America—the largest U.S.-flagged passenger ship ever,” said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation. “To demonstrate NCL’s pride in our American crew and to extend our appreciation to all AFL-CIO-affiliated union members nationwide, we’re proud to launch the Union Plus Freestyle Cruising Program and offer union members a chance to travel the world on any of NCL’s ships—all of which, whether U.S. or internationally flagged, are run by union crew.” The AFL-CIO created Union Plus in 1986 to provide union members and their families with Gov’t Offers New Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Beginning Jan. 1, 2006, anyone with Medicare coverage will be able to join a Medicare drug plan to get new prescription drug coverage. Since most retired Seafarers already have prescription drug coverage, they may not need or want to join the new Medicare plan. Retirees will be receiving correspondence from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan in the near future that will help them decide about enrollment for this new benefit under Medicare. Save this information when you get it. It will help you make a more informed decision. Seafarers who wish to apply to the new program can enroll between November 2005 and May 2006. It is important to note that if you currently have prescription drug coverage because you or your spouse is still working, then your choices might be different from the choices available to retirees. Before you enroll in any Medicare drug plan, make sure you get all the information about how your current prescription drug coverage will work with Medicare. In addition to the information sent by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you will probably receive literature from other health plans that will be looking to enroll Medicare-eligible individuals into their plan. If you are considering signing up for a Medicare drug plan rather than continuing coverage with the Seafarers, carefully read all the information you can about your current benefit coverage and the new plan you are considering. Ask for help if you need it. Take the time to learn the facts. A mistake could cost you and your family needless money. Remember, if you choose, you can join a Medicare drug plan any time between Nov. 15, 2005 10 Seafarers LOG and May 15, 2006 without penalty. For most people, the decision whether to keep their current retiree coverage or join a Medicare drug plan will be simple because one choice will clearly be better. If you do join a Medicare drug plan, your current retiree prescription drug or retiree health (doctor and hospital) coverage from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan may change. It is important to review materials from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan to learn how joining a Medicare drug plan could affect your current retiree coverage. Since Medicare does not have your Plan’s specific details, the best source of information about your retiree prescription drug coverage is the communications you will receive from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. If you decide to keep your current retiree drug coverage and not join a Medicare plan now, you can still join a Medicare plan later, but you will have to wait until the next annual enrollment period (Nov. 15 to Dec. 31 of each year). If you have not received the information on your current retiree prescription drug coverage by Nov. 15 of this year, you should contact the Plan and request the information. You have a legal right to this information and it will certainly help you compare your options. In addition to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, the best source of information about your specific Medicare prescription drug plan options is the Medicare & You 2006 handbook, which will be mailed to retirees in October. You also may visit the Medicare website at www.medicare.gov. The SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha is one of the ships currently in the Union Plus Freestyle Cruising promotion. This innovative program offers reduced rates to union members and their families. valuable consumer benefits. By using the collective buying power of millions of union members, they are able to offer a variety of high quality, discounted products and services exclusively to union families. These include mortgage and real estate services, unionmade checks, an online tax ser- vice, health savings, an auto-buying program, music and computer discounts and more. Additional information is available about Union Plus at their website at www.unionplus.org. To take advantage of the NCL’s Union Plus Freestyle Cruising Program, members can visit the website at www.unionplus.org/cruise, or call the program’s dedicated toll-free number at (866) 867-0593. They may also make arrangements through their local travel agent. When making arrangements with a travel agent, members should say they are eligible for the “Union Plus rate.” Seafarer Rundblad Still Going Strong Editor’s note: This article is a collaborative piece written by several Seafarers from the Tacoma area. It was submitted to the LOG last month. On Aug. 22, active member Don Rundblad reached the age of 75 years. Don has been an integral member of the Tacoma shoregang since 1991. One of his most important duties involves overhauling the twistlocks used on the Horizon Lines’ vessels. Twistlocks are the devices that secure cargo boxes onto container ships. Don estimates he’s overhauled more than 180,000 of them during his SIU career. Around the shoregang warehouse, Don is referred to as “The Twistlock King.” Don’s seagoing career started in 1947 aboard the William F. Cody. He had many adventures at sea, but the most memorable happened in 1952, after he signed onto the Liberty ship Western Farmer. They were to deliver a load of coal from Norfolk, Va. to Bremen, Germany, but while in the English Channel, they were rammed by a Norwegian tanker. The tanker ripped a hole into the Farmer’s side, destroying the radio room and disabling the engine. The crew tried for eight hours to save the vessel, but with heavy seas and high winds the captain decided to abandon ship. The steward and engine department members were in the process of being taken off by rescue boats when the ladder was smashed. They then lowered lifeboats. As the second lifeboat was lowered, the ship broke in half. Rescue boats were on hand, however, and all 37 crew members eventually made it to land in Dover or Ramsgate, with only one minor injury. The radio operator’s dog Scamp made it ashore safely as well. Later that same year, Don was drafted into the Army to serve in the Korean War. While in Korea, he received the Bronze Star for heroic action under fire, evacuating dead and wounded soldiers during the battle of Porkchop Hill. The SIU was notified of Don’s decoration by a former shipmate, AB Neal Cairns. In a LOG article at the time, Cairns commented that Don “is the sort of a guy you’d expect to go all out to help a wounded buddy.” After the war, Don returned to the States via a Navy transport ship that docked in Seattle. He went home to New York and resumed his SIU career, eventually making it back to the Puget Sound area. This was not Don’s first acquaintance with the military, however. In 1945 at the age of 15, he used his older brother’s ID to enlist in the Navy. He went to basic training in Bainbridge, Md. and served six months before his tender age was discovered, and he was discharged. Of the experience, Don says, “It was better than the Army, because you don’t have to crawl in the dirt, but I didn’t like the discipline.” Rundblad is eligible for his pension but sees no reason to retire. He says, “This is the best Seafarer Don Rundblad, a warservice veteran, says he enjoys his job in Tacoma. job in the SIU I’ve had, with the best bosun and the best workmates.” His fellow shoregang members are delighted that Don chose to stay on the job. The work ethic he embodies is a constant source of inspiration to the younger workers. Don is the kind of role model every ship and worksite should have, not only as a worker, but as a person, according to co-workers. “In life, as in battle, Don never fails to go the extra mile,” one Seafarer said. “He is always eager to lend a hand to those in need.” His supervisor, West Coast Chief Shoregang Bosun Vern Poulsen, says, “Don is one of our best assets.” The Tacoma shoregang hopes to have Don in their midst for many years to come. He’s a “one in a million” kind of guy—the best shipmate and workmate ashore anyone could ever ask for. Here’s to another 75 years, Don. October 2005 �32578p7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/28/2005 7:17 PM Page 11 r o e h W s A i t d h n t a h e SIU a e S t A SAN FRANCISCO — After 30 years in the union, Romy Lumanlan (second from right) was given a festive retirement party, including a ship’s wheel as a parting gift. Lumanlan worked with the Military Sealift Command in the ’60s and then with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S). He began sailing with the SIU in 1978 following the merger of the MC&S and the SIU. From the left are SIU West Coast VP Nicholas Marrone, Safety Director Archie Ware, Lumanlan and SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona. NEW YORK — SIU Rep Kate Hunt recently met with SIU members from the Army Corps of Engineers at Caven Point, N.Y. Seated with her is John McNamara, a 15-year SIU member who works as a bosun/deckhand leader on the vessel Driftmaster in New York harbor. McNamara, a Vietnam Navy veteran, just returned from six months of volunteer duty with the “A” Engineering District supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. VIRGINIA — During the recent convention of the Virginia AFL-CIO, SIU Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny (right) met with Virginia Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine. Kaine is running for governor of the Commonwealth. PINEY POINT, MD — During the September membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., several presentations were made. Above, AB Michael Murner (left) and FOWT Terrance Maxwell (right) were awarded their full books. SIU West Coast VP Nicholas Marrone did the honors. At right, Marrone handed STOS Elmer Marko his GED certificate and congratulated him for his hard work. HONOLULU — SIU members Shawn Canon and his wife, Linda “Sarah” Rotter-Canon, present a picture to the Honolulu hall. The gift is in memory of Shawn’s father, Feliciano “Shano” Canon, a retired (now deceased) member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards. While Shano was sailing aboard the Mariposa as a BR, the passengers presented him with this painting as a token of appreciation for his services. It was painted by the passengers sailing that voyage during art classes that were held aboard ship. It represents a scene supposedly off the coast of New Zealand, but is evocative of many places in the South Pacific. The Canons made the presentation just prior to Sarah’s departure as an SA on the USNS Soderman and Shawn’s sailing as chief cook on the Horizon Navigator. SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz said the Honolulu hall is proud to receive this memorial of Brother “Sano” Canon. “With the vibrant new cruise services in Hawaii provided by NCL America,” he said, “it is especially fitting that we have a link to members who laid the foundation for our modern cruise ships with the historical trans-Pacific liner services of the past.” October 2005 WASHINGTON, D.C. — An engraved ship’s wheel was presented to retiring CWA President and MTD Executive Board Member Morton Bahr (second from right) by (from left) MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Bahr is the last member of the AFL-CIO executive council to have sailed during World War II. “When Morty announced his retirement from the labor movement,” noted Sacco, “there was a sense that an era was passing.” Bahr also was given a “Battlin’ Pete” World War II-era patch. Seafarers LOG 11 �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/27/2005 12:09 PM Page 12 (AP Photo/News & Observer, Chuck Liddy) Other areas were hard-hit as well—as shown in this Sept. 8 photo of a man in Waveland, Miss. surveying the wreckage that used to be his home. Seafarers Deliver Continued from page 3 and flooding, and was without power or phones for about two weeks. That hall partially reopened Sept. 13, although as this issue of the LOG went to press, shipping and registration that normally would take place at the New Orleans hall had been transferred to the Houston hall. Seafarers should check with the individual halls or visit the “Heard at Headquarters” feature online at www.seafarers.org for updates on when the New Orleans hall becomes completely operational. At the SIU hall in Mobile, it was a tale of two buildings. The union hall reopened Sept. 3—it lost power for four days but otherwise wasn’t harmed. However, a secondary building—physically separate but still part of the union’s facilities in Mobile on Dauphin Island Parkway—sustained major flood damage. That building contains a meeting room and storage space. The facility itself is quite salvageable, but the union lost records that had been stored there. Hurricane Relief SIU members aboard the following ships continue to assist in relief efforts: SS Wright, Equality State, Cape Knox, Cape Kennedy, Diamond State, Cape Flattery, USNS Pillilau, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Algol, USNS Altair, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Pollux, USNS Comfort and the training ships Empire State, State of Maine and M/V Sirius. The Cape Knox and Cape Kennedy, after a harrowing experience weathering the storm at their berths along the Poland Street Wharf in New Orleans, were turned into shelters for Coast Guard personnel and other relief workers. Several of the union’s contracted companies have been affected by Katrina. The Delta Queen Steamboat Company, which had facilities in New Orleans, continues operating its fleet but has moved its offices to New York state. Pacific Gulf Marine, also based in the New Orleans area, moved to Houston. Inland companies E.N. Bisso and Crescent Towing fared better, despite the latter’s offices being bumped by a ship that was displaced during the flooding. ‘Anxious to Help’ OMU John Cooper signed on aboard the Wright when that vessel was activated in Baltimore for relief operations in the Gulf. “Everyone on board just wants to provide assistance,” he stated. “We’re delivering water, food, mattresses, generators and fuel. Everyone is anxious to help.” Retiree Arthur Machado had to evacuate the New Orleans area but said he was grateful that he “had another place where I could go,” in Mississippi. In New Orleans in midSeptember, SIU Port Agent Steve Judd said that normally routine tasks remained anything but ordinary. Efforts to send crew members to work aboard some of the relief ships remained complicated by restricted movement and power outages. Then there are more fundamental activities—such as eating. “There are no grocery stores open, so you go to FEMA every day for food and water,” Judd stated. “But I’m not complaining. Whether it’s in your neighborhood or here at the hall, you do whatever you can for whoever you come across that needs help. One person can do a lot, believe me.” With the temporary transfer of shipping to Houston, “It has been hectic at the hall,” acknowledged SIU Assistant Vice President Gulf Coast Jim McGee in midSeptember. “We shipped 270-some jobs in one month. We’re doing everything we can to help the folks whose lives have been disrupted.” Noting the overall response of the U.S. Merchant Marine to the disaster, acting U.S. Maritime Administrator John Jamian declared, “The merchant marine came through like you wouldn’t believe.” (AP Photo, Chuck Beckley) While relief supplies were sent to the Gulf, regular cargo once headed for New Orleans initially was diverted to other ports, including Morehead City, N.C. pictured here. Remarkably, the port of New Orleans reopened last month. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) Downtown New Orleans sustained incredible damage. By midSeptember, the known death toll from Katrina was approaching 1,000. Northrop Grumman shipyard workers on Sept. 6 remove debris caused by Hurricane Katrina in Gulfport, Miss. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) New Orleans residents are rescued from their rooftop in late August. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) Two vehicles sit on top of a home surrounded by floodwaters from Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. 12 Seafarers LOG October 2005 A New the floo �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/28/2005 7:22 PM Page 13 (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green) This image from Bay St. Louis, Miss. shows the remnants of a theater. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) Flood water remained high in Chalmette, La. more than a week after Hurricane Katrina devastated the area. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) A man pushes his bicycle through flood waters near the Superdome in New Orleans on Aug. 31. Hurricane Katrina featured gusts topping 140 miles an hour. (AP Photo/Tom Hood) An American Red Cross volunteer comforts a New Orleans resident in the dining area of the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix on Sept. 6. More than 500 residents from the New Orleans area were evacuated to Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) New Orleans resident walks through e floodwater on Canal Street on Sept. 4. USNS Pollux Among First to Provide Aid From the Seafarers-crewed USNS Pollux, docked in Marrero, La., Chief Mate Jan Genemans sent this account Sept. 13 along with photos reflecting the U.S. Merchant Marine’s response to Hurricane Katrina. “We were under repairs and could not leave when Hurricane Katrina unleashed her devastation on the New Orleans area,” Genemans wrote. “We are at our layberth at Marrero, La. in reduced operating status with a skeleton crew.” He credited the crew members and officers for “creatively engineering solutions by thinking far outside of the box to directly and indirectly save lives and property as soon as we heard the desperate situation from the community begging for help. Captain Lansden made his way to the closest hospital, West Jefferson, and offered our assistance the morning after the storm. The hospital was critically low on their emergency generator fuel—only a few precious hours left. The Marrero Fire Department borrowed a fuel tank truck from Retif Oil and the National Guard with their one operational fuel truck (others were flooded) and drove it on the dock where we were berthed. “The engineers modified our fuel system using parts from the potable water system and fire system, and around noon of the day after we proceeded to load National Guard trucks and Fire Department trucks through a fire hose during the first three days. To date we have been pumping fuel for two solid weeks totaling more than half a million gallons of diesel around the clock … to keep the hospitals operational by October 2005 providing fuel for generators and pumps for the Levy Board pumps, emergency vehicles, water and sewer board, telephone and power company repair vehicles, the airport, all the military bases in the area, the convention center, all kinds of rescue command centers, shelters, morgue, FEMA, and the list goes on and on, too numerous to count. Without the diesel fuel provided by the ship, there may very well have been a week’s setback, if not longer, in the relief effort… “This ship fueled the entire emergency/military machine in the area by itself for the first few days. As the need for fuel increased as more emergency services began pouring into the area, so did the need for dock space, as our dock was too small for 18wheelers. The ship along with a chemical farm and a local oil/gas distribution company built a pipeline with hoses and pipe to the closest state road about a thousand feet away in about four hours time using labor from the chemical farm and the deck department of the USNS Pollux. “Additionally, along with the Advanced Care unit in West Jefferson Hospital, since we were the only source of pressurized potable water that is required to operate dialysis machines, the crew of the USNS Pollux, in conjunction with the acute care unit located in Jefferson set up an emergency dialyses unit in our laundry room and treated patients until the remaining patients were air-lifted out of the area for better medical care…. “We tested the city water and provided a means for the military to get water for showers and washing their clothes throughout the area before any other major source of potable water was available. Our engineers also assisted with the Aquarium and the morgue with their pumping, refrigeration, and/or mechanical systems as well—all on their own time. Galley scraps were kept and distributed to many of the homeless pets that were left in the area. Another crew member organized and was successful in staging a rescue effort from the now infamous horrid convention center scene. I personally found extra plastic sheets around the ship and donated it to hospital personnel to cover holes and windows that were damaged by the storm. Our bosun (Seafarer Wilfredo Rice) assisted people with removing debris and water-damaged items from homes for the National Guard to pick up. I am sure that there were several other acts of extreme kindness that I haven’t witnessed that were performed by the crew. “The ship provided a rest haven, with A/C in 100 degree heat, running water and working toilets for hospital nurses who worked beyond the point of exhaustion. The MDs were also offered this, but they put the needs of their staff before themselves. The ship also provided hot meals, laundry and showers to fire fighters, military personnel, policemen, hospital workers and civilians who were actively engaged in the humanitarian effort in the area outside of normal working hours before there was any other source…. “The entire crew of the USNS Pollux poured out their hearts in the relief effort, and performed miracles in the assistance of the unprecedented tragedy that was brought on by fury of Hurricane Katrina.” The USNS Pollux provides diesel fuel for a National Guard truck near New Orleans for emergency generators and other relief operations. Seafarers LOG 13 �32578p7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/28/2005 7:20 PM Page 14 SL Quality: A Happy, Well-Fed Ship Wilmington Seafarers in Labor Day Event From the left are AB Ben Monzon, Chief Cook George Farala and AB Amin Hussein. Seafarers and SIU officials from the Wilmington, Calif. area participated in the Los Angeles County Labor Federation’s annual Labor Day rally and parade Sept. 5. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney (at podium, above left) delivered the keynote speech at the 26th annual event, which took place in Wilmington. Seafarers who participated included AB Ben Monzon, GUDE Arthur Castro, Chief Cook George Farala, Chief Cook Harry Agatep, AB Othman Saleh, AB Amin Hussein, DEU Saleh Ali, ACE Rey Ricarte, OS Karen Suzuki, AB Kenyatta Whitworth, Electrician Mario Paquiz, OS James Smith, ACU Nagi Mohamed and Chief Cook Clancy Hennigan. They were joined by officials from the Wilmington hall including Port Agent John Cox, Safety Director Andrew Linares and Patrolman Jesse Solis. Electrical Maintenance Course Offered October 3-14 October 17-28 14 Seafarers LOG 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) 9940010, 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 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. NOTICE 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: Chief Steward Joel Molinos sent the LOG a copy of the above certificate given to him by the officers and crew of the SeaLand Quality in recognition of his superior culinary skills. Other shipboard personnel mentioned in the certificate are AB Raymond Ryan, AB Yousry Ibrahim and GUDE Ahmed Sultan. Locate and properly wire a three-phase motor for correct direction of operation Replace motor bearings Troubleshoot and repair/replace bad switches. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. October 2005 �32578p5,6,10,15,16,18.qxd 9/28/2005 7:08 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea November & December 2005 Membership Meetings AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 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 0 0 7 12 2 7 38 22 0 8 4 36 15 2 2 8 17 0 30 30 240 0 0 5 6 1 7 14 15 0 9 4 6 11 2 2 0 13 1 15 5 Totals Totals All Departments 301 1 4 4 13 3 5 15 21 0 8 4 17 12 4 5 6 9 1 28 12 1 2 1 7 0 3 30 6 2 3 6 19 9 3 1 3 3 0 13 23 135 1 2 1 7 1 2 13 5 0 1 1 12 7 1 0 0 7 2 4 4 116 172 71 0 0 4 6 1 10 28 13 0 7 4 12 9 2 4 1 23 1 20 14 1 0 1 8 1 4 4 15 1 4 2 12 14 0 1 2 7 0 10 4 1 0 1 4 0 1 3 4 0 2 0 7 7 0 1 0 3 1 4 5 1 0 7 6 2 5 31 23 0 6 10 16 13 3 1 9 17 0 31 31 212 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 3 11 15 3 3 19 18 2 6 10 20 18 4 22 12 13 9 28 20 238 2 2 1 1 2 1 20 2 1 1 4 9 10 1 1 2 3 1 9 11 84 0 0 9 9 0 2 13 8 0 0 4 12 4 1 0 5 13 1 17 18 116 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 5 3 1 6 17 18 0 6 2 5 12 2 3 6 13 1 14 12 126 1 3 3 10 2 3 14 18 0 5 4 12 19 2 2 3 7 4 17 8 137 3 1 1 1 1 2 5 9 0 1 2 7 6 2 0 1 6 0 1 4 53 0 0 3 0 0 6 7 10 0 1 0 5 4 0 0 2 4 0 9 2 53 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 5 5 1 8 17 13 0 7 7 14 6 4 3 1 16 1 13 17 159 91 44 138 0 0 0 0 0 3 7 0 0 0 1 7 2 0 0 1 8 0 3 1 3 1 6 6 2 5 19 13 0 6 0 19 18 0 21 8 14 0 9 10 4 5 1 9 1 7 28 19 0 0 2 39 17 0 24 0 11 1 10 13 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 0 1 1 2 1 0 0 0 4 0 2 0 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 6 5 6 26 8 5 30 25 1 13 5 32 19 7 20 7 18 4 37 27 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 4 7 0 4 5 10 0 5 3 6 15 0 0 0 4 1 7 6 78 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 4 1 2 1 4 6 0 0 0 2 1 3 1 30 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 1 0 8 3 0 2 14 8 0 3 3 23 11 0 22 1 8 0 9 10 4 1 0 6 0 6 13 12 0 2 4 21 12 0 16 0 3 3 16 6 0 0 1 2 0 3 7 6 0 0 0 7 3 0 1 2 6 0 6 7 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 9 12 2 17 42 39 0 12 17 59 25 5 1 14 32 0 57 37 7 10 5 22 9 12 39 46 1 17 13 34 24 7 11 10 14 6 52 33 2 3 3 7 0 5 40 17 1 8 10 29 11 2 0 1 4 0 24 24 381 372 191 0 0 2 3 1 10 15 25 0 9 10 18 9 0 1 2 19 1 17 9 2 5 1 6 2 10 14 23 0 8 7 13 10 4 8 6 13 1 37 14 1 2 1 7 1 2 16 8 0 2 2 12 8 0 0 1 5 2 8 6 151 184 84 2 3 0 3 2 17 31 24 1 4 10 22 14 1 4 1 42 1 37 32 2 0 0 6 1 6 6 17 1 4 3 13 16 0 5 4 7 0 12 16 1 1 0 3 0 2 5 6 0 0 2 4 7 0 1 0 2 1 5 11 51 251 119 51 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 9 3 0 0 1 8 1 0 0 2 11 0 10 4 5 1 3 5 2 14 27 25 1 8 6 40 15 2 10 8 21 1 25 10 2 7 2 6 5 10 35 26 0 1 11 50 15 2 30 2 15 2 24 13 33 160 191 17 126 125 0 54 229 258 548 724 441 493 579 292 220 837 904 584 *“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. October 2005 Piney Point .............Monday: November 7, December 5 Algonac ..................Monday: November 14* ................................Friday: December 9 ................................(*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Baltimore ................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Boston.....................Monday: November 14* ................................Friday: December 9 ................................(*change created by Veterans Day holiday) Guam ......................Friday: November 25* ................................Thursday: December 22 ................................(*change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu .................Friday: November 18, Decenber 16 Houston ..................Monday: November 14, December 12 Jacksonville ............Thursday: November 10, December 8 Joliet .......................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Mobile ....................Wednesday: November 16, Dec. 14 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: November 15, December 13 New York................Tuesday: November 8, December 6 Norfolk ...................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: November 9, Dec. 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: November 17, Dec. 15 San Francisco .........Thursday: November 17, Dec. 15 San Juan..................Thursday: November 10, December 8 St. Louis..................Friday: November 18, December 16 Tacoma ...................Friday: November 25, December 23 Wilmington ...............Monday: November 21, December 19 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Union Plus: Member Benefits Union Plus benefits are developed and managed by Union Privilege, which was founded by the AFLCIO in 1986 to provide consumer benefit programs to union members. No dues money goes into the development or operation of any Union Plus programs. Advocate for Union Members Union members don’t have to deal with complaints or problems on their own. If members haven’t been able to get issues resolved with Union Plus program suppliers, they can contact a Member Advocate, who will contact the program supplier and work with them to resolve any problems as quickly as possible. Program Development Union Privilege uses the collective purchasing power of over 13 million union members to develop the Union Plus programs, which provide more quality, value and service than comparable programs available to the general public. Special Union Features The Union Plus programs include unique features designed for union members. For example, during prolonged strikes or lockouts, qualified members who have a mortgage through the Union Plus Mortgage and Real Estate program are granted assistance. Members also are allowed to skip Union Plus Credit Card, Loan and Life Insurance payments. Unions Choose Programs While Union Privilege develops, oversees and markets these money-saving Union Plus programs, it remains up to each international union to choose the programs it will endorse. To make sure you are up-todate on all the programs your union offers, check out the website at www.unionplus.org. Seafarers LOG 15 �32578p5,6,10,15,16,18.qxd 9/28/2005 7:10 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 10 8 1 1 11 1 0 3 35 3 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 8 1 4 3 2 3 2 0 3 18 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 14 5 1 11 1 0 5 41 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 8 1 5 4 0 3 3 0 3 19 2 6 1 2 2 1 0 0 14 12 37 7 16 28 3 1 9 113 1 9 3 8 11 0 1 5 38 0 3 4 21 2 0 3 0 33 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 4 8 17 5 2 14 1 1 4 52 0 4 10 3 10 0 1 1 29 0 2 7 13 0 1 1 0 24 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 4 6 10 3 5 11 1 0 3 39 3 7 6 2 12 0 0 3 33 0 3 2 12 0 0 2 1 20 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 8 5 2 0 7 0 0 2 24 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 2 2 0 2 0 0 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 6 5 6 1 8 1 0 0 27 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 3 0 0 2 0 0 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 6 2 0 2 3 0 0 2 15 2 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 7 0 2 4 2 2 0 1 1 12 Port 4 5 2 1 1 0 0 2 15 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 6 0 2 4 0 2 0 1 1 10 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 74 19 38 83 18 35 22 204 100 77 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These documents were sent to the LOG by John S. Cobb, USAF Ret., of Woodsville, N.H. He states that while recently browsing through some of the belongings of his older brother (Frederic Bayley Cobb, who died in 1991 at the age of 75), he came across a black leather folder, a little larger than a wallet, in which he found some documents, including a National Maritime Union dues receipt, at right. (Note that the amount paid was $17.50.) Also included (above) was a certificate of discharge in 1945 from the SS Henry D. Lindsley, on which he sailed as an oiler. In a note to the Seafarers LOG, John Cobb wrote that “when my brother was helping the war effort in those days (’43-’45), I was a young boy of 11 years, and I used to hear of his journeys over the north Atlantic in the merchant ships hauling cargo of war supplies to both England and the Soviet Union, to a town called Archangel. I later in life knew these trips to be very dangerous due to the U-boat activities in those same waters. Needless to say, I was proud of him.” October 2005 �32578p1,2,3,9,12,13,17,r4.qxd 9/28/2005 6:37 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA KENNETH ADAMCZAK, 65, became a union member in 1977 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Adamczak initially sailed in the Great Lakes division. His first ship was the J.T. Hutchinson. Born in Michigan, Brother Adamczak later transferred to the deep sea division, working in the engine department. In 2000, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, he shipped aboard the El Morro. Brother Adamczak lives in Ocala, Fla. OTHMAN BINCHIK, 65, was born in Kedah, Malaysia and joined the SIU in 1980. He first sailed on the Sea-Land Pittsburgh as a member of the deck department. Brother Binchik enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the LNG Virgo. Brother Binchik makes his home in New York. WAYNE CHAMPINE, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965 from the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Champine was born in Michigan and sailed in the steward department. His first ship was the St. Lawrence; his last was the Greatland. Brother Champine upgraded his seafaring skills on different three occasions at the Piney Point, Md. school. He calls Reno, Nev. home. ISOM CLEMMONS, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1960 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Clemmons first sailed aboard the Monarch of the Sea and ended his seafaring career aboard the Diamond State. The steward department member was born in Alabama and is a resident of Houston. JOSE FERREIRA, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1971 in New York. Brother Ferreira was born in Spain. The engine department member first sailed on the Hydro Atlantic. His last ship was the Sulphur Enterprise. Brother Ferreira was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Brick, N.J. RICHARD GRACEY, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1969 in Houston. Brother Gracey first sailed on an International Carriers vessel. The engine department member attended the union affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. in October 2005 1977, 1995 and again in 2000. Born in Michigan, Brother Gracey last shipped aboard the Patriot. He lives in Texas City, Texas. tially sailed in the inland division aboard Steuart Transportation. vessels. The deck department member later transferred to the deep sea division. He upgraded his seafaring skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Wical last worked on the PFC James Anderson Jr. He lives in Jacksonville, Fla. EDWARD HERRERA, 66, commenced his seafaring career in 1978 in San Francisco. Brother Herrera worked in the steward department, completing the steward recertification training in 1992 at the Paul Hall Center. His first trip to sea was on the President McKinley. Born in Honolulu, Brother Herrera most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Hawaii. He calls San Diego, Calif. home. RULDOPH XATRUCH, 66, joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Xatruch, who was born in Honduras, sailed in all three departments and upgraded his skills at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md in 2000 and 2001. His first ship was the Connecticut. He finished his seafaring career working aboard the Seabulk Energy. Brother Xatruch calls Houston home. UDJANG NURDJAJA, 65, launched his SIU career in 1973 in New York. Brother Nurdjaja was a member of the steward department. He first sailed aboard the OMI Sacramento. His most recent trip was aboard the LNG Capricorn. Brother Nurdjaja upgraded frequently at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Born in Indonesia, Brother Nurdjaja now makes his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. TERESO ROCHEZ, 64, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1990 in the port of Houston. Brother Rochez’s first ship was the Independence. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Patriot. He attended numerous classes at the Paul Hall Center. Born in Honduras, Brother Rochez worked in the steward department. He is a resident of Houston, Texas. ALEXANDER STAMATELAKY, 71, joined the Seafarers in 1996 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Stamatelaky was born in the Philippines. He first sailed on the USNS Silas Bent in the deck department. In 2000, 2001 and 2002, Brother Stamatelaky enhanced his skills in Piney Point, Md. He most recently shipped aboard the USNS Henson. Brother Stamatelaky resides in Loranger, La. RALPH WICAL, 65, hails from Marshalltown, Iowa. Brother Wical began sailing with the SIU in 1981. He ini- GREAT LAKES JOSEPH ARLE, 65, joined the SIU in 1963 in Chicago. He first sailed aboard an American Steamship Co. vessel. The engine department member, who was born in Wisconsin, last worked aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. He 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. JOHN BARKHOUSE, 65, began sailing with the NMU in 1991, first shipping aboard the Cape Alava. Born in Massachusetts, Brother Barkhouse was a member of the engine department. He last worked on the Cape Domingo. WAYNE NAYSNERSKI, 55, joined the union in 1980 in the port of Seattle. Brother Naysnerski first worked aboard the Fort Worth. The engine department member was born in Hartford, Conn. Brother Naysnerski’s most recent voyage was on the Overseas Chicago. PAUL PHILLIPS, 65, became an NMU member in 1990 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Phillips first sailed aboard the Cape Inscription. He was a native Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 On Wednesday, October 2, 1939, at Savannah, Ga. Delegates from the Atlantic, Gulf and Great Lakes Districts met for the purpose of drafting a constitution for the Seafarers International Union. In addition to the basic constitution, issues to be voted on included the shipping rules, hospital and strike assessments and a constitutional amendment that provided that in order to become a member a man must be a citizen. The constitution was adopted by a vote of 1,225 in favor and 180 opposed. The votes on the constitutional amendment, the shipping rules and the assessments likewise carried by large majorities. 1959 of Honduras and worked as a member of the engine department. Brother Phillips’ most recent voyage was on the Argonaut. makes his home in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. CLAUDE RODGERS, 56, first donned the NMU colors in 1968. Brother Rodgers was born in Philadelphia. His first ship was the Texaco Wyoming. Brother Rodgers, who sailed in the deck department, last worked on the Kansas Trader. JOSEPH SINGLETON, 55, hails from Charleston, S.C. Brother Singleton started sailing with the union in 1969. A member of the steward department, he last went to sea aboard the Keystone Texas. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioner retired on the date indicated. Name Age EDP Syre, Lloyd 65 July 1 improve the health of seamen by early diagnosis and treatment. 1979 Scores of placard-waving Seafarers joined hundreds of other trade unionists and community groups’ demonstrators in a New York City-wide lunchtime protest rally on October 11 to aid the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union (ACTWU) in its drive to break the connection between the anti-union textile giant, the J.P. Stevens Co. and the Seaman’s Bank for Savings. Joining the 17-block long “human billboard for justice” on Manhattan’s midtown and downtown financial district sidewalks, Seafarers handed out anti-Stevens leaflets in front of a bank urging E. Virgil Conway, president of the Seamen’s Bank for Savings and a Consolidated Edison Electric Co. trustee, to quit the Stevens Board of Directors, a post he held since 1974. This Month In SIU History During the two and onehalf years in which the SIU clinic program has been operating, a sharp decline in the incidence of tuberculosis among Seafarers has been noted. The clinics, which stress preventive medicine, offer physical examinations to all members. The major requirements for controlling tuberculosis are early detection and effective treatment. The SIU clinics supply the first and the U.S. Public Health Service Hospitals implement treatment and recovery of the Seafarer. Because of early detection at a clinic, the average treatment and recovery period for patients has also been drastically reduced and the need for surgery has declined. The trend is proving the union’s contention that regular diagnostic examinations will 1999 SIU members recently crewed the prepositioning ship M/V Major Bernard F. Fisher as the vessel prepared to start a five-year assignment for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). Seafarers and SIU officials took part in the vessel’s christening October 15 in Sunny Point, N.C. The former Sea Fox was renamed in honor of retired U.S. Air Force Col. Bernard F. Fisher, a Medal of Honor recipient who attended the ceremony. Seafarers LOG 17 �32578p5,6,10,15,16,18.qxd 9/27/2005 1:36 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JULIANNE ABERNATHY Sister Julianne Abernathy, 45, passed away Feb. 1. Born in Missouri, she joined the SIU in 1982 in Piney Point, Md. Sister Abernathy first sailed aboard the Sea-Land Patriot in the steward department. She last worked on the Overseas New York and called San Francisco home. JOSE AGUILERA Brother Jose Aguilera, 85, died Feb. 6. He began his seafaring career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1956. Brother Aguilera was born in Mexico and shipped in the steward department. His last trip to sea was aboard Matson Navigation’s Kauai. Brother Aguilera made his home in Lakewood, Calif. KASSIM ALHARBE Brother Kassim Alharbe, 52, passed away June 26. He began sailing with the union in 1992. A native of Yemen, Brother Alharbe was a member of the deck department. His first vessel was the Independence; his last, the Cape Domingo. Brother Alharbe resided in Tacoma, Wash. FELICIANO CANON Brother Feliciano Canon, 82, died June 23. He became a member of the MC&S in 1953 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Canon was born in Hawaii and shipped in the steward department. He lived in Honolulu. MATHEW CIAVARELLA Pensioner Mathew Ciavarella, 76, passed away July 28. He started his seafaring career with the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Brother Ciavarella worked in the steward department. He was born in Pennsylvania and called Wilmington, Calif. home. Brother Ciavarella began his retirement in 1978. ALEJO CRUZ Pensioner Alejo Cruz, 102, died March 26. He joined the SIU in 1945 in New York. Brother Cruz sailed in the deck department. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner retired in 1967. Brother Cruz was a resident of Carolina, P.R. BILLIE DARLEY Pensioner Billie Darley, 76, passed away Feb. 27. Brother Darley joined the union in 1947 in the port of San Francisco. He first worked on the Mobilian in the deck department. Brother Darley was born in Georgia. Prior to retiring in 1995, he sailed on the LNG Capricorn. Brother Darley made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. 18 Seafarers LOG DAVID DAVIS Pensioner David Davis, 66, died June 8. Brother Davis, who was from Eaton, Ohio, began shipping with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Seattle. He worked aboard the Ft. Hoskins in the engine department. Brother Davis last sailed on the Overseas Marilyn. He began receiving his pension in 2001 and made his home in Brazil. LOUIS DORNECKER Pensioner Louis Dornecker, 95, passed away March 22. He joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Brother Dornecker was born in Washington state. He worked in the steward department. Brother Dornecker, who resided in San Francisco, retired in 1974. JOHN DOYLE Pensioner John Doyle, 82, died Jan. 24. Brother Doyle became an SIU member in 1956 in New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Army. Throughout his seafaring career, he worked aboard Delta Steamship Lines vessels. Brother Doyle was born in Louisiana and shipped in the deck department. He went on pension in 1985 and resided in New Orleans. OMAR ELLIOT Feb. 14. Brother Flynn, who was born in Ohio, joined the SIU in 1951 and sailed as a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1989, he worked aboard the Long Lines. Brother Flynn was a resident of Wilmington, N.C. JOSEPH GROSS Pensioner Joseph Gross, 87, passed away Feb. 2. Brother Gross joined the SIU in 1959. He was a native of Indiana and worked in the deck department. Brother Gross started collecting his pension in 1982. He last sailed aboard the San Juan and resided in Orange Park, Fla. THOMAS LESTER Brother Thomas Lester, 54, died April 3. He began his seafaring career in 1979. Born in Canada, Brother Lester worked as a member of the deck department. His first voyage was aboard the Santa Mariana. Brother Lester, who last worked on the Horizon Spirit, called Grosse Pointe, Mich. home. Pensioner Omar Elliot, 89, passed away Feb. 8. Brother Elliot commenced his career with the Seafarers in 1951. His first ship was the Alcoa Runner. Brother Elliot was a member of the deck department. He last sailed on Marlin Steamship’s Mary. Brother Elliot started collecting his retirement pay in 1981. He called Bay Minette, Ala. home. Pensioner Ralin Manuel, 71, passed away May 2. Brother Manuel was born in Oberlin, La. He first shipped with the union in 1953 as a member of the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1989, he worked on the President Taylor. Brother Manuel lived in his native state. EDWARD EZRA HAROLD MINGUS Pensioner Edward Ezra, 75, died Feb. 20. Brother Ezra joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Houston. His first ship was the Duval; his last vessel was the Champion. The engine department member was born in China. Brother Ezra retired in 1997. He made his home in Seabrook, Texas. JUANITO FIEL Pensioner Juanito Fiel, 69, passed away June 22. Brother Fiel began his seafaring career with the MC&S in 1979 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed on a number of Matson Navigation Co. vessels including the Californian and the Mokihana. Born in the Philippines, Brother Fiel sailed in the steward department. He retired in 1999 and lived in Concord, Calif. FRANK FLYNN JR Pensioner Frank Flynn Jr., 80, died RALIN MANUEL Pensioner Harold Mingus, 70, died Jan. 17. He launched his career with the SIU in 1973 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Mingus last sailed aboard the Mahimahi. The steward department member was born in the state of Washington and made his home in San Francisco. JAMIE PANTOJA Pensioner Jamie Pantoja, 89, passed away Feb. 23. Brother Pantoja became a member of the union in 1942, joining in New York. The Puerto Rico-born mariner was a member of the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Borinquen. Brother Pantoja was a resident of Puerto Rico and went on pension in 1977. CLARENCE PEARSON Brother Clarence Pearson, 62, died June 13. He began his seafaring career in 1996 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Pearson was born in Oklahoma. He worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Rhode Island. Brother Pearson resided in Bakersfield, Calif. GEORGE PIERRE Pensioner George Pierre, 80, passed away May 5. Brother Pierre joined the SIU in 1951 in New York. He shipped in the deck department, most recently aboard the Cove Liberty. Brother Pierre was born in Trinidad and called Mobile, Ala. home. In 1986, he began receiving his retirement compensation. SEAPHUS PLAISANCE Brother Seaphus Plaisance, 72, died Feb. 6. He joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Houston. Brother Plaisance was born in Louisiana. He last shipped on the Charleston. ALTON POLLOCK Pensioner Alton Pollock, 79, passed away Jan. 13. Brother Pollock started sailing with the SIU in 1969 in the port of Houston. Born in Arkansas, Brother Pollock sailed as a member of the steward department, first working aboard the Overseas Explorer. His last ship was the Cove Liberty. Brother Pollock retired in 1996 and made his home in Louisiana. VLADKO ROLL Pensioner Vladko Roll, 78, died Feb. 13. Brother Roll became a Seafarer in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He shipped in the deck department, most recently aboard the SeaLand Value. Born in Pennsylvania, he started receiving his retirement income in 1992. Brother Roll lived in his native state. SAMUEL WARREN Pensioner Samuel Warren, 73, passed away June 16. Brother Warren joined the union in 1951. He began working in the inland division and later sailed deep sea. He last shipped on the Green Island. Born in Virginia, Brother Warren was a member of the engine department. He went on pension in 1998 and resided in Norfolk, Va. INLAND NEWTON HAHL Pensioner Newton Hahl, 80, passed away Feb. 22. Boatman Hahl began his seafaring career in 1963 in St. Louis. Born in New Jersey, he was a resident of St. Louis. Boatman Hahl retired in 1992. GEORGE DIXON Pensioner George Dixon, 67, died Feb. 10. Boatman Dixon started his SIU career in 1964 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in Pennsylvania, Boatman Dixon last worked aboard a Maritrans vessel. He began collecting his pension in 1999 and called Philadelphia home. BOBBY MONSON Boatman Bobby Monson, 60, died Feb. 16. He became an SIU member in 1967, joining in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Monson worked in the deck department, initially with Higman Barge Lines. His most recent assignment was on a Dixie Carriers vessel. IRVING WALDEN Pensioner Irving Walden, 74, passed away Jan. 26. Boatman Walden joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He was born in Virginia and continued to live there. Boatman Walden went on pension in 1994. GREAT LAKES ROBERT HOLLENBECK Pensioner Robert Hollenbeck, 79, died April 18. Brother Hollenbeck joined the SIU in 1964 after serving in the U.S. Air Force. He was born in Frankfort, Mich. Brother Hollenbeck worked primarily aboard Luedtke Engineering Co. vessels in the deck department. He called Michigan home and began receiving his retirement pay in 1990. RAYMOND KLINE Pensioner Raymond Kline, 77, passed away June 10. Brother Kline started working with the SIU in 1960 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The Michigan-born mariner sailed in the deck department. Prior to retiring in 1993, he sailed on the Paul H. Townsend. Brother Kline was a resident of Alpena, Mich. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. Name Age D.O.D. Alamo, Isabelino Augulivicius, Frank Belakowski, Anthony Bielik, Adam Brewer, Jackie Calloway, Julius Castellanos, Gabriel Coalson, Brock Creighton, Robert Darbonne, Clarence Gates, Austin Gettis, Willie Insell, Grant Manning, Arthur Mills, Vernon Morales, Aristide Pierce, Frank Pizarro, Julio Reyes, Alonzo Rivas, Antonio Rivera, Antonia Rodriguez, Rodolfo Shepherd, Frederick Shorter, Robert Siguenza, Jorge Smith, Joseph Southard, Curtis Starkey, Robert Williams, Leroy 99 86 83 96 77 82 87 84 72 85 78 79 84 81 79 84 81 76 67 86 90 83 81 83 75 77 77 77 77 July 6 July 1 June 11 July 7 June 17 June 30 June 30 July 16 June 30 June 5 June 12 June 29 July 10 June 30 June 25 June 10 June 29 June 10 June 22 July 12 July 12 June 15 July 17 July 12 July 2 July 4 July 1 July 2 July 1 October 2005 �2005-October7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 2:44 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. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), July 25—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary Kathleen A. Johnson, Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan, Deck Delegate Randall C. Rodgers, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Couture. Chairman spoke about medical benefit changes including new deductibles. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. to advance in all departments. Treasurer stated $491 in ship’s fund. Suggestions made of ways to boost fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held regarding OT pay. Next ports: Guam; Okinawa; Chinhae, South Korea. BLUE RIDGE (Intrepid), July 29 —Chairman Kenneth L. McLamb, Secretary Eugene W. Von Flotow, Educational Director Mohamed S. Algalham, Deck Delegate Kenneth Baker, Engine Delegate Nestor V. Martinez, Steward Delegate Ronnie Richardson. Chairman announced payoff July 31 in Texas City, Texas. He advised crew members that cell phones are not allowed on deck. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Seafarers-affiliated school Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to ask captain for money to purchase DVDs. Clarification requested regarding medical benefits for retirees. Crew inquired about improvements to Pension Plan. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $1,090.25 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter that was sent to Seafarers Appeals Board pertaining to medical benefits was read along with response from VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Vote of thanks given to new chief steward Asril Syarbaini for great meals and to deck department for good job and keeping ship clean. Seafarers were reminded to check all document expiration dates. Members requested free weights and/or dumbbells for working out. Suggestion made regarding rotary shipping rules. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), July 24—Chairman Donald G. Rezendes, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Milan Dzurek, Deck Delegate Amante V. Gumiran, Engine Delegate Leonard P. Viles, Steward Delegate Saeed B. Saeed. Bosun thanked crew members for working safely and injury-free during voyage. He stated emergency shipping rules are no longer in effect. Also, due to changes in medical coverage, 125 days per year is now required in order to qualify for benefits. He advised crew to read freightship agreement concerning trip reliefs and explained process and purpose of written resolutions and motions. Suggestion made to add more classes for QMED at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $430 in ship’s fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Payoff upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. July 30. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. EN YUNQUE (Interocean Ugland Management), July 31—Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Ivan R. Salis, Educational Director John J. Walsh, Deck Delegate Richard L. Gathers, Steward Delegate Juan Vallejo Hernandez. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Puerto Rico. Secretary stressed importance of reading Seafarers LOG to stay up to date on current maritime issues. Educational director urged mariners to renew z-cards early. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about job rotation. Thanks given to steward department for great cuisine. Crew reported hard run due to compressed schedule with docking and departure on same day. Recommendation made to increase food allowances. INTREPID (Maersk Line Limited), July 21—Chairman Abdullah R. Alwaseem, Secretary Guillermo F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate Yahya Abdelkarim, Engine Delegate Romeo N. Rivera, Steward Delegate Fernando C. Onatiavia. Chairman announced payoff July 26 in Los Angeles, Calif. Questions raised pertaining to available OT. Ship to stay in Singapore shipyard two weeks before returning to Los Angeles. Secretary stated A/C thermostat to be fixed for better control of heating and cooling in rooms. Educational director urged all mariners to keep MMDs current and upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew waiting for extra clothes dryer and stereo for crew lounge. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), July 28—Chairman Roan R. Lightfoot, Secretary William J. Bunch, Educational Director Charles L. Wharton, Deck Delegate Terry L. McKee, Engine Delegate Charles L. Wharton, Steward Delegate Antonio Colón. Chairman announced July 29 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. and welcomed unlicensed apprentices Matthew D. Green and Archie D. Eldridge Jr. aboard ship. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills and endorsements at USNS SODERMAN (Maersk Line Limited), July 30—Chairman James D. Orlanda, Secretary Kimberly A. Strate, Educational Director Ousmane Ka, Deck Delegate Peter M. Fulcher, Engine Delegate Jorge W. Bodden, Steward Delegate Efren D. Matias. Chairman requested copies of new wages and medical benefits in order to provide accurate answers to questions raised by crew. Educational director advised Seafarers to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at union-affiliated school in Piney October 2005 Point. Members voted against formation of ship’s fund since they are in port (Diego Garcia) and can get almost anything they need. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held regarding ROS base wages and vacation days. 2ND LT. JOHN P. BOBO (American Overseas Marine), Aug. 1—Secretary Dorray A. Saberon, Educational Director Michael P. Brown, Deck Delegate Roger D. Noah, Engine Delegate James L. Bates, Steward Delegate John M. Walsh. Educational director recommended more engine department courses at Piney Point school for advancement in refrigeration and electrician positions. Treasurer stated $588 in ship’s fund. He discussed possible methods to boost fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew recommended next contract include increase in vacation pay and base wages. Clarification requested on changes to medical plan. Mariners reminded about dress code in mess hall during meal hours. Next port: Malta. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 14—Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Franchesca D. Rose, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Rufino J. Giray, Engine Delegate Cecilio A. Banga, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia Jr. Bosun announced room and sanitary inspections Aug. 16. He commended crew for working well together during voyage. Educational director reminded mariners to renew z-cards and documents early to avoid hold-up when it’s time to sail. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers requested satellite phone on main deck be fixed so they can call home without imposing on captain and chief engineer to use their office phones. Members would like to be informed by union hall whether standby relief jobs have been filled prior to Honolulu hall’s closing time on Saturday, so they can plan accordingly. This will alleviate problems caused when crew members take off without relief. Vote of appreciation from captain, chief engineer and officers to bosun and his department for cleaning and painting vessel. Thanks also to steward department for great food and barbecues as well as cleanliness of ship’s house. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 21—Chairman Anthony R. Carvalho, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Bruce D. Bussert, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Chairman announced Aug. 27 arrival in port and reminded everyone to clean rooms before departing ship. Secretary reported smooth sailing and good crew. Educational director suggested need for more classes for engine department at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $700.89 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk International), Aug. 14—Chairman Thomas MacGregor, Secretary Mark S. Scardino, Educational Director Salome Castro, Deck Delegate Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Engine Delegate Melgar D. Daquio, Steward Delegate Lemuel E. Robinson. Bosun read president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Secretary thanked everyone for helping maintain ship cleanliness. Educational director advised mariners to begin renewal process of documents early due to long waiting periods. He also encouraged them to check out courses available at Seafarers-affiliated school to improve and upgrade their skills. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck and steward departments. Steward delegate talked about importance of attending shipboard meetings. Suggestions made regarding improvement to pension and welfare plans. New washer requested in crew laundry; crew asked to remember to clean lint traps in dryers for safety. Steward department given thanks for preparing good food. informed crew of receipt of new pay scale. Repair list has been posted for work to be done while in shipyard. Discussion held about changes in medical plan, and he passed out copies of changes. Captain to purchase NFL package for satellite TV. Secretary reported ship to change runs from West Coast to East Coast beginning Sept. 2. Treasurer stated money in ship’s fund to be used to purchase NFL package. Fund will then need to be built back up. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from company posted concerning new pay scale and pending contract. Aboard the Chesapeake in Diego Garcia Steward/Baker Emilio Cordova SA Franklin Bandoh OMU John Steeber submitted these photos of fellow Seafarers at work earlier this year aboard the USNS Chesapeake, a tanker that is currently activated for duty with the Prepositioning Program. Jesse Jones Next ports: Richmond, Calif.; Port Angeles, Wash. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Central Gulf Lines), Aug. 25— Chairman Errol M. Pinkham Jr., Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Alfred G. Lane, Deck Delegate Manfred L. Wedell. Secretary asked those crew members getting off ship to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed number of recommendations for future contracts including increase in pay, improved medical benefits and standard contract. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Galveston, Texas. USNS RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships), Aug. 20— Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Moises N. Johnson, Deck Delegate Jose Garcia, Engine Delegate Wayne F. Gonsalves, Steward Delegate Raford C. Nixon. Chairman Paul Williams Thanks given to steward department for great job. Next ports: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Rodman, Panama; Houston. USNS FRED W. STOCKHAM (American Overseas Marine), Aug. 9—Chairman Andrew B. Barrows, Secretary Stephen M. Avallone, Educational Director Charles W. Clarkley Jr., Deck Delegate Ira E. Thomas, Engine Delegate Jon I. Hemba, Steward Delegate Allen Van Buren. Bosun announced Aug. 15, Paul Hall Day, is payable holiday. He reported company turnover from Amsea to Keystone to take place in February or March 2006. Clarification requested on opportunities for employment with Keystone and of copies of new Keystone agreement. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade whenever possible at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter received from VP Contracts Augie Tellez pertaining to Keystone acquisition. It was read and posted. Crew members reminded to take any grievances through proper channels. Seafarers LOG 19 �32578p7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 4:16 PM Page 20 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Your union office should set the standard for union-made goods and services. And, today, you don’t have to settle for less. From copy machines to furniture, from communications services to software to pens and paper—the best-equipped union offices are outfitted to serve union families with products and services from union members. For more information, visit www.shopunionmade.org. High-speed internet connections: Adelphia Communications Cablevision Systems Corp. Comcast Unions-America Web Connectivity LLC Computers, laptops and peripherals: Union Built PC Van Elgort Information Systems Copiers, printers and office equipment: Sharp Xerox Wireless phone service: Cingular Phone service: AT&T SBC Communications Office supplies and equipment: Continental Business Systems Impact Office Products Union Office Solutions Security: Cincy Safe Corp. Gardall Safe Corp. Document and Record Storage: SourceCorp 20 Seafarers LOG Calendars: At-A-Glance Daytimer Paper: Weyerhauser Mead Westvaco Georgia Pacific Kimberly-Clark Pens: Shaeffer Pelican Bic “Stic” Parker Business furniture systems furniture, chairs, tables, desks, filing cabinets): Allsteel Office Furnishings American Seating Pennsylvania House Furniture the Taylor Companies Crawford Furniture Company the Northland Corporation Princeton Upholstery Coffee: Union Coffee Co. Crane Vending Machines Floor Covering: Masland Carpet 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. October 2005 �32578p7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 3:23 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. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Welding October 24 November 11 Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher October 3 October 17 October 31 November 28 October 14 October 28 November 11 December 9 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Government Vessels October 31 November 4 November 14 November 18 October 17 October 21 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 14 December 9 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* October 24 October 28 GMDSS (Simulator) October 31 November 11 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 19 September 30 October 29 November 11 Radar October 10 October 19 Radar Renewal (1 day): October 31 (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) (*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 19, 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 ________________________________________________ October 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. 10/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �2005-October7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 3:08 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 665 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 665. They are (in alphabetical order) Ken Ada, Perry Anglin, Michael Bartley, Kelvin Brown, Darryl Churchill, Michael Drena, Andrew Dysart, Daniel Evans, Kenneth Fecher, Arlyn Fernandez, Brian Finney, Jonathan Grohowski, Ryan Colsson, Judea Holloman, Jacob Kamp, Chelsea Ketner, Tyler Lawrence, Norman Lucas, Garrett Phillips, Carlos Ramirez Pastor, Theodore Riley Jr., Jose Rodrigues, Justin Ryan, Velma Santiago, Angelo Sullivan, Michael Terrazas, Nathan Thomas, Jesse Tornabene, Clark Tubbs, Jeffrey Tubbs, Penny Williams, Marcus Wilson, Ivan Zapata and Edward Zimich. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending June 24 are (in no specific order) John Frey, Stefon Otey, Martin Simmons Jr., Neftali Erausquin, Joe Legree, Jeffrey Raum Jr., Francis Dundas, Brian Robison, Kyle Rayborn, Keith Rost, Barney George, Mark Kane, Brannon Adams, Kent Harper, James Carey, Michael Smorowski, LeToya Nix, Edward Tanaka, Michael Ratigan and Nathan Garrison. ARPA — Earning their ARPA certificates June 24 are (in alphabetical order) Joseph Brosher, Thomas Burke, Larry Claghorn, Darrel Koonce Jr., Paul Lind, Edward Milstead, Paul Voisin and John Zabielski. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — With instructor Jim Shaffer (far right) are students who completed this course June 17. In no specific order, they are Mark Ward Sr., Tyrone Benjamin, William Britton, Harsono Saratoga, Dean Diaz Sr., Douglas Foley, John Daniels, Thomas Ellington, Jonathan Singleton, Anthony Jacobson, Andre Skevnick, Anto Tunjic, Gary Turner, William Parker, Jose Bautista Jr., Kenneth Powell and Rodolfo Vecino. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Small Arms — June 24 was graduation day for those in the small arms training class. They are (in no specific order) Samuel Thatcher, Luis Segul, Remington Aldrete, Kemer Rojas, Geoffrey Hall, David Spangler, Danny Faidley, Edward Johnson, Timothy Eide Jr., Abraham Straughter, William Price Jr., Philandar Walton, David Spaulding, Kenny Potts and Lawrence Richardson. Completing this course June 17 are upgraders Jovita Carino, Richard Cole, Joseph Huff, Earl Kendrick, Santos Maximo and Justin Stahl. The unlicensed apprentices in the course included Andre Anderson, Heather Bushey, Danny Faidley, Jeffery Griffin, Alexander Hill, Edward Johnson, Kathy Lakoduk, Michael Moerbeek, Oscar Pena, William Price Jr, Abraham Straughter, Josh Sypolt and Philandar Walton. Basic Safety Training Classes Computer Lab Classes June 10 — Abigail Schubert shows off her certificate of achievement for completion of a computer course. With her is instructor Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG June 24 — Instructor Rick Prucha (standing) also congratulates Joseph Huff (left) and Arnie Borja for their proven proficiency in various computer courses. STCW, June 24: Precilo Abad, Bronson Aea, Joseph Aguero, Lilac Alfke, Benjamin Baldwin, Jose Bautista, Jennifer Bruce, Cynthia Buchanan, Christopher Carr, Zina Carr, Jose Carranza, Yolando Castro, Jose Chahal, Aaron Cochran, Wilfred Colon, Christopher Conner, Bjana Cook, Rosalina Coronado, Sarah Crowe, Diana De La Torre, Donald Delorme, James Dunlap, Philip Forman and Fred Forsythe. October 2005 �32578p7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 3:53 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Safety Training Classes STCW, June 24: STCW, June 24: Donald Bryn, Emerson Eads, Benjamin Fitzhugh, Joseph Fleming, Musa Gabarelseed, Dak Gilmore, Victoria Grant, Sharon Gray, Charles Green, Kenneth Hair, John Hartman, Robert Henry, Paulette Horton, Cndace Hurley, Mark Hush, Jessica Ingles, Erkan Isik, Rickey Jackson, Miles Janecka, John Jasinski, Joselito Jimenez, John Knott, Catherine Leone, Amy Lewie and Donna Lindsey. Uverna Johnson, Sandra Lieteau, Steven Lonas, Richard Lovelace, Johnny Lujan, Jason Lutovsky, Bradford MacInnis, Peggy McCarty, William McIntyre, Raul Medina, Romel Medina, Anna Miller, Ayana Miller, Rebecca Minick, Alan Moody, Annie Morris,Marc Newbold, Scott Owens, Cisco Perez, Maniphone Phouangkeo, Rebecca Reed, Hezam Reyme, Rebecca Riehn, Carmela Rininsland and Harsono Saratoga. STCW — NCL, June 10: Treesa Dawes, Elena De Los STCW, June 24: Dale Harrison, Uverna Johnson, Victor Omagap, Emmanuel Sarate, Jeremy Smith, Keenan Smith, Louis Smith, Milton Smith III, Janet Stephens, Keith Stokes, Loyce Stokes, Richard Stone, Sean Storm, William Stuckey, Pat Tatsakorn, Augustus Torralba, Gary Turner, Eric Vernon Jr., Marianne Waters, Micah West, Julie Williams, Katja Wiss, Ashley Wolfe, Emilia Woodin and Robert Zeman. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Santos, Melissa Denys, Lester Dixon, Chester Eaton, Maria Ellison, Irene Evans, Nestor Evaristo Jr., Ashley Feltrop, Ryan Fisher, Elizabeth Foster, Luther Franklin, Jimmy Gallaher, Elizabeth Gander, Derek Gisness, Genney Groesbeck, Hannah Harbert, Austin Harris, Bruce Harrison-Knight, Teodoro Hernandez and Clemel Hill. STCW — STCW — NCL, June 10: Benjamin Adams, Garland Albert, Omar Alcantara, Chris Aubuchon, Gabriel Bailey, Rose Bates, Scott Berman, Sheldon Brown, Melvin Brown II, Susanne Brunsch, Cynthia Bush, Katie Calahan, Mark Castro, Mary Aileen Cepeda, Antonio Chavez, Jennifer Clare, Heather Cook, Aubrey Davis, Cory Davis and Zachary Davis. NCL, June 17: Jose Albo, Sondra Aldama, Vanessa Anderbrhan, Edward Baker, Lilibeth Ballesteros, Miguel Balli, Leroy Baxter, Brook Bender, Felicia Blake, Dinae Brooks, Kevin Burns, Katie Campbell, Kathleen Cannon, Theresa Carswell, Samantha Chinigo, Jennifer Cockrell, George Collier, Brandon Cornish, Dawone Cornish, Christopher Craig, Chad Cunningham and Arnulfo Dichoso. STCW — NCL, June 10: Rodolfo Cunanan, Olga Navarro, Regelio Navarro, Nathan Nguyen, Nathan Ondrusek, Jeffrey Pelland, Denise Presley, Leonardo Rodriguez, Steven Rosario, Christine Searcy, Jason Shoop, Cathy Sloan, Carlos Smith, Demetrius Smith, John Smith, Michael Thomas, Matthew Traya, Edward Washburn and Zeenat Watts. October 2005 STCW — NCL, June 17: John Dombeck, Leslie Early, Pamela Everage, Kathleen Freeman, Tyron Freeman, Chris Gray, James Hawk, Casey Hayasaki, Matthew Hendrix, Meagan Hirshorn, Terrie Hobson, Susan Holzem, Tyrone Horton, Laura Johnston, Celess Jollymore, Quentin Jones, Thomas Kunkel, Ding-Kwun Lee and Derrick Lewis. STCW — NCL, June 17: Dale Pleak, Jaime Regalado, Evan Robinson, Antonio Robleto, Paul Rodriguez, Aristotle Savaiki, Geoffrey Scott, Heather Scott, Casey Shank, Bart Shuford, Jessica Simmons, Linda Storer, Erin Swetkoff, Phillip Torres, Leonardo Uy, Sandra Vanryckeghem, Marisela Vasquez, Samuel White, Benjamin Williams, Christopher Williams, Kamica Williams and Jessica Wrubel. STCW — NCL, June 7: Bryce Lippert, Rebecca Livers, Kathleen Long, Susan Maisenbach, Stephen McCormick, Joel McDermeit, Jesse McDonald, Hervin McLean, Caitlin Merdian, Clarence Mitchell, Keith Moore, Cassie Morrish, Yamiletl Mosquera, Kristy Mullen, Noel Nededog, Debra Nelson, Rolly Nicolas, John Noisy Hawk, Arthur Nzemene, Jeff O’Neal, Lainie Patterson and Mindy Peal. STCW — NCL, June 10: Mandy Holtz, Donald Hurst, John Jay, Ben Jobe, Lynn Johnson, Charlotte Jones, Annette Jordan, Paul Kavanagh, Patricia Kent, Jennifer Lee, Felicita Lopez, Teresita Magallanes, Holly Martens, Bengie Martinez, Randall Maynard, Katherine Monaco, Jose Montemayor, Melissa Moser and Stephen Moyher III. Seafarers LOG 23 �32578p7,8,11,14,19-24.qxd 9/27/2005 4:38 PM Page 24 Providing P roviding R elief A fter Hurricane K atrina — pages 1, 2, 3, 12, 13 The ITB Great Lakes Trader is docked in Marine City, Mich. Bosun Jeff Eckhart operates the deck winch aboard the American Republic in Cleveland, Ohio. Great Lakes Vessels Help Drive U.S. Economy SIU members crew many of the U.S.-flag vessels on the Great Lakes, carrying the raw materials that help drive the nation’s economy: iron ore and fluxstone for the steel industry, limestone and cement for the constuction industry and coal for power generation. Filling out paperwork on board the ITB Great Lakes Trader is Mate Brian Sauvey. Great Lakes Towing’s tug Idaho (right) is in tow on the Maumee River in Toledo, Ohio. To the left is the Hannah tug James A. Hannah and its barge. Ricky Hebert is the captain on the ITB Great Lakes Trader. Engineer Richard Bowermaster puts the winch in gear aboard the ITB Cleveland Rocks in Cleveland. DEUs David Barber Jr. and Ahmed Ali grab hold of the lines to help moor the American Republic in Cleveland. Working aboard the ITB Cleveland Rocks is Conveyorman Saleh Ahmed. Ready to dock a GLT Harbor tug in Toledo is AB Mark Nicholson. The tug Sandusky, a recent addition to the Laken Shipping fleet, is being prepared for fit-out at the Toledo Shipyard. Cook Richard Gauthier (left) talks with Rep. Don Thornton in the galley aboard the ITB Great Lakes Trader. Mae Brendan Murphy supervises the unloading of the ITB Cleveland Rocks in Cleveland. � 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 October 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINESEXPANDED MSP BEGINS SIU GAINS 13 SHIPS IN NEW PROGRAM MARITRANS TO BUILD 3 ATBS SIU DELIVERS KATRINA RELIEF SEAFARERS MOBILIZE SHIPS, UNION ESTABLISHES FUND OCEAN SHIPS, INC. TO OPERATE T-5 TANKERS MAERSK TO OPERATE FAST SEALIFT SHIPS MSC AGREEMENT SIGNALS JOB RETENTION FOR SIU MEMBERS GENERAL HANDY JOINS HORIZON LINES TRAINEE COMMANDANT GILLILAND DIES AT 57 AFL-CIO OKS ‘SOLIDARITY CHARTERS’ ACTION ALLOWS LOCALS TO PARTICIPATE IN LABOR COUNCILS, STATE FEDERATIONS ITF SLAMS NEW IRAQI CRACKDOWN ON UNIONS HIGH COST OF MEDICAL PREMIUMS IS ASTOUNDING UIW SETS ORGANIZING AS TOP GOAL CONVENTION HONORS VICTIMS AND HEROES OF September 11 LABOR SECRETARY LAUDS UNION, SCHOOL SECRETARY CHAO TOURS PAUL HALL CENTER SAFETY DIRECTORS SHARPEN SKILLS AT PAUL HALL CENTER FOR SEAFARERS, IT’S ALWAYS ‘SAFETY FIRST’ CRUISE VACATIONS OFFERED TO UNION MEMBERS, FAMILIES GOV’T OFFERS NEW MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE SEAFARER RUNDBLAD STILL GOING STRONG USNS POLLUX AMONG FIRST TO PROVIDE AID GREAT LAKES VESSELS HELP DRIVE U.S. ECONOMY 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 10/01/2005 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. 5 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/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 https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/d62fa5573dbf92e423225829d7d8470f.pdf 911d98d1274632d67d9baa4d944304ab PDF Text Text 28818_p1,9,10,11,13.qxd 7/18/2005 9:47 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 8 The USNS Lewis and Clark (below), crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division, recently joined the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s fleet, and a second ship in the new T-AKE class is under construction. Overall, eight of the new dry cargo/ammunition ships have been ordered, with options for four additional ships. Page 3. August 2005 New MSC Ships Boost CIVMAR Job Expansion Seafarers Proudly Serve As Part of America’s ‘Fourth Arm of Defense’ SIU members continue supporting U.S. troops deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, transporting key materiel aboard U.S.-flag vessels. Those operations indicate America’s ongoing reliance on U.S. crews and U.S. ships to help carry out our nation’s missions around the world. Pictured above are Seafarers aboard the USNS Yano—from left to right, Taylor Clear, Karberto Ramos, Michael Proveaux, Joe Tegiacchi, Florencia Farquhar, John Cater and Al Barnett. Below right: The Seafarers-crewed USNS Red Cloud offloads combat equipment. Far left: The hospital ship USNS Mercy gets vertical replenishment. Pages 10 and 11. Column Recognizes Forgotten Heroes Of World War II Bruce L. Felknor, retired Encyclopedia Britannica executive editor and a U.S. Merchant Marine radio officer during World War II recently wrote a compelling article recalling the bravery and contributions of mariners during that era. The piece briefly mentions the SIU-crewed Robin Moor, the first U.S.-flag ship sunk during WWII. That vessel and part of the surviving crew are pictured above. Page 2. Seafarers Honored For Safety Page 4 SIU Crews Excel In ‘SafePort’ Page 7 Pride of America: Strong Start Page 20 �28818_P02,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/14/2005 8:40 PM Page 2 President’s Report Strength through the MTD One of the SIU’s most important affiliations is our membership in the Maritime Trades Department. The MTD, of which I am president, is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. Since its beginning, it has given workers employed in the maritime industry a real voice in helping determine the government policies that have so much impact on our livelihoods. Formed shortly before the General Strike of 1946, the MTD has provided “money, marbles and chalk” to some of the labor movement’s most Michael Sacco important organizing drives. It played a leading role in the Wall Street Strike of 1948, which ultimately led to the formation of today’s OPEIU. The MTD gave timely backing to AFSCME’s early efforts at securing state legislation allowing public employees the right to join unions. The MTD also strongly supported Cesar Chavez in his inspirational campaign to gain union recognition for Farm Workers in the 1970s. Over the past six decades, the MTD has helped promote the enactment of such historic pieces of legislation as the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 and the Maritime Security Act of 1996, all of which have helped ensure the continuation of a strong U.S. maritime industry. The MTD also has joined other maritime organizations in educating the public about the importance of preserving the Jones Act, the nation’s freight cabotage law. In more recent years, during a period when an unfortunate number of U.S. industrial jobs have been lost to unfair competition from overseas, the U.S. shipbuilding and the deep-sea industries have made important progress, while the domestic Jones Act fleet has prospered. Without a doubt, the MTD and its affiliates are responsible for much of that progress. And, as a result, the nation’s armed services have enjoyed the stability and security that comes with drawing upon a pool of skilled, loyal U.S. civilian mariners, shipyard employees, longshore workers and others to enhance America’s national and economic security. The MTD’s network of 24 port maritime councils has given maritime workers a strong grass roots presence in port cities and coastal communities all across the nation and in Canada. The councils have given the Department’s 28 affiliates a means to pool their resources on a wide range of issues and projects. They include promoting a comprehensive national maritime agenda; providing affiliate support at all levels; enhancing port security; community participation including charitable activities, and much more. As we prepared for the MTD convention July 21-22 in Chicago, I looked back on our accomplishments from the previous four years and was reminded of the organization’s tremendous value and effectiveness. I’m confident that the next four years will be even more beneficial for our affiliates, and I look forward to working together to promote our industry. Enduring Freedom The terrorist attacks July 7 in London provided a very unwelcome reminder that Operation Enduring Freedom, the global war against terrorism, truly is an ongoing mission, and will remain so for the foreseeable future. This is a different kind of war, as we all know. The SIU remains fully committed to doing whatever it takes to win. On behalf of our entire union, I extend the SIU’s most sincere condolences to the victims of the recent attacks and their families. Words may not heal the physical wounds, but they reflect the genuine caring and compassion felt by millions 7around the world. Like all other terrorist acts, the ones in London were cowardly. The murderers responsible for those attacks will not succeed in making us cower. Quite the opposite is true, in fact. We will continue to rise up, across the globe, and stand united to protect all that is good in our societies. As the saying goes, freedom isn’t free. The price is worth it, however—and no terrorist is going to rob us from our liberty. Volume 67, Number 8 August 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 The Merchant Marine: War’s Forgotten Heroes Editor’s note: This article was written by Bruce L. Felknor, retired Encyclopedia Britannica executive editor and a U.S. Merchant Marine radio officer during World War II. It first appeared in the May 22 edition of The Chicago Tribune and is reprinted here with the author’s permission. Even though it’s not formally celebrated until Monday, Sunday is National Maritime Day. It has become the most ignored national day, memorializing the country’s most forgotten historical event and honoring the most ignored element of its military structure, the U.S. Merchant Marine. Congress adopted the resolution creating the day on May 20, 1933, taking note of May 22, 1819, the day the steamer Savannah sailed from its home port on the first successful transoceanic voyage by steamship. President Franklin Roosevelt issued the proclamation. Every succeeding president proclaimed it, and every succeeding generation ignored it. It was easy to remember winning World War II but easy to forget the merchant marine, the logistical miracle that enabled the victory. The merchant marine story is all about lessons learned on the cruel seas, of scandalous political treatment of its sailors after the war, of long-fought battles for recognition as veterans, and of a commitment as deep, and a risk at least as high, as any soldier’s on any battlefield. But the merchant marine was invisible. It had scant public-relations apparatus and no mass grassroots support. The 13 million men and women of the Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard had professional cheerleaders in Washington and war correspondents embedded with them in the field, along with 20-odd-million voting parents. The 250,000 merchant mariners—1.9 percent as many—had only their parents. Lacking Practical Ships In the beginning, it didn’t even have practical ships. The U.S. Maritime Commission’s C2 design of 1938-39 was 459 feet long, 63 feet abeam, 25 feet of draft, 6,000 to 8,000 tons, turbo-electric and steamed along at a maximum 15.5 knots. They took time to build and, when war arrived, the luxury of time did not exist. Only 173 were launched in six years through 1945, an average of fewer than 30 a year. It quickly became evident when the U-boat blitz began that that many ships could be sunk in a matter of weeks. Moreover, engine room crews had to be trained to operate the C2’s sophisticated machinery, a sharp departure from the oilfired reciprocal steam engines of the era. The solution was to adopt the design of a virtual relic, an old British tramp steamer of the Sunderland class, being built in American shipyards for the king’s merchant marine navy. The Liberty ships Jeremiah O’Brien (top), based in San Francisco, and John W. Brown, home-ported in Baltimore, still provide visitors with a glimpse of the WWII-era U.S. Merchant Marine’s history. Simple to build, reliable, capacious, but slow. They called it the Liberty ship. Those who love it believe it won the war. Liberty ships were slow: 10 knots, maybe 11 with a following sea and following wind. But their old-fashioned engines were easy to run and maintain. Liberty hulls, built in sections and welded together, could be turned out with astonishing speed: 70 days was an average, but the record was two days. We joked that they were built by the mile and chopped off by the yard. Shipyards on all three coasts cranked them out—2,751 from September 1940 through the end of the war, the greatest number of oceangoing vessels built to a single design in all history. The basic design was flexible enough so that the hull could become a tanker, a troop ship, a hospital ship, a break-bulk freighter —even a seagoing machine shop rigged to repair damaged airplanes. As Roosevelt’s “Bridge of Ships” sending aid from the New World to the Old began to slide down the ways, vessels of the growing merchant marine fleet were rushed into convoys carrying lend-lease war cargoes to embattled Britain. These included ships of many nations, including American-owned ships under foreign flags, especially Panamanian. German subs zeroed in on the bridge, picking off Panama-registered U.S.-owned ships headed for Britain. In the spring of 1941, a U-boat in the south Atlantic stopped a U.S.-flag freighter, the Robin Moor. One item of its cargo, railroad rails on deck, was deemed contraband, and the ship was sunk with gunfire. The crew and passengers had 20 minutes to abandon ship. This stiffened the spines of foot-draggers in Congress and slightly accelerated the pace of bona fide American preparations for war. Immediately after the Pearl Harbor attack, German Adm. Karl Doenitz, commander of the submarine force, sent six U-boats to the Atlantic off the American coast, launching a campaign of terror on U.S. shipping that, in Winston Churchill’s words, “almost brought us to the disaster of an indefinite prolongation of the war.” Before Pearl Harbor, Congress, chary of violating neutrality laws, had been reluctant to arm merchant marine ships, but now the die had been cast. The navy began arming ships and training gun crews at its capacity of 100 crews a month. Merchant marine officer cadets and seaman trainees were already receiving such training, and all hands performed well and in general effectively. Early on, though, the arming was sporadic. The toll exacted by German subs and bombers underscored the urgency of the need to build ships faster than they were being sunk, however, and with the new vessels properly armed, the tide began to turn. Proper arming involved installing gun tubs for naval cannon fore and aft and pairs of them for 20-mm anti-aircraft machine guns, the middle pair on the bridge wings. All the guns had steel splinter shields. Everyone a Target But every man aboard a seagoing merchant marine ship in World War II was a target, gunner or not. No one was immune from the consequences of a hit, for a well-placed torpedo or aerial Continued on page 5 August 2005 �28818_P02,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/14/2005 9:03 PM Page 3 Progress Continues on New MSC Ships T-AKE Fleet Means Job Opportunities for CIVMARS Less than three weeks after the launch of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s first Lewis and Clark-class vessel, the keel was laid for the second such ship, signaling more job opportunities for members of the SIU Government Services Division. The dry cargo/ammunition vessels—each with a crew of 123 CIVMARS plus about 50 military-department personnel—will be part of a fleet of combat logistics force underway replenishment ships. At least eight of the new T-AKE vessels will be built at San Diego’s National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO). There are options for four additional ships. The keel-laying ceremony for the USNS Sacagawea took place June 8 at the shipyard. That vessel is scheduled to launch in the spring of 2006. As reported last month, the first ship in the fleet, the USNS Lewis and Clark, was launched on May 21. According to MSC, the T-AKE ships “will directly contribute to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence. The T-AKE’s primary mission will be delivering supplies to Navy ships from sources of supply like friendly ports, or from sea using specially equipped merchant ships. The TAKE will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, limited quantities of fuel, repair parts, ship store items and expendable supplies —at sea to station ships and other naval warfare forces. “In its secondary mission, the T-AKE may be required to operate in concert with a Henry J. Kaiser-class (T-AO 187) oiler as a substitute on-station ship, providing direct logistic support to ships within a single carrier strike group.” The agency further noted that the new ships are “being built to commercial specifications and standards Lewis and Clark T-AKE Ships At a Glance Length: 689 feet Beam: 106 feet Draft: 29.5 feet Main machinery: Integrated propulsion and ship service electrical system, with generation at 6.6KV by FM/MAN B&W diesel generators; one fixed pitch propeller; bow thruster. Full Load Displacement: 35,400 long tons Speed: 20 knots (23 mph) Max Dry Cargo Weight: 5,910 long tons Max Dry Cargo Volume: 783,000 square feet Max Cargo Fuel Weight: 2,350 long tons Cargo Fuel Volume: 18,000 barrels Crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division, the USNS Lewis and Clark (above, at launch earlier this year and below and at left, during construction) is the first vessel in a new class of dry cargo/ammunition ships in the MSC fleet. Construction has begun on the second vessel, scheduled for delivery in 2006. Source: U.S. Military Sealift Command and will be certified/classed by the American Bureau of Shipping, the United States Coast Guard and other regulatory bodies.” Seafarers crew a number of different types of vessels for MSC, including those in the following programs: prepositioning, special mission, Ready Reserve Force, Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force, and sealift (the latter group including tankers, dry cargo and surge ships). SIU-Crewed Detroit Princess Is City’s Latest Attraction The Seafarers-crewed Detroit Princess riverboat arrived at its dock behind Detroit’s Cobo Center in early June and, following a Coast Guard insection, has already begun its lunch, dinner and late-night cruises along the Detroit River. Engine and deck department members were hired to work aboard Detroit’s newest attraction under an SIU contract. Other crew members, including waitstaff, cooks, dishwashers and experienced bartenders, belong to an SIU affiliate, the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). “It’s a party boat (for the passengers),” said its owner, John Chamberlain, who bought the former casino boat in Texas and sailed it through the Gulf of Mexico, around Florida and up the East Coast to the Great Lakes. Each cruise will last two to three hours and will offer a differcent experience on each of its five decks. The first deck has a Motown dance nightclub. Big band music can be heard on the second deck. On deck three is an interactive murder-mystery dinner theater. And a VIP lounge with live jazz and an outdoor area that Chamberlain said is reminis- cent of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville cafes is on the fourth deck. On the fifth deck of the 224foot boat, riders may look from 52 feet above the river. Left: The Detroit Princess is docked alongside the Detroit river walk. Right: Capt. Mike Miller and OS Nicole Mills chat on the vesel’s main deck. Alex Gresock, on the fourth deck of the riverboat, is the chief engineer. Standing on the fifth deck with the Detroit skyline in the background are Capt. Mike Miller, First Mate Sandra Clark and AB Patrick Retko. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, August 15, 2005 for the observance of Paul Hall’s birthday and Monday, September 5, 2005 for the observance of Labor Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. August 2005 Chief Engineer Bob Buttimer adjusts the air conditioning. OS Dale Brown stands gangway security watch on the Princess. AB Adil Hussein stands at the bow of the main deck. Seafarers LOG 3 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/18/2005 2:58 PM Page 4 Seafarers Honored for Safe Operations SIU-Contracted Companies Recognized at Annual Awards Event Eleven SIU-contracted companies, along with their top performing vessels, recently were recognized by the U.S. maritime industry for safe ship operations. The honors, the 2005 Jones F. Devin Award and the 2005 Ship Safety Achievement Awards, were bestowed June 9 by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) during its Annual Safety Awards Luncheon at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. Specifically, the awards recognize individual ships and the women and men who crew them while performing accident-free operations. The prizes also serve as incentives to promote safe ship practices aboard all Americanflagged vessels. “It’s always great to see Seafarers receive this type of well-deserved recognition, especially when it has to do with safety,” said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “It’s a tribute not only to the individual mariners, but also a reflection of the tremendous jobs that the instructors and staff at our affiliated training school (the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md.) do in preparing students for their careers.” Nearly 200 people representing more than 50 companies turned out for the event. The awards were given to vessels that have operated for at least two years without a mariners involved in a lost-time injury. “We have been holding these annual award ceremonies since 1954,” said Joseph Cox, CSA president “For that initial year, we honored six vessels having a total of 12 years operation with no lost-time incidents. This year, we gave awards to 726 vessels that operated (a combined) 3,956 years without a lost-time incident. This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” Seafarers-contracted companies that were recipients of the 2005 Jones F. Devlin Awards and the vessels which established safety milestones (number of years in parentheses) were: „ Alaska Tanker Company, LLC—Overseas New York (4), Tonsina (4), Kenai (4) and Overseas Washington (3) „ Central Gulf Lines— Green Lake (3) „ Crescent Towing—Texas (8), Georgia (8), Ervin S. Cooper (8), Alabama (8), Mardi Gras (8), Port Allen (8), Admiral Jackson (8), Glenn Smith (8), Louisiana (7), Port Hudson (6), Terrence Smith (5), Point Clear (5) and Savannah (2) „ Horizon Lines—Horizon Discovery (2) and Horizon Spirit (2) „ Interocean American Shipping Corporation —Flickertail State (7), Cape Mohican (4), Chesapeake (4), Gopher State (4), Cape May (4), El Yunque (3), Midnight Sun (2) and North Star (2) „ Keystone Shipping Co. —Cape Vincent (9), Chelsea (8), Tallahassee Bay (6), Florida Bay (6), Columbia Bay (6) and South Carolina Bay (6). „ Marine Transport Lines —Lykes Discoverer (6), Ocean Reliance (2), Sea Reliance (2), and Sound Reliance (2) „ Maritrans Operating Company L.P.—Navigator (3), Seafarer (3) and Intrepid (3) „ „ Maersk Line, Ltd.—USNS Red Cloud (4), USNS Effective (4), Maersk Rhode Island (2), Cpl Louis J. Hauge Jr. (2), USNS Impeccable (2), USNS Soderman (2), Franklin J. Philips (2), SSG Edward A. Carter (2), and USNS Loyal (2). OSG Ship Management, Inc.—Overseas New Orleans (3), Overseas Philadelphia (3) and Overseas Marilyn (2) „ Seabulk Tankers—HMI Brenton Reef (3), Seabulk Challenge (3), Seabulk Power (2) and Seabulk America (2). The Chamber of Shipping of America represents 25 U.S.based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. NCL America Spotlighted In New Union Plus Benefit Promotion Encourages Cruising ‘The Union Way’ SIU-contracted NCL America is featured in a new promotion offered through Union Plus, a non-profit organization founded by the AFL-CIO to secure a variety of high quality, discounted products and services for union members and their families. The new Union Plus Cruises program began July 1, featuring Hawaiian cruises on the U.S.flag, union-crewed deep sea cruise ships: the Seafarerscrewed Pride of Aloha and Pride of America. It also is expected to include the Pride of Hawaii when that vessel joins the NCL America fleet in 2006. “Union Plus Cruises feature a 5 percent discount off all cruises from Norwegian Cruise Line,” the organization noted in an announcement. “There may also be other special offers with savings up to 30 percent off selected The SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha is part of a new Union Plus program offering discounts to union members and their families. sailings. A special introductory offer will give union families free air fare to Hawaii from Los Angeles and San Francisco and With Seafarers on the Overseas Chicago Chief Steward Don Lewis sent in these photos of Seafarers aboard the Overseas Chicago. The Alaska Tanker Co. vessel was scheduled to meet its OPA 90-mandated retirement date at the end of June, but the company continues to bring brand new Alaska-class tankers into its Seafarers-contracted fleet. Pictured clockwise from top left are Lewis; AB Ricardo Hernandez, AB Bobby Brown and 2nd Mate James Longley; Chief Cook Craig Lundberg; SA Abdullah Nasser; and a photo, from the Seafarers LOG’s files, showing the tanker shortly after its construction in 1977. reduced air fare from over 100 gateway cities.” The introductory offer for free or reduced air fare expires Sept. 30, 2005. Interested individuals may call 1-866-867-0593 and request promotion code AIR-UP1 to take advantage of this offer, or visit www.unionplus.org/cruises. Seafarers are eligible for a number of additional benefit programs offered through Union Plus, including mortgage and real estate services, union-made checks, an online tax service, health savings, an auto-buying program, music and computer discounts and more. The Seafarers LOG periodically publishes a complete list of those programs along with contact information; the same data is available online at www.unionplus.org. NOTICE Seafarers Pension Plan Pensioners who are eligible for Medicare have been receiving reimbursement for the Medicare Premium as part of their monthly pension check. This practice has now been formally incorporated in the Plan Rules and Regulations. Accordingly, eligible pensioners will continue to receive this reimbursement. 4 Seafarers LOG August 2005 �28818_P02,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/14/2005 9:28 PM Page 5 Bill Would Restore, Protect Right to Join a Union Supporters of a labor-endorsed bill to protect employees’ rights to freedom of association contend that something is radically wrong when threats, intimidation and stall tactics regularly are used by employers to thwart the will of workers who simply want a better way of life. Yet that is precisely what is happening in our nation, notes the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions (to which the SIU is affiliated). Employers routinely go to extremes to obstruct and ultimately derail workers’ rights to make free and fair decisions on joining or forming unions, the federation reports. For example, according to National Labor Relations Board data compiled and recently released by American Rights at Work, U.S. employers so far in 2005 have taken illegal and punitive measures against more than 10,000 employees seeking to support or form a union at their workplace. Although labor law prohibits such tactics, the government has been unwilling to step in and protect workers’ basic rights in the workplace. As a result, working families are paying a huge price for this interference, because unions play an essential role in our society and the rights of workers to organize them are crucial. Union representation is a vehicle to help earn a decent wage, encourage profit sharing between owners and workers, provide health care and pension benefits for families, improve health and safety in the workplace, advocate economic and social policies that support all workers, and provide workers a role in workplace decisions. Recent polls show that as many as 57 million workers would be willing to join a union, but most ITF Aids Crew believe that current laws and workplace situations are stacked against them. That is why union members and others across the country are working with Democratic and Republican members of Congress to pass the Employee Free Choice Act. Initially offered last year in the 108th Congress, the legislation garnered support from more than 200 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and 35 senators. Because the bill was not passed, another effort to make it law started in the 109th Congress. On April 19, Senators Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) and Representatives Peter King (R-N.Y.) and George Miller (D-Calif.) reintroduced the measure for the 109th Congress. Already the number of legislators in both houses signed on to sponsor the act is approaching its 2004 level. The Employee Free Choice Act has three major provisions: „ First, it calls for certification of a union as the bargaining unit if the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) finds that a majority of employees in an appropriate unit have signed authorizations designating the union to be their representative. Basically, the act would make card-check organizing campaigns the law of the land. „ Second, it would put and end to delaying tactics to prevent negotiations for a first contract that have been used by many businesses to the detriment of workers. Instead, the measure would allow either party involved in the talks to reach out to the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) after 90 days. If the FMCS cannot resolve the dispute within 30 days, it may be referred to arbitration whose results would be binding for two years. „ Third, just as the NLRB must seek a federal court injunction against unions whenever War’s Forgotten Heroes Continued from page 2 SIU International Transport Workers’ Federation Inspector Don Thornton recently helped bring the Liberian-flag vessel MV Federal Margaree under ITF contract. A few crew members from the bulk carrier are pictured above, in Cleveland, happily displaying their new contract. The SIU is an ITF affiliate. Senate Bill Introduced For WWII Mariners A long-awaited change could be on the horizon for the thousands of World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners who have not been fairly compensated for their service to the country. Under legislation unveiled recently by a politician from Nebraska, the aforementioned individuals would receive comparable treatment with other veterans. Democratic Senator Ben Nelson in June introduced a bill— the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2005, (S. 1272)—to amend title 46, United States Code, and title II of the Social Security Act. If passed by Congress and signed into law by the president, the measure would provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States Merchant Marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II. “Merchant mariners transported troops, ammunition, food, gas and other supplies that were necessary to win the war, in open waters aboard slow-moving cargo ships,” said Nelson during his introduction of the measure. “They were a target of enemy forces which sank more than 800 of these ships. More than 9,000 merchant mariners were lost at sea. The casualty August 2005 rate amounted to one out of every 26 … yet they have been denied fair treatment all these years because they were civilians.” The senator’s proposal—and a companion bill which carries the same title (H.R. 23) introduced earlier this year by U.S. Rep. Bob Filner (D-Calif.)—among other things would pay $1,000 per month, tax free, to merchant mariners or their widows. It would also increase their monthly Social Security check. A member of the U.S. House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Filner observed, “While it is impossible to make up for over 40 years of unpaid benefits, I propose a bill that will acknowledge the service of the veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine and offer compensation for years and years of lost benefits. The average age of (World War II) merchant marine veterans is now 81. Many have outlived their savings. A monthly benefit to compensate for the loss of nearly a lifetime of ineligibility for the GI Bill would be of comfort and would provide some measure of security for veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Approximately 10,000 Merchant Mariners and their widows who are old enough to serve in World War II are still living. bomb sent the ship to the bottom, often wrecking some or all of the lifeboats. After a few early tragedies when there was no time to swing boats out on their davits for lowering, the navy ordered all merchant marine ships to sail with boats swung out, ready for instant launching. (Life rafts were positioned to be slid over the side and boarded once in the water.) But an angry sea was a lethal enemy, boats or not. Hundreds and hundreds of men were forced by fire to leap into the sea in life jackets when lifeboats were wrecked in launching or walled off by fire. A bomb- or torpedo-ruptured fuel tank could turn a ship into a flaming pyre. Sometimes with freighters and often with tankers, a torpedo or bomb could set ship and sea afire. Oil gushing from ruptured tanks could blaze for hours. Expert swimmers, unwounded, could dive through flames, swim underwater long enough to clear the burning fuel, and hope to find a raft or scrap or maybe lifeboat. If not, drowning or sharks awaited. The odds were not good. A ruptured tanker loaded with fuel oil was bad news for the swimmer even without fire. In a cold ocean, oil congeals into a thick pad that quickly exhausts any swimmer. The foam is thick enough to make surface swimming impossible but not thick enough to keep a man afloat. Catch-22 for the seafarer. But beyond that, whatever the strength of the swimmer, without protective clothing he can live in the ocean only until hypothermia claims him, and in the North Atlantic that span is measured in minutes. Not all the deaths lurking in wait for the wartime seafarer were slow and tortured, though. A few hundred of those killed (estimates vary from 6,847 to 8,412) died quickly—the fate of anyone torpedoed or bombed on an ammunition ship or a tanker loaded with high-octane gasoline was instant obliteration. Sailors in convoys where such cataclysms occurred were unanimous: The explosion was horrendous. There was a rising cloud of dust or vapor. Nothing fell to earth. The ship and its people disappeared, vaporized. These were facts of life for the merchant marine seamen in World War II, all of them volunteers (the minimum age was only 16). These men suffered the highest mortality rate of any service, in that war, with the possible exception of the U.S. Marine Corps, dwarfing those of the Army, Navy, Army Air Force and Coast Guard. This explains why the canard that mariners hated most was that they were draft dodgers. The biggest surprise is that, for 44 years after the war, merchant marine survivors were not even war veterans, though their armed guard shipmates were vets by definition. As it began to appear that the Allies would win, the GI Bill of Rights was drafted in Congress, discussed and debated, then passed and signed into law. Almost simultaneously, a Seamen’s Bill of there is a reasonable cause to believe that the unions have violated secondary boycott publications, the legislation would call upon the NLRB to do the same if there is reasonable cause against an employer who has discharged or discriminated against workers or engaged in action that interferes with employee rights to organize or negotiate a first contract. The act also provides penalties. The AFL-CIO states that there’s little doubt in the labor community that the Employee Free Choice Act will help fix the flawed process through which workers currently form unions. This important legislation would make sure workers have a fair chance to exercise their democratic right to choose a union. If Congress passes the measure, stronger enforcements instantly would be in place to deter violations of labor law and help workers reach contracts quickly and fairly. Rights was proposed, strongly endorsed by President Roosevelt and influential members of Congress. But it was rigidly opposed by other members, swayed by the leaders of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, who had been persuaded by a series of lies and misunderstanding about the merchant marine. These were circulated most effectively by columnists Westbrook Pegler and Walter Winchell who spread the notion that many merchant seamen and their unions were communists or “pinkos.” They told tales of seamen refusing to help unload war cargoes, of sky-high bonuses for sailing into war zones. The barrage of falsehood and disinformation poisoned enough votes in Congress to kill the Seamen’s Bill of Rights despite Roosevelt’s and later President Harry Truman’s efforts to resurrect it. Military heroes—Douglas MacArthur, Jonathan Wainwright, Dwight Eisenhower, Chester Nimitz, Alexander Vandegrift and many others— praised the valor and gallantry and selfless service of the merchant marine—but all too little and too late. Until, that is, three merchant mariners who had been shipmates and fellow POWs in the Japanese prison camp on the notorious River Kwai took the government to court. Taking on the Government The Defense Department had assigned the secretary of the Air Force to oversee veterans’ group applications for recognition. He had repeatedly rejected the application of Edward Fitzgerald, Dennis Roland and Stanley Willner, though in their judgment they met all the stated qualifications. When the case came to trial in federal court in Washington in 1987, Roland had died and been replaced by Lane Kirkland, a merchant marine veteran and head of the AFL-CIO. The court found—in pungent terms—for the plaintiffs, and ordered further actions leading to legislation recognizing men with oceangoing merchant marine service in World War II as veterans. The American Legion let them in; the Veterans of Foreign Wars did not. This led to a cascade of rulings and regulations that among other things recognized merchant marine veterans organizations, granted the old mariners—43 years after the war—access to veterans’ hospitals and medical care, residence in Veterans Homes, burial in National Cemeteries, and an inexpensive symbol cherished most of all by many: a flag for their coffins and a veteran’s marker for their gravesites. The truly major benefits of the GI Bill, college tuition and Veterans Administration home loan guarantees, had long since bypassed this dwindling cohort of old men. A credible estimate is that of the 250,000, about 10,000 are left. Even the 16-year-olds of 1945 are in their late 70s now. The old salts of then, who left retirement and patriotically went back to sea, are long dead. But let’s not ignore them. Seafarers LOG 5 �28818_p2,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/18/2005 2:56 PM Page 6 Car Carrier Jean Anne Enjoys Smooth Sailing After more than five months at sea and nearly as many trips between the West Coast and the Hawaiian Islands, it’s still smooth sailing for the new SIU-contracted car carrier Jean Anne. As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the 579–foot roll-on/roll platform on March 21 was christened in the port of San Diego’s National City Marine Terminal. Owned by The Pasha Group of Corte Madera, Calif., the vessel was built to serve in the Jones Act trades between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii. It is operated by Interocean Ugland Management. “All of the SIU crew members seem very happy with their jobs aboard the new vessel,” said SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox. “As with any new vessel, not everything is perfect. But everyone has worked together really well, both from the union and the company, to get through the growing pains.” The Jean Anne has 10 decks and weighs 13,000 deadweight tons. The vessel can transport more than 3,000 American-sized vehicles plus any other rolling stock, household goods and containers. It can travel at speeds approaching 20 knots and its stern ramp is capable of handling up to 100 tons as vehicles are driven on and off. The Jean Anne makes stops in Honolulu; Kahului, Maui; Hilo; and Nawiliwili, Kauai. Left: Part of the Jean Anne crew assembles top side shortly after the vessel recently tied up in San Diego. Pictured from left are GVA Arthur Castro, GVA Marino Macadaan, Chef Cook Ronnie Newman, Bosun Thomas Johnson and QEE Allen Jones. AB Adel Irani OMU Jasper McGirt Learning Maritime Safety in Hawaii AB Tom Grove The Jean Anne docks in San Diego following a trip to the Hawaiian Islands Welcome Home, Seafarers! The Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii was the site of maritime safety training exercises last March for students and staff from the Navy Jr. ROTC (NJROTC) program at James Campbell High School in Ewa Beach. Nine students and three staff members participated in various exercises that included confined spaces Mandeelyn Sy is suited up Campbell High School NJROTC rescue, fire gear familiarization, hose and ready to go as instructor cadets don their bunker gear at the Seafarers Training Center in evolutions and water survival relays. Stuart Domingo explains Staff from the Seafarers Training each element of the personal Kalaeloa, Hawaii. Center included Amanda Curtis, Rick protective gear to the rest of the students. Perry, Stuart Domingo and Nate Itomoto. Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz also participated in the day’s events. The NJROTC staff was led by Cmdr. John Hutchinson, USN Senior Chief Naki and Chief Petty Officer Lairsey. Following the exercises, Hutchinson said, “The training was a valuable part of our cadets’ education. It was very interesting and the students were fully engaged.” Anonymous in their protective gear, the students rescue “Annie” from the downed helicopter after extinguishing a helo fire. Right: Proving that one size fits all (sort of), Campbell High School cadet Angela Diaz finishes pulling on the last of her protective gear. Burial at Sea for Brother Sanfilippo The SIU-crewed Cape Trinity (bottom left photo) recently arrived back in Houston following a nearly five-month deployment to the Middle East in support of U.S. troops. Upon their return, Seafarers received U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals from the U.S. Maritime Administration and later enjoyed a barbecue by the vessel, which is part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Pictured above left (from left) are 3rd Mate Joey Cargal, AB Charles Hill, SA Roberto Avila, SA Loukas Frangia and AB Henry Whitt. Other crew members include Oiler Rodolfo Menchaca (above right photo). Additional Seafarers recently manning the Cape Trinity include Bosun Charles Jackson, ABs Frank Thompson, Sinclair Oubre, Stig Sasse and John Pegan, Electrician Shawn Deloach, GVAs John Robinson and Terry Bass, Oilers Christopher Eason and Jamie Pabon, Steward Daniel Taylor, Cook Anthony Harrell and Assistant Cook Andrea David. At Lat 18-24N, Long. 164-33E, a service was conducted May Salvatore Sanfilippo were scattered at sea from the fantail of Sanfilippo, 77, was born in Boston and joined the SIU in 1950 Navy. He sailed as a recertified bosun, last working in 1992 Sanfilippo made his home in San Francisco. 6 Seafarers LOG 29 as the ashes of Brother Joseph an SIU-crewed Horizon Lines ship. in Houston after serving in the U.S. aboard the Cape Catoche. Brother August 2005 �28818_p2,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/15/2005 3:23 AM Page 7 SIU Members Excel in ‘SafePort’ Safety Exercise Shows Teamwork throughout Industry Crew members aboard a pair of SIU-contracted vessels recently earned accolades for their participation in a joint U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd)/U.S. Coast Guard safety exercise. Dubbed “Operation SafePort 2005” and conducted in early June in San Francisco Bay, the maneuvers spanned three weeks and involved Seafarers aboard the Pacific Gulf Marine, Inc.-operated Keystone State and Horizon Lines’ Horizon Consumer. The Keystone State is a MarAd Ready Reserve Force Auxiliary Crane Ship (T-ACS) while the Consumer is a container ship. A third Seafarers-crewed vessel, the Matson Navigation Co.operated Lihue was also part of the safety simulations. Prior to the actual exercise, Seafarers who crewed the Keystone State took part in several preparatory on-site SafePort Facts Recognizing the concerns of port security in the United States in the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) has been working with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard to mitigate risks to U.S. ports and population centers. MarAd, utilizing Auxiliary Crane Ship (T-ACS) vessels in its Ready Reserve Fleet, developed the SafePort concept. Under this project, containerships of greater that 8,000 TEU’s can have a “container of interest” offloaded from any point on the ship at a remote location. The objectives of SafePort include physically approaching, mooring alongside, and off-loading a designated container of interest from a non-self-sustaining containership away from a developed port facility and population center. sessions in which the Gem State, another of MarAd’s auxiliary crane ships manned by SIU members, was involved. Under the exercise scenario, the Keystone State was tasked with maneuvering alongside the Consumer (and on two occasions the Lihue) which was at secure anchorage in a designated area of San Francisco bay. Once in position, the Keystone State was further tasked with the safe removal of certain containers. The containers in question previously had been placed in very close proximity to a test container by a U.S. Aboard the Keystone State are Coast Guard Vessel Boarding U.S. Navy Reservist Chad Fon- Team (also known as Sea dren and AB DeIsrael Williams. Marshals). To make the scenario more realistic, Sea Marshals labeled the test container as a “suspicious” box. The simulation continued with members of the U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Strike Team boarding the Horizon vessel, using complete access on all sides of the suspect container to perform addiSIU Assistant VP West Coast Nick Celona, tional safety surveys and left, U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Paul “Goose” then discharging it to a Godsen and Pacific Gulf Marine Chief Executive Officer Todd Johnson watch por- small LASH barge where tions of the SafePort exercise from aboard it was carried away without incident. the Keystone State. Thanks to the excellent training of the Seafarers, their counterparts from the USCG and all others involved, the exercise was a complete success. All containers safely were removed from the Consumer without a hitch. The suspicious box, which remained undisturbed during the removal of containers, successfully was examined and removed by members of the strike team. “The SIU members who crewed the vessels taking part in the maneuvers performed in a truly outstanding fashion,” said SIU Assistant Vice President West Coast Nick Celona. “Their superb training came to the forefront in all of their actions…. Their overall professionalism reflects tremendous credit upon themselves and the SIU.” More than 80 observers from varied government agencies including MarAd, the U.S. Military Sealift Command, U.S. Transportation Command, U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Energy and U.S. Customs and Border Protection viewed this successful exercise. Officials from Pacific Gulf Marine as well as Horizon Lines expressed pride both in the crews and the roles played respectively by the vessels they managed. “Participating in this drill allowed Horizon Lines as a primary U.S.flag containership operator to support and actively share in U.S. port security development,” said John Keenan, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Horizon Lines. “This exercise further demonstrates Horizon Lines’ unwavering commitment to securing not only our customers’ cargo, but also reaffirms our partnership with these government agencies in protecting our borders.” Pacific Gulf Marine CEO Todd B. Johnson, in a letter to SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, said in part, “This business has its share of ups and downs. It also has moments which make it all worthwhile. For me, those times are usually related to extraordinary performances of a team under pressure; such was the case during the ‘Operation Safeport’ exercise…. Our customer, the U.S. Maritime Administration, was extremely pleased with the performance of One of the Keystone State’s massive cranes lowers the “suspicious box” onto a waiting LASH barge. After the box has been safely lowered onto the barge and secured, it will be carried away from the area for disposal. those crew members who demonstrated, once again, the value of maintaining an active and welltrained workforce that serve aboard Ready Reserve Force vessels. “To all aboard the Keystone State, please extend our sincere thanks for a job s well done,” Johnson concluded. Once enough normal containers have safely been removed from around the “suspicious box” aboard the Consumer, crew members secure it and start relocation operations. The SIU crew of the Gem State, above, put their union brothers from the Keystone State through the paces during training sessions just prior to the start of Operation SafePort. Pictured, from left to right, are Chief Mate Marley, AB Don Rico, AB Jefferson Hendricks, Third Mate Kevin, AB Ritche Acuman, AB Artis Williams, AB Ray Shinpoch and AB Norman Tourtellot. Some of the participants in the SafePort exercise donned special gear for portions of the maneuvers. From left to right are AB Luis Valerio, Second Mate Garrett Winner, AB Rex Simbre, Third Mate Mike Rawlins and Third Mate Ryan Brune. The target container is lifted from aboard the Consumer during Operation SafePort. The Keystone State, right, maneuvers alongside the Consumer to begin off-loading its containers. The Gem State crew also consisted of Bosun John Young, left, and GUDE Fadhl Said. August 2005 The Horizon Consumer, left, awaits the arrival of the crane ship Keystone State, right foreground, to commence container offloading as part of the SafePort exercise. Seafarers LOG 7 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/15/2005 1:33 AM Page 8 GRAND CANYON STATE — From the looks of this photo, the Grand Canyon State was hitting some pretty heavy seas on a recent voyage as the waves swept over the main deck and up to the crane. At 668.6 feet, the vessel is one of 10 crane ships in the Military Sealift Command’s fleet. CAPE DUCATO — Chief Steward Lonnie W. Jones Sr. (center) and his galley gang members on the Cape Ducato were highly praised by military security teams during “Operation Vigilant Mariner.” A letter of appreciation from the leading petty officer was received by the steward department that read, “The entire team appreciated your outstanding service and patience while in transit from Rota, Spain to Souda Bay, Crete. The quality and quantity of the meals made available to us will always weigh heavily around our waistlines. Thank you very much for your efforts and may you continue to serve up [great] meals. Fair winds and following seas on all of your fuure deployments. God bless.” The steward department supported 12 security personnel for a total of 30 days. From the left are GSU Leopoldo Fernandez, GSU Julian Nunez, Chief Steward Lonnie Jones Sr., Chief Cook Basil Waldron and Assistant Cook Mendez Amador. Sailing with the ITB BALTIMORE — This photo was snapped aboard the ITB Baltimore at Harbor Island in Seattle, Wash. The Seafarers pictured are AB Jeremy Thigpen, Pumpman Geoffrey James, Chief Steward Tommy “T-Man” Belvin, DEU Lauro Mangahas, Recertified Bosun Jeff Kess, ACU Elsayed Amasha and AB Sam Silas. SIU ALASKAN FRONTIER — A shipboard meeting was held May 23 aboard the Alaskan Frontier, which was at anchor in Port Angeles, Wash. while waiting to enter the shipyard in Vancouver. Above (from left) are DEU Henry Gonzalez, DEU Yehia Nasser and QMED Ron Celious. Directly below are Tacoma Patrolman Robert Duncan and Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro. In the bottom photo is Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell (standing) with QMED Sylvester Crawford Jr., Chief Cook J.D. Reyes, AB Mike Bedney, AB Rafael Concepcion, AB Manuel Espinoza and Chief Steward Greg Lynch. MARITIME DAY IN PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS — The Port Arthur International Seafarer’s Center and the Apostleship of the Sea - Diocese of Beaumont, gathered on May 20 to observe the 18th annual Maritime Memorial Service. Recognition was given to those working in the maritime industry with special attention given to the many fishermen who work in the Port Arthur and Sabine Pass area. In addition, prayers were said for the crew members and families of the Rene I, a crew boat that collided with the tanker Genmar Strength in the Port Arthur Ship Channel. The captain and three crew members of the Rene I died as a result of the collision last April. Following the service at the Seamen’s Memorial Sundial, built after the loss of the tanker Oklahoma (which was crewed by NMU members), a color guard led the participants to the sea wall, where a wreath was placed in the water by the local Sea Scout Ship. Below, Sea Scouts aboard a small motor vessel salute as the memorial wreath is tossed. Above (both photos), Fr. Sinclair Oubre addresses the crowd. Fr. Oubre is president of the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America as well as an active SIU member. 8 Seafarers LOG August 2005 �28818_p1,9,10,11,13.qxd 7/18/2005 2:48 PM Page 9 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September & October 2005 Membership Meetings JUNE 16 — JULY 11, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 1 0 6 1 7 17 24 0 14 8 30 11 3 1 9 17 1 26 17 1 2 8 5 7 19 24 0 9 12 12 12 2 16 5 9 4 25 9 1 0 1 2 0 13 15 1 3 2 8 5 1 1 1 3 0 11 10 1 0 5 1 6 22 19 0 7 13 22 8 3 1 4 8 1 22 25 1 4 7 3 2 12 27 0 10 14 11 11 1 13 7 9 2 21 19 0 0 1 1 1 10 8 1 1 6 4 4 2 1 1 0 0 6 7 0 0 0 0 0 12 16 0 5 5 7 2 1 1 6 11 1 17 10 2 0 10 2 9 47 64 0 18 23 59 24 5 1 19 33 0 60 36 4 6 10 9 13 35 58 1 13 22 46 26 8 14 10 18 7 50 30 2 1 1 2 1 28 32 0 8 18 32 11 2 0 1 9 3 25 29 193 181 78 168 174 54 94 412 380 205 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 0 0 5 0 2 7 20 0 2 9 9 4 1 0 2 13 2 13 10 1 1 2 1 6 8 12 0 4 2 3 12 2 3 3 8 1 15 9 1 0 0 2 1 4 7 0 1 3 4 6 0 0 1 2 0 3 5 0 0 4 1 2 8 8 0 4 8 5 3 1 1 0 3 2 12 4 0 3 5 0 3 8 16 0 5 11 4 6 0 0 3 2 0 9 11 0 2 0 0 2 2 6 0 1 3 5 6 1 0 1 0 0 4 4 0 0 1 0 0 5 6 0 2 4 2 7 0 0 2 4 0 6 4 0 0 5 1 9 21 44 0 6 15 18 8 6 1 7 19 1 17 16 1 0 2 4 9 17 39 0 3 5 11 20 7 5 6 10 7 26 17 1 2 0 2 1 10 14 0 3 5 9 6 2 2 0 6 1 5 15 Totals 99 93 40 66 86 37 43 194 189 84 1 0 1 0 7 10 12 0 2 12 19 3 2 2 1 15 1 14 19 2 0 2 2 5 1 10 0 2 2 3 14 0 3 1 3 0 8 8 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 3 0 3 5 0 0 2 1 6 11 8 0 2 6 13 3 0 0 1 9 0 8 12 0 0 0 2 3 1 12 0 2 1 4 10 1 1 0 3 0 6 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 2 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 3 7 7 0 2 1 6 1 0 1 3 6 0 7 9 1 0 4 0 21 24 37 0 7 16 35 11 4 7 1 42 2 31 38 2 0 3 5 9 5 25 0 6 7 6 19 2 4 4 6 0 14 14 2 0 0 1 0 2 8 0 0 4 6 4 0 1 1 2 2 4 5 121 66 19 82 50 11 54 281 131 42 Port Boston.....................Friday: September 9, October 7 Duluth .....................Wednesday: September 14, October 12 Guam ......................Thursday: September 22, October 20 Honolulu .................Friday: September 16, October 14 Houston ..................Monday: September 12, October 10 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 New York................Tuesday: September 6, October 4 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: September 7, October 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: September 15, October 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: September 15, October 13 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 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Correction In the June issue of the Seafarers LOG, Unlicensed Apprentice Abebe Reda’s name was misspelled. The LOG regrets the error. Personals ARMANDO PERRY Please contact Armando Perry Bryant Jr. He is currently stationed in Germany and can be reached by calling 011 49 966 2702 209. Remembering Paul Hall August 20, 1914 - June 22, 1980 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington 0 0 0 1 4 3 2 0 1 3 2 0 0 0 0 5 0 7 3 2 0 2 2 9 13 10 0 5 4 20 10 2 17 0 5 0 14 5 0 3 1 0 5 13 14 0 0 4 16 14 0 17 1 4 3 20 7 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 1 1 1 2 1 3 16 8 0 2 4 13 9 0 2 1 4 0 9 5 0 2 1 0 2 9 6 0 0 4 6 10 0 13 1 5 0 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 11 7 4 0 1 4 7 0 0 0 1 6 0 12 2 2 1 2 3 19 30 27 0 14 11 61 13 2 23 3 17 0 32 13 3 12 3 4 10 34 49 1 2 15 61 22 1 18 1 10 4 35 20 31 120 122 15 81 65 0 57 273 305 444 460 259 331 391 167 191 944 973 636 Totals Totals All Departments Baltimore ................Thursday: September 8, October 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Algonac ..................Friday: September 9, October 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: September 8, October 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Piney Point .............Tuesday: September 6* ................................Monday: October 3 .................................(*change created by Labor Day holiday) *“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. August 2005 Seafarers LOG 9 �28818_p1,9,10,11,13.qxd 7/18/2005 9:10 PM Page 10 The MSC oiler USNS Tippecanoe co a replenishment at sea with the n powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz The Seafarers-crewed Cape Trinity recently returned to the U.S. after a deployment to the Middle East that lasted nearly five months. The Cpl. Louis Hague Jr. is part of MSC’s prepositioning fleet. The American flag flies from the hospital ship USNS Mercy, crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division. The USNS Red Cloud offloads combat equipment. SIU-crewed ships including the USNS Seay have supported U.S. troops throughout Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. 10 Seafarers LOG August 2005 �28818_p1,9,10,11,13.qxd 7/14/2005 8:23 PM Page 11 The USNS Supply conducts a refueling and vertical replenishment at sea with the guided missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf in the Atlantic Ocean. noe conducts the nuclearNimitz. SIU Still Delivers for U.S. Troops U.S.-Flag Sealift Boosts National, Economic Security SIU members continue supporting U.S. troops deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, transporting key materiel aboard U.S.-flag vessels. As this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press in mid-July, SIU members were sailing aboard approximately 20 ships mobilized for Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. While that number is far smaller than the 100-plus vessels activated during OIF’s peak in 2003, it still signifies America’s ongoing reliance on U.S. crews and U.S. ships to help carry out our nation’s missions around the world. Those missions often include providing humanitarian aid following natural disasters, recently exemplified by members of the union’s Government Services Division aboard the hospital ship USNS Mercy. The Mercy spent five months assisting victims of the tsunami in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Other SIU-crewed ships earlier in the year completed shorter operations in the relief effort. It is perhaps a never-ending mystery within the industry that the U.S. Merchant Marine, while a vital part of America’s national and economic security since the country’s very beginnings, generally is lightly publicized beyond traditional maritime circles. Nevertheless, prominent American leaders past and present strongly have recognized the value of the U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag fleet. In his National Maritime Day proclamation this year, President Bush noted, “America’s merchant mariners make our Nation more secure and our economy stronger. Throughout our history, they have promoted commerce and protected our freedom…. Merchant mariners have also served in every conflict in our Nation’s history. The U.S. Merchant Marine helps provide our Nation’s Armed Forces with crucial supplies and equipment. These brave men and women demonstrate courage, love of country, and devotion to duty….” Other officials including U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta; U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine Chao; U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow; Gen. Richard Myers, U.S. Air Force, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Gen. John Handy, U.S. Air Force, commander of the United States Transportation Command; and Vice Adm. David Brewer, U.S. Navy, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), have been equally vigorous in describing the U.S. Merchant Marine’s importance and reliability. SIU members today continue earning such trust and accolades by answering the call to duty any time, anywhere. For instance, during the all-out combat phase of OIF, more than 2,000 Seafarers sailed in support of our troops. Some came under enemy fire while in port in Kuwait. Together, they executed what has been described by top government and military leaders as the most efficient sealift operation in history. And they did so after willingly taking inoculations for anthrax and smallpox, as required by the Department of Defense. The efficiency of the sealift operation is notable in part because 95 percent of the war fighter’s gear moves by sea, and U.S.-flag ships are at the core of the effort. COUNTER-CLOCKWISE FROM IMMEDIATE LEFT: SIU members serving aboard the USNS Yano last month include AB Gerry Costello, QMED Taylor Clear, Bosun Michael Proveaux, Recertified Steward Florencia Farquhar, Chief Cook John Cater and Storekeeper Joe Tegiacchi. August 2005 Seafarers LOG 11 �28818_p2,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/19/2005 2:46 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 12 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JUNE 16 — JULY 11, 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 12 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 6 8 2 5 9 1 1 3 35 1 0 2 0 2 1 0 1 37 0 0 5 0 2 2 2 2 13 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 2 10 5 4 12 0 1 3 37 1 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 7 0 1 5 0 1 2 2 3 14 3 3 1 1 4 0 1 2 15 9 38 9 14 29 4 1 11 115 3 3 7 7 12 1 0 7 40 0 9 4 19 2 0 5 0 39 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 4 12 13 5 8 15 2 2 3 60 0 4 9 1 8 1 0 1 24 0 5 5 9 0 1 1 0 21 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 10 10 9 12 1 1 5 55 1 9 3 0 15 0 0 2 30 0 59 0 11 0 1 2 1 20 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 8 2 0 0 6 1 0 3 20 0 1 3 0 3 1 0 0 8 0 0 4 1 4 0 0 1 10 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 3 1 1 2 0 0 2 11 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 5 1 4 0 0 1 11 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 3 3 3 4 1 0 0 3 17 4 2 2 0 3 0 0 0 11 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 Port 2 2 2 0 3 2 0 1 12 3 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 7 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 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 72 26 25 60 18 28 20 230 94 80 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by former SIU member Harold Reinstein, 78, of Dingmans Ferry, Penn. It was taken in Port Elizabeth, South Africa circa 1953. Harold “the Duke” Reinstein is on the far left. “The other three are Lenny, Dudley and Harry,” he wrote in a note accompanying the picture. “We were aboard one of the Robin ships, probably the Lockley. I’ve been on about four Robin ships and enjoyed sailing to South Africa.” Reinstein, who joined the SIU in New York in 1951 and worked in the engine department, had previously sailed with the U.S. Navy and then aboard the SS Oliver Wolcott with the Armed Guard during World War II. He came ashore in 1955. 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. August 2005 �28818_p1,9,10,13.qxd 7/14/2005 7:56 PM Page 13 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 MELVIN HITE, 78, joined the Seafarers in 1990 in New York. Brother Hite first worked on the USNS Chauvenet. The steward department member attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in 1996 and 1998. Brother Hite most recently shipped aboard U.S. Ship Management’s Quality. Born in Blackstone, Va., he now resides in Orange, N.J. ALEJANDRO MARTINEZ, 65, hails from Honduras. Brother Martinez became an SIU member in 1976. His first ship was a Hudson Waterways vessel, where he worked in the engine department. Brother Martinez was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. His last trip to sea was aboard the Overseas Harriette. Brother Martinez makes his home in Houston. ALBERT MOORE, 64, began his seafaring career in 1960 in New York, initially shipping on the Arizpa. Brother Moore, who was born in Hazleton, Pa., was a member of the deck department. He upgraded his skills in 2000 and 2004 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Before retiring, Brother Moore sailed aboard the Explorer. He calls Arizona home. W. D. RANDLE, 69, initially donned the SIU colors in 1965 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Randle is a native of Louisiana and sailed as a member of the steward department. His first ship was the Santa Maria; his last was the Horizon Spirit. Brother Randle is a resident of Hercules, Calif. JOHN SAUFFERER, 64, embarked on his seafaring career in 1961 in New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Saufferer was born in Michigan. A member of the deck department, he first sailed on Waterman Steamship’s Madaket. Brother Saufferer’s most recent voyage was aboard the Horizon Kodiak. He resides in Crystal Springs, Miss. EFRAIN SCOTT, 71, was born in Texas. Brother Scott joined the union in 1996 in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. In 2000, he attended classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Scott’s first ship was Dyn Marine’s Little Hales. The Texas-born mariner shipped in the steward department. Brother Scott’s last voyage August 2005 was aboard the USNS Altair. He makes his home in Virginia Beach, Va. WILLIAM STONE, 58, joined the SIU in 1969 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Stone attended the Paul Hall Center numerous times throughout his seafaring career to upgrade his skills. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, his first ship was the Andrew Jackson. Brother Stone, who was born in Quincy, Mass., now lives in Grants Pass, Ore. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Patriot. JAMES WILLEY, 65, became a Seafarer in 1969, joining in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Willey was first employed with Virginia Pilot Corporation. He shipped as a member of the steward department in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Willey completed his steward recertification in 2002 at the Piney Point training center. His most recent voyage was on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Willey calls Pendleton, Ore. home. VASCO WORRELL, 66, is a native of Barbados. Brother Worrell started his career with the SIU in 1968 in New York. The engine department member initially sailed aboard the Arizpa. Prior to retiring, Brother Worrell went to sea on the SeaLand Atlantic. He is a resident of Houston, Texas. INLAND RICHARD CONNOR, 57, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1996 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Connor shipped in the deck department, primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Liner Services. He was born in Pennsylvania, which also is where he continues to live. JOSEPH NELSON, 62, first donned the SIU colors in 1978 in Puerto Rico. Boatman Nelson was born in Wisconsin and worked as a member of the engine department. During his seafaring career, he was employed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. Boatman Nelson resides in San Juan, P.R. JOSEPH RAPPOLD, 66, joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va., which also is where he was born. Boatman Rappold initially sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia, working in the deck department. Boatman Rappold’s last trip to sea was aboard a Northeast Towing vessel. He settled in his native state. ROBERT SINCLAIR, 63, began his seafaring career in 1994 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in South Carolina, Boatman Sinclair shipped in the engine department. He sailed primarily aboard McAllister Towing of Virginia vessels. Boatman Sinclair calls Hampton, Va. home. Throughout his seafaring career, Brother Roussin worked aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Company, including the Ben Calvin and the Buffalo. He upgraded his skills in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center. Born in Detroit, Mich., Brother Roussin now resides in Lorain, Ohio. MOHAMED YAHYA, 66, became a Seafarer in 1989 in the port of Algonac, Mich. Brother Yahya was born in Yemen and worked in the deck department. His first vessel was the Nicolet; his last was the Sam Laud, both operated by American Steamship Company. Brother Yahya makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN SALVATORE RANDAZZA JR., 63, joined the union in 1980. Boatman Randazza first sailed with the Gloucester Fishermen. He last shipped on the Debbie Rose. Boatman Randazza makes his home in Gloucester, Mass. GREAT LAKES JOHN ATKINSON, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1984 in Algonac, Mich. Brother Atkinson first shipped with Great Lakes Associates as a member of the deck department. A native of Canada, Brother Atkinson most recently sailed aboard the John Boland. He is a Port Huron, Mich. resident. RICHARD ROUSSIN, 51, began shipping with the union in 1972 in Alpena, Mich. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1940 The constitution adopted in 1939 provided for the establishment of two separate districts: the Atlantic District and the Gulf District, with two separate headquarters, one in New York and one in New Orleans, and two separate bookkeeping and financial systems. The membership of the two districts, in a 30-day referendum vote, voted overwhelmingly to amalgamate the two districts. The amalgamation resolution which was adopted in August 1940 provides that the headquarters of the Atlantic and Gulf District will be in Washington, D.C. until the next election, and that all of the financial and bookkeeping work shall be done in that office. Melanie Fair after one day of picketing August 3, when the tug’s captain-owner signed an agreement with the union. The tug entered the capes at Norfolk Aug. 2 to tow the hulk of the tanker African Queen across the Atlantic to a shipyard in Antwerp, Belgium. However, while the tug was in Quebec, the captain fired its SIU Canadian District crew, hired a non-union crew in Toronto and flew it to Quebec to man the oceangoing tug. The SIU Canadian District notified the Norfolk SIU hall of the situation. When the Melanie Fair limped into Norfolk—she had engine room woes on the way—she was met with a picket launch. Round-theclock picketing of the tug in stream prevented Norfolk harbor tugs from towing the African Queen to the Canadian tug. As a result, the tug owner signed an agreement shortly after noon August 3 and sailed with the African Queen in tow before dark. This Month In SIU History 1950 The modern, 18,000-ton SS Olympic Games, first tanker to be switched to American registry since the outbreak of the Korean War, sailed out of Baltimore last week manned by a SIU crew. Prior to the switch the Olympic Games had been flying the Honduran flag under charter to the SoconyVacuum Oil Company of New York and was handled by a Greek crew. Built at the Bethlehem Steel shipyard in Baltimore in 1948 for the Olympic Oil Lines of Panama, the streamlined tanker is now being operated by the US Petroleum Carriers, an SIU-contracted company. 1960 SIU pickets were lifted from the Canadian tug 1970 The Overseas Alaska, a 62,000 deadweight-ton tanker, launched at Bethlehem Steel Corporation’s Sparrows Point shipyard, is another of the SIU’s contracted vessels. Providing more jobs for the union’s members, the ship will carry oil from Alaska to ports on both coasts of the continental U.S. It is one of the largest vessels capable of navigating the Panama Canal while fully loaded…. Of interest to SIU members will be the single, fully airconditioned rooms. Seafarers LOG 13 �28818_p2,3,5,6,7,12,14.qxd 7/15/2005 4:57 AM Page 14 Final Departures DEEP SEA FLORENTINO ARUCAN Pensioner Florentino Arucan, 94, passed away Oct. 20. Brother Arucan was born in the Philippines. He joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. Brother Arucan worked the steward department and retired in 1973. He made his home in West Sacramento, Calif. was a native of Louisiana. Brother Edwards’ last ship was the Overseas Marilyn. He lived in New Orleans and began collecting stipends for his retirement in 2003. FREDERICK HARRIS Brother Francis Carruthers, 60, died Oct. 10. He began his seafaring career in 1968, initially sailing aboard the Dagama. Born in Oregon, Brother Carruthers was a member of the engine department. His last voyage was on a vessel operated by CSX Lines. Brother Carruthers lived in his native state. Pensioner Frederick Harris, 70, died Oct. 9. Brother Harris first donned the SIU colors in 1952 in the port of Baltimore, Md. He originally worked on the Bethore as a member of the engine department. Brother Harris, who was born in Maryland, last went to sea aboard the Gulf Trader. He resided in Houston and began receiving his pension in 1999. DONNA CLEMONS THOMAS HILBURN Pensioner Donna Clemons, 66, passed away Dec. 18. Sister Clemons began sailing with the Seafarers in 1988 from the port of Honolulu. The steward department member first worked on the USNS Kane. Sister Clemons was born in California but called Las Vegas, Nev. home. Her last ship was the Horizon Challenger. Sister Clemons started receiving her pension in 2003. Pensioner Thomas Hilburn, 77, passed away Aug. 27, 2004. Born in Alabama, Brother Hilburn began shipping with the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of Mobile. He worked mainly aboard vessels operated by Waterman Steamship Corp., including the Morning Light and the Robert E. Lee. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Hilburn worked in the deck department. He started receiving his retirement income in 1986 and called Silverhill, Ala. home. FRANCIS CARRUTHERS WILLIAM DEAN Pensioner William Dean, 46, died Oct. 6. Brother Dean became an SIU member in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. He first shipped aboard the Portland. Brother Dean, who was born in Missouri, sailed in the deck department. He most recently worked aboard a U.S. Ship Management vessel. Brother Dean began collecting his retirement pay in 2004. He resided in Foresthill, Calif. TED DENSMORE Pensioner Ted Densmore, 73, passed away Aug. 18, 2004. Born in Alabama, Brother Densmore joined the SIU in 1957 in New York. His first voyage was on an Alcoa Steamship vessel. Brother Densmore shipped as a member of the deck department. Before retiring in 1996, he worked on the Westward Venture. He was a resident of Shalimar, Fla. LEON DZIESINSKI Pensioner Leon Dziesinski, 65, died Sept. 25. Brother Dziesinski joined the union in 1960 after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first trip was on the Mt. Whitney, where he sailed in the engine department. Brother Dziesinski was born in Detroit and made his home in Alpena, Mich. He finished his seafaring career aboard the OMI Charger. Brother Dziesinski went on pension in 2004. HENRY EDWARDS Pensioner Henry Edwards, 55, passed away Nov. 5. He started sailing with the SIU in 1973 in New York. Brother Edwards first sailed aboard Hudson Waterways’ Pecos. The steward department member 14 Seafarers LOG During his seafaring career, Brother Riley worked in both the steward and deck departments. Prior to retiring in 1989, he shipped on the Overseas Vivian. Brother Riley was born in Virginia and settled in San Francisco. MICHAEL SCARDINA Brother Michael Scardina, 57, passed away Nov. 20. Born in Louisiana, he became a Seafarer in 1988 in New Orleans. Brother Scardina first worked with Bay Tankers, sailing as a member of the engine department. Brother Scardina last shipped aboard the Maersk Texas. He lived in Tickfaw, La. JOSEPH SLATER Brother Joseph Slater, 45, died Sept. 20. He joined the SIU in 2003 in Piney Point, Md. For the duration of his career, Brother Slater sailed on the USNS Heezen in the deck department. The New York-born mariner resided in Kenosha, Wis. JOSE TOBIO Pensioner Francis Kalai, 78, died Dec. 27. He became a member of the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Brother Kalai was born in Hawaii and worked in the steward department. He retired in 1969 and lived in California. Pensioner Jose Tobio, 71, passed away Sept. 25. Brother Tobio started his career with the Seafarers in 1976 in New York. He shipped in the deck department of both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Tobio’s first ship was a Crowley Towing and Transportation vessel. His last voyage was aboard the Motivator. Brother Tobio started receiving compensation for his retirement in 2002. He called Bayamon, P.R. home. MANUEL MILLAN JOSEPH TOUART Pensioner Manuel Millan, 68, passed away Feb. 16. Brother Millan started sailing with the SIU in 1995. He shipped primarily aboard the Florida. Brother Millan was born in New York and continued to reside there. Pensioner Joseph Touart, 89, died Oct. 12. He joined the ranks of the SIU in San Francisco. Brother Touart was a member of the deck department. His first voyage was on the Santa Mercedes. Before retiring in 1991, Brother Touart shipped aboard the Horizon Pacific. Brother Touart was born in Louisiana and worked in the deck department. He made his home in San Francisco. FRANCIS KALAI JOSEPH MISPAGEL Brother Joseph Mispagel, 48, died Aug. 19, 2004. He joined the SIU ranks in 1977 in Piney Point, Md. Born in Missouri, Brother Mispagel first sailed aboard an Alpine Steamship vessel. The U.S. Navy veteran was a member of the engine department. Brother Mispagel last sailed on the USNS Regulus. He made his home in Waukesha, Wis. PETER MURTAGH Brother Peter Murtagh, 38, passed away Aug. 9, 2004. He began his employment with the SIU in 1991 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Murtagh’s earliest trip to sea was aboard American Overseas Marine’s Lake. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Murtagh most recently shipped on the Sea-Land Pride. Born in New York, he made his home in Port Richey, Fla. HUGH RILEY Pensioner Hugh Riley, 83, died Dec. 21. Brother Riley became an SIU member in 1957, joining in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He initially sailed aboard the Louis Emery Jr. ROBERT WILES Brother Robert Wiles, 59, passed away Nov. 30. He launched his seafaring career in 1986 in the port of Houston. Brother Wiles initially sailed in the inland division aboard a Red Circle Transport vessel. Born in Kansas, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Wiles worked primarily in the deep sea division, his last vessel being the Cape Flattery. He lived in Fairhope, Ala. INLAND DAVID CHELBERG Boatman David Chelberg, 59, died Sept. 6. He joined the union in 1998. Boatman Chelberg sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation throughout his seafaring career. He was a resident of Hamilton, Mont. GERALD CRAIG Boatman Gerald Craig, 75, passed away Nov. 20. He commenced his SIU career in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Boatman Craig shipped in the deck department, sailing in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He was born in Massachusetts and retired from his seafaring career in 1985, last sailing aboard the Keystone State. Boatman Craig resided in Portsmouth, Va. DONALD EPP Pensioner Donald Epp, 69, died Aug. 19, 2004. After serving in the U.S. Army, Boatman Epp began sailing with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. The steward department member was born in Pennsylvania. He last sailed aboard a Taylor Marine Towing vessel. Boatman Epp made his home in Largo, Fla. MANNING MOORE Pensioner Manning Moore, 89, passed away Oct. 18. Boatman Moore began working as a Seafarer in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. He was born in South Carolina. Throughout his SIU career, Boatman Moore sailed aboard Maritrans Operating Company vessels. He lived in Charleston, S.C. and went on pension in 1977. RICHARD WHITE Boatman Richard White, 57, died Sept. 13. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1969, first shipping on a vessel operated by Southern Carriers Corporation. Boatman White was a member of the steward department and lived in Moon, Va. CARL WRIGHT Pensioner Carl Wright, 77, passed away Sept. 10. Boatman Wright became a Seafarer in 1944 in New York. He sailed in the engine department of both the inland and deep sea divisions. Born in Texas, Boatman Wright initially went to sea aboard the Trojan Seaman. He was last employed by G&H Towing. Boatman Wright retired in 1989 and called Santa Fe, Texas home. GREAT LAKES RICHARD DEWITTE Brother Richard Dewitte, 53, died July 13, 2004. He began his career with the union in 1995 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Dewitte worked in the deck department. The Michiganborn mariner’s first trip to sea was on the J.A.W. Iglehart. Brother Dewitte’s last ship was an OLS Transport vessel. He was a resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico. HENRY HOWARD Pensioner Henry Howard, 86, passed away Feb. 25. Brother Howard joined the SIU in 1961 in Detroit, Mich. He first sailed aboard the Mt. Evans in the steward department. Born in Virginia, Brother Howard was a U.S. Army veteran. His final ship was Erie Sand Steamship’s Consumers Power. Brother Howard began receiving his retirement compensation in 1984. He made Odessa, Fla. his home. JIMMY LERZO Pensioner Jimmy Lerzo, 78, died Dec. 16. Brother Lerzo started work- ing with the Seafarers in 1961 in Dania, Fla. He shipped mainly on vessels operated by Great Lakes Associates. A member of the engine department, Brother Lerzo was born in Kentucky and resided in Madison, W.Va. He started collecting his pension in 1991. 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. HIRAM CONNOLLY Pensioner Hiram Connolly, 79, passed away April 14. Brother Connolly joined the NMU in 1947, initially sailing from the port of Mobile, Ala. The engine department member was born in Alabama. Prior to retiring in 1967, Brother Connolly shipped with Grace Line Company. LEO CZERNY Pensioner Leo Czerny, 83, died April 29. Brother Czerny became an NMU member in 1947, first sailing from Charleston, S.C. He was born in Poland and began receiving his retirement pay in 1967. DENNIS DOLAN Pensioner Dennis Dolan, 90, passed away May 8. Born in England, Brother Dolan started his seafaring career in 1954 in New York. He first shipped aboard the America as a member of the steward department. Brother Dolan’s last voyage was on the American Lancer. He retired in 1983. JOSEPH MANSUETO Pensioner Joseph Mansueto, 87, died April 2. Brother Mansueto first donned the NMU colors in 1946. He initially sailed from the port of Baltimore aboard the Antelope Hills. Brother Mansueto was born in Greenwich, Conn. and worked in the engine department. He went on pension in 1982. FERNANDO RIVERA Pensioner Fernando Rivera, 91, passed away April 20. He began his employment with the union in 1941, first shipping on the Edmund B. Alexander from the port of New York. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Rivera was a member of the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1966. August 2005 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/18/2005 3:01 PM Page 15 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. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), May 26—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary Gregory N. Williams, Educational Director Juanito Dansalan, Deck Delegate Lorenzo Riddick, Engine Delegate Kenji Hoffman, Steward Delegate Evelyn Tayag. Chairman led discussion on upcoming MPS3 change of command and informed crew about large amount of painting to take place aboard ship. He reminded everyone to separate plastic items from regular trash. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of upgrading courses available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $491 in ship’s fund. Deck delegate thanked engine and steward departments for help and support during trip. Engine delegate expressed gratitude to steward department for great cookout. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Guam. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Tyco), May 26—Chairman Joseph J. Olson, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Deck Delegate David L. Parks, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Chairman reported ship to depart Portland, Ore. May 31. Treasurer stated $4,000 in ship’s fund. Crew would like to purchase exercise equipment for gym. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were asked to remove all trash before ship leaves dock. Seafarers requested job description of GVA and possibility of internet access. Clarification requested on ship’s budget. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), May 22— New Mooring Line Aboard the USNS Pomeroy are Bosun Adrian Jones (left) and AB Rosita Livermon. Between them is an example of Livermon’s marlinspike seamanship: chafing gear on one of the vessel’s mooring lines. August 2005 Chairman Gerry A. Gianan, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Kevin L. Cooper, Steward Delegate Thomas E. Kleine. Bosun announced payoff May 24 prior to arrival in Oakland, Calif. He informed crew that vessel would be docking a little late and advised them to check sailing board for departure time. He thanked deck department for good job and safe trip. Secretary reminded crew members to take picture IDs with them when leaving vessel in order to return to terminal. Educational director urged all mariners to read Seafarers LOG to stay current on issues that affect maritime industry. He also recommended they enhance their skills at school in Piney Point and keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Written clarification requested regarding rest period aboard ship. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles, Calif; Honolulu. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), May 27—Chairman Theodore E. Doi, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Keith L. Jordan Sr., Engine Delegate Azeem A. Modak, Steward Delegate Nasser H. Ahmed. Chairman announced Coast Guard drill in Oakland, Calif. He explained benefits of contributing to SPAD. He also asked crew members to check in with customs and immigration while in port. Secretary encouraged mariners to take advantage of courses offered at Piney Point and requested they help keep ship clean. Educational director led discussion on recent health plan changes and reminded crew not to forget to keep documents up to date. Treasurer reported $220 in ship’s fund and $209 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read President’s report from May Seafarers LOG; crew gave vote of thanks to President Sacco and his staff for all they do for the union. Everyone thanked unlicensed apprentices Adrian Taylor and David Anderson for great job during this trip and would like them to get more hands-on training. Everyone was asked to keep noise down while watchstander is resting. Requests made for water cooler and filter installed in crew lounge. Captain thanked all departments for good job on sanitary inspection. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland; Hawaii; Guam. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), May 25—Chairman Ralph W. Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Educational Director Roger M. Wasserman, Engine Delegate Thomas V. Hastings. Chairman announced May 28 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He thanked everyone for following safety procedures and reminded them to be on board one hour before sailing time. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center which, in turn, could result in a better paying jobs. He also reminded them to check document expiration dates and return movies when finished watching them. Treasurer stated $245 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding medical benefits for mariners living out of country. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), May 8—Chairman Larry E. Watson, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Joseph J. Egan, Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate Mohamed M. Abdulla, Steward Delegate Saeed B. Saeed. Bosun thanked crew for fixing up ship after dry dock period and stated emergency shipping rules were still in effect. He informed crew that reliefs might be harder to get and reminded them they need to stay aboard until properly relieved. Educational director advised Seafarers to save pay vouchers to send when applying for vacation checks. He urged crew to use extra caution while working, as time changes can cause fatigue. He also stated zcards and passports take a while to process, so plan ahead. Treasurer stated $230 in crew fund. Beef reported in deck department. No disputed OT reported. Members requested company have technician come aboard to fix TV and radio antennas as well as check wires connecting to cabins. Crew reported TV and radio reception has been poor for more than a year, but since there is not a radio operator aboard, it has not beeen fixed. They also inquired about the possibility of getting satellite TV and radio, since the price has gone down so much. Vote of thanks was given to steward department for great job on barbecue; it was thoroughly enjoyed. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. JEAN ANNE (Interocean Ugland Management), May 15—Chairman Dan Davenport, Secretary Sam Sinclair, Educational Director Tony Steferi, Deck Delegate Bill Cooley, Engine Delegate Joseph W. Thomas, Steward Delegate Ingra L. Maddox. Chairman reminded crew members of need to report to the union hall to register. He expressed gratitude to crew for job well done in shipyard and for smooth maiden voyage to Hawaii. Steward delegate gave special thanks to Chief Cook Maddox, stating she is a joy to work with. Next port: San Diego, Calif. USNS RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships), May 10—Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Gerald Watkins, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Kyle W. Bailey, Engine Delegate Jose J. Irigoyen, Steward Delegate Thomas K. Gingerich. Chairman announced payoff May 20 upon arrival in San Francisco and stated there would be room sanitary inspections before docking. Bosun thanked crew for all the work done during the fifty-day trip. Educational director advised mariners to enhance seafaring abilities at Paul Hall Center and make sure all documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding improving vacation and medical benefits. Bosun asked everyone to keep noise to a minimum in passageways due to dif- ferent sleeping hours for watchstanders and day workers. No sleeveless shirts or open-toed shoes allowed in mess hall during meal hours. Thanks given to steward department for excellent meals. Next ports: San Francisco, Long Beach and San Diego, Calif. BLUE RIDGE (Intrepid), June 1—Chairman Eugene Kyzar, Secretary Eugene W. Von Flotow, Educational Director Kenneth Baker, Deck Delegate Ronel D. Guerzon, Engine Delegate Romel Reyes, Steward Delegate Ambrose Gabriel Jr. Chairman reported medical benefit changes go into effect July 1. Educational director advised members to continue their education at the Seafarers-affiliated school and never stop learning. Captain to and stated steward department was doing a great job with meal preparation. He requested clarification on number of days needed for time off. Educational director reminded crew to be careful during cargo operations. “Be informed, be safe.” Treasurer reported $500 in ship’s fund, which will be used to purchase new DVD player for crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers discussed pension plan and possible improvements in future agreements. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif.; Yokohama and Kobe, Japan. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), June 5—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Franchesca D. Rose, Educational Director Dencio A. Cayan, Deck Delegate Ben A. Octavano, Burns Harbor Is Reading for Boarding Second Cook Jeff VanSlambrouck is ready to board the Burns Harbor for the first time. The SIU welcomed new shipboard jobs in June when SIUcontracted American Steamship Company added the Burns Harbor, a 1,000-foot selfunloading vessel, to its fleet. purchase laptop computer and wireless connection so crew can have access to e-mail. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested copies of new contract. CAPE JACOB (American Overseas Marine), June 7— Chairman Robert W. Johnson, Secretary Jane Altieri, Educational Director Richard A. Sargent, Deck Delegate Terrence X. Carmody, Engine Delegate Jesse H. Dunning, Steward Delegate Mohammed Munassar. Chairman led discussion regarding future cargo operations and safety standards. Day gangway watch to wash down one house deck per watch to remove stack soot and maintain safety and cleanliness. Secretary stated slop chest policy has changed; purchases now on charge basis. Educational director advised crew to take full advantage of upgrading and vacation opportunities at Piney Point facility. Treasurer stated $373 in ship’s fund. He reminded members they can purchase books and/or movies for ship and get reimbursed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Due to use of word “vacation” in applications for unemployment benefits, some difficulties have arisen. For this reason, crew members would like letter sent out explaining background of vacation pay for use when applying for aforementioned benefits. Vote of thanks to steward department and Chief Steward Altieri for good food variety and fresh produce. Next port: Sasebo, Japan. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), June 5—Chairman Joel G. Miller, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Howard H. Hendra. Chairman reported an all-around smooth trip Engine Delegate Cecilio A. Banga, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia. Chairman announced arrival at Tacoma dock and suggested that crew members check expiration dates of seafaring documents. He noted that some renewals take at least several weeks to process, so allow plenty of time. Secretary informed crew of sanitary room inspection June 8 and discussed medical benefit information received from Tacoma hall. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Repairs needed for galley drain either by deck or engine department. Thanks given to all departments for working efficiently during trip. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Alaska Tanker), June 9—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Sean O’Malley, Educational Director Clyde Smith, Deck Delegate Jamie D. Callejas, Engine Delegate Romeo B. Ferrer, Steward Delegate Randy Proctor. Chairman discussed shipboard smoking policy and SIU dress code guidelines that need to be followed in mess hall and on deck. He spoke of room cleanliness certification sheets that are required at sign off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members expressed concerns over recent health benefit changes. They hope next contract negotiations provide strong wage increase to offset some of the added medical expenses. Suggestion made to reinstitute penalty meal hours in next agreement. Crew recognized steward department for excellent cuisine. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska; Cherry Point, Wash.; Martinez, Calif. Seafarers LOG 15 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/15/2005 9:24 AM Page 16 Honoring WWII Mariners A memorial on the banks of the Delaware River for the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans and U.S. Navy Armed Guard Veterans who served on the merchant ships and manned the guns during World War II was dedicated on June 11 near the battleship New Jersey, in the historic area of the Camden, N.J. waterfront. The memorial is pictured at left, courtesy of retired mariner Charles Mardigian, who spearheaded the three-year project. The large bronze propeller (from an old U.S. Navy ship) weighs about 11 tons and serves as the focal point. Landscaping, six flag poles, eight benches for seating and a brick promenade also are in place. An anchor chain is expected to be installed along the flag poles. ✔ DO BUY Dress Well - Dress Union HERE ARE SOME HOT SOURCES FOR STYLISH UNION MADE FASHIONS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. SEVERAL OF THESE SUPPLIERS MAY ALSO STOCK AND SELL NON-UNION PRODUCTS. MAKE SURE YOU SPECIFY UNION-MADE. Union Jean & Apparel—featuring Unionline casual wear, men’s and ladies denims, fleece, Henley t-shirts and jerseys, polo and golf shirts, and Oxford style dress shirts. Buy online: www.unionjeancompany.com, or call: 877-692-8009. Justice Clothing—Featuring B&C Fashions, Forsyth, Snap ‘N’ Wear and King Louie. Online: www.justiceclothing.com, or call 888-661-0620. No Sweat—Men’s and women’s fashion and casual wear, hats and socks and everything in between. Outerwear, tees, kids and petite sizes. Online: www.nosweatapparel.com, (includes a list of retailers in 19 states). Union House—Sells only made-in-USA and union-made products. 100% union shop specializing in customers seeking union products. Features King Louie and Unionline products. Phone 877-4627710. Street Address: 26796 Felton Ave, Wyoming, MI 55092. Cape Shoe Co.—Oxfords, 6” and 8” boots, Wellington’s and Women’s boots. Online: www.capeshoe.com. Phone: 800242-8335. Street Address: PO Box 99, Cape Girardeau, MO 63702. New Era Cap Co.—Sports caps. Online: neweracap.com. Phone: 716-685-5015. Platinum Sportswear—T-shirts, sweats, golf shirts, night shirts, tank tops and gym shorts. Online: www.Platinumsportswear.net. Phone: 800-241-9483/ 770263-9526/ Fax: 770-263-9598. e-mail: info@platinumsportswear. net. Alden of New England—Shoes. Online: www.aldenshoe.com. Phone 508-9473926. E-mail: general@aldenshoe.com. Street Address: 1 Taunton St., Middleborough, MA 02346. Weinbrenner USA—Work and uniform shoes and boots. Online: www.weinbrennerusa. com. Phone: 800-826-0002. Carhartt—Heavy duty work wear, casual and sports wear, shoes and boots for work or sport. Available at most retail stores. Online: www.carhartt.com. Phone: 800-833-3118. B&C Fashions—Men’s and women’s clothing. Online: www.bcfashions.com. Phone: 718-539-3805. Brooks Brothers—Men’s, women’s and boys’ fashions. Online: www.brooksbrothers. com. 100 Phoenix Ave, Enfield, CT. Hartmarx—Men’s and women’s fashions—formal, business and casual. Online: www.hartmarx.com. Street Address: 101 No. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606. Alperin Inc.—Fine trousers for men and boys, casual and uniforms for girls and boys. Phone: 570-457-0500. Phillips-Van Heusen Corp.—Men’s and women’s fashions. Online: www.pvh.com. Phone: 800-524-4458. Street Address: 605 W. Roy Parker Rd, Ozark, AL 36369. Protexall—Uniforms, work and casual clothing. Online: protexallinc.com. Phone: 800-334-8939. Street Address: 77 So. Henderson, Galesburg, IL 61401. X-treme Design USA—Hi visibility vests, contract producer of uniforms and outdoor gear. Online: www.xtremedesignusa.com. Phone: 218-254-5721. Street Address: 316 W. Lake St., Chisolm, MN 55719. William Fioravanti Inc.—Custom tailored men’s suits by UNITE HERE tailors. Online: www.williamfioravanti.com. Phone: 212-355-1540. e-mail: raqfior@aol.com. Street Address: 45 West 57th St., New York, NY 10019. Reed Sportswear Manufacturing— Manufactures and wholesales top quality leather coats, jackets and pants for men and women. Online: www.reedsportswear.com. Phone: 313-963-7980. Street Address: 1652 W. Fort St., Detroit, MI 48216. Gilberto Designs—Custom-made men’s suits, sport coats, trousers, formal wear and coats. Online: www.gilbertodesigns.com. Phone: 212-695-4925. Email:gilfam@gilbertodesigns.com. Street Address: 142 West 36th St., 8th Floor, New York, NY 10018. Nord-Ray Belt Manufacturing Inc.— Manufacturer and wholesaler of leather and fabric belts for uniforms. Online: www.nordraybelt.com. Phone: 201-6460700. Kings Choice Neckwear Co.—Ties, cummerbunds, ascots and suspenders. Online: www.boey.com/kc/. Phone: 212279-2170. Street Address: 460 West 34th St., New York, NY 10001. 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. 16 Seafarers LOG 8/05 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. August 2005 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/15/2005 4:11 AM Page 17 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman August 22 September 16 October 3 October 28 November 14 December 9 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* August 22 August 26 (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) October 24 October 28 August 29 September 9 October 31 November 11 August 8 August 19 September 19 September 30 October 29 November 11 August 8 August 17 October 10 October 19 GMDSS (Simulator) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Radar Radar Renewal (1 day): August 29, October 31 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 _____________________________ Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning July 25, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT September 19 November 11 Welding August 22 September 9 October 24 November 11 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Government Vessels August 8 August 12 August 22 August 26 September 26 September 30 October 31 November 4 November 14 November 18 Medical Care Provider August 1 August 5 Tankerman Familiarization/ August 1 August 11 September 26 October 7 October 17 October 21 Assistant Cargo (DL)* (*must have basic fire fighting) 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. 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 ________________________________________________ August 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. 8/05 Seafarers LOG 17 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/15/2005 8:06 AM Page 18 Paul Hall Center Classes AB — Graduating from the AB course May 13 Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 663 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 663 (in no specific order) John Davis, Brad Fester, Horace Robinson IV, Arthur Sanders, Jo-Vanii Sprauve, JoVanio Sprauve, Saleh Mothana, Glenard Chaney Jr., Michael Banks, Gregory Holsey Jr., Franklin Rodgers, Daryl Alvin Jr., Kimberly Kalua, John Burns, George Marshall Jr., Gabe Williamson, James Garvin, De’Aris Henry and Jorge Nuñez. Bridge Resource Management (BRM) — The eight Seafarers completing the BRM course May 13 are (in alphabetical order) Gerald Cassie, Christopher Edyvean, James Enah, Miles Janecka, Cliff Lattish, James O’Meara, Lawrence Richardson Jr. and Ovidio Santos. are (in alphabetical order) Jason Brown, John Crawford, Alfred Drake, Daniel Fields, Tess Flickinger, David Garcia, Lionel Hall, Jor-el Holmberg, Jaime Medina, Jonathan Nielsen, Matthew Nuñez, Armando Olde, Jamar Reed, Coda Russell, Yamil Sanchez, Jorge Soler, Robert Starr, Jerry Stillman, Michael Sykes, Mario Torrey, Russell Wall, Joshua Wilson and Christopher Yohe. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Chief Cook — Working their way up the culinary lad- der are graduates of the chief cooks class (from left) Benjamin Ines, Jaime Austria, Thurman Johnson, Edward Aguigui Jr., John Dobson (instructor), Edvaldo Graver and Rocky Dupraw. Fast Rescue Boat — Graduating from this course May 6 under the instruction of Stan Beck are (in no specific order) Gary Ranne, Joao Cordeiro, Jerome Wong, George Price III, Kevin Gatling, Gerry Davis, Keith Gibney, Lawrence Richardson Jr. and Cliff Lattish. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion May 6 from instructor Stacey Harris (standing center in back row) are (in no specific order) William Sanborn, Tracy Hanson, Stephen Cooper, Christopher Demmert, Robert Mobert, Dennis Parsons, Richard Pelkey, Simon McCamy, Michael Moody, Garry Smock, Nicholas Macaraeg and Oliver Fronteras. GMDSS — Students in the GMDSS course that ended May 6 are (in alphabetical order) Raygene Banks, Christopher Edyvean, Sean Farra, Victor Nuñez, Robert Ott and Steve Randle. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, stands second from right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Barbers Point: Suzanne Arechavala, Susan McConnell, Sara Woitte, Robert Horn, Rachelle Holmes, Merrideth Edwards, Matt McDowell, Larry Zeno, Larry Jointer, Kjell Wiberg, Karen Winkelmann, Karen Waber, Josephine Simbahan, Jordan Tolley, Joanne Schmeichel, Jermaine Amado, Jason Kehn, Jamie Findlay, Jamal Bomani, Glennda Robinson, Ernesto Gonzaga, Elizabeth Sims, Aubree Bedell, Anthony Andreozzi, Audrey Wolford and Alberto Fredeluces. 18 Seafarers LOG STCW — Barbers Point: Barry du Moulin, Anthony Rodriguez, Renato Mabalot, Carl Ewing, Sharon Nealey, William Malovich, Oscar Felix, Rosita Gajeton, Aron Kane, Jeff Gunther, Jeff Clark, Chasadie Lorenz, Donna Malic, Isabel Quijada, Clinton Jacob, Delloresa Rosario, Cheryl White, Michael Wycoff, Dawn Burgess, Benjamin Scott, Amanda Zamora, Denise Kanyer and Lorena FloresReyes. STCW — NCL, May 6: Jennifer Baker, Beverly Birch, Jason Bresky, Christina Calkins, Jessica Cisneros, Richard Clesen, Katrina Conroe, Tara Corrigan, Miguel Cruz, Emily Cummings, Maary D’Onofrio, Craig Darr, Angela Davis, Nanette Davis, Yolanda Davis, Amanda Delgado, David Dixon, Daphne Domalis, David Dooley, Margaret Estes, Kimberly Fritz and Nathan Fuelling. August 2005 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/15/2005 8:10 AM Page 19 Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, May 13: Sherry Ferguson, Christopher Clifford, Mary Constantine, Christine Gilbert, Rory Bishop, Larry Boyce, Deirdre Contreras, Andrew Busen, Joel Calderon, Andrea Burnette, Jeremy Banker, Lindsey Crow, Dustin Donovan, Jeannetta Fisher, Alvis Cook, Thomas De la Fuente, Clark Fran, Abraham Fitch, Brian Daggett, Julie Ferguson, Jackie Caldwell and Todd Ashby. STCW — NCL, May 6: David Garello, Agnes-Carolyn Gold, Korey Green, Marc Gustine, Humberto Gutierrez, Christina Hall, Lana Handshoe, Sarah Harnden, Ryan Harris, Vicente Hernandez, Kevin King, Vada King, Michael Landry, Christina Lindeman, Kim Linneman, Ronda Luebs, Eric Luymes, Eric Lydick, David Marks, Sara McFarland, Rachel Gillespie and Roberto Medina. STCW — NCL, May 13: Heather Moore, Casey Nye, Amy Meyers, Vaughn Hayes Jr., Hector Gonzalez, Joe Huggins, John Maddox, William Hurt, Carol Goodwin, Eric Larsen, William Meyers, Samantha Mantz, Alysia Kowalczyk, Daniel Hirsch, DeAnn Herrera, Marcel Hubbard, Taconna Jackson, Luis James, Calvin Howard, Clint Martin, George King and Raul Munoz. STCW — NCL, April 29: Jeffrey Kalm, David Kuchera Jr., Metissa Kuykendall, Justin LeBlanc, Nina Long, Bryan Lopez, Paul Lubash, Joseph Maghe, Abbey Manders, John Martinez, Cherie May, Aaron McBride, Courtney McEachron, William Meng, Charla Miller, Justin Molliconi, Jason Moore, Maria Morales, Steven Newman and Thinh Nguyen. STCW — NCL, April 29: Carmelida Davis, Jarrod Davis, Shellea Davis, Marc Davison, Dustin DeVillers, Susan Dickson, Rolando Dinong, Christopher Doncsecz, Catherine Doucette, Fith Fithian, Natasha Freeman, Jessica Garcia, George Gholston, Robert Gillespie, Martha Gonzales, Ian Gray, Darlene Grootonk, Casey Hines, Kenneth Jackey, Dwayne Johnson, Eric Johnston, Michael Julien, David Graham and Andrea Jordan. STCW — NCL, May 13: STCW — NCL, May 13: Jessica Miller, Angie Sandoval, Richard Nixdorf Jr., Blaze Mustachia, Alejandro Rincon, Frederick Twerdoff, Heidi Maxon, Renee Salas, Melissa Martin, Taylor Scoby, LaSheana McCrary, Britney McCue, Cynthia Simmons, Bret Robinson, Shamus Tripp, Timothy Sneed, Mike Masich, Abelardo Santos Jr., Ray Robinson Jr., Rickey Walker, Acesa Roberts, Joanne Lattenhaver and Janeen Rigattieri. STCW— NCL, April 29: William Sharp, Rusty Shuff, Aimee Smith, Dennis Smith, Roberta Smith, Sara Sobery, Shane Soderlund, Kathleen Soliai, Lauren Steele, Alfonza Swift, Jessica Teahon, Margaret Tell, Vanessa Voigt, Amber Ward, Chad Warmenhoven, Daniel White, Shaundrell Whitehurst, Joshua Whiteneck, Alexander Williams and Shawn Wilson. August 2005 STCW Terrance Lackings, Joy Farley, Donald Daniel, Vincent Kyser, Chani Gabe, Beverly Ellis, Michael Kaaihili, Gael Duckworth, Jeremy Ebbs, Joshua Dawson, Elden Harris, Jennifer Hill, Lindsay Jones, Prisila Cruz, Amy Elliott, Mitchell Freeman, Brandi Freilach, David Garza, Michael Laundry, Ashley Gorham, Cody Keene and Star Dinwiddie. — NCL, May 6: Enrique Navarrete, Jeremy Rush, Michael Ryan, Nikolas Sanchez, Sarah Saunders, Vincent Scarna, Mark Shatrau, Kimberlee Sitton, Eric Smith, Emily Stengel, Ethelene Stubbs, Martin Toledo Jr., Melanie Walker, Rebecca Warren, Christel Watson, Stanley Wiegand, Dawn Wilcox, Shelsea Williams, Cozell Wilson, Sheree Wormley and Fernando Zanetta. STCW — NCL, May 6: Maxwell Miscles, Aron Montross, Noah Murphy, Jeremy O’Keefe, Todd Oberndorfer, Gregory Parker, Max Pattyranie, Robert Paulson, Sumeet Pawar, Michael Perry, Roberto Portacio, Christian Ramirez, Colin Richmond, Christell Robb, Elbert Rows, Debra Roy and Kim Ruffo. Seafarers LOG 19 �28818_p4,8,15_20.qxd 7/15/2005 8:49 AM Page 20 Volume 67, Number 8 August 2005 S S J Training Program at Piney Point Helps Spur Positive Beginning U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, pictured at the June 17 ceremony with SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, served as the ship’s godmother. Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus (left), AB Michael Wiley The SIU-crewed Pride of America signifies new job opportunities for Seafarers. T Catherine Clark helps ready the ship for its departure from New York. S he SIU-crewed cruise ship Pride of America followed its June 17 christening with a smooth, well-received promotional tour that included stops along the U.S. mainland. The vessel this month is scheduled to begin its main itinerary, consisting of sevenday trips among the Hawaiian Islands. Both the ship and crew have received favorable reviews in the press, particularly in publications and web sites devoted to the cruise industry. Many such reviews have noted the readily apparent benefits of the three-week training program completed by students at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. before they reported to the Pride of America. Additionally, the newest vessel in NCL America’s fleet gained widespread publicity when, following the christening, the popular television talk show “Live with Regis and Kelly” aired a week’s worth of programs from the ship. The show reportedly draws about 5 million viewers per day. During the christening, which took place in New York, SIU President Michael Sacco noted, “NCL America is a huge success story. Working in partnership with the shipboard employees and their unions, NCL America has led the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry…. I’m proud that we are crewing the Pride of America with the best-trained and safest professionals in the world.” AB Michael Wiley said that he and the other mariners welcomed the challenge of crewing up the new vessel and helping ensure its good start. “Everyone really has gotten into the spirit of things,” Wiley observed. “It’s a lot of work, but the attitudes have been great. You can tell everyone wants to see it succeed.” The Pride of America is 921 feet long, with 15 decks and a passenger capacity of more than 2,100. It is the second ship in NCL America’s SIU-contracted fleet. The first, the Pride of Aloha, began sailing a year ago, while the next ship—the Pride of Hawaii—is scheduled for launch in 2006. Right: 1st Mate (and former SIU member) Mingta Yuen Left: The christening ceremony featured U.S.themed entertainment. 1st Cook Daniel Adams Cook Deann Herrera OS Archie Sims Left: Cook Hector Gonzalez Crew members had plenty of assignments in helping prepare the Pride of America for its initial voyages. Cook Eric Smith � 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 August 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES THE MERCHANT MARINE: WAR’S FORGOTTEN HEROES PROGRESS CONTINUES ON NEW MSC SHIPS T-AKE FLEET MEANS JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR CIVMARS SIU-CREWED DETROIT PRINCESS IS CITY’S LATEST ATTRACTION SEAFARERS HONORED FOR SAFE OPERATIONS NCL AMERICA SPOTLIGHTED IN NEW UNION PLUS BENEFIT BILL WOULD RESTORE, PROTECT RIGHT TO JOIN A UNION SENATE BILL INTRODUCED FOR WWII MARINERS CAR CARRIER JEAN ANNE ENJOYS SMOOTH SAILING SIU MEMBERS EXCEL IN ‘SAFEPORT’ SIU STILL DELIVERS FOR U.S. TROOPS U.S.-FLAG SEALIFT BOOSTS NATIONAL, ECONOMIC SECURITY STRONG START FOR PRIDE OF AMERICA 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 08/01/2005 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. 8 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/04afb78d832090694f5035bd16342000.pdf 8fe9e7cb581e0c0a38f3efc6a471b005 PDF Text Text 28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/27/2005 4:45 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 SIU Job Growth Continues With Pride of America NCL America’s Newest Vessel Christened The union welcomed more new jobs in the cruise-ship sector as the SIU-contracted Pride of America was christened June 17 in New York City. At right, crew members are introduced during the ceremony at Pier 88. Left (from left), U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour, SIU President Michael Sacco, Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay and NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch observe as U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao (the vessel’s godmother) formally christens the ship. The secretary’s father, James Chao, is at far right. Pages 2, 3, 12, 13. The Seafarers-contracted Great Lakes fleet recently expanded with the addition of the Burns Harbor, pictured at right. Climbing the gangway to the vessel are (left photo, from left) AB Ronald Lamere, GUDE Eric Hernandez and GUDE James Cedeno. Page 3. Seafarers Crew Up Detroit Princess Page 3 SHBP Scholarship Winners Announced Pages 2, 7 USNS Lewis and Clark Christened in San Diego Page 6 �28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:30 PM Page 2 President’s Report Christening Success Viewed as a stand-alone event, the Pride of America christening last month in New York was a great success. Everything about not only the ceremony but really the entire day aboard NCL America’s newest Seafarers-contracted cruise ship was first class. In the bigger picture, the christening went far beyond a simple public relations success. For those of us who make our living in this industry—for those of us who’ve fought tooth and nail to help revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine—the official launch of the Pride of America symbolizes much more than one new ship. It represents continued Michael Sacco hope for the future. It signifies a huge victory for supporters of the U.S.-flag fleet. It reinforces what I’ve said all along: Namely, that the opportunities are virtually limitless for the American-flag deep sea cruise ship industry. Of course, I’m not overlooking the immediate practical gains for our union. Like NCL America’s first ship—the Pride of Aloha, launched last year—the Pride of America means hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers. Also like the first ship, the newer vessel is solid proof that SPAD (our union’s voluntary political action fund) helps the SIU have a voice on Capitol Hill, where much of our industry’s fate is determined. Ultimately, that’s what the SIU is all about: securing and maintaining good jobs for the membership. Still, last month’s christening at Pier 88 seemed especially moving. Seeing a U.S.-flag cruise ship in New York reminded me of my early days as a mariner. Glancing at the New York City skyline, I thought back to the tragedies of September 11, and how the city has recovered and moved forward, even while always remembering the victims and heroes from that day. The same is true of our entire nation. Along those lines, there’s a saying that for every action, there’s an equal and opposite reaction. The attacks of September 11 put a temporary end to the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise industry. Some said we’d never bounce back. But we refused to stay down. We did bounce back. We found a terrific partner in NCL America. We lobbied with pro-maritime members of Congress from both parties and the administration and other allies to get the Stars and Stripes flying again in this segment of our industry. It worked. The Pride of America, Pride of Aloha and the ship due next year, the Pride of Hawaii, are one component of the equal and opposite reaction to the attacks on our country. They are floating testimonials to the American spirit. So are the SIU-crewed Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen—world-class riverboats that also found renewed life in the wake of September 11. I congratulate every Seafarer who has sailed aboard either of NCL America’s first two ships. You’re part of history—part of what will turn out as one of the greatest chapters in the story of the SIU. And I know you’ll keep up the great work. Congratulations also to NCL America for sticking with your commitment to make these vessels a reality. As I said at the christening, it’s true that we sailed over some rough seas at the beginning—but only for a relatively brief time. “Growing pains” were inevitable, as we all learned many years ago when the SS Independence and SS Constitution came home. Equally certain is the long-range success of every SIU-crewed ship in your fleet. More on Health Care I am no less confident in America’s capability to solve the health care crisis—but it’s becoming more and more clear that something must be done right away to address this mess. Without bogging down in statistics, did you know that since the year 2000, the average cost of health care premiums for families in the U.S. has gone up by about 60 percent? Think about that for a moment. A 60 percent increase! Fortunately, even with the recent adjustments announced by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, SIU members have it better than most. For example, roughly 90 percent of the people in this country who have family medical insurance pay some or all of their premiums. In other words, they have to pay just to maintain the coverage—on average about $2,600 per year. SHBP participants don’t have to pay to carry their coverage. Nationwide, the biggest problem of all—economically and morally —may be the number of uninsured Americans. More than 45 million have no coverage whatsoever, and that figure grows by thousands each and every day. A new report states that on average, an individual with insurance pays about $900 extra each year in premiums to cover the cost of providing treatment for the uninsured. Enough is enough. It’s time for real solutions, and the SIU will continue making this a top priority, particularly through our affiliation with the AFL-CIO. Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2005 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Final Agreements Set For 10 New Tankers Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. (KPSI) early last month announced that “final definitive agreements” now are in place with SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. for the bareboat charter of 10 Veteran MT-46 class Jones Act product tankers which will be built at the shipyard. The 10 double-hulled vessels will be constructed over the next five years. KPSI will transfer the vessels to leasing subsidiaries of American Shipping Corporation, an affiliate of KPSI, which will, in turn, bareboat charter the vessels to subsidiaries of Overseas Shipholding for initial terms of five or seven years, with extension options for the life of the vessels. The vessels are scheduled to be delivered from 2006 through 2010. The preliminary agreement on these charters, as well as the announcement for the new vessel construction contracts, was made April 14 during ceremonies at the Ten new tankers like the one at left are scheduled for delivery from 2006-2010. The ships will be crewed by SIU members. shipyard. “I am extremely pleased with the completion of these agreements which assure a strong future for KPSI and the approximately 800 men and women employed at the yard,” said Dave Meehan, KPSI president and chief executive officer (CEO). “This project represents a commitment to this shipyard by Kvaerner and OSG and is a clear statement of support for the Jones Act and the entire United States maritime industry.” 3rd Tanker ‘Floated Out’ Keel Laid for 4th Alaska-Class Vessel Progress continues on the next two Alaska-class doublehull oil tankers being built in San Diego for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. On April 18, the National Steel The SIU-crewed Alaskan Explorer is pictured earlier this year in Juneau, Alaska. “The bareboat charters of the 10 new-build Jones Act product tankers by OSG represent a significant milestone in the company’s participation in the U.S.-flag business,” said Morten Arntzen, president and CEO of OSG. “With these charters, OSG will have the largest and most modern Jones Act product tanker fleet. The addition of these vessels also represents increased employment opportunities for our highly qualified U.S. crews.” and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) hosted a keel-laying ceremony for Hull 487, the fourth vessel in the class of Seafarerscontracted vessels operated by Alaska Tanker Company for BP. Eight days earlier, the third ship was “floated out” of the shipyard’s graving dock. That vessel is scheduled for delivery later this year, while the fourth is slated for a 2006 delivery. Seafarers already sail aboard the first two ships in the series— the Alaskan Explorer and the Alaskan Frontier. Each vessel is 941 feet long, with a beam of 164 feet and a capacity of 1.3 million barrels of oil. The tankers deliver to West Coast ports including BP refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. Scholarship Committee Selects 3 Seafarers, 5 Dependents for Monetary Awards in 2005 When the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) scholarship program was introduced in 1953, it was considered one of the most progressive and forward-looking measures to be adopted by any trade union. At that time, four full college scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each were awarded to children of Seafarers or to Seafarers not over 35 years of age who qualified in competitive examinations. For more than half a century, the SHBP has continued to award scholarships to deserving Seafarers as well as to spouses and dependents of SIU members, changing the eligibility slightly. This year, the Plan has selected three Seafarers and five dependents as recipients from the more than 40 who applied—for a total monetary value of $132,000. Chief Cook Kristen Swain is the Seafarer selected for the four-year scholarship. Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery both were awarded twoyear scholarships. The five dependents of SIU members are Adam Burton, son of Ross Burton; Ashleigh Coppola, daughter of Patrick L. Coppola; Stefan Nikolic, son of Desire Z. Nikolic; Anthony Sabatini, son of Anthony J. Sabatini and Ronald Viernes, son of Leopold A. Viernes. The scholarship recipients were selected by a panel of professional educators: Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College of Maryland; Dr. Gayle A. Olson, University of New Orleans; Dr. Trevor Car- penter, Charles County (Md.) Community College; Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities; Dr. Keith Schlender, Medical College of Ohio; Professor Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president of academic affairs, California State (San Bernardino) and Dr. Henry Toutain of Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota. See page 7 for brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the eight collegebound students. The selection committee met in Boston in May to choose each of the 2005 scholarship winners. From the left are Dr Henry Toutain, Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Dr. Gayle A. Olson, Dr Michael Glaser, Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., Professor Louis Fernandez and Dr. Keith Schlender. July 2005 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/24/2005 4:39 PM Page 3 Pride of America Christened NCL America’s 2nd Ship Continues ‘Huge Success Story’ The rebirth of the U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry continued June 17 as the SIU-crewed Pride of America was christened in New York City. In many ways, the afternoon proved glorious. The stirring ceremony, the magnificent ship, the pleasant weather and the appreciative crowd combined to make the christening memorable. For the SIU, the Pride of America means more new shipboard jobs along with the bolstering of an important sector of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Both SIU President Michael Sacco and U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, who served as the vessel’s godmother, addressed the latter point in their respective remarks at the christening. Also addressing the audience (consisting of hundreds of guests and some crew members) were NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch, Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay, and U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour. “NCL America is a huge success story,” Sacco stated. “Working in partnership with the shipboard employees and their unions, NCL America has led the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. I’m proud that we are crewing the Pride of America with the best-trained and safest professionals in the world.” He also offered thanks to Secretary Chao and the administration “for helping make this ceremony possible. Your steadfast support of the U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to America’s national and economic security, whether we’re talking about the cruise-ship sector or commercial cargo ships or civilian-crewed military support vessels. They’re all part of the merchant marine, and they’re all good for America.” See pages 12-13 for more photos from the christening ceremony A longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine, Chao gave the keynote address and christened the ship. She pointed out that the Pride of America is the largest U.S.-flag cruise ship ever built (921 feet long, with 15 decks and a passenger capacity of more than 2,100) and “the first newly constructed oceangoing U.S.-flag cruise ship in 50 years. It will provide thousands of jobs for The Pride of America is the second vessel in NCL America’s SIU-contracted fleet. American workers.” She further noted that both the Pride of America and NCL America’s first ship, the Pride of Aloha, “will be joined next year by the Pride of Hawaii. These three ships will employ nearly 4,000 American seafarers.” Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay said that the vessel was built at a cost of $400 million—mountainous evidence that the company has “committed ourselves to the rebuilding of a vibrant U.S.-flag sector” of the industry. He also credited the crew members for their outstanding work and noted, “We are in this for the long haul.” Gilmour conveyed his congratulations on the christening and complimented the company Continued on page 10 U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao (fourth from right) visited with SIU officials as well as apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education following the christening. Pictured from left to right are SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Unlicensed Apprentices Matt Green, Patrick Devlin and Isaac Garrido, Secretary Chao, Apprentice Natalie Tremblay, SIU President Michael Sacco and Apprentice Bob Light. SIU-Crewed Lakes Fleet Grows As Burns Harbor Joins ASC The union last month welcomed new shipboard jobs when SIU-contracted American Steamship Company added the Burns Harbor, a 1,000-foot self-unloading vessel. “This is an addition to the fleet, rather than replacement tonnage,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “We welcome the chance to work aboard this vessel and I’m confident as always that the SIU crew will do a fantastic job.” The ship primarily sails between Duluth, Minn. and Burns Harbor, Ind. It mainly carries steel and steel byproducts. “We anticipate a very busy season here on the Lakes,” noted SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “The vessel is scheduled to run all season long. It’s a great addition to the fleet.” The Burns Harbor was built in 1979 in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. The ship can carry approximately 80,000 tons of cargo. The Burns Harbor (above left) is the SIU’s newest ship on the Lakes. Pictured above right are the unlicensed mariners aboard the American Steamship Company vessel. New Riverboat in Detroit Brings Additional Union Jobs Hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers were added in April when the union’s most recent contracted vessel, the Detroit Princess, began operations. Members of the engine and deck department were hired to work aboard Detroit’s newest attraction under an SIU contract. Other crew members, including waitstaff, Formerly a casino riverboat owned by Harrah’s, the SIU-crewed Detroit Princess now provides lunch and dinner cruises on the Detroit River. July 2005 cooks, dishwashers and experienced bartenders, belong to an SIU affiliate, the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). The 222-foot-long riverboat was launched in 1993 by Harrah’s as a casino boat on the Mississippi River in Illinois. When Harrah’s replaced it, it was sent to Texas, where Capt. John Chamberlain, a riverboat entertainment producer, bought it to provide a unique setting for lunch and dinner cruises on the Detroit River. He is very optimistic about the entertainment possibilities of the vessel in Detroit, including weddings, anniversaries, reunions, conferences, large group cruises and more. The boat cruises are generally two or three hours long, journeying from Hart Plaza past the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle, and back to the dock. Already scheduled are big band shows, comedy murder mysteries, moonlight cruises and musical revues featuring music from the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s. The trip from Texas to Detroit proved the seaworthiness of the Princess. Since it was too tall to clear bridges in Chicago, it had to steam through the Gulf of Mexico, around Florida and up the East Coast to the Great Lakes, traveling nearly 7,000 miles through some pretty rough weather, including four hurricanes. When the oceangoing vessel arrived in Toledo last fall to undergo dry dock inspection and repairs, there were a few broken windows and a very tired crew. Every inch of the five-deck converted casino boat was washed and painted and thoroughly cleaned both inside and out. It then traveled to Detroit where it first tied up at the Nicholson Terminal in Ecorse and later docked at Hart Plaza. Chamberlain noted that the vessel, which is designed to look like a 19th century river sternwheeler (although the paddlewheel was removed by Harrah’s) is better equipped than many freighters. There are enough dining rooms on the four entertainment decks to feed 1,600 people. And, unlike other riverboats on the Detroit River, the Princess has its own kitchen and cooking staff and does not rely on shoreside caterers. It is wheelchair accessible and has elevators, air conditioning and heating for year round comfort. The Detroit Princess is owned by CJC Catering L.L.C., and its investors are Chamberlain and many of his friends. Seafarers LOG 3 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:33 PM Page 4 USNS Lewis and Clark Christened in San Diego The USNS Lewis and Clark, the first ship in the U.S. Navy’s new T-AKE Class, was christened May 21 at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. The vessel will be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.), delivered the ceremony’s principal address. Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham (RCalif.) introduced Congressman Lewis. Other featured speakers included Adm. Vernon Clark, the Navy’s chief of naval operations; Rear Adm. Charles Hamilton II, program executive officer for ships; and Richard Vortmann, president of NASSCO. The T-AKE is a dry cargo/ammunition ship that will be operated by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command, providing logistic lift from sources of supply either in port or at sea. The ships will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, fuel, repair parts, and expendable supplies and material—to station ships and other naval forces at sea. The T-AKE vessels are expected to substantially upgrade the Navy’s ability to maintain its forwarddeployed forces, replacing aging T-AE ammunition ships and T-AFS combat stores ships that are near- ing the end of their service lives. The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. They can travel at 20 knots and have expected lives of 40 years. Construction on the Lewis and Clark began in September 2003 and delivery is scheduled for early next year. The second T-AKE, to be named the USNS Sacagawea, is now in full production for delivery in 2006. Overall, the new class of ships includes eight vessels with options for four additional ships. The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. They can travel at 20 knots and have expected lives of 40 years. The name Lewis and Clark was selected to honor the two legendary explorers who led a visionary project from 1804 to 1806 to explore the American West. Two descendants from the families of Capt. Meriwether Lewis and then-Lieutenant William Clark—Jane Lewis Sale Henley and Lisa Clark—served as sponsors of the ship. USNS Mercy Returns from Relief Mission The Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy on June 8 returned to its home port at the U.S. Naval Base San Diego following a fivemonth tsunami relief and humanitarian assistance mission in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. During its deployment, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship’s on board Medical Treatment Facility staff treated more than 100,000 patients and performed 466 surgeries. In addition, the Mercy’s medical teams distributed 4,041 eyeglasses, performed 6,000 dental procedures and provided preventative and public health training that will benefit residents of the region for years to come. Civil service mariners aboard vessel, many of whom are members of the SIU Government Services Division, also contributed to humanitarian relief efforts, repairing infrastructure and medical equipment in hospitals, clinics and other public buildings. “A major focus of our effort throughout the region was to work together with host-nation medical providers in the spirit of cooperation, promoting the exThe Seafarerscrewed USNS Mercy earlier this year helped provide relief for tens of thousands of people overseas. SIU VP Corgey Appointed To Houston Ethics Committee SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey recently was appointed by the Houston City Council to serve on the council’s ethics committee. His term runs through 2006. Corgey was recommended for the position by the Harris County AFL-CIO. The council approved him unanimously. The ethics committee reviews inquiries about employees and elected officials, and makes recommendations to other government entities when appropriate. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey Corgey also currently serves as a member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Area Maritime Security Committee for the Port of Houston/Galveston. Additionally, he is a vice president of the Texas AFL-CIO; secretary-treasurer of the West Gulf Ports Council of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department; and serves on the executive board of the Harris County AFL-CIO. 4 Seafarers LOG change of ideas among people from all countries to further their capabilities for the future,” said Capt. Mark Llewellyn, MC, commanding officer of Mercy’s Medical Treatment Facility. As was reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the hospital ship on Jan. 5 steamed out of San Diego in support of Operation Unified Assistance, the United States’ response to the Dec. 26 tsunami that struck Southeast Asia. The ship first sailed to the region’s most devastated area, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. From Feb. 6 to March 16, the ship’s combined U.S. Navy and nongovernmental organization Project HOPE medical staff treated more than 9,500 patients ashore and afloat, and performed 19,512 medical procedures, including 285 surgical and operating room cases. After completing operations off the coast of Banda Aceh, the Mercy began its voyage home, stopping at several ports along the way to provide humanitarian assistance and demonstrations of the U.S. government’s commitment to the region. In Alor, Indonesia, and Dili, East Timor, the Mercy’s medical teams treated more than 8,000 patients in six days. When an 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck Nias Island, Indonesia, March 28, the Mercy sailed to assist. From April 5-29, the vessel’s medical teams treated earthquake victims and other residents of the island, performing more than 19,000 medical procedures. Following the ship’s operations in Nias, the Mercy conducted a final humanitarian mission in Madang, Papua New Guinea, before heading home. When the Mercy sailed into San Diego, the ship and its crew had traveled 36,000 nautical miles during their mission. The USNS Lewis and Clark is the first in a new class of vessels to be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. SMU Members Vote for SIU Members of the Seafarers Maritime Union (SMU) recently voted for representation by the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lake and Inland Waters District/NMU. Generally, because of the SMU’s relatively small size and the fact that many of its members already had dual membership in the SIU’s AGLIWD/NMU, the effects of the vote are expected to be positive and relatively seamless. All contracts and benefits essentially remain unchanged. When the former SMU contracts that just became SIU agreements expire, the new ones will be negotiated by the SIU. Voting took place aboard SMU-contracted vessels, where members said they look forward to the increased stability they expect to enjoy with the SIU. SIU Patrolman Michael Russo (second from left) is pictured with crew members aboard the Advantage shortly after the mariners voted for SIU representation. Mariners aboard the Independence in Corpus Christi, Texas chose SIU representation. Notice: Ft. Lauderdale Becomes Full Registration and Shipping Port As reported last month at all SIU membership meetings, the Seafarers Appeals Board, acting pursuant to its authority provided for in the SIU Shipping Rules will initiate action that effective August 1, 2005 will convert the Port of Dania/Ft. Lauderdale into a full registration and shipping port. The port will be responsible for all vessels in the area from Ft. Lauderdale south to Miami, including Tampa. Any member currently registered in Jacksonville via the previous arrangement through the port may opt to remain registered in Jacksonville. However, such registration only will be valid for Jacksonville. Upon registering in Ft. Lauderdale, any Jacksonville registration will be voided. July 2005 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:57 PM Page 5 IMO Continues Efforts to Bolster Security The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) from May 11-20 held its 80th Meeting at IMO headquarters in London. Following opening remarks and a welcome to attending delegates by IMO Secretary General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, the meeting’s packed agenda got under way, according to Bill Eglinton, director of training at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “Three working groups were designated in conjunction with the meeting’s very busy plenary session,” said Eglinton, who attended the meeting. Delegates assembled in designated locations to voice concerns, address pertinent issues and present their respective recommendations. In addition to holding membership on the U.S. National Maritime Security Advisory Committee, Eglinton also serves as a member of the U.S. delegation to the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee. The three working groups referenced by Eglinton and their respective areas of focus were: Maritime Security—The major issue discussed was the U.S. proposal on establishing a Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system for ships. This group met for four days and engaged in much heated debate—for and against— the development of a LRIT. Basically, such a system would enable ships to transmit LRIT information to tracking stations worldwide. The system would apply to passenger ships, cargo and tank vessels over 500grt on international voyages and to mobile off-shore drilling units. The most contentious issue, according to Eglinton, was the U.S. proposal that the system would have a range off-shore of at least 2,000 miles. The working group’s recommendations were to be forwarded to the IMO’s Subcommittee on Radiocommunications and Search and Rescue (COMSAR) for developing a mechanism for collecting LRIT info from ships for security and search and rescue operations. In addition to addressing the LRIT issue, the working group approved the training and certification requirements for Company Security Officers as an MSC circular. The Subcommittee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping was instructed to use this developed training as a template for training guidance for Port Facility Security Officers. Passenger Vessel Safety— The working group agreed to a definition for “casualty threshold” and revised the term “time to remain habitable” to become “time for orderly evacuation and abandonment.” A three-hour timeframe would ensure that, in cases where casualty threshold for return to port is exceeded, there will be sufficient time for the safe and orderly abandonment of the ship. The MSC endorsed the working group’s recommendation that an additional casualty scenario, for design purposes, should be developed by the Fire Protection and Stability and Load Lines Subcommittees. The scenario would support the concept that the ship will remain viable for at least three hours to allow for a safe and orderly evacuation and abandonment. Goal-Based New Ship Construction Standards (GBS) —Several items from MSC Session 79 were continued during this working group’s meeting. The five-tier system on which the development of GBS is being based consists of five levels: goals (tier I), functional requirements (tier II), verification of compliance criteria (tier III), technical procedures and guidelines, classification rules and industry standards (tier IV) and codes of practice and safety and quality systems for shipbuilding, ship operation, maintenance, training, manning, etc. (tier V). The MSC agreed in theory with the basic principles of goalbased standards and with the tier I goals developed by the working group. Basically, the agreement states that IMO goal-based standards are: broad, over-arching safety, environmental and/or security standards that ships are required to meet during their lifecycle; the required level to be achieved by the requirements applied by class societies and other recognized organizations, administrations and IMO; clear, demonstrable, verifiable, longstanding, implementable and achievable, irrespective of ship design and technology; and specific enough in order not to be open to differing interpretations. In other developments during the MSC session, the body approved draft amendments to the STCW Code, Part B, on engine room resource management and crew training in launching/recovery operations of fast rescue boats. The group also endorsed STCW to develop the competencies for both deck and engine ratings. In consideration of the increased rate of lifeboat accidents involving onload release mechanisms, the MSC requested that the Ship Design and Equipment Subcommittee develop additional safety recommendations. In a final MSC action, the new harmonized Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Chapter 11-1, Parts A, B and B-1 were adopted. These new damage stability regulations will enter into force Jan. 1, 2009. The MSC is the IMO’s senior technical body on safety-related matters. A number of subcommittees assist the main committee in its work. In a related development, the U.S. last month denied claims by an unidentified IMO official that it wanted to expand its vicinity of authority to 2,000 nautical miles under the LRIT system for ships. The U.S. does not wish to “extend its area of influence” to 2,000 nautical miles from shore said a senior U.S. Coast Guard officer, claiming that statements published in a recent edition of the Fairplay Daily News by an unnamed IMO official were “flatly wrong.” Cmdr. Cindy Stowe, a member of the U.S. delegation to the IMO Maritime Safety Committee, said that the United States and a host of other maritime nations want only to use existing ship communica- Manulani Christened at Kvaerner The SIU-contracted Manulani was christened May 21 at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard by Guam’s First Lady Joann Camacho. The new vessel is the third diesel-powered containership built for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Co. at the Philadelphia shipyard. One additional containership currently is under construction, with delivery scheduled for spring 2006. Gov. Felix Camacho, who delivered the keynote address, said, “The Manulani signifies the expansion of a great company and its commitment not only to the island of Guam, but also throughout the Asia-Pacific Region.” Pictured at the christening ceremony are (from left) retired Lt. Gen. Ken Wykle, Matson’s Mike Garvin, Brig. Gen. Mark Scheid, SIU President Michael Sacco, MSC’s Rick Haynes and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. July 2005 tions technology to identify vessels that transit near or into their territorial waters. Under a proposed IMO rule, all costal nations, not just the U.S., would identify ships moving within a 2,000 nautical-mile range of their shores. Such a system for years has been discussed and would be under the authority of the IMO, which would charge member nations for access to vessel information. Under pending proposals, individual ships not bound for interested member nations could withhold identifying data. Information from such a system would also be available to owners and operators as well as flag states, the commander said. Ports to Add Radiation Monitors The nation’s busiest seaports will have complete Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) coverage by the year’s end, according to reports. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff last month announced that Los Angeles/Long Beach, Calif. will have the high tech system in place and operational by December. Three terminal locations, at Piers 400, 300 and Trans Pacific, within the Port of Los Angeles are scheduled to go online by the end of June. A total of 90 RPMs, which will screen all international container traffic and vehicles exiting the facility for nuclear materials or hidden sources of radiation, will be operational by December. RPMs are detection devices that provide U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) officers with a non-intrusive means to screen containers, vessels or vehicles for the presence of nuclear and radiological materials. These systems do not emit radiation but are capable of detecting various types of radiation emanating from nuclear devices, dirty bombs, special nuclear materials, natural sources, and isotopes commonly used in medicine and industry. “By applying advanced technology, we will soon be able to screen every vehicle and container entering the nation’s busiest seaports for nuclear and radiological materials, without disrupting the free flow of trade,” said Secretary Chertoff. “Complete and efficient coverage at the LA/Long Beach seaports is a major step forward for national security and a model for other ports.” The DHS is implementing a multi-layered strategy for screening cargo shipped to the U.S. One such layer is the installation of RPMs at seaports, land border ports of entry and crossings nationwide, to include rail crossings, international airports, and international mail and express consignment courier facilities. According to the department, the ultimate aim is to screen 100 percent of all incoming goods, people, and conveyances for radiation. Los Angeles/Long Beach receives approximately 44 percent of all sea cargo destined for the United States. More than 4.3 million foreign cargo containers arrived at the port last year—an average of one container every seven seconds. In a related development, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Robert Bonner and Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich Jr. on June 2 unveiled a highly sophisticated cargo inspection system at the Baltimore seaport. The system, called the Eagle, is designed for inspecting cargo containers and trucks at seaports and other areas of entry. The CBP will use the Eagle primarily in its efforts to thwart terrorists from smuggling weapons of mass destruction into the United States. The machine also will scan for illegal narcotics and other contraband. “The Eagle is yet another tool in CBP’s technological arsenal designed to help prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the United States,” said Bonner. “It is important to remember that Customs and Border Protection employs a wide range of technology and a layered strategy to defend the homeland. There is no arguing the strategic importance of the Port of Baltimore, and, in the weeks ahead, I look forward to working closely with Governor Ehrlich to provide the maximum security for the Washington-Baltimore area.” The Eagle, a self-propelled imaging system, can rapidly inspect trucks and cargo containers, even when loaded with dense cargo. Elsewhere, Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Paul Sarbanes (both D-MD) recently announced that the nation’s 2006 Homeland Security Appropriations bill includes key funding for Maryland’s security. The legislation addresses several high priority items, including grants for firefighters, first responders and port security, and a major project for the Coast Guard Yard at Curtis Bay. “As a nation fighting a war on terrorism, we need to be safer, stronger and smarter so that we are able to better detect, prevent and respond to acts of terrorism,” said Senator Mikulski. “This legislation gets us one step closer to meeting those goals by standing up for our first responders and making sure that if terror strikes, measures are in place to protect and save lives. I will keep fighting to make sure that resources are in the federal checkbook for our homeland security.” “In Maryland and across the nation, state, local and regional authorities continue to struggle to make their communities safer from potential terrorist activities,” said Senator Sarbanes. “In many cases, these communities have taken exhaustive measures to identify their areas of greatest vulnerability, and have made significant advances in enhancing their own preparedness and response capabilities—at considerable cost. The federal government must step up and help our states and localities in protecting our domestic homeland and this funding measure helps local communities to meet those needs.” The bill includes $200 million for the Port Security Grant program, a $50 million increase over last year. These funds are granted to localities to finance security enhancements at critical national seaports. The bill will now move to the Senate floor for a vote, which has not yet been scheduled. Seafarers LOG 5 �28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:31 PM Page 6 Chef Romeo Dies at 82 Whether Cooking or Teaching, Lupinacci Gave His All Romeo V. Lupinacci, the former executive chef and chefinstructor at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., died suddenly June 5. He was 82. A Pennsylvania native, Lupinacci in 1946 launched his culinary career as an apprentice cook in his hometown of Sewickley. He later held positions as chef, baker, saucier, broiler cook, sous chef and executive chef. In 1980, Lupinacci joined the SIU family and for the next 20plus years dedicated himself to the teaching and professional development of steward department students and upgraders at the Paul Hall Center. During his tenure, as the school’s premier chef, Lupinacci freely shared his knowledge and vast experience in the culinary arts with those under his instruction. “He was a special person who prided himself in his cooking, his upbringing and how he advanced to the top of his profession,” said SIU President Michael Sacco upon learning of Lupinacci’s abrupt demise. “He was a good family man and one who was ded- Memorial Fund Established In Memory of Sal Aquia whose parents are too financially A tribute has been planned in challenged to make such memory of the late Salvatore desires reality. Character, Aquia, son of retired desire and commitment SIU employee Sal each will figure Aquia. prominently in the An extremely selection of indiproficient and viduals who highly regarded receive financial amateur backing from wrestler, Aquia the memorial was killed durfund. ing the early morning hours “At first, I of March 25 really did not after being want to be a part struck by both a of the scholarship tractor trailer fund,” shared the and a pick-up senior Aquia, who truck on Interstate understandably is 795 near Baltimore. still traumatized by the Family, friends, the untimely loss of the entire Maryland Sal Aquia, son of the retired SIU younger of his Wrestling representative of the same name, two sons. Community and was an accomplished wrestler. “Losing my the SIU still are son has been mourning the extremely diffitragic death of the gifted and cult for me and my family, espeloving athlete who was taken cially my wife,” he continued. away at the age of 25. “But after thinking about it, Aquia was a native of reflecting on the type of caring Baltimore and lived in Rosedale. person Sal was and about the He was a starter on the sport he loved so much, I University of Maryland thought why not—it’s the right wrestling team during his freshthing to do. Right now I’m lovman, sophomore and senior ing it because we’re doing someyears and ended his collegiate thing in his memory to help othcareer with a record of 51-32, ers achieve their dreams. I think according to published reports. it’s wonderful.” He graduated from Maryland in To help raise proceeds for the 2002 and also had been a standfund, the inaugural Salvatore out performer in his high school. Aquia Memorial Golf TournaIn 1997, he led Baltimore’s ment has been planned for Sept. Archbishop Curley High to a 26 at the Rocky Point Golf win in the state wrestling chamCourse in Essex, Md. Fees for pionship. Aquia later won a the tournament will be $120 per national prep tournament while person and $480 per foursome. attending Blair Preparatory An 8 a.m. shotgun start will sigAcademy in Blairstown, N.J. nal the event’s commencement. The senior Aquia, who sailed In addition to some great golf, on the high seas as an engineer the tournament will feature variwith MEBA, worked for the ous contests, prizes, raffles and union in a number of capacities giveaways. since coming ashore some 15 At the conclusion of play, an years ago. Most recently, he awards banquet will be held at worked at the SIU hall in Cosmopolitan Bar & Grill at Baltimore and in the manpower 2933 O’Donnell St. in office at the Seafarers-affiliated Baltimore. All correspondence, Paul Hall Center for Maritime as well as donations for this Training and Education in Piney event, should be mailed to the Point, Md. same address listed below. Those To honor the memory of his with questions may call (410) late son, a collection of friends 563-5000. and well wishers from MaryDonations for the Salvatore land’s wrestling community creAquia Memorial Wrestling ated the Salvatore Aquia Scholarship Fund, which may be Memorial Wrestling Scholarship Fund. Proceeds from this endow- sent under individual donors’ ment will be used to help finance names, should be sent to the education of deserving junior Archbishop Curley High School, 3701 Sinclair Lane, Baltimore, league wrestlers who want to attend private high schools but MD 21213 c/o Salvatore Aquia. 6 Seafarers LOG icated to his work. “Romeo’s greatest asset was that he was a highly gifted teacher. He communicated well with the students and made them feel special,” Sacco said. “I will miss not only the wonderful meals he used to prepare, but his loyal friendship as well.” “Romeo was a real blessing for the school right from the time he signed aboard,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “His vast knowledge and experience in life and in the culinary arts benefited everyone tremendously, especially the thousands of students he taught over the years. Romeo truly will be missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family.” Lupinacci sailed in the merchant marine (engine department) during World War II, although he almost didn’t survive his inaugural voyage. In May 1943, his first ship was torpedoed off the North Carolina coast. Lupinacci later received an award for rescuing several shipmates from the wreckage; they spent nearly four days in a life raft before a destroyer’s escort picked them up. He sailed primarily aboard troop ships and made the invasions at France and Sicily. After developing a distinguished post-war culinary career, Lupinacci arrived at Piney Point specifically to help prepare for the initial crewing of the passenger ship SS Independence. He quickly discovered that the school was a good fit so he decided to remain there. A certified executive chef, Lupinacci held membership in many associations, among them the Academy of Chefs, the Golden Toque and the Chaîne Des Rotisseurs. He was one of the first 13 chefs in the world to be certified as an executive chef with distinction by the American Culinary Federation. He also won numerous other awards throughout his Romeo Lupinacci (left) and SIU President Sacco in July 2000 stood in front of the sign designating the Paul Hall Center’s primary galley instruction facility as the Romeo Lupinacci Culinary Lab. career. In 1982, he founded the Professional Culinary Seafarers Association, the first and only chapter of the American Culinary Federation in the U.S. Merchant Marine, and in 1993 wrote a cookbook, “From Chef Romeo’s Recipe Collection.” “The school has improved a lot over the years,” Lupinacci told those gathered in July 2000 during the ceremony in which the Paul Hall Center galley training building formally was named in his honor. “It’s a more dignified educational institute. When the recertified stewards come back here, everyone can see they’re great, great chefs. It does my heart good. “I love it down here,” he continued. “The challenge was to teach young people who are very grateful for their education. It’s fun doing that.” During that same ceremony, Sacco lauded Lupinacci for the fashion in which he put his heart into the school. “When someone loves their work, it’s easy to spot,” Sacco said. “It comes across in everything they do. That’s exactly the case with Romeo. From the very beginning, his love for the school and union has been evi- Romeo Lupinacci, the late corporate executive chef at the Paul Hall Center, prepares broccoli for one of his many special dishes. dent. It shows in his passion for detail, his commitment to training and his pride in the students and the campus.” A mass of Christian burial was held June 19 for Lupinacci at St. Ferdinand’s Roman Catholic Church, Cranberry Township, Pa. U.S. Health Insurance Woes Continue Health care costs across the country continue to surge as family premiums in employer-sponsored plans are reaching epidemic proportions. While part of the problem might manifest itself in other forms, the additional costs of providing health care for the more than 45 million Americans without health insurance are contributors. These added expenses largely are being paid by workers with insurance. According to a report recently released by Families USA, premiums for employer-provided family health insurance are expected to cost an extra $922 (on average) this year. This equates to about $1 in every $12 spent for employer-provided health insurance going to cover the costs of providing health care to the uninsured. The study also estimates that these added premium costs will rise to $1,502 in 2010. “The large and increasing number of uninsured Americans is no longer simply an altruistic concern on behalf of those without health coverage but a matter of self-interest for everyone,” said Ron Pollack, Families USA executive director. “The stakes are high, both for businesses and for workers who do have health insurance because they bear the brunt of costs for the uninsured.” Most of the uninsured are workers and their family members who do not participate in employerprovided insurance plans, forcing employees to seek public health care assistance. Each Wal-Mart store, for example, costs taxpayers an average of $108,000 per year for its workers’ children who are enrolled in state health insurance programs. The study states that health insurance premiums for family coverage in six states (New Mexico, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Montana, Texas and Arkansas) will cost at least $1,500 more this year because of the cost of health care for the uninsured. Nationally, the cost will be more than $43 billion this year and reach $60 billion in 2010, the report said. The cumulative effect of rising health care costs is taking a toll on workers. According to a 2004 survey of 3,017 companies by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Health Research and Educational Trust, at least 5 million fewer jobs provided health insurance in 2004 than there were in 2001. In 2004, 63 percent of firms offered health benefits to workers, down from 68 percent in 2001, according to the report. The average premium for a family of four grew to $9,950 annually. The family premium for a preferred provider organization (PPO), the most common type of insurance, hit $10,217—the first time it broke the $10,000 barrier. PPOs are plans that provide members with a network of discounted providers that charge a co-payment but also allows for the opportunity of using other doctors and hospitals. The average premium for single coverage rose 9.2 percent to $3,383 annually. “Health insurance is becoming unaffordable. We should expect the ranks of uninsured to grow,” said Drew Altman, president of the Kaiser Family Foundation. Altman noted that the hike in health premiums outpaced both the 2.2 percent growth in wages and 2.3 percent growth in inflation by five times. Continued on page 10 July 2005 �7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:13 PM Page 7 8 Scholarships Awarded to Seafarers, Dependents W ith three semesters of college already behind her, Chief Cook Kristen Swain is the recipient of the $20,000 scholarship award for SIU members. She hopes to use the funds to attend Butte College or Chico State College, both in California, in the registered nursing program. Kristen Swain Swain, 32, grew up in Waterford, Mich., a town surrounded by several small lakes. She spent the summers of her childhood on the water, swimming and boating—and always had a desire to travel. But she never imagined that her journeys would take her across the oceans of the world. After graduating from Mott High School in Waterford, she traveled around Europe for five months. While she was there, she notes in her application form, she met someone who suggested that she attend the training program in Piney Point, Md. “I graduated from the program in 1993 in class 509 and knew I was home when I stepped aboard my first ship.” Swain has since returned to the school a number of times to upgrade her ratings, and has completed the assistant cook, cook and baker, and the certified chief cook programs. The recent birth of her son, Cohen, made her realize her priorities had to change for a little while. She has been working toward a general education at Butte Community College for the past few years, maintaining a 4.0 grade average, and has decided to begin the prerequisites for a bachelor’s degree in registered nursing. She believes a background in the medical field will not only be a stable profession on land, but also will be beneficial while at sea. Swain notes that “shipping has opened my mind up to so many diverse experiences—some good, some difficult—but in the end, I’ve learned so much from them. I couldn’t have asked for a better career.” Brandon Maeda is one of two Seafarers to receive a two-year scholarship this year in the amount of $6,000. He, too, plans to study for a career in nursing and has applied to the College of Southern Maryland. Brandon Maeda July 2005 Three SIU members and five dependents of Seafarers were selected by a panel of professional educators to receive scholarships provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. For more than half a century, the Plan has continued to award yearly scholarships to deserving Seafarers as well as to spouses and dependents of SIU members. This year, a total of $132,000 was Born in Hawaii, Maeda, now 48, graduated from high school in Fayetteville, N.C. in 1974 and then worked in the hotel/restaurant business until 1982. He currently sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. In his application, Maeda states that he went to sea for the first time in 1982 on one of the passenger ships in Hawaii. It was there that a friend encouraged him to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. He finally made it to the Paul Hall Center in 1991 and he says it became a turning point in his life—“one of the best experiences I have ever had.” He has since returned to the school many times for both upgrading and college-level courses and graduated from the steward recertification program there, the top curriculum available to mariners in his department. Maeda would now like to take on the challenge of becoming a registered nurse and hopes to continue sailing aboard an SIUcrewed vessel. “Becoming a nurse would afford me the opportunity to give something back to the community and to the Seafarers,” Maeda stated. The third of the 2005 scholarships set aside for SIU members goes to Jeanette Montgomery who, like the other two recipients, also is planning a career in nursing. Jeanette Montgomery Montgomery joined the union in 1988 in the port of Honolulu while working aboard the SS Independence. She upgraded her skills a number of times over the years and received many endorsements, including recertified chief steward in 2000. In 2002, Montgomery was awarded a two-year, $6,000 scholarship from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. She used the award to start her schooling and is now finishing up her first year of nursing school. Since receiving that initial scholarship, she has become a Washington state emergency medical technician and received an associate in arts and sciences degree. But she still has more than four years of schooling to complete before receiving a master’s degree, which is her goal. In her application, Montgomery says that her life revolves around sailing and schooling, and “the ability to return to shipping makes completing school a very real possibility.” offered. One Seafarer and five dependents each were awarded a $20,000 scholarship for study at a four-year college or university, and two stipends for $6,000 each were given to two Seafarers for study at a two-year college or vocational school. On this page are brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the eight college-bound students. Dependents Having just graduated this spring from Little CypressMauriceville High School in Orange, Texas with a 4.93 GPA, Adam Burton is now ready to tackle the demands of college. His four-year, $20,000 scholarship will certainly help him in his quest for a degree in business and communications at one of the Texas universities to which he has applied. He is the son of Harriet and Desire Zeljko Nikolic, chief engineer aboard Great Lakes Dredge and Dock’s Victoria Island, who joined the union in 1995. Born in San Diego, Calif., Anthony Sabatini recently graduated from high school in that city with a 4.167 GPA. With his scholarship winnings, he hopes to major in business or computer science at one of several California universities (San Diego State, University of California Irvine or San Francisco State). Ashleigh Coppola Adam Burton He is the son of Lera and Ross Burton, who joined the SIU in 1996 in the inland division and sails as a captain aboard Higman Towing Co. tugs. The 18-year-old Burton remembers always having had a thirst for knowledge and credits his parents with instilling in him a love for reading at an early age, which has only grown stronger with time. While in high school, Burton participated in a rigorous academic program and still found time for a number of extracurricular activities. The honor student was a member of the high school choir and band program (and is a talented guitar player), participated on the debate team and took part in his local church youth ministry. In his application, Burton states that he felt up to the challenge of university life and, in the future, hopes to open his own business while using his communications major to find a unique outlet for his writing. “Whether it is a magazine, newspaper or my own personal novel, I intend to do some sort of writing as a part of my lifelong career.” Ashleigh Coppola, 18, just graduated from the Science and Technology Program at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Md., a highly competitive program which represents the top 5 percent of students from Prince George’s County (Md.) public schools. She hopes to earn a degree in business or business management from the University of Maryland, Towson (Md.) University or Pennsylvania State University. In addition to her rigorous and challenging academic program, Coppola also was involved in a number of extracurricular activities, including the National Honor Society and Italian Honor Society as well as cheerleading and the swim team. Starting in her freshman year of high school, Coppola began working at a retail clothing business. Learning to balance the responsibilities of a job along with school, she believes, helped her learn such skills as time management. By her senior year, she had advanced in her position, pay and responsibilities. It was this job—and her manager there—that influenced her decision to pursue a career in the field of business management. She is the daughter of Terri and Patrick Coppola, a deep sea member currently sailing on the Overseas Philadelphia. He joined the union in 1983. Computers have been a strong influence in the life of Stefan Nikolic, 17. Born in New York, where he lived until he was nine, his family then moved to Durham, N.C., where he graduated last month from Durham Academy. Stefan Nikolic Nikolic notes that he enjoyed mathematics and problem-solving at an early age, and that soon developed into strong interests in the sciences, calculus, logic and computer programming. “At this point,” he wrote on his application form, “I have built them, programmed them and had my own business for two years, running a server rental e-business.” In addition to these academic and entrepreneurial interests, he played competitive soccer and was a member of his school’s swim team. Nikolic also plays the trumpet and piano, writes poetry and studies philosophy. He plans to use his $20,000 scholarship to study electrical engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, with a minor in philosophy—after returning from a planned six-week train trip across Europe this summer. Anthony Sabatini Throughout his high school years, Sabatini, 17, has been involved in music, academics and church. He participated in a marching band, wind ensemble and jazz band. Academically, he has taken honors and AP courses and was a peer tutor in humanities. He also has been very active in his church’s youth group. Although he does not plan to major in music, Sabatini does intend to stay involved in it as a way to express himself. Sabatini is the son of Debra and Anthony Sabatini, a deep sea member since 1990 who currently sails as a recertified bosun aboard the Alaskan Explorer. With a strong desire to learn, Ronald Paul Viernes graduated from Kapolei High School in Hawaii with a 4.019 GPA. Besides his excellence in academics, including membership in the National Honor Society, Viernes has been looked upon as a leader in the classroom while still finding time for extracurricular activities such as the varsity tennis and volleyball teams and the hiking club. He was very active in the student Ronald Paul Viernes government, and in his sophomore year, he was selected for the school’s highest honor for best exemplifying “caring, dignity and integrity” (the school’s motto). He also found time to volunteer for various community causes: readContinued on page 20 Seafarers LOG 7 �7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:20 PM Page 8 Appreciative Upgrader Ayotte Seizes School’s Opportunities Engine-department Seafarer Philip Ayotte had a simple but heartfelt message when he spoke at the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. “Thank you.” Ayotte, 29, credited the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as well as SIU officials with helping him find the right career path. “I went through the unlicensed apprentice program four years ago, and since then I’ve taken every upgrading course I could take,” said Ayotte, who is enrolled in the marine electrician class. “I thank the teachers and the entire school, and also the union officials who work so hard on (Seafarers’) behalf.” After the meeting, Ayotte recalled his introduction to the school. Four years earlier, he lived in New Orleans when an SIU member recommended the three-phase apprentice program. Ayotte enrolled and soon realized he’d found a home. “Since then, I’ve made the choice to come back here (to the school),” said the resident of Minneapolis. “I want to continue to learn and be the best I can be on the job. The school helps me meet that goal—I’ve learned a Seafarer Philip Ayotte says the Paul Hall Center helps him stay at peak efficiency on the job. tremendous amount in the last four years.” Ayotte, who most recently sailed on a Waterman ship, said the school’s admissions department and instructors go out of their way to help apprentices and upgraders alike. More on the School Founded in 1967, the Paul Hall Center offers the most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any maritime school in the nation. Based in Piney Point, Md., the school is a hub of STCW training, featuring unsurpassed educational facilities and peaceful surroundings that facilitate learning. Among the school’s most beneficial training tools are the bridge and engine simulators, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School (located on a nearby satellite campus) and the culinary lab. The Paul Hall Center offers everything from entry training to license preparation to academic support and more. Students at the southern Maryland school also may receive college credit recommendations for successfully completing certain sanctioned courses. As vocational training for U.S. mariners seemingly becomes more important each year, the Paul Hall Center continues offering state-of-the-art schooling for mariners. An overview of the courses available at Piney Point (including the 40-plus Coast Guardapproved classes) is contained in a four-page section in the January 2005 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Course descriptions also are listed on the web site www.seafarers.org, in the Paul Hall Center section. Seafarer Frey Earns GED Seafarer John Frey (center) received his GED during the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez congratulated Frey on the accomplishment. Frey graduated last year from the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, where he is enrolled the AB course. In addition to vocational training, the SIU-affiliated center offers academic support, a GED program, a college degree curriculum and more. More than 2,000 students have earned GEDs at the Paul Hall Center. Special Day for Steward The Paul Hall Center features entry-level training, upgrading and more. Retired Steward Ware Publishes First Book Retired Recertified Steward Lois Ware knows plenty about overcoming obstacles and achieving goals. She is a cancer survivor. She is believed to be the first woman to sail as a crew member on a U.S. West Coast-based freighter (the President Van Buren). Now, she has added another title: published author. Ware’s first book, “The Rose and the Sea: Sea Stories,” is available through the web site www.authorhouse.com. Produced in paperback, the book contains 88 pages and sells for $11.50. A promotional release describes the book as providing “an overarching look at her life, from her childhood and school experiences to her lifelong love affair with the salty winds and on-board life of the maritime industry.” In an interview last month with the Seafarers LOG, Ware, who comes from a family of Seafarers, said that writing a book had been a longtime goal. “I wanted people to know what life at sea is like,” she noted. “The book was more work than I expected. It seems like I rewrote it nine or 10 times, but I hope to write another one—maybe a mystery or some poetry, if it’s worthwhile.” Ware sailed with the NMU in the early 1970s before signing on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union, which later merged into the SIU. She retired due to health issues in 1994. If writing was a labor of love, sailing couldn’t have been more natural for Ware, considering the Alabama native’s bloodlines. Her uncle, Thomas F. Ware, was one of the more than 1,200 Seafarers who gave his life in World War II. At various times, her son, nephew and brother all sailed with the SIU. “My life was going to sea,” she recalled. “I’ve always regretted having to leave the industry so soon…. To the people just entering this profession, I would say, set a goal and don’t listen to what people say you cannot do. You will achieve your goal and be successful.” Ware, who has been cancer-free for 10 years, last sailed aboard the President Truman. She said that the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a great asset for mariners who want to advance in their careers. “I love the school,” Ware stated. Retired Recertified Steward Lois Ware is pictured at the Paul Hall Center holding a copy of her new book (left) and sailing aboard an SIUcontracted ship in the early 1980s (below). When SIU President Michael Sacco (right) presented Lonnie Jones with an A-seniority union book last month, the recertified steward nearly was overcome with emotion. Jones, who first sailed with the SIU in 1988, said he takes his union membership to heart. He described receiving his A-book as an exciting, longawaited moment and a special day. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2005 �7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:20 PM Page 9 AFL-CIO Group Okays Sweeping New Policies Measures Aimed at Increasing Support for Organizing and Mobilization for Politics The AFL-CIO Executive Committee—a 24-member advisory group made up of top union leaders including SIU President Michael Sacco—on June 13 overwhelmingly approved a plan put forward by AFL-CIO President John Sweeney to dramatically shift the work of the labor federation and unite unions for the twin goals of increased organizing and more member mobilization for politics and legislation. The group also approved a new two-year budget that funds the program. “Working people are under attack as never before by corporate and political forces, and today’s plans will help the union movement fight back with all our united strength,” said Sweeney. “Union movement growth and workers’ political power are fundamentally linked and we must strengthen both simultaneously.” The officials, by a 17-7 tally, voted to send to the AFL-CIO Executive Council (which is separate from the Executive Committee) the updated plan, a version of which was first introduced in early March. The resolution will be voted on by the Executive Council, a 54-member constitutional leadership body, at its meeting at the end of June. If approved, the resolution will be presented to the AFL-CIO convention at the end of July. The Executive Committee vote on the budget June 13 was also 17-7. “Without growth, we cannot sustain wins in the policy debates and political contests that determine the future for working people,” asserts the resolution. “And without a more hospitable, proworker political environment, we cannot grow as fast as we must.” The resolution, titled “A Plan to Help Workers Win: Uniting our Power to Build a Stronger, Growing Labor Movement,” points to “30 years of corporate assault and government complicity” as a key factor in the erosion of unions’ strength. Yet, more workers than ever say they want unions, the resolution points out. Fifty-three percent of non-union, non-managerial workers say they would join a union tomorrow if given the chance, according to Peter D. Hart Research Associates—the highest percentage recorded since Hart began collecting this data in 1996. The new plan emphasizes unity among unions and union movement-wide change, rather than change only at the Federation level. “Every union in every sector must change and work to build a stronger movement in the spirit of solidarity, mutual support and mutual accountability that defines us.” The plan calls for increased resources for helping more workers form unions, or organizing, through (1) a ramped up effort to change public policies to help restore workers’ freedom to form unions and (2) an accelerated initiative to help more unions increase their capacity to organize, especially outside the deeply flawed National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) process. Specific changes include creating a $22.5 million Strategic Organizing Fund, establishing industry coordinating committees for more tactical organizing, changing provisions of the AFL-CIO constitution (Articles XX and XXI) to support these committees’ work, training 100,000 worksite stewards by 2008 to defend workers’ freedom to form unions, encouraging and actively promoting mergers of unions, and supporting a major global campaign against WalMart. The officials asserted that their focus is not on a political party, but on supporting elected leaders who support workers. Under the new plan, the AFLCIO will move from a focus on biannual “get-out-the-vote” work to building year-round capacity for mobilizing members for politics and legislation. The federation will fund this work by increasing the Member Mobilization Fund for legislative and political action by approximately $7.5 Major Religious Group Backs Employee Free Choice Act/Card Check The AFL-CIO’s “Voice@Work” campaign recently reported that the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church on May 20 officially offered its support for the Employee Free Choice Act and majority sign-up agreements (also known as card-check). The General Board of Church and Society is the international social witness and advocacy agency of The United Methodist Church, charged by the denomination “to speak its convictions, interpretations and concerns to the Church and to the world.” The United Methodist Church, through its Social Principles, recognizes and supports the freedom of workers to form unions of their own choosing and bargain collectively. In its recent statement supporting the campaign to restore workers’ freedom to form unions, the board calls on “all employers to abide by their employees’ decision when a majority has signed union authorization cards or otherwise indicated their desire to be represented by a union, and to refrain from using National Labor Relations Board hearings, elections, and appeals as a means for delaying or avoiding representation for their employees.” The United Methodist Church has more than 8 million members in the United States and is the thirdlargest denomination in the country. By mid-June, the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 842 and H.R. 1696) had 37 co-sponsors in the Senate and 187 in the House. AOTOS Honorees Announced The United Seamen’s Service (USS) recently announced its honorees for the 2005 Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) Awards. According to the USS, AOTOS awards will be presented to Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, commander of the United States Transportation Command; Ron Davis, president of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA); and Anthony A. Scioscia, president of APM Terminals North America. The ceremony, chaired by SIU President Michael Sacco, is scheduled to take place Nov. 4 in New York City, noted John Bowers, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association. “These three leaders represent the American maritime spirit in all the vital areas in our industry,” said Bowers. “Ron Davis, General Handy and Tony Scioscia all understand that while being leaders in their own areas of labor, government and management, they must embrace and cooperate with each other to keep the American transportation industry working.” Bowers added, “Our recipients have been selected by those who July 2005 know them best, international transportation leaders who understand very well the challenges and issues which confront United States shipping and the American seafarers and recognize their leadership in this area.” USS sought nominees from more than 150 maritime management, labor and government officials. All proceeds from the awards ceremony benefit “USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries,” the organization noted in a news release. “The recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea.” An outspoken advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine, General Handy was commissioned in 1967, received his pilot wings in 1968 and has served in various high-ranking positions. Prior to assuming his current post, the general was vice chief of staff at U.S. Air Force headquarters in the Pentagon. General Handy is a command pilot who has logged more than 300 combat hours in Southeast Asia. The general is a heavily million per year. None of the fund will go to contributions to political candidates. The plan also calls for building on the initial success of Working America, the AFL-CIO’s new community affiliate for non-union workers, by increasing members to two million by the end of 2006. The resolution prioritizes grassroots movement-building and calls on the AFL-CIO to strengthen state and local labor movements by requiring strategic decorated officer, receiving many major awards. Throughout his tenure at TRANSCOM his reputation is that of a “hands-on” executive. He strongly supports the U.S. Maritime Security Program and has been enthusiastic in his praise for the U.S. Merchant Marine’s performance throughout the various stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Davis began serving as MEBA’s president in 2002. He is a U.S. Navy veteran and former regional official for MEBA. Scioscia was appointed president of APM Terminals North America in 1999. The organization, which is a Maersk company, operates 13 container terminals in North America. Previously, Scioscia was senior vice president of Sea-Land Service’s North America Operations Group and was a member of Sea-Land’s Operating Executive Board. The USS, a non-profit agency established in 1942, operates centers in nine foreign ports in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. planning and budgeting, and consolidating local labor federations. The AFL-CIO will expand leadership development with grassroots union organizations, and work to ensure diversity of representation at every level of its structure. To fund the shift in resources to organizing and political mobilization, the federation has already begun a review of all programs and a reorganization of its staff, which will be reduced by 25 percent. Meanwhile, on June 7 the pro-worker organization American Rights at Work released a report titled “Free and Fair? How Labor Law Fails U.S. Democratic Election Standards.” The report offers a detailed analysis of how fundamental principles governing American elections are systematically denied to those seeking union representation at work. “No political challenger could get elected under these guidelines,” said University of Oregon Associate Professor Gordon Lafer, the political scientist who authored the report. “The system is so corrupt that it doesn’t remotely resemble the democratic process we think of when we use the term ‘election.’” “Free and Fair?” measures the union representation election process against democratic election standards established by the political philosophy and published works of the Founding Fathers, the historical development of electoral law and jurisprudence, and current statutes and regulations that define “free and fair” elections. The report reveals a series of onesided advantages extended to employers, as well as significant barriers imposed upon pro-union workers and their unions. Lafer’s examination concludes that workers’ free speech rights are squelched on the job, and workers are restricted from openly distributing literature while employers have free reign to do so. He further concludes that employers deny essential employee information to thwart pro-union workers’ access to their coworkers. Additionally, employers and supervisors practice various forms of economic coercion with the clear intent to grant or take away privileges based upon an employee’s position on the union. At the same time, existing and excessively permissive labor law allows employers to indefinitely delay recognition of a union through a drawn-out appeals process. Gen. John Handy (left), welcomed by SIU President Michael Sacco earlier this year at the executive board meeting of the Maritime Trades Department, will receive an Admiral of the Ocean Seas Award Nov. 4 in New York. Labor Unions for $400, Alex For at least one moment, Recertified Steward Mike Gramer had the upper hand on the three Jeopardy contestants. The Seafarer tuned in to the popular TV game show June 2 and noticed a second-round category called Labor Unions. The first answer: “The LOG is the monthly newspaper of a union of these.” Alas, none of the three players knew the question. One guessed that the LOG is a newspaper for lumberjacks; the others had no guess. Topping it off, the show’s host said that the correct question was, “Who are sailors?” rather than mariners. He added, “Remember, the captain fills out the (ship’s) log, or one of the officers does.” Hey, it’s better than no mention at all, right? Gramer later went online and looked up a question-by-question review of the show to double-check that he had heard correctly. He subsequently called it to the LOG staff’s attention. Other unions mentioned in the labor category included the United Auto Workers, the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, and the American Federation of Musicians. Seafarers LOG 9 �28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:32 PM Pride of America Continued from page 3 and the mariners for their commitment to shipboard safety. He pointed out that modern safety regulations set high standards for vessel and crew alike, and said he is confident that the Pride of America will continue meeting those standards. Veitch called Sacco “our strongest supporter and partner.” He also complimented the crew, describing them as “professional, ready and raring to go.” One of the ceremony’s high- Page 10 lights took place when Veitch introduced (en masse) crew members from various departments, who then walked from the deck above the stage down the stairs and through the applauding crowd. Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus, who joined the SIU 33 years ago, told the Seafarers LOG, “This is a historic time for the U.S. maritime industry, and this crew is one of the finest I’ve ever sailed with. Everyone has gone the extra two miles. We know how important it is for the membership to have these jobs, and we’re committed.” New Law Covers Prescription Drugs This year, the federal government published regulations to support a new part to the current to Medicare program offered to beneficiaries across the nation. Known as Medicare part D, this new benefit will provide prescription drug coverage to individuals entitled to Part A or enrolled in part B of Medicare’s existing programs. This program is set to begin on January 1, 2006. The government has provided multi-employer trust funds like the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan with several options regarding the administration of prescription drug benefits for retirees under the new law. The Plan’s Board of Trustees is reviewing all of the options available under the new Medicare part D and will discuss these choices at their meeting this month (July). Once these important decisions are made, SIU retirees will be notified as to which option for drug coverage will be adopted. CIVMAR News: Request for Relief Pilot Program The Military Sealift Command has determined that it will implement a program and procedures which may change the way leave, medical examinations and return-to-work assignments are scheduled for CIVMARS. This program would require that CIVMARS complete additional forms and circulate them to their department head, MSO and purser prior to scheduling leave. This new paperwork must be completed 60 days in advance of the date that the CIVMARS request their leave. MSC’s goal is to assign each CIVMAR to a new vessel, training class or medical treatment facility directly from his or her home of record. Mariners may be required to receive physicals at naval medical facilities other than those at San Diego and Norfolk. This new pilot program is expected to begin soon. MSC has advised the union that it will select two East Coast vessels and two West Coast vessels to start. Ships selected to participate in this program will have orientation meetings held by MSC representatives. During the course of the negotiations about this pilot program, the union raised many concerns. The union’s primary concern was that this program puts too much administrative burden on the mariner. The union also questioned what type of pay status the CIVMAR will be placed in (base pay or leave without pay) if the mariner is at home waiting for a medical exam. Currently, mariners have been experiencing many delays associated with the MSC medical examination process. This new process will also require extra coordination with a marine placement specialist. The union noted that this might produce additional problems as frequently, due to time differences and other reasons, marine placement specialists are unavailable to speak on the phone. The union is also concerned that implementation of this program could lead to increased disciplinary actions against a mariner should there be any administrative errors or confusion leading to the inability of the mariner to follow all the new requirements. MSC has committed to ongoing discussions and a program evaluation as the pilot program proceeds. It is very important that CIVMARS keep in touch with the union about their experiences with this pilot program. Please send all comments and questions (both positive as well as negative) to civmarsupport@seafarers.org. If you have any questions or concerns and cannot reach the union via e-mail please call Chester Wheeler at (415) 861-3400, Maurice Cokes at (757) 622-1892 or Kate Hunt at (718) 832-8767. Health Care Woes Continue Continued from page 6 “There is a great sense that there is just no answer to this problem,” Altman added. Employees in 2004 paid 28 percent of the family premium, up from 27 percent a year earlier. However, singles’ out-of-pocket costs for the premium rose 9.8 percent to $558 annually while a worker’s cost for a family premium increased 10.3 percent to $2,661. Since 2001, employee contributions increased 57 percent for single coverage and 49 percent for family coverage. Overall, 56 percent of firms said they shopped for a new plan during 2004. Of those that looked, 31 percent changed carriers while 34 percent switched the type of plan they offered. For the most part, employers are skeptical about whether tools such as disease management and consumer plans really lower costs. Only 42 percent of employers believed disease management and consumer-driven plans were somewhat effective in lowering costs. “Such efforts nibble at the edges,” said Altman. He said controlling health care costs was a vexing problem because no one wants to pay more, but people also aren’t willing to accept less service. “I don’t see any solution in the short or immediate future,” he said. A Do-It-Yourself BBQ on the Lihue Matson’s Lihue recently came into service after a period of extended layup. The SIU steward department aboard the vessel pulled out all the stops for the ship’s first barbecue en route from Oakland, Calif. to Honolulu. The stocktender aboard ship (a non-union employee responsible for taking care of livestock being transported to Hawaii in special containers) donated two live goats for the festive occasion. Although butchering live animals is not a require- ment for upgrading at the Paul Hall Center, the SIU galley gang rose to the challenge and slaughtered the two goats, dressed the carcasses, butchered the meat and prepared the meal. The photos were provided by Recertified Steward John Holtschlag. Holtschlag reports that there was no leftover goat at the end of the barbecue, which also included grilled steak to order, Hawaiian teriyaki chicken, mahi mahi and all the trimmings. Clockwise from top left: Chief Cook Ahmed Quraish (top of ladder) hands off a live kid goat to SA Majed Alsunbahi (holding the goat in a bag on the ladder) to bring the animal on deck for slaughter; Assistant Cook David Hilario (left) and Alsunbahi hold the first goat on deck for butchering while the second goat lies trussed awaiting its fate; Quraish and Alsunbahi go to work on the second goat carcass; Quraish and Hilario proudly display their delectable finished product: a finely roasted kid goat; presentation is an important element at the Lihue’s barbecue as Quraish and Alsunbahi prepare their scrumptious roast goat for the crew. 10 Seafarers LOG July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:38 PM Page 11 Sailing on the Liberator For two unlicensed apprentices, Samuel Thatcher and Mark Fitzgerald, their first voyage on the Liberator was a totally new experience. After completing their initial 12-week training (Phase I of the unlicensed apprentice program) at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Edu- cation at Piney Point, Md., the two members of Class 662 left the school with Steward/Baker Brandon Maeda (who sent the LOG the photos accompanying this article) to fly to Houston and board the Maersk Line Limited vessel. For the first time, they got to experience the excitement of Having gone through the shellback ceremony, Mark Fitzgerald (left) and Samuel Thatcher display the certificates that show that they crossed the equator for the first time. sailing to the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea while visiting Spain and Italy. The vessel also traversed the South Atlantic Ocean on the way down to ports in South Africa, where Thatcher and Fitzgerald experienced the pollywog to shellback tradition when the containership crossed the equator on its run to Capetown. “Both are great workers, good shipmates and have long careers in the SIU ahead of them if they so desire,” stated Maeda when the duo finished their 90 days (Phase II) at sea. “It was great working with both of them on their first ship, and I wish them the best of luck becoming professional seamen. Like [President] Mike Sacco is always saying—the trainees are what the union is all about—the future!” The Liberator currently is on a U.S. to South Africa run. The voyage starts in Newark, N.J. and sails to Baltimore, Newport News, Va. and Freeport, Bahamas before sailing for a couple weeks down the South Atlantic to Capetown, Durban and Port Elizabeth, South Africa before returning to the U.S. All in all, it’s about a 49-day trip. Unlicensed apprentices Mark Fitzgerand and Sam Thatcher spent 90 days at sea aboard the Liberator, learning from their more experienced crew mates. From the left are Thatcher, QMED David Terry Jr., Fitzgerald, AB Bruce Howell, Bosun Ed O’Connor and AB Roy Payne. Melvin Ellis (left) works as an SA on the Liberator; Travell Love is an AB/Watchman. Meeting with SIU’s Government Services Crew Members During Phase II of the unlicensed apprentice program, students take a turn working in all three departments aboard ship. Above, Samuel Thatcher gets some experience in the steward and deck departments while, below, Mark Fitzgerald tries his hand at various chores. When they return to the school for the third phase of the program, they will select the department in which they would like to receive specialized training. Attending the NOAA meeting are (from left) Orlando Thompson, SIU delegate aboard the Albatross IV; Rear Adm. Richard R. Behn, director of Marine and Aviation Operations at NOAA; and SIU Government Services Rep. Kate Hunt. On March 11, 2005, representatives from SIU’s Government Services Division (SIU Boston Port Agent Gerard Cooghey and Rep. Kate Hunt) attended an “allhands” meeting with crew members from SIU-crewed NOAA vessels Albatross IV and Delaware II. The meeting was held in Woods Hole, Mass., where the vessels are homeported. Also in attendance were representatives from MEBA and MM&P as well as senior NOAA management (including Rear Adm. Richard R. Behn, director of NOAA’s Marine and Aviation Operations Centers, and Capt. Gary Bulmer, commanding officer of Atlantic Marine Operations). Various personnel and operations matters were discussed, including the expected addition of 10 vessels into the NOAA fleet over the next decade. Proud of His Nephew Preparing some delicious meals aboard the Liberator are galley gang members (from left) Steward/ Baker Brandon Maeda, SA Melvin Ellis and Chief Cook Suki Suraredjo. July 2005 Recently retired AB Arthur D. Machado Jr. (left) of Belle Chasse, La. is extremely proud of his young nephew, Daniel M. Hathaway. Hathaway is a lance corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps who currently is home on leave. Stationed in North Carolina, Hathaway already has served a tour of duty in Iraq and will likely be going back in the fall. Seafarers LOG 11 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:40 PM Page 12 SIU Welcomes the Pride Snapshots from Christening Of SIU-Crewed Pride of America The Seafarers-crewed Pride of America was christened June 17 in New York City, marking the continued rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. An article covering the event appears on page 3. On these pages are photos from the day. Additional photos from the christening will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG. SIU President Michael Sacco congratulates crew members for helping the Pride of America get off to a strong start. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (left) chat with Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus. U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao shakes hands with Unlicensed Apprentice Isaac Garrido. The secretary visited with several apprentices following the ceremony. Seafarers in the preparation galley busily prepare pre-christ lunches for guests aboard the new vessel. SIU VPs Joseph Soresi (left) and Tom Orzechowski observe the christening. Job Growth Continues with NCL America’s Newest Vessel 1st Cook Aaron Lanet The Pride of America is the largest U.S.-flag cruise ship ever constructed. 12 Seafarers LOG The four photos directly above, left to right, show some of the facilities an July 2005 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:41 PM Page 13 e of America tes rica U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao points out that NCL America’s fleet will employ nearly 4,000 mariners. NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch describes SIU President Sacco as “our strongest supporter and partner.” U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour notes that the Pride of America meets or exceeds the agency’s safety standards. Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay reiterates the commitment of NCL America’s parent company to see the U.S.-flag venture succeed. christening Oiler Curtis Tobey and QMED Don Lumpkins Unlicensed Apprentices Karel Cain and Bob Light Unlicensed Apprentice David Moses es and décor aboard the 921-foot vessel. The Pride of America also features spacious meeting rooms, workout areas and other amenities. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 13 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/22/2005 8:40 PM Page 14 Lakes Task Force Honors 2 The SIU-affiliated Great Lakes Maritime Task Force recently named U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Congressman Mark Green (R-Wis.) to receive its 2005 Legislator of the Year Awards. The honors annually are bestowed on legislators who best advance the interests of the Great Lakes economy in Congress. Both recipients in early May received their awards during the task force’s 10th annual informational breakfast for the Great Lakes delegation in Washington, D.C. “Perhaps no other senator has ever made more contributions to Great Lakes shipping in their first term than Debbie A. Stabenow,” SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The Board of Trustees of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay all supplemental benefits. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $1,618,698 as of July 31, 2004, compared to $2,109,227 as of August 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $490,529. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $9,392,124, including employer contributions of $9,359,818, earnings from investments of $30,506 and other income of $1,800. Plan expenses were $9,882,653. These expenses included $490,522 in administrative expenses, and $9,392,131 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on pay ments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; telephone number (415) 437-6832. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, and at the U.S. Department of Labor Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. 14 Seafarers LOG said Daniel L. Smith, president of Great Lakes Maritime Task Force and national vice president, Great Lakes, American Maritime Officers. Other speakers also lauded the contributions of the Michigan senator. She was credited for having been a leader in the effort to stop the introduction of nonindigenous species into the Great Lakes from oceangoing vessels and also for having authored legislation and sought funding to find a solution to this worldwide problem. Stabenow was labeled as a person who understands that what’s good for Great Lakes shipping is good for Michigan. Her work to foster policies that benefit both also was praised. In the area of free trade, the senator was hailed as one who believes that free trade must be fair trade. “She supports fair trade in steel, but expects the federal government to react quickly to illegal dumping,” a task force official said. “She has stood with American shipyards….” “I am pleased and proud to be recognized by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force for my legislative efforts on behalf of the Great Lakes economy,” Stabenow said. “The task force represents a broad constituency with a great stake in ensuring that we not only use the Lakes wisely, but that we also bolster commerce in the Great Lakes and create jobs. Our most recent challenge is to head off tolls on Great Lakes shipping, and I know we will continue to work together to bring commerce and jobs to our Great Lakes ports.” At the conclusion of Senator Stabenow’s remarks, the contributions of Congressman Green to the Great Lakes shipping community took center stage. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) receives a framed photo to signify her selection as one of two recipients of the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force’s 2005 Legislator of the Year Awards. Presenting the award is Dan Smith, president of the task force and a VP with the American Maritime Officers. Others pictured are (from left) SIU Lakes and Inland Waters Business Rep. Todd Brdak, Bill Yockey of the ILA and SIU VP Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski. “Representative Green has been an ardent supporter of Great Lakes shipping since being elected to the House of Representatives in 1998,” said Smith. The congressman was cited for his understanding that in a post 9/11 world, having ships that are U.S.-owned, U.S.-built and U.S.crewed is not only a vital element of the country’s national security, but also a foundation America’s economic strength. Green also was recognized for his support of Wisconsin’s shipyards and his work toward advancing ship construction the United States. “A vibrant shipping industry in the Great Lakes means a healthier economy in Wisconsin,” Green said. “Since arriving in Congress I have fought alongside [the task force] to protect the Great Lakes maritime industry and I’m proud of the victories we’ve scored. I look forward to continuing my efforts with the task force.” The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force was founded in Toledo, Ohio, in 1992 to promote domestic and international Great Rep. Mark Green (R-Wis.) Lakes shipping. It is the largest coalition to ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping community and draws its membership from both labor and management representing U.S.-flag vessel operators, shipboard and longshore unions, shipyards, and other Great Lakes interests. Among other things, its goals include preserving the domestic steelmaking infrastructure; protecting the nation’s cabotage laws; maximizing the Lakes overseas trade; and increasing funding for annual dredging of ports and waterways. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $11,791,666. These expenses included $884,889 in administrative expenses and $10,906,777 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,645 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $135,749,137 as of July 31, 2004, compared to $137,395,691 as of August 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,646,554. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan hada total income of $10,145,112, including employer contributions of $31,186, losses of $1,132,505 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $11,242,953 and other income of $3,478. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco CA 94102, (415) 437-6850. The charge to cover copying costs will be $17.00 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 and the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. July 2005 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2005 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 2 8 4 5 6 22 43 0 5 18 25 18 5 5 11 12 4 34 26 0 2 1 1 3 14 13 0 2 12 13 5 0 0 1 4 0 9 13 0 0 2 1 5 17 23 0 8 8 18 5 1 1 7 14 1 22 16 0 2 2 2 2 18 25 0 9 7 9 11 1 10 16 8 1 24 12 1 2 1 2 2 9 8 0 4 3 6 6 0 0 0 3 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 3 10 27 0 1 3 8 3 2 1 13 9 1 19 11 2 0 10 4 10 59 62 0 13 30 55 23 6 0 17 27 0 60 45 7 9 10 9 9 29 66 2 15 30 49 31 7 12 9 19 6 54 42 1 3 3 2 3 28 28 1 7 27 33 14 4 0 1 7 4 31 30 258 253 93 149 159 54 115 423 415 227 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 1 7 14 23 0 8 10 8 5 6 4 7 6 1 18 8 0 4 2 3 6 15 29 0 2 11 10 10 3 5 3 3 3 21 12 0 2 0 0 1 4 9 0 0 4 6 4 1 3 1 2 0 4 9 0 0 3 0 5 7 17 1 7 7 4 5 0 4 4 9 2 12 8 0 3 2 1 4 8 13 0 3 3 7 8 1 3 5 5 2 20 5 0 0 0 0 2 3 6 1 2 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 1 0 1 10 8 0 2 4 6 1 0 1 7 6 0 16 3 0 0 4 2 9 25 31 0 7 14 21 11 7 2 6 9 2 18 10 0 2 5 4 7 18 47 0 7 15 15 16 4 2 6 7 6 23 22 1 4 0 0 2 9 16 0 4 7 13 6 3 2 2 4 1 6 14 129 142 50 95 93 25 66 178 206 94 0 0 5 4 11 13 24 0 7 7 22 12 4 4 1 25 0 22 17 0 0 0 4 5 6 17 0 6 3 6 12 2 3 2 4 1 8 8 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 0 0 4 4 2 0 0 1 1 3 3 3 0 0 2 3 3 7 12 0 4 5 10 10 3 1 1 14 0 11 20 0 0 1 1 5 7 7 0 3 1 7 8 1 2 3 3 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 6 13 0 0 4 8 4 2 0 1 8 0 8 9 0 0 5 1 21 31 36 0 8 15 35 11 2 7 2 45 3 25 33 1 0 2 5 6 5 31 0 6 7 10 17 2 3 3 9 1 14 12 1 0 0 1 1 3 9 0 0 4 8 4 0 1 1 1 4 4 4 178 87 28 106 57 13 65 280 134 46 1 0 0 0 3 3 4 0 1 3 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 0 1 2 3 1 6 19 12 0 8 6 35 9 0 5 3 13 0 14 13 3 7 3 4 4 21 23 0 1 6 24 15 0 23 0 7 1 12 14 0 0 0 0 1 1 5 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 1 0 0 2 0 3 11 8 0 1 5 11 6 0 9 2 4 0 8 2 0 1 2 2 2 9 4 0 0 0 1 10 0 20 0 1 0 5 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 9 7 4 0 2 4 9 0 0 0 1 5 0 9 3 2 3 2 4 17 35 29 1 13 11 65 17 1 9 5 20 0 32 16 4 12 4 6 11 37 47 1 3 20 67 28 2 16 1 14 1 27 22 25 150 168 18 72 65 0 54 282 323 590 632 339 368 381 157 246 935 1037 690 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 8 3 5 31 38 0 10 15 32 17 6 0 15 14 0 41 22 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Trip Reliefs ENTRY DEPARTMENT Piney Point .............Monday: August 8 ................................Tuesday: September 6* .................................(*change created by Labor Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: August 12, September 9 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Boston.....................Friday: August 12, September 9 Duluth .....................Wednesday: August 17, September 14 Guam ......................Thursday: August 25, September 22 Honolulu .................Friday: August 19, September 16 Houston ..................Tuesday: August 16* .................................Monday: September 12 .................................(*change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 11, September 8 Joliet .......................Thursday: August 18, September 15 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 17, September 14 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 16, September 13 New York................Tuesday: August 9, September 6 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 10, September 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: August 18, September 15 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 18, September 15 San Juan..................Thursday: August 11, September 8 St. Louis..................Friday: August 19, September 16 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 26, September 23 Wilmington ...............Monday: August 22, September 19 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals MANUEL OLVERA Please contact Wayne Korb at (702) 386-2803. (Manuel was bosun and Wayne was the dayman aboard the Citrus Packer in 1956.) GEORGE MAZZOLA Please get in touch with James W. Bernachi at (618) 593-0936, or e-mail him at goofy3110378@aol.com. PAUL BORG Tommy McCormack, who worked with you 35 years ago on United States Lines’ American Archer, would like you to call him at (561) 357-0529. WILLIAM BEADLES Your godson, John Seaman, is trying to get in touch with you. Please call him at (415) 462-0841; or e-mail yardbirdie@comcast.net. JAMES BUCKOWSKI Please contact your niece, Raven Giaquinto (Wendy’s daughter), regarding your mother. The family would love to hear from you. You may e-mail Raven at skyblazerange12010@yahoo.com. ANDRE ZENE Dan Jones (your roommate at the Paul Hall School) would like to get in touch with you. Please e-mail him at danvis_65@yahoo.com. *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 15 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 9 4 6 11 0 0 5 40 1 1 2 4 10 0 0 7 25 0 3 9 4 2 2 5 7 32 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 5 6 4 5 7 2 0 0 29 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 2 9 0 2 7 0 2 2 4 6 23 0 4 4 4 3 1 1 2 19 6 33 13 14 33 4 1 11 115 3 6 7 7 14 1 0 6 44 0 12 4 20 1 0 5 0 42 0 4 3 0 1 0 1 6 15 7 14 5 7 13 1 2 5 54 1 3 10 1 7 0 0 1 23 0 6 5 11 0 1 1 10 24 0 4 0 0 2 0 1 4 11 6 8 8 5 15 2 1 3 48 0 7 3 1 14 0 0 2 27 0 8 0 13 0 1 2 1 25 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 3 1 3 5 0 0 3 18 0 0 5 0 3 0 0 0 8 0 4 9 4 2 2 0 3 24 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 4 1 2 4 0 0 2 16 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 3 9 1 2 1 0 3 19 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 3 4 4 4 7 2 1 1 26 0 5 4 0 2 0 0 2 13 0 3 3 4 0 0 2 9 21 Port 3 2 4 3 8 1 0 2 23 0 1 3 0 5 0 0 1 10 0 2 3 0 0 0 2 9 16 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 84 46 77 68 23 58 45 211 94 91 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST With all the celebrations surrounding the christening of the Pride of America, this photo was of a christening 30 years ago, that of the SIU-crewed J.A.W. Iglehart. It is from the LOG archives and was taken in 1965 in Cleveland. Jane Purinton, granddaughter of J.A.W. Iglehart, did the honors.. The cement carrier began life as the ocean-going tanker Pan Amoco in 1936. By 1965, its ocean-going career was at an end and it was sold to Huron Cement for conversion to a self-unloading cement carrier—and a new life on the Great Lakes. Today, the Iglehart continues much as it did in 1965. The former Huron Cement fleet now operates under the banner of Inland Lakes Management. The Iglehart holds the distinction of being the oldest turbine-driven vessel on the Great Lakes. When the E.M. Ford and S.T. Crapo were taken out of service in 1996, the Iglehart gained further distinction of being the oldest steam-powered laker in service with its original engine. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2005 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA WAYNE BALLARD, 65, joined the union in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Ballard was born in Texas and initially sailed in the deep sea division aboard the Santa Maria. During his seafaring career, he also shipped with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S). Brother Ballard’s most recent voyage was on American Ship Management’s President Wilson. The steward department member makes his home in San Jose, Calif. PAUL BRADSHAW, 64, was born in Oklahoma. Brother Bradshaw began his seafaring career in 1964 in the port of New York. He first worked aboard the Monticello in the engine department. Brother Bradshaw upgraded his seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. on two occasions. His last voyage was on the Innovator. Brother Bradshaw is a resident of Gardnerville, Nev. CHARLES GOOCH, 69, became a Seafarer in 1978 in the port of New York. Brother Gooch first shipped aboard the Delta Peru. He was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point School and sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Gooch last went to sea on the Horizon Tacoma. Born in the Philippines, he now calls Seattle home. JOHN GRAHAM, 66, joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Graham enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His first voyage was on the Spitfire. Before retiring, Brother Graham worked on Pronav Ship Management’s Taurus. The deck department member was born in Pennsylvania; he currently resides in Philadelphia. GEORGE JORDANIDES, 67, embarked on his SIU career in 1979 in New Orleans, initially sailing on the Point Judy. Brother Jordanides, who was born in Connecticut, was a member of the deck department. He attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Jordanides most recently July 2005 shipped on the Constellation. He lives in Kissimmee, Fla. CHARLES KAHL, 67, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1977 in New Orleans. A veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, Brother Kahl was born in Louisiana. He first shipped aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Brother Kahl worked in the deck department, upgrading frequently at the Paul Hall Center. His last vessel was the Gemini. Brother Kahl makes his home in Bush, La. DANIEL McDONALD, 63, hails from Iowa. Brother McDonald joined the ranks of the SIU in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Lucile Bloomfield. In 2000 and 2001, Brother McDonald attended the training facility in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Trader. Brother McDonald is a resident of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. MANUEL MILLAN, 68, joined the union in 1995. Brother Millan worked primarily aboard the Florida. He was born in New York and calls Davie, Fla. home. INLAND FRANKLIN HOLDER, 61, was born in Florida. Boatman Holder became an SIU member in 1982. He sailed mainly on vessels operated by C.G. Willis Inc. Boatman Holder resides in Jacksonville, Fla. CHARLES NICHOLS, 62, began his seafaring career in 1994 first sailing with Red Circle Transport. Boatman Nichols enhanced his skills at the Piney Point training center in 1998. Born in Nashville, Tenn., he last went to sea aboard a Moran Towing of Texas vessel. Boatman Nichols lives in Pensacola, Fla. GREAT LAKES ABDUL MAWARI, 65, began sailing with the union in 1973 in Detroit. Brother Mawari’s first ship was the Thomas Wilson; his last the Buffalo. Born in Arabia, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Mawari attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 1980. He makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. Texaco Montana. Born in Providence, R.I., his last trip to sea was aboard the Cape Ann. The deck department member’s most recent voyage was aboard the Cherry Valley. JACK ZARO, 55, started his career with the union in 1966 in Galveston, Texas. Brother Zaro first sailed on the Silvia Lykes. Celebrating a Special Birthday ROBERT McKEEVER, 61, was born in Wilmington, Del. Brother McKeever first sailed aboard the Golden Gate. He was a member of the steward department and last went to sea on the Texaco Massachusetts. ELORIS TART, 65, joined the NMU in 1964 initially shipping from the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Tart’s first voyage was aboard the Sue Lykes. The Alabama-born mariner last worked on the Lykes Navigator. Turning 21 is a memorable day, and Steward/Baker Javier Delosreyes helped make it that much more special for SCP Brian Etz by baking him a beautiful and delicious cake. Etz and the others pictured are aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Pomeroy at sea enroute to Kuwait. The photo was submitted by Paul K. Davis, master, and sent to the LOG by Capt. Mike Finnigan. JAMES TIERNEY, 68, became an NMU member in 1989 in Boston. Brother Tierney’s first ship was the Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 On July 24, the two largest companies contracted to SIU signed the best contracts in maritime. This concluded six weeks of hard and bitter negotiations with the shipowners, and as a result the solid front of the operators was broken. Among other things, wages were increased from $17.50 per month to as high as $50 per month. mariners through the SIU. The wage structure provided in the proposal submitted by the ITF’s Special Seafarers’ Section was based on the current average wage rates of all European union-represented seamen. For bosuns, carpenters, chief cooks and pumpmen, the average rate of pay is $252 a month—far less than half of the Seafarer’s base rate. The same ratio held for other jobs. The average European working as a bosun’s mate receives $232.80 a month. 1951 On July 20, Cities Service Oil Company agreed to the same conditions and benefits as were in effect with all other SIU-contracted tanker companies. On the terms of the agreement Cities Service agreed to the same SIU industry-wide vacation plan that the union had won from its other contracted operators on June 1. First payments by the company to the vacation plan were made retroactive to June 1. In addition the new agreement provided for an increase in the stewards’ department manning scale on Cities Service tankers with one messman being added to each ship. Other working conditions were improved in order to bring the Cities Service ships in line with the remainder of the SIU fleet. 1995 The House of Representatives overwhelmingly gave its approval on July 24 for the export sale of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. By a vote of 324 to 77 on the Alaskan Oil Export Act (H.R. 70), the House joined the Senate in endorsing legislation that will keep the U.S.flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century. The Senate had approved a similar bill (S. 395) by a margin of 74-25 on May 16.…. The SIU, in testimony given in March before the Senate committee and in May before the House committee considering lifting the 22year export ban, has supported the legislation because it would provide jobs for U.S. mariners. The union dropped its opposition to exporting Alaskan North Slope oil last year when legislation was introduced in Congress indicating that the product would be carried to foreign ports aboard U.S.-flag tankers. This Month In SIU History 1971 A draft of a proposed contract to be used in negotiations with runaway-flag operators who might accept a collective bargaining agreement shows graphically the advances made by U.S. Seafarers LOG 17 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:35 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JOHN BARTOLOME Pensioner John Bartolome, 96, passed away Jan. 4. Brother Bartolome was born in the Philippines and became a member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. Brother Bartolome worked in the steward department. He started collecting his pension in 1974 and called San Francisco home. BROOKE BUTLER Pensioner Brooke Butler, 85, died Feb. 11. Brother Butler joined the union in 1943 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard a Sproque Steamship Company vessel. Brother Butler was a member of the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1980, he sailed on the Newark. Brother Butler made his home in Richmond, Va. SAMUEL CASE JR. Pensioner Samuel Case Jr., 90, passed away March 11. Brother Case began sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of New Orleans. He initially shipped with Seatrain Lines in the engine department. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Case retired in 1977 after sailing aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. Born in New Orleans, he resided in Jefferson, La. DONALD CHESTNUT Pensioner Donald Chestnut, 82, died Dec. 29. Brother Chestnut embarked on his seafaring career in 1943 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He first worked on the Rudolf Kauffman. Brother Chestnut was born in Alabama and sailed in the deck department. His last ship was the Cove Sailor. Brother Chestnut began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985 and lived in Mobile, Ala. DONALD EDWARDS Brother Donald Edwards, 59, passed away Nov. 23. He began his seafaring career in 2002 in Seattle. Brother Edwards’ first ship was the Westward Venture. He was born in Bremerton, Wash. and worked in the engine department. Brother Edwards most recently sailed aboard the USNS Watkins. He was a resident of Seattle. ARTHUR FINNELL Pensioner Arthur Finnell, 83, passed away March 4. Brother Finnell donned the SIU colors in 1953 in the port of New York. The deck depart- 18 Seafarers LOG ment member was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Born in Mexico, his final voyage was on the Duchess. Brother Finnell went on pension in 1990. He was a resident of Houston. CHRISTOPHER FLOWERS Pensioner Christopher Flowers, 78, died Jan. 23. Brother Flowers became an SIU member in 1951 in New York. At the beginning of his seafaring career, he sailed with Doric Shipping. Brother Flowers worked in the deck department, last sailing on the OMI Wabash. He started collecting his retirement stipends in 1989. Born in Aurora, N.C., Brother Flowers made his home in Houston. STEPHEN GALATOLO Pensioner Stephen Galatolo, 76, died Feb. 22. Born in Maryland, Brother Galatolo joined the union in 1962 in Baltimore. His first trip to sea was on the Columbia Star. Brother Galatolo was a member of the steward department. The U.S. Army veteran last shipped aboard American Overseas Marine’s Scan. Brother Galatolo resided in Towson, Md. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1996. FRANCIS HARPER Pensioner Francis Harper, 81, passed away March 2. After serving in the U.S. Army, Brother Harper launched his career with the SIU in 1948 in New York. His first ship was the Steel Voyager. Brother Harper worked as a member of the engine department. He was born in Maryland and last sailed aboard the Venture. Brother Harper retired in 1985 in Baltimore. JOHN KELLY JR. Pensioner John Kelly Jr., 78, died Feb. 3. Brother Kelly started sailing with the Seafarers in 1943 in New York. He initially worked for Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Kelly, who was born in Mississippi, shipped in the deck department. The U.S. Army veteran last went to sea on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Kelly became a pensioner in 1978. He lived in Petel, Miss. GRIM LEE Pensioner Grim Lee, 85, passed away Jan. 3. Brother Lee joined the MC&S in 1958 in San Francisco. Born in China, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Lee, who made his home in San Francisco, went on pension in 1979. EARL MATTHEWS Pensioner Earl Matthews, 74, died Jan. 5. Born in Norfolk, Va., Brother Matthews began his seafaring career in 1951. The steward department member first sailed aboard the Seagarden. Prior to retiring in 1995, Brother Matthews shipped on the OMI Sacramento. He was a resident of Dequincy, La. VINCENT PIZZITOLO Pensioner Vincent Pizzitolo, 82, passed away Feb. 3. Brother Pizzitolo joined the SIU ranks in 1953 in New Orleans. His first ship was the Del Viento. Brother Pizzitolo was a U.S. Army veteran. His last voyage was aboard the Cove Liberty, where he shipped in the steward department. Brother Pizzitolo started receiving his retirement compensation in 1987. He was born in New Orleans and lived in Metairie, La. HARRY SMITH Pensioner Harry Smith, 76, died Feb. 11. Brother Smith was born in Philadelphia, Pa. Following his service in the U.S. Army, he started sailing with the SIU in 1947. Brother Smith’s first trip to sea was on an Emerson Steam Company vessel. He worked in the deck department. Brother Smith last shipped on CSX Lines’ Integrity. In 1991, he retired and settled in Philadelphia. POLO VASQUEZ Pensioner Polo Vasquez, 82, passed away Jan. 9. Brother Vasquez joined the union in 1951, shipping as a member of the deck department. His first vessel was the Warhawk. Brother Vasquez was born in Humacao, P.R., which is also where he resided. His last ship was the Point Julie. Brother Vasquez went on pension in 1982. INLAND JEFFERY DEKERLEGAND Pensioner Jeffery Dekerlegand, 87, died Jan. 25. He became an SIU member in 1969 in New Orleans. Born in Arnaudville, La., Boatman Dekerlegand shipped in the deck department, working primarily on vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Company. Boatman Dekerlegand began receiving his retirement compensation in 1979 and lived in his native state. WILLIAM HOOK II Pensioner William Hook II, 66, passed away Dec. 26. Boatman Hook began shipping with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed in the deck department of a vessel operated by Virginia Pilots. Boatman Hook was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He was born in Virginia and last shipped with the Association of Maryland Pilots. Boatman Hook started collecting his pension in 2000 and called Virginia Beach, Va. home. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, have passed away. RALPH BODDEN Pensioner Ralph Bodden, 83, passed away April 7. Brother Bodden was born in Honduras and joined the NMU in 1957, shipping first from the port of New Orleans. Brother Bodden worked in the engine department. He became a pensioner in 1986. Brother Bodden’s last trip to sea was on the James Lykes. CHARLES DINI Pensioner Charles Dini, 62, died March 18. He began sailing with the union in 1967 in Miami, Fla. Brother Dini initially navigated the seas aboard the Lyons Creek. The New York-born mariner retired in 2001. His most recent voyage was on the Green Clove. ALONSO DUARTE Pensioner Alonso Duarte, 92, passed away April 12. Brother Duarte became an NMU member in 1946. He was born in Honduras and worked in the engine department. Brother Duarte’s last ship was the Keystoner. He went on pension in 1986. DENNIS HARRIS Pensioner Dennis Harris, 82, died March 28. Brother Harris first donned the NMU colors in 1945 in the port of Seattle. Before retiring in 1986, he went to sea on the Central Gulf. VINCENT MARTIN Pensioner Vincent Martin, 79, passed away March 21. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Martin joined the NMU in 1944. His first voyage was on the Aquarius. Brother Martin began receiving his retirement compensation in 1973. MARJORIE MORGAN Pensioner Marjorie Morgan, 76, died March 19. Sister Morgan started her NMU career in 1979 in San Pedro, Calif. The steward department member was born in Texas. Sister Morgan’s first ship was the Sinclair Texas; her last was the Alaska. She retired in 2000. WALLACE NUNES Pensioner Wallace Nunes, 77, passed away March 29. He began his seafaring career in 1945, initially working aboard the Santa Monica in the steward department. Brother Nunes was born in Sacramento, Calif. Prior to retirement in 1987, he worked on the Petersburg. FRANK TORRES Pensioner Frank Torres, 80, died March 18. After joining the NMU in 1945, Brother Torres’ initial voyage was aboard the E.R. Kemp. Born in Galveston, Texas, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Torres last shipped on the USS Chancellorsville. He started collecting his pension in 1983. YUEN YUENG Pensioner Yuen Yueng, 89, passed away April 8. Sailing out of the port of Boston, his first vessel was the Edward. Brother Yueng was born in China and worked in the engine department. He went on pension in 1978 after sailing aboard the Carbide Seadrift. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE DOD Aitken, Joseph 87 April 27 Cirino, Marcos 69 May 4 Collazo, Manuel 88 May 6 Condon, James 82 May 2 Davis, Jasper 74 Jan. 1 Douglas, Gary 72 May 18 Gould, Wendell 68 May 16 Jones, William 70 May 9 Kraesig, Melbert 81 May 6 Lino, Hector 80 April 25 Lucas, James 77 May 16 Macksound, Abel 84 April 22 Middleton, Robert 85 April 18 Nunez, Max 73 May 7 Olvera, Joseph 84 April 20 Pontus, Reinhard 82 May 8 Saunders, Frank 77 April 17 Springer, Jerry 82 April 29 Stewart, William 66 April 22 Tyler, William 77 May 5 July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:39 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occassion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the uniion’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publicatiion. ADAM E. CORNELIUS (American Steamship Company), April 16—Chairman Scott Gallagher, Secretary Edward E. Bush, Educational Director George R. Keeley. Chairman encouraged crew members to contribute to SPAD and Maritime Defense League, as both funds are vital in protecting U.S.-flag fleet. Seafarers were reminded to work safely and sign off and reregister at union hall within 72 hours of leaving vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), April 26— Chairman Anthony J. Sabatini, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Winfred W. Opare, Deck Delegate Michael E. Moore, Engine Delegate Detricke R. Kelly, Steward Delegate David W. Vaughn. Chairman praised crew for working safely during vessel start up and noted vessel operations went smoothly. He reported on changes to health plan and informed crew that complete list of medical providers is available on SIU website. Secretary thanked crew members for separating plastics from regular trash and stated new receptacle now in place for recycling aluminum cans. Educational director advised mariners to watch expiration dates on z-cards and other important documents, as renewing them takes time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding vacation pay. Questions raised pertaining to disposition of NMU annuity funds and starting a movie library. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. AMERICAN MARINER (American Steamship Company), April 28—Chairman Albert J. Brzezinski, Secretary Daniel J. Kane, Educational Director Mark A. MacRury, Steward Delegate Daniel J. Kane. Chairman reported all departments operating smoothly and stressed the need for continuing to work well—and safely—together. Educational director spoke about upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He mentioned that when applying for vacation benefits, Seafarers should make sure they have both discharges and monthly pay records. No beefs or disputed OT reported. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), April 29— Chairman Rudolph W. Tahtinen, Secretary Nasser M. Aljalham, Educational Director Craig Fitzhugh, Engine Delegate Michael Kruse. Chairman reminded crew to follow union and company procedures when leaving and returning to ship. Secretary reported company has resolved security problems at Zug Island, Mich. When going on vacation, crew members were reminded to contact union within 72 hours and before returning to reclaim job. Also, everyone should make sure z-cards and all paperwork are updated before returning to ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held on proper channels to follow when problems arise aboard ship. Next ports: Superior, July 2005 Wis.; Indiana Harbor, Ind. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), April 19—Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Donald B. GaNung, Educational Director Clive A. Steward, Deck Delegate Francisco Caceres, Engine Delegate Karl A. Leiter, Steward Delegate John L. Foster. Chairman informed crew about two new ships coming out, a double-hulled tanker and a passenger ship, “This means more growth for the union and more jobs for us,” he said. Educational director told crew that meetings were being held at each port to inform members, spouses and dependents about changes to costs of health care benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated more than $200 available in ship’s fund, possibly for DVDs. Suggestion made to raise pension and lower age required to retire. MAERSK RHODE ISLAND (Maersk Line Limited), April 1— Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary Army J. Leake, Educational Director William Pough, Engine Delegate George R. Moxley, Steward Delegate Craig S. Croft. Chairman reported that during shipyard period, mess areas will be locked after each meal and overnight. Educational director informed crew that schedule for upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center are in each issue of Seafarers LOG. He urged them to check expiration dates on documents needed for shipping. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding age and seatime requirements needed to receive full pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding food and service. Next port: Gibraltar. WALTER J. McCARTHY JR. (American Steamship Company), April 25—Chairman Michael L. Schaff, Secretary Dariusz T. Czepczynski, Educational Director John F. Bonifas. Chairman reviewed matters discussed at winter bosun’s meeting in Algonac. He also talked about importance of safety at sea and encouraged members to donate to SPAD and MDL. Educational director encouraged crew members to check Seafarers LOG for information on classes available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate reminded crew to keep shipping credentials up to date. CAPE INTREPID (Crowley Liner Services), May 8—Chairman Michael Brewley, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Phillip L. Greenwell, Engine Delegate William E. Cassel, Steward Delegate Emilia L. Woodin. Chairman announced payoff May 11 in Jacksonville and will then head to Tacoma, Wash. Secretary asked for everyone’s assistance in keeping ship clean. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested new mattresses for everyone, parts for coffee machine and more information on pension plan. Vote of thanks given to steward department for delicious food, especially freshly baked goodies. CAPE KENNEDY (Keystone Shipping), May 20—Chairman Donald Byrd, Secretary Eddie W. Taylor, Educational Director Anton Popescu. Chairman advised all mariners to keep documents current and contribute to SPAD. Secretary encouraged crew to always think of safety while working aboard ship. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested computer be set up in steward’s office that could be used for e-mailing family and friends. Crew thanked Captain Galgano for keeping them informed and supplying daily newspapers. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas; New Orleans, La. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), May 1—Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary Danny A. Brown, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Alvin V. Jackson, Engine Delegate Greg Alvarez, Steward Delegate Fernando L. Vega. Chairman announced payoff May 6 in Jacksonville, Fla. He led discussion about changes made to medical benefits and assured crew any questions would be addressed by boarding patrolman. He also suggested that z-cards should be renewed well before expiration date to ensure no disruption of sailing. Educational director requested full explanation of changes to benefit plan to pass on to crew. Treasurer said contributions are welcome to continue satellite TV and radio. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding member control over investments of Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. New dryer installed in crew laundry. Seafarers were asked to keep room clean and follow separation of trash policy aboard vessel. Vote of thanks given to Steward Vega and his department for great pig roast. Crew also recognized Apprentices Robert Noble and Kenneth Thompson for their hard work. Next port: San Juan, P.R. INTEGRITY (Maersk Line Limited), May 13—Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate John C. Wagner, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward Delegate Rodrigo Jimenez. Bosun announced May 19 payoff in Houston following stop in Charleston, S.C. He thanked crew for an excellent trip. Secretary expressed gratitude to all hands for helping keep ship clean, especially GUDE Richard Gould for tending to living area. Educational director stressed need for keeping safe work area and eliminate tripping hazards. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to have just one standard contract for freight ships and one for tankers. Crew requested written clarification on new medical care benefits. Thanks given to steward department for excellent food, to QMED and electrician for keeping galley equipment in good working order and to bosun for maintaining decks. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston and Freeport, Texas; Miami, Fla. JOHN L. BOLAND (American Steamship Company), May 16— Chairman Michael J. Keogh, Secretary Earl N. Hicks, Educational Director Martin L. Hochstafl, Engine Delegate David E. Werda. Chairman reported that company safety director came aboard ship recently to talk to members. He asked that everyone be extra careful to avoid accidents. Secretary reminded crew about importance of contributing to SPAD and MDL. Educational director encouraged mariners to check expiration dates on all shipping documents. Steward department thanked fellow crew members for helping keep galley and messroom clean at night. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Port agent’s report about passports was read and discussed, and Union Plus literature was distributed. Crew members informed that water taxi service has been arranged while in Detroit at G.L. Steel. Discussion held on changes to medical plan. Next port: Toledo, Ohio. METEOR (Maersk Line Limited), May 9—Chairman Stephen Kastel, Secretary Peter J. Schmitt, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Steward Delegate Claudia Mauricio. Chairman announced payoff May 10 in Los Angeles. He reminded departing mariners to leave rooms tidy for next person. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep messrooms clean. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of Paul Hall Center this summer whether for vacation or upgrading, and to keep shipping documents current. Treasurer stated BBQ and TVs being purchased soon. Suggestion made to request that seamen’s clubs overseas coordinate hours with ship arrivals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. PATRIOT (Maersk Line Limited), May 1—Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Robin D. Ballard, Educational Director Phillip A. Curtis, Deck Delegate Lloyd B. La Beach Jr., Engine Delegate Sjarifudin Noor. Chairman reported no news yet on reflagging of vessel. Secretary thanked bosun and day worker for taking care of all repairs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director informed crew members that listing of courses offered at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point is available in Seafarers LOG each month. New TV for lounge has been ordered and is to arrive in Hong Kong. Suggestion made to change formula by which pension benefits are established. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food. Next port and port of payoff: Ensenada, Mexico. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Limited), May 2—Chairman Eddie L. Thomas, Secretary Susan K. Bowman, Educational Director Timothy A. Chestnut, Deck Delegate Abdul R. Hasan, Steward Delegate Efren Matias. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary encouraged mariners to use mail order prescription forms to send for medications. Educational director talked about upgrading at Paul Hall Center and importance of contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to set up schedule for video library; bosun offered to manage it. Request made for soda machines. Next port and port of payoff: Beaumont, Texas. SIU-Crewed Sealand Express Makes Final Voyage Recertified Steward Robert Davis makes it look easy as he whips up a condiment for the upcoming meal. On Feb. 24, 2005, the Sealand Express began its last voyage as an SIU-contracted vessel. One month later, on March 25 in the port of Genoa, Italy, the ship was turned over to its new foreign crew, and the American crew members flew home. According to Recertified Steward Robert Davis, who sent these photos to the LOG, on the way to Genoa, the ship carried five Indian passengers who were to be replacement officers. They had nothing but praise for the entire galley gang and the quality of the food as well as the variety of items in the salad bar. Capt. Robert Lamb and the rest of the crew gave special thanks to each steward department member for a job well done. Left: Chief Cook Connie Tarplin prepares her delicious fish fry. The galley gang poses with Capt. Robert Lamb on a beautiful day aboard ship in the Mediterranean. From the left are Captain Lamb, Chief Cook Connie Tarplin, Recertified Steward Robert Davis and SA Dominic Dumlao. Steward Assistant Dominic Dumlao pitches in and preps for the noon meal: cheeseburgers. Seafarers LOG 19 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:35 PM Page 20 Letter to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Sailors’ Snug Harbor Announces Sale of Retirement Facility In an effort to keep as many seamen—retired and active—as informed as possible, F. Patrick Ausband, the executive director of The Sailors’ Snug Harbor in Sea Level, N.C., has requested that the following press release be shared with the SIU membership. The Trustees of The Sailors’ Snug Harbor have announced the sale of the retirement facility located in Sea Level, N.C., which they have owned and operated since 1976. The transaction is part of a strategy formulated in the early 1990s to better leverage the Scholarship Winners Announced Continued from page 7 ing and tutoring at the elementary school, helping a drug recovery center with a Christmas tree sale and assisting with Kids Vote Hawaii during the elections. Viernes has a passion for graphic design and graphic communications, but he will most likely pursue the field of electrical engineering which, he believes, will allow him to be involved with the testing and creation of new technologies that will benefit people and make their lives easier. To that end, he has applied to the University of Washington, University of Hawaii and San Jose State University. The 18-year-old is the son of Nora and Leopoldo Viernes Jr., an SIU member since 1987 who currently sails as an AB aboard the Horizon Trader. assets of the Trust and to provide expanded assistance to a larger number of retired seamen in their own homes and in facilities around the country. Plans for the sale have been widely discussed with the maritime public for several years. Terms of the sale insure the continued care of current residents and future seamen who wish to retire at the Sea Level facility. ... In 1990, the Trustees undertook a comprehensive study of eligible potential beneficiaries to determine why seamen were not seeking admission and what additional ways could be developed to provide help to a larger segment of aging mariners....It was determined that there were approximately 25,000 mariners eligible for admission at that time. Over two-thirds of that number were married and most were not at all interested in leaving spouses and/or families.... Of the remaining one-third, most had been married and many had children or other family members residing in the area where they had elected to retire. The information uncovered by Trustees revealed, however, that there were still a number of seamen with financial problems. After considerable study and discussion, the Trustees elected to create a pilot project to provide stipendiary assistance—money paid to service providers or vendors—on behalf of retired seamen to allow them to “age in place.” Because the Trustees are New York-based, the pilot project was restricted to the New York City area. After a year of operation, the Trustees were satisfied that the approach was a sensible and solid one.... Data revealed that the recipients were very pleased with the assistance they were receiving, providing them a higher quality of life in retirement, and all stated that the program approach was quite “user friendly.” Armed with that information and enthused that the “portability” of the program could allow them to continue helping retired seamen everywhere, the Trustees engaged a law firm in New York to petition the Surrogate’s Court to change the will to develop the Outreach Assistance program as the primary way seamen would receive help from the Trust in the future.... The Trustees expected the decline in census to accelerate when seamen had the opportunity to receive help at home. This did, in fact, happen and plans were made to sell the facility to another operator who would contract with the Trustees for the continued care of seamen in residence and for those who desired to come in the future. As these efforts initially proved unsuccessful, the Trustees formed a wholly-owned subsidiary corporation in 2001 to allow the admittance of the paying public. The number of seamen in the 120-bed facility was down to 59 by that time. After four years of operating under the subsidiary corporation, the census rose to over 100 with approximately half of the residents being non-seafarers. The integration of persons from different backgrounds into the seamen’s home proved to be smoother than anticipated and beneficial in virtually all respects. After two years of negotiations, the Trustees have sold the retirement facility to a small group of private investors.... Seamen will always be welcome and will, in fact, have the highest priority for admission. In other words, should there ever be a waiting list for admission, any seaman desiring admission will go to the top of the list. The new owners have also agreed to keep staffing patterns at the same high rate they have been, thus ensuring high quality care. Even recreational events such as the weekly happy hour have been covered in the contractual agreement. The Trustees, in turn, will continue to inspect the facility at Sea Level and assure that mariners are provided a beautiful retirement facility and excellent medical and nursing care. It is the intent and desire of the new owners of the facility to actively market for mariner residents while the Trust will continue to offer outreach assistance for those in need of help but desire to remain in their own homes.... All those interested in obtaining more information about the Mariners Outreach Assistance Program or admission to the residential facility in Sea Level, N.C. may call 1-800-257-5456 or email: www.thesailorssnugharbor.com. Former Seafarer’s ‘Modern Stories’ Offers Entertainment and Insights Capt. Kelly Sweeney, a former SIU member and current master mariner, pulls no punches in his newly released book, “From the Bridge–Authentic Modern Sea Stories.” The 188-page paperback is packed with crisp anecdotes, strong opinions and learned insights into shipboard life in the U.S. Merchant Marine. It is a compilation of monthly columns written by Sweeney for Pacific Maritime Magazine. Sweeney sailed with the SIU in the deck department from 1983-85. He credits the late SIU Vice President George McCartney with helping him solidify his seafaring career (which continues today), and recalls that SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox was one of his first shipmates. “The SIU gave me my start, and I’ll never forget it,” Sweeney stated. “When I needed a break, the SIU gave me that break and got me started. In my opinion, the SIU has only gotten better—more jobs, great school and on a forward-looking mission.” Sweeney is equally candid and not afraid to criticize in “From the Bridge.” He tackles a wide range of subjects including crew sizes, the amended STCW convention, piracy, entry training, holidays at sea, gender equality and much more. 20 Seafarers LOG The book includes photos and in a few different chapters briefly mentions the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. A news release from the book’s publisher (Philips Publishing Group) captured the volume’s flavor with this line: “Captain Sweeney distills the essence of a mariner’s life for us in this compilation of stories.” “From the Bridge–Authentic Modern Sea Stories” sells for $15.95 (not including shipping) and may be ordered from Philips Publishing Group at (206) 2848285 or through their web site (www.pacmar.com). On the web site, a PDF-format Captain Sweeney’s book offers a firsthand order form is available. look into life at sea. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:39 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT September 19 November 11 Welding August 22 September 9 September 19 October 7 October 24 November 11 October 31 November 18 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* July 18 July 29 July 4 July 8 (*must have basic fire fighting) Course Start Date Date of Completion August 8 August 12 Able Seaman July 11 August 5 August 22 August 26 August 22 September 16 September 26 September 30 October 3 October 28 October 31 November 4 November 14 December 9 November 14 November 18 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* August 22 August 26 August 1 August 5 (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) October 24 October 28 Bridge Resource Management November 14 Government Vessels Medical Care Provider Tankerman Familiarization/ November 18 Assistant Cargo (DL)* August 1 August 11 September 26 October 7 October 17 October 21 (*must have basic fire fighting) (Unlimited) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Celestial Navigation July 18 August 11 GMDSS (Simulator) August 29 September 9 October 31 November 11 August 8 August 19 September 19 September 30 October 29 November 11 August 8 August 17 October 10 October 19 (*must have basic fire fighting) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Radar Radar Renewal (1 day): Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. August 29, October 31 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning May 30, 2005. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2005 SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:40 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 662 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 662 (from left, front row) Robert James, Adrian Taylor, David Spaulding, David Maisonet, Christopher Doucet, Blake Pullins, David Vandecar, Mario Moralita, (second row) Terry Lane, David Anderson, Justin Jarmolowicz, Scott Jones, Troy Sullivan, Patrick Guertin, David Bennett, Mark Fitzgerald, Robert Hardesty, (back row) Renaudo Pierce, Jack Gainers, Samuel Thatcher, Romeko Fly, Roger Dillinger, Willie Lewis, Oscar Pena, Dean Bettis and Geoffrey Hull. ARPA — The three Seafarers completing the ARPA course April 22 are (in alphabetical order) Ato Aikins, Shannon Smith and Michael Worthington. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Small Arms Training — Completing the small arms training course April 29 are unlicensed apprentices in Phase III of their program. They are (in alphabetical order) Fausto Aranda, Audania Bomar, Billie Munoz, Karberto Ramos, Edgar Reed, Timothy Reiman, Anthony Roca, James Ruffin, Benny Samosan, William Sanchez, Gabriel Santa and Jon Silveira. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Chief Cook — Working their way up the culinary ladder are graduates of the chief cooks class (in no specific order) Jaime Austria, Fatir Muhammad, Darlene Steede, Gerald Joseph and Benjamin Ines. Specially Trained OS — With Stacey Harris (not pictured) as their instructor, the following students completed the STOS course April 22. They are (in no specific order) Elliott Del Aguila, Victor Nunez, Kenneth Johnson, Louis Kramm, Audania Bomar, Craig Burmeister, Calvin Andrews Jr., Perry King, John Kelly, Steven Hurden, Steven Cedres, Norman Dize and Richard Green. Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center, back row) are students who completed the welding course April 29. They are R.J. Rowland, Jordan Cuddy, Gary Ranne, Alshea Dixon, Kris Bechtel, Daniel Link, Daniel Borden and Edward Fore. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Specially Trained OS — Receiving their certificates of completion April 22 from instructor Brad Wheeler (fourth from left) are (in no specific order) Anthony Roca, Jon Silveira, Samuel Miller, Patrick Ryan, Karberto Romos, Timothy Littles, Nelson Smith, Michael Rodriguez, Adam Ramey, Billie Munoz, Nigel Williams and James Ruffin. Computer Lab Classes On April 22, Robert Austin received his certificate of achievement for completing the Computer Basics course. With him is Instructor Rick Prucha. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — April 22 was graduation day for students in the basic auxiliary plant operations class. They are (in no specific order) Tim Rieman, Robert Ott, Dean Parks, Stanley Smith, Richard Frederick, Leandro Cacho, Freddy DeCoteau, Michael Hill, Jonathan Singleton, Tim Johnson II, Brian Joyner, Brandon Granger, Ian Manthey, Ken Johnson, Garfield Persley Jr., Michael Warner and William Burdette. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:41 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival — Alaska Fishermen, April 22: Tracy Hanson, William Sanborn, Robert Mobert, Dennis Parsons, Garry Smock, Oliver Fronteras, Nicolas Macaraeg Jr., Richard Pelkey, Christopher Demmert, Steve Cooper and Michael Moody. Water Survival — NCL, April 29: Michael Maldonado, Rodrigo Santos, Andrew Sparks, Endra Hartanto, Jose Quinones, Karen Gillespie, Gina Forneris, Daniel Bryan, Claude Fowler Jr., Alexandra Stafford, Robert Dunlap, Tegnear Butler, James Gouveia Jr. and Shantell Thomas. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW— April 22: Jamal Sailan, Ross Waisanen, Timothy Brock, James Demouy, Christopher Edyvean and Tracy Hill. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. STCW — NCL, April 22: Ofeibia Laud-Darku, Kenneth McDowell, Alexander Rust, Mitch Rosen, Valerie Lucidon, Michael Maldonado, Jamaica Robert, Troy Powell, Kelly McLaughlin, Geoffrey Pitts, Jose Quinones, Sean Langenberg, Cory McGeehon, Scott Moore, Larry O’Neal, Joshua Roberson, Joseph Romero, Mary Rivera, Allen Mallari, Brandon McCowan, Anthony Miller, Chen Lem and Ered Matthew. STCW — NCL, April 22: Erin Adams, Gerard Alcantara, Christian Baca, Phillip Best, Carol Bingley, Kristen Blinkhorn, Vickie Boehmer, Eric Bolinger, Lory Bueno, Allison Carpenter, Andrew Case, Quinn Challinor, Elizabeth Chatham, Adam Clark, Jason Cole, Howard Cook, Cordi Coward-Stringfellow, Fanny Defais, Robert Delao, Louvenia Denmark, Denis Doerfler, Nicholas Dolce, Lacee Doolin and Nicholas Duncan. STCW — NCL, April 22: Robert Dunlap, Robert Duvall, Alejandro Escobedo, Richard Fisher III, Gina Forneris, Jacquelyn Fortini, Claude Fowler Jr., Tiffany George, Christopher Giffen, Karen Gillespie, James Gouveia Jr., Robert Haden, Jennifer Hall, Peter Hamilton, Carl Higgins Jr., Peter Ibanez, Victor John, Shamean Johnson, Christopher Jolly, Debra Jones, Logan Keith, Andrew Kemp, Laura Kratz, Michelle Lane and Marshall Keyes Jr. July 2005 STCW — NCL, April 22: Julio Sablan, Josue Sanchez, Ren Sanders-Mills, Tawana Santiago, Rodrigo Santos, Krishanna Scotland, D-An Smith, Hollie Smith, Karima Smith, Andrew Sparks, Alexandra Stafford, Evan Stephenson, Carolyn Stone, Guadalupe Tapia, Shaaaaaaaaantell Thomas, Jonah Townsdin, Yvonne Turner, Cody Vick, Terrance Welte, Monique West, Chinatbu Williams, Noel Wong, Kristi Woodruff and Edwardo Zuniga. STCW — NCL, April 29: Seth Alechko, Kuang An, Lucretia Anders, Mark Anglemyer Jr., Samantha Baker, Michael Barnes, Phylicia Bell, Style Bell, Eliezer Berger, Robert Bia, James Brown, Aaron Campos, Michael Canning, Kathryn Cardwell, Michael Ceraso, Betty Chambers, Cecilia Chan, Kimberly Chesnutt, Janice Clemons, Nicole Calcagno and James Cowan. Seafarers LOG 23 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:32 PM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 A t P F D I D R S a P f t P S 1 FUNERAL OF LABOR LEADER: SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (right) and Patrolman Andrew Linares join thousands of union members, labor and community activists and public officials at the funeral of Miguel Contreras, LCLAA Executive Board Member and Executive Secretary-Treasurer for Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. The labor leader died May 6. JEAN ANNE: The SIU-crewed car carrier Jean Anne (above) entered service in the Jones Act trades between California and the Hawaiian islands last March. It is the first pure car and truck carrier to be built in the U.S. and the first such vessel to service this particular trade. The new vessel recently was in San Diego where these photos were taken. Above left is the100-ton stern ramp, painted on the outside with pictures of cars and trucks. At right, aboard the vessel, are (from the left) Electrician Allen Jones, SIU Patrolman Andrew Linares, Bosun Daniel Davenport and Steward Samuel Sinclair. ALASKAN FRONTIER: Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro (above) checks out the latest copy of the Seafarers LOG during a recent stop in Wilmington, while (left) an AB attends to his work aboard the Seafarers-contracted vessel operated by Alaska Tanker Company for BP. At right are the ship’s chairman, Greg Lynch (left) and the steward delegate, Justo Reyes (right). DEFENDER: The port of Los Angeles was the final payoff for the crew of the Defender before the ship was to be reflagged. Crew members (above and at right) completed their paperwork at the meeting, which was attended by Port Agent John Cox and Patrolman Andrew Linares. The ship is being replaced with a newer SIU-crewed vessel. MARITIME DAY: A wreath was presented by the SIU at the annual Maritime Day ceremony and luncheon, hosted by the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial Commmittee. The May 22 event took place at the San Pedro AMMV memorial. Standing with the wreath are Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (left) and dispatcher Nick Rios. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU JOB GROWTH CONTINUES WITH PRIDE OF AMERICA NCL NEWEST VESSEL CHRISTENED FINAL AGREEMENTS SET FOR 10 NEW TANKERS 3RD TANKER ‘FLOATED OUT’ PRIDE OF AMERICA CHRISTENED NCL AMERICA’S 2ND SHIP CONTINUES ‘HUGE SUCCESS STORY’ SIU-CREWED LAKES FLEET GROWS AS BURNS HARBOR JOINS ASC NEW RIVERBOAT IN DETROIT BRINGS ADDITIONAL UNION JOBS USNS LEWIS AND CLARK CHRISTENED IN SAN DIEGO USNS MERCY RETURNS FROM RELIEF MISSION SMU MEMBERS VOTE FOR SIU SIU VP CORGEY APPOINTED TO HOUSTON ETHICS COMMITTEE SMU MEMBERS VOTE FOR SIU IMO CONTINUES EFFORTS TO BOLSTER SECURITY PORTS TO ADD RADIATION MONITORS MANULANI CHRISTENED AT KVAERNER CHEF ROMEO DIES AT 82 MEMORIAL FUND ESTABLISHED IN MEMORY OF SAL AQUIA U.S. HEALTH INSURANCE WOES CONTINUE RETIRED STEWARD WARE PUBLISHES FIRST BOOK AFL-CIO GROUP OKAYS SWEEPING NEW POLICIES MAJOR RELIGIOUS GROUP BACKS EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT/CARD CHECK AOTOS HONOREES ANNOUNCED LABOR UNIONS FOR $400, ALEX CIVMAR NEWS: REQUEST FOR RELIEF PILOT PROGRAM NEW LAW COVERS PRESCRIPTION DRUGS A DO-IT-YOURSELF BBQ ON THE LIHUE SIU WELCOMES THE PRIDE OF AMERICA LAKES TASK FORCE HONORS 2 AROUND THE PORT OF WILMINGTON Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2005 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 67, No. 7 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/0fc1bc4c2babbdd15c6a44da6c841af0.pdf 7aa4143104eeb167ee2f997deb534558 PDF Text Text 27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/26/2005 9:53 AM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 6 June 2005 Seafarers to the Rescue! USNS Seay, Lykes Motivator Crews Help Save Lives at Sea In the finest tradition of the Brotherhood of the Sea, SIU members from the USNS Seay and the Lykes Motivator recently helped rescue several civilian boaters who were involved in separate mishaps at sea. The Seay rescue is pictured in the two photos at left and the one directly below; the Motivator operation is shown in the three photos at right, including the group photo of the crew. Pages 4, 5. Pride of America Christening Set ‘4th Arm of Defense’ Honored The Seafarers-crewed Pride of America is scheduled for christening this month in New York. NCL America’s newest vessel signifies more new jobs for SIU members along with the continued rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. Page 3. Representatives from the administration, Congress and the military underscored the value and heroic tradition of the U.S. Merchant Marine during National Maritime Day ceremonies May 19 in Washington, D.C. Above, Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, shakes hands with Unlicensed Apprentice Victor Malave Jr. following the observance at MSC. Dozens of apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education attended the ceremonies—and Admiral Brewer personally greeted each of them. Pages 12, 13. Matson Ship Christened Page 3 More Benefits Conferences Family Photos Pages 8, 9 Page 11 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/27/2005 3:48 PM Page 2 President’s Report Top of the Class First-time visitors to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education often are surprised at how much the school has to offer. Located in Piney Point, Maryland, the Paul Hall Center truly is a world-class facility. The campus and buildings are beautiful, the equipment cutting-edge. Most importantly, the instructors and staff are extremely knowledgeable, supportive and dedicated to the school’s mission of Michael Sacco delivering the world’s best-trained mariners. I have worked in conjunction with the school since its founding in 1967. Throughout the years, I’ve been most impressed by how the Paul Hall Center not only embraces change but seeks it, as a means of constantly staying ahead of our industry’s needs. Through that approach—always asking, “How can we improve?”—the Paul Hall Center has become, in my view, second to none. With a strong emphasis on hands-on training, the school offers everything from entry-level programs to upgrading classes to license preparation to academic support and more. In recent years, the center has answered America’s heightened security needs by implementing comprehensive maritime safety and anti-terrorism training for every student who passes through the front gate. For example, the school added a small-arms range approved by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (along with accompanying curriculums) and then in early 2005 became the first facility to offer a vessel security officer course approved by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Those are just two examples among many that illustrate the Paul Hall Center’s commitment to offering the most useful, important, up-to-date training anywhere in our industry. The school also has been a leader in providing STCW-mandated training, and was the first to publish a Coast Guard training record book to meet international shipping regulations. Similarly, the school was among the first maritime facilities to provide shiphandling simulators for training, and it was the first to offer an oil-spill prevention and containment class. Additionally, the Paul Hall Center was the first to institute an EPA-certified refrigerant handling class both on and off campus. It also was the first to establish a culinary institute dedicated to food preparation aboard ship. With the rebirth of the American-flag deep sea cruise ship industry, the school has developed new courses and built additional facilities specifically to help meet the manpower needs of this important component of the U.S. fleet. Here again, it’s another example of how the Paul Hall Center unfailingly fulfills its purpose. As you can tell, I’m proud to be associated with the school, which is a joint trust between the Seafarers International Union and its contracted employers. (The school is funded and maintained through joint contributions of signatory employers. Jointly appointed trustees then manage the contributions to most effectively operate the school.) The Paul Hall Center has trained tens of thousands of students, helping them begin and sustain productive, rewarding careers. Honoring a strong sentiment of the school’s founder, the late SIU President Paul Hall, the center also offers plenty of academic study for those who are interested. This includes everything from basic tutoring all the way to a college degree program. In between, students can earn a GED at the Paul Hall Center and also earn college credits by completing any number of the dozens of curriculums offered. Still, the heart of the school is maritime training—and on that score, the Paul Hall Center remains at the head of the class. Volume 67, Number 6 Delta Mariner Transports Booster Cores for Delta IV The Seafarers-crewed Delta Mariner last month transported three components known as common booster cores for use on a Delta IV Heavy rocket. The ship delivered its cargo of 150-foot cores May 11 in Cape Canaveral, Fla. after sailing from Decatur, Ala. A spokesperson for Boeing said the cores will be used in a Delta IV Heavy rocket launch that is scheduled for October. The mission will involve placement of defense satellites for the U.S. Air Force. The booster cores weigh about 60,000 pounds apiece and are 16 feet in diameter. Last month’s assignment highlighted the Delta Mariner’s uniqueness. The 312-foot vessel, in service since 2000, specifically was designed to transport rocket boosters and other space hardware. It mainly sails between Alabama, Florida and California. Thanks to a variable ballast design, the ship operates on rivers as well as oceans. Its top speed is 15 knots. The Delta IV Heavy rocket made its first flight in December 2004. Photo courtesy of Boeing The SIU-crewed Delta Mariner loads a Delta IV common booster core at the John C. Stennis Space Center, Miss. Financial Committee Okays Records A committee of rank-and-file members, elected by their fellow Seafarers during the May union meeting in Piney Point, Md., has reviewed the SIU’s financial records for the year 2004 and found them in good order. Serving on the committee were Gerard Costello, Melvin Grayson Sr., Nina McFall, Chris Nardone, John Reid, Francis Washington Jr. and Rachel Washington. In its reports, the committee stated, “All records used in connection with the Union’s financial operations were reviewed fully…. We find that the Headquarters of the Union is taking all steps possible to safeguard Union funds and to see that the disbursements of the Union are in accordance with the authority delegated to them and that, at the same time, there is a striving effort to increase day-today efficiency of our operation.” The use of an annual financial committee is required by Article X, Section 15 of the SIU Constitution. It reads: “The Annual Financial Committee shall make an examination for each annual period of the finances of the Union and shall report fully on their findings and recommendations.” Members of the financial committee and SIU officials are pictured last month at union headquarters. Standing left to right are SIU Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Francis Washington Jr., Rachel Washington, Melvin Grayson Sr., John Reid, Chris Nardone, Nina McFall, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Gerard Costello. Seafarers Greet Navy League President Sheila McNeill, president of the Navy League of the United States and a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, recently visited with SIU members aboard the government-owned tanker Petersburg in Saipan. At left, McNeill receives a Seafarers jacket from SIU Representative Jeff Turkus. Pictured below are (left) ABs Chris Dionio and Sam Lloyd and (right) more crew members from the Petersburg. June 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 June 2005 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/27/2005 3:48 PM Page 3 Say It with Pride: Christening nd Set for 2 NCL America Ship The Seafarers-crewed Pride of America—the second vessel in NCL America’s fleet—is scheduled for christening June 17 in New York City, signaling more new jobs for SIU members. The ship has been in the news a lot lately, largely because it is the first new deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship in half a century and is the biggest passenger ship ever built for U.S. registry (921 feet long, with 15 decks and a passenger capacity of more than 2,100). But the Pride of America also grabbed headlines when NCL America announced that the popular television show “Live with Regis and Kelly” would broadcast a full week of shows (airing June 20-24) from aboard the ship. Last month, the vessel successfully was floated out at a German shipyard. It subsequently was scheduled for four days of sea trials, which in part were to focus on testing this ship’s dieselelectric propulsion system. As previously reported, Seafarers who are filling the unlicensed positions aboard the NCL America vessels are completing courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. and at its affiliated Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii. These facilities offer a range of key classes including fire fighting and safety training. A recent article about NCL America training on the consumer web site Cruise Critic noted, “The facility at Piney Point may look like a summer camp, with ponds, wooden signs, trees and grass. But a look beyond the surface will reveal an environment that’s all business, with an operational culinary lab, and state-of-the-art bridge and engine simulators…. And I’ve got to say that knowing my cabin steward or favorite bartender could save my life certainly puts my mind at ease.” A third NCL America ship— the Pride of Hawaii—is on schedule for a 2006 launch, joining both the Pride of America and the Pride of Aloha, which began sailing in 2004. In a news release announcing that the morning talk show with Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa will take place aboard the Pride of America, NCL America noted that the TV personalities “have commandeered the whole ship, and are giving away free cruises to 1,000 contest winners and fans….” Contest details are available on the internet at www.liveregisandkelly.com. The SIU-crewed Pride of America means additional jobs for Seafarers in the growing U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry. Matson Adds Another Ship SIU members and others in the maritime industry who sailed aboard the Manulani over a three-day period of sea trials, found the ship seaworthy and ready for service. The Manulani is the third diesel-powered containership built for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard. The new vessel is similar in capacity, speed and operating efficiency to Matson’s Seafarerscrewed Manukai and Maunawili. Those two ships also were built at Kvaerner Philadelphia; they entered service in 2003 and 2004, respectively. A fourth ship is expected to be placed in service in June 2006. These new vessels are part of a planned $354 million investment in ship, container and terminal assets that will be used to launch a new Guam and China service, which is scheduled to start in February 2006. Matson has the option to time charter these vessels in lieu of purchasing them. It also will have options with the shipyard to Built at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, the Manulani recently went through sea trials before being officially delivered to Matson Navigation Company. It is the third containership to be completed for Matson at Kvaerner. A fourth is expected to be placed in service in June 2006. June 2005 build up to four other containerships of similar design that are deliverable before June 2010. Before the Manulani could head out west to begin service, a number of checks needed to be performed on all aspects of the vessel’s operations. “We basically cause the ship’s systems to have issues,” stated Capt. Tom Casey of the Coast Guard. “We do a blackout test. We do engine tests. We check the vital systems, life supports and different speeds.” The May 6-9 sea trials took place on the Delaware River, which was fairly smooth. The 712-foot ship did hit a small storm, however, but it was nothing compared with what the crew could encounter on the open seas. Compliments abounded for the ship’s cafeteria and crew’s recreational room, and some problems with the hot and cold water regulators were noted for adjustment. Matson officially took delivery of the Manulani May 20, with christening ceremonies the following day. SIU members sail in the steward department aboard Matson ships, although for the sea trials, the complement of mariners included AB Phillip Yaros, Chief Cook Jose Guzman, AB Laurentis Colbert and AB Victor Cooper. New Jobs Aboard Sea Venture The union recently welcomed new shipboard jobs as the coastwise tanker Sea Venture (below) came under SIU contract. From the left (front row) are AB Dean Diaz and GSU Homer Nobles; (second row) AB Alejandro Aldaiz, Oiler Ron Fields, AB Kerry Bodden, Bosun Curt Peacock and AB Harry Elwin-Jones. Standing are Oiler James Hudson, Steward Earl Higgins, AB Robert Smith and SIU Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly. The vessel is operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning, Inc. SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, July 4, 2005 for the observance of Independence Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Seafarers LOG 3 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/27/2005 3:49 PM Page 4 Lykes Motivator Crew Rescues 3 Swedish Mariners A trio of Swedish boatmen recently dodged almost certain doom in the Atlantic thanks to the mariners from a Seafarers-crewed vessel. Kenneth E. Lind, 54; his brother Daniel, 19; and Jan G. Lindholm, 44, during the early morning hours of March 29 were rescued from the sea some 218 miles northwest of Bermuda by Seafarers aboard the SIU-contracted Lykes Motivator. The three liberated sailors earlier had departed Bermuda and charted their course for the Azores. Their ultimate destination was Sweden. Not long after weighing anchor and reaching the open sea, they found themselves at the mercy of the deep. Their vessel, the 37-foot S/V Aurora, lost its ability to maneuver due to a badly damaged mast. Seas at the time After being thrown overboard from the dinghy during rescue operations, one of the Swedish mariners is hoisted to safety aboard the Motivator deck in a basket. reportedly were 12-15 feet and the winds were squalling in excess of 30 knots. The vessel eventually began taking on water and, to make matters worse, two of the three men on board became ill. “A strong fontal line also was forecasted to pass through the area within the next four to six hours,” stated AB Brett Sunderland, one of many Motivator crew members who would figure in the Swedish mariners’ fate before the following day’s end. After assessing their situation as ominous and their chances for survival lean without timely assistance, the troubled sailors shortly before midnight March 28 radioed a distress message to the National Rescue Control Center (RCC) Goteborg back in their homeland (Sweden). Around 2 a.m. March 29, the Swedish rescue officials made contact with their American counterparts at the U.S. Coast Guard RCC Norfolk. Minutes later and following a thorough exchange of information, the situation officially was handed off to the Americans for action. Officials at RCC Norfolk at 2:10 a.m. contacted the Motivator with instructions to change course and hasten to the assistance of the Aurora. The distressed vessel at the time was located at position 343.897N 0608.981W. The Motivator, which was returning to the U.S. after making its usual run to Northern Europe, was situated some five hours away from the Aurora’s location when the order to change course was received. Other vessels in the area, especially those that might be closer than five miles to the S/V Aurora’s position, also were tasked to keep sharp lookouts and assist if possible. Motivator Capt. Richard Johnson immediately altered his course and steamed toward the Aurora. Some five hours later at daybreak, the sailboat was spotted and the captain readied his crew for rescue operations. At this juncture, the Aurora reportedly was listing badly on its starboard side, still taking on water and its fragile mast steadily absorbing supplementary damage. When the endangered sailors saw the Motivator, they began preparing themselves to abandon ship. Clad in rain suits, they managed to lower their small rubber dinghy into the water and secure and start its engine. Next, they began to shuttle some of their personal gear and equipment to the Motivator where it was winched aboard by the crew. Following the last run, the three sailors came along side the Motivator for extraction. At this point, because of the rough seas, the small dinghy nearly capsized, throwing one of the passengers (Lindholm) overboard. “He swiftly drifted aft,” said Sunderland. “By the quick response of the crew, we were able to retrieve him by using the ships’ crane before he slipped under.” “We almost lost him,” Captain Johnson noted. “He was having trouble staying afloat because his suit was filling up with water.” Reacting instantly, the Motivator crew lowered a basket into the water by crane and hoisted Lindholm to safety. The Lind brothers later were brought aboard without further incident. After the three sailors safely were aboard, examined and The Lykes Motivator plows through the rough seas en route to the distressed S/V Aurora. attended to, the Lykes Motivator resumed its course for the United States. As it departed the area, the Aurora’s mast could be seen being ripped completely off, and it soon succumbed to the sea. Seafarers aboard the Motivator during the rescue were: Bosun James McRevy; ABs Michael Weber, John Saturday, Jerome Williams, Richard Obrien and Brett Sunderland; Electrician Chavalier Maycock; DEMAC Alcido Lopes; Wiper Willie Clemmons; Chief Steward Walter Darensbourg; Chief Cook Francisco Da Cruz and GSU Clifton Washington. Swedish mariners, left to right, Daniel Lind, Jan Lindholm and Kenneth Lind are all smiles after being rescued at sea by the crew of the Lykes Motivator. St. Louis Port Council Celebrates 25 Years The disabled sailboat sank shortly after its crew members were rescued. Vessel Named for USAF Hero The Seafarers-contracted Merlin recently was renamed in memory of a U.S. Air Force sergeant who was killed in action in March 2002 during an operation in the eastern highlands of Afghanistan. The TSgt. John A. Chapman was christened April 8 in Southport, N.C. The vessel is a 670-foot containership with RO/RO capability that is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning fleet. Tech. Sgt. John A. Chapman, the ship’s namesake, is one of only three enlisted airmen since the Vietnam era to receive the Air Force Cross. 4 Seafarers LOG The Greater St. Louis Area Port Council in late April commemorated its 25th anniversary during the organization’s annual awards dinner. More than 500 guests attended the event, including high-ranking U.S. military officers, executives from U.S.-flag shipping companies, pro-maritime government officials and members of the labor community. Pictured at the dinner are (from left) SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper; St. Louis Building & Construction Trades Council Executive SecretaryTreasurer Jerry Feldhaus; St. Louis Port Council VP Jack Martorelli; SIU President Michael Sacco, a founding member of the council; U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-Mo.); St. Louis Port Council President Dick Mantia; St. Louis Labor Council President Bob Soutier; and Missouri AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Herb Johnson. This year’s honorees were Sacco, Carnahan, Mantia and Martorelli. June 2005 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/27/2005 3:48 PM Page 5 ANWR Exploration Clears Another Hurdle Both houses of the U.S. Congress in late April approved a compromise $2.57 trillion budget resolution that allows safe oil exploration on the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). The resolution, H. Con. Res. 95, is a nonbinding plan that establishes federal spending for fiscal year 2006, revises the budget for fiscal year 2005, and sets forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2007 through 2010. The measure emerged from conference April 27 and passed the House of Representatives in a 214-211 vote during the early evening of April 28. It was nearly midnight the same day, however, before the Senate concluded lengthy debate on the budget resolution and took a 52-47 vote. The measure moved through Congress with considerable ease, but ANWR proponents as well as a number of Washington insiders still think it’s too early to begin a victory march. “We are now one step closer to opening up ANWR, which will unleash the potential of North America’s greatest oil reserve,” said Senator Ted Stevens (RAlaska), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, USNS Seay Helps Save 4 Lives The Seafarers-crewed USNS Seay on May 8 and 9 helped assist in the rescue of four individuals who were caught in a Nor’easter about 400 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach. In a communication to the crew and officers of the Seay, U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral Vivien S. Crea noted, “Your quick response and expert seamanship during a severe Nor’easter helped save four lives. Thank you for a job well done.” Operated by SIU-contracted AMSEA, the Seay was diverted to assist after a 45-foot sailboat (the Almeisan) became disabled in the 50-mph winds and 25-foot seas. Before the Seay and another ship as well as Coast Guard personnel reached the scene, one of the boaters drowned. The other four were saved. AB William “Buzz” Brown said, “Our ship was designated as the command vessel for the search. Everyone did a good job and we were all glad to help. It was an amazing experience.” SIU members sailing aboard the Seay during the rescue included Recertified Bosun John Wells, ABs Brown, Peter Wojcikowski, Richard Otto, Kyle Bloom, John Kamara and Robert Joyce, STOS Rodolfo Zena, QMEDs Robert Lee and Monroe Monseur, Oiler Adam Begleiter, Recertified Stewards Roger Griswold and Andrew Austin, Chief Cook John Bukowsky and SA Kenneth McKinley. Tom Madden, the Seay’s master, said in a communication to AMSEA that the crew “did a very good job under severe weather conditions.” In a separate note to the company, Madden noted that the Seay initially was contacted by the Coast Guard and told to proceed “to a search area for the sailboat and two crew in a life raft. En route, we were informed that the life raft did not contain any people and we were directed to the sailboat’s position. We arrived in force 6 weather to provide a lee to the sailboat and await the arrival of the rescue helicopter. “At one point the yacht was within five feet of the vessel, but a line could not be made fast to the yacht by those on board her,” Madden continued. “We continued to give a lee and the copter put a rescue swimmer in the water to retrieve the three souls aboard. After this, we were made onscene commander of the search and rescue portion for the missing two crew. Two C-130s (airplanes) were directed to put markers in the last known site and these led to the search grid being adjusted. At 0345 the missing seamen were found.” The surviving man was brought aboard a different ship, as was the body of the deceased individual. The boaters were caught offguard by the sudden storm, and subsequently spent 14 hours adrift. According to newspaper reports, they activated the boat’s emergency radio beacon and then tried to make ready the lifeboat. A wave then washed two of the boaters overboard along with the raft. Skipper Thomas Tighe, 65, an experienced boater, perished. One of the survivors described everyone involved in the rescue as “the utmost professionals,” according to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. Science and Transportation. “Clearly, we’re pleased that the Conference Report passed both the House and the Senate,” he continued. “This is a good sign, but we need to keep on working.” Senator Lisa Murkowski (RAlaska) also applauded the resolution, noting that “opening up ANWR is an important part of our long-term efforts to reduce our dependency on foreign oil, and I am pleased that the budget includes the possibility of reaching this goal. It’s one more hurdle in the long fight to open ANWR.” Representative Don Young (R-Alaska) concurred: “I applaud the good work of both the House and Senate in passing this important resolution. This bill indicates a willingness and intent to keep the country on a strong fiscal track, while also improving our energy security.” The budget plan does not specifically mention ANWR drilling by name, according to several reports. But Judd Gregg (R-New Hampshire), who heads the Senate Budget Committee, indicated that the plan’s language was carefully crafted to ensure Remembering Brother Eddie Dunn The family of the late Chief Steward Eddie Dunn stopped by the SIU hall in Brooklyn, N.Y. on April 25 to donate an American flag and a U.S. Merchant Marine flag. Those flags now are flown daily in front of the hall. Brother Dunn passed away Feb. 28 at age 48. SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi told Dunn’s family, “Eddie was a great SIU member. He was a credit to his union and his profession.” Pictured by the hall are (from left) Brother Dunn’s children Michael, MaryEllen and Meagan; his father, Howard; his mother, Mary; SIU Representative Jack Sheehan; Soresi; Marie Sacco, secretary at the Brooklyn hall; and SIU Representative Randy Senatore. N.J. Governor Signs Union-Backed Bill Banning Offshoring The USNS Seay provided a lee for the distressed boaters aboard the Almeisan. USNS Seay crew members assisted in rescue operations which resulted in four lives saved. June 2005 that Senate legislation to give oil companies access to the Alaskan wildlife refuge would not be subject to a filibuster. The fate of exploration in ANWR now is in the hands of the Senate’s Energy and Natural Resources and the House’s Energy and Commerce Committees. Both bodies on May 9 began their challenging tasks of crafting legislation that ultimately will establish the actual process for ANWR leasing and exploration, which, in turn, will allow lawmakers to come up with the almost $2.5 billion included in the budget from expected ANWR revenues. This legislation will then be turned over to the House and Senate budget panels, and included in the overall budget reconciliation measure. That measure possibly could see final action this fall. ANWR, about the size of South Carolina, sprawls across more than 19 million acres in northeastern Alaska. The government has estimated energy companies would find it cost-effective to recover at least 6 billion barrels of oil from ANWR, if prices were at or above $35 a barrel. Following more than three years of grassroots efforts by the New Jersey State AFL-CIO and its affiliates, including the SIU, New Jersey Acting Governor Richard J. Codey on May 5 signed Senate bill 494 to protect New Jersey jobs from being outsourced to foreign countries by requiring that all services under state contract or subcontract must be performed within the United States. “Today New Jersey is taking an important step to protect our workers and keep jobs from going overseas,” Codey said. “With this bill, we are sending a clear message that if a company wants to take jobs from our hard working families and send them overseas, then it will not do business with the state.” SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi serves as a vice president on the New Jersey State AFL-CIO. The federation’s president, Charles Wowkanech, sent a letter to affiliates following the signing that thanked “all the unions that lobbied in support of this law via membership letter writing campaigns, district office visits and appeals to legislative leadership. Without your support this could not have been accomplished.” Thomas Carver, commissioner of the state’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development, noted, “It is shameful some companies have sought to profit off of shipping jobs across the Atlantic. The practice of outsourcing deteriorates the very fabric of our workforce in New Jersey.” The bill requires that only American citizens and persons authorized to work in the United States shall provide services under a state contract or subcontract. Only when it can be certified that a service cannot be performed within the United States will an exemption be made. This bill applies to the Executive Branch of state government, the Legislature, and any independent state authority, commission or agency authorized to enter into a contract on behalf of the state. In a news release announcing the signing, Codey’s office pointed out, “As the state and the nation have grown reluctantly accustomed to the disappearance of manufacturing jobs, the new reality is that ‘knowledge jobs’ are just as susceptible. The sectors being hit by outsourcing have been the main engine of job growth. With the growing trend of outsourcing becoming more commonplace, the largest occupational groups at risk include administrative support services, information technology, business and financial operations and healthcare.” New Jersey is the fifth state in the nation to enact legislation or executive action on outsourcing. Seafarers LOG 5 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/26/2005 5:15 PM Page 6 Dept. of Defense Honors Mason For Support of Guard/Reserves John Mason (right), CEO, American Service Technology, Inc., is presented with a certificate from the Department of Defense for supporting employee participation in the U.S. National Guard and Reserve Force. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez announced the award at the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. John Mason was taken by surprise at the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. when he was called up to the podium to receive an award from the Department of Defense, which was presented to him by SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Mason is CEO of American Service Technology, Inc. (ASTI), a maritime consulting group which, among other things, provides training at the Paul Hall Center. The award certificate read: The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves recognizes John Mason, American Service Technology, Inc., as a patriotic employer for contributing to national security and protecting liberty and freedom by supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force. Mason noted that over the years, a number of his employees have been able to satisfy their reserve duty requirements while continuing their training professions at the Paul Hall Center. One of the more recent instructors to take advantage of Government Announces Upcoming Port Grants More than $140 million in port security grants on May 13 were announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). According to a DHS news release, $140,857,128 will be allocated in funding to various ports around the nation under the FY 2005 Port Security Grant Program (PSGP). The PSGP uses a risk-based formula to allocate funds to protect U.S. ports from acts of terrorism. The new risk-based formula considers three elements: threat, vulnerability and consequence. As part of this risk-management approach, the port security grant program is intended to ensure federally regulated ports, terminals and U.S.-inspected passenger vessels receiving the funds represent assets of the highest national strategic importance. Sixty-six port areas have been identified as eligible applicants for inclusion in the FY 2005 program. Successful applicants will be awarded through a competitive process. “Our nation’s ports are centers for commerce, trade and travel—areas our enemies could seek to attack in their attempts to defy freedom and liberty. These grants will help prepare and protect our nation to minimize risk and to win the war on terrorism,” said Matt A. Mayer, acting executive director of the DHS Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness. According to Congressional Information Bureau reports, the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) welcomed the news that the DHS has opened up the funds to help America’s seaports pay for hardening security at their terminals and making other needed infrastructure upgrades in an effort to prevent terrorist acts. However, considering Coast Guard estimate in 2002 that ports would need to spend $5.4 billion over 10 years to comply with new mandated Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) enhancements, the AAPA continues to seek a much higher level of security grants for U.S. seaports. In the fifth round of its Port Security Grant program, the DHS has given eligible port areas until June 10 to apply for available grant money, which in the past has been used to help pay for fencing, lighting, truck gates, patrol boats and terminal access controls. As a way to prioritize funding for seaports having the greatest degree of perceived risk, the DHS is now limiting the number of eligible port areas to 66, stating in its fact sheet, “…the FY 2005 program will direct all available funds to the nation’s highest risk ports, thereby ensuring federally regulated ports, terminals and U.S.-inspected passenger vessels receiving PSG funds represent assets of the highest strategic importance nationally.” Also in its fact sheet, the DHS places strong emphasis on prevention and detection of improvised explosive devices, as well as chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear devices. Another change the DHS has made in this grant round is to require private businesses seeking grant monies to provide a 50 percent match. This is in response to recent criticism from the Inspector General that privately owned companies, such as petroleum and chemical terminals, are vying with public entities, such as port authorities, for money from the federal program. In the proposed FY’06 federal budget, the administration recommended eliminating the Port Security Grant program, which Congress created after 9/11 to reimburse U.S. maritime facilities for pre-approved projects required by federal regulations to enhance national security. In its place would be the newly created Transportation Infrastructure Protection (TIP) program that would lump grant proposals from ports together with requests from a host of other transportation-related industries. In a related development, Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) has introduced legislation (S.1032) that would improve security at the nation’s ports by increasing the DHS’ port security grant funding. “Securing our ports is critical to our national and economic security,” Boxer said. “We need to invest in securing our ports to keep this country safe. We cannot afford the consequences of doing otherwise.” Union President Congratulates Graduates the policy is Bradford Wheeler, who went through the trainee program in 1977 (class #239). Now a commander in the Naval Reserve, Wheeler spent the first two months of this year on board the Independence (a training vessel for the Massachusetts Maritime Academy). During his yearly reserve commitments, he also has worked with U.S. Army reservists going to the Persian Gulf, boarded ships to inspect crews and cargoes and conducted drills at MSC headquarters in Washington, D.C. His teaching assignments at the Paul Hall Center include tanker familiarization, ARPA, bridge resource management, crisis management, electronic chart display information systems (ECDIS), radar, advanced fire fighting, fast rescue boat, GMDSS and crane operations—among many others. Wheeler sees ASTI’s policy as additional support for the maritime operations that are important to the security of our country. “It all ties in to what we do here at the school,” he said. Watson Seafarers Back Our Troops SIU Representative Jeff Turkus submitted these photos of Seafarers aboard the prepositioning ship USNS Watson in Saipan. The vessel is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s LMSR fleet—and the SIU members who sail aboard the ship are part of our nation’s fourth arm of defense. Pictured in the top photo are (standing, from left) Chief Cook Roy Warren, Turkus, Electrician Duke Bryan, QMED Kenneth Hamilton, (front) Chief Steward Robert Greenwood and SA Marco Cayetano. At left are Cayetano and OS Fermin Baltazar; below are Greenwood, SA Charles Davis, Warren and Cayetano. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) spoke with new graduates of the unlicensed apprentice program April 22 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. He congratulated the students and encouraged them to return to the school for upgrading courses throughout their maritime careers, noting that the Paul Hall Center is structured to benefit virtually any eligible student who is willing to take advantage of the opportunity. More information about the apprentice program and the school in general is available in the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org. The school is a trust fund maintained jointly by labor and management representatives. 6 Seafarers LOG June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 10:29 AM Page 7 11 Recertified Bosuns Learn ‘Up Close and Personal’ There’s a world of difference between learning about the Seafarers International Union from other mariners and actually talking to the leaders of the union face-to-face. That’s what the 11 graduates of the bosun recertification course found out during their month-long course and which will now shape their own leadership roles aboard ship. The bosuns emphasized that the class will help enable them to do a better job at sea The 11 Seafarers—Kelvin Cherington, Thomas P. Flanagan, Alvin T. Martin, Willie M. Marsh, Eric A. Berry, Konstantino Prokovas, Timothy Burke, Aristeo M. Padua, Homar L. McField, Robert J. Coleman and Christopher K. Pompel— each gave their impressions of the bosun recertification course in remarks delivered after receiving their certificates of graduation at the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Rumors and innuendos can spread like wildfire, but these students—who completed the highest level of education available to members of the deck department at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point—learned the facts directly from the union’s president, vice presidents and department heads—officials who guide the SIU to make it strong and successful. The 11 students were exposed to many different facets of bosun training, including meeting with department representatives at Piney Point, headquarters and at the offices of the Maritime Trades Department in Washington, D.C. They found themselves amazed at how much they learned about the behind-the-scenes workings of the union and now believe they are in a better position to take what they have observed and disseminate the information to their fellow shipmates. Cherington, who hails from the Honduras Bay Island of Roatán, has been sailing for 20 years, the last four of which have been with the SIU following its merger with the NMU. He has traveled all over the world and is extremely proud to be part of the union, which he believes turned his life around. Now sailing from Port Everglades, Fla., Cherington was excited by the classes he took as part of the bosun recertification program, particularly the small arms course. But above all, he stated he now has a more concise understanding about the workings of the union and how contracts are negotiated, and feels better able to answer any questions other members may pose to him. To the unlicensed apprentices in the audience, Cherington stressed the need to study hard, Following their graduation ceremony at the May membership meeting in Piney Point, the new recertified bosuns pose for a group photo with some of the union officials who helped educate them about workings of the SIU during the month-long course. From the left are: Christopher K. Pompel, Willie M. Marsh, Thomas P. Flanagan, Timothy Burke, Eric A. Berry, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Robert J. Coleman, Valerie Martin (wife of Alvin Martin), Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, Alvin T. Martin, Homar L. McField, Konstantino Prokovas, SIU Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Aristeo M. Padua, Kelvin Cherington, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, SIU Assistant VP Contracts George Tricker and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. get educated, ask questions, work as a team and always remember that safety comes first. Flanagan agreed that the month-long course afforded him a better understanding of how the union works. He said he never realized the scope of the politics involved and the commitment required on the part of union officials and representatives to secure a better future for the membership. At the same time, he was made aware of how contributing to SPAD is an investment in the future. Flanagan, who sails from the port of New York, also started his seafaring career in the NMU. He is “proud to sail with such qualified people,” he noted in his remarks at the graduation ceremony, and found his experience at Piney Point a pleasant one, particularly being able to talk with other bosuns on what they are doing and how they deal with certain problems and activities aboard ship. Martin began sailing with the NMU in 1975 and ships from the port of New Orleans. He was aboard a Keystone vessel in Seattle when the proposed SIU/NMU merger was announced, and he said there were some negative rumors associated with the merger. After completing the bosun recertification course, he now believes he has the information needed to help reinforce others who started in the NMU of the benefits of being part of the SIU family. This, in turn, will bring strength and unity to the union. Martin, who was accompanied to Piney Point by his wife, stated he is humbled by the leadership within the union. He stressed to the unlicensed apprentices that Recertified Bosun Robert Coleman offers pointers to some unlicensed apprentices in tying the correct knot for the job. June 2005 what they learn at the school will help prepare them for a great career at sea—or as a springboard to almost anything else they want to do. “Just apply yourselves; nothing comes easy.” Shipping from the port of Houston, Marsh joined the SIU in 1975 at the age of 22. He has been around the world, sailing as an AB, and said it’s been a great experience. The SIU is like a family, “and you’re an important part of this organization,” Marsh said. He singled out SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee, his port chaplain and the secretaries at the Houston hall for their help in keeping him headed in the right direction. “Take advantage of all the tools you have here at the Paul Hall Center,” he told the trainees. “You can go as far as you want.” Berry also joined the SIU in 2001 as a result of the SIU/NMU merger. He has been sailing 18 years from the port of Wilmington, Calif. The recertified bosun found his experiences at Piney Point to be informative, interesting and inspiring, particularly learning the political aspects of promoting the industry. To the unlicensed apprentices, he said, “Never forget who came before you. They sacrificed a great deal for us to be where we are today.” He concluded by stressing the importance of SPAD contributions to “help us stay strong for those who follow.” Although he has been sailing since 1968, Prokovas joined the SIU in New York in 1992. He said the union has been good to him and his family, and was grateful for the opportunity to be part of the recertification class. Prokovas was amazed at everything he learned. “From Piney Point, to SIU headquarters, to the Maritime Trades Department, we found out just how hard our union officials are working to secure this industry.” He remarked to the trainees and other upgrading Seafarers that every time they enhance their skills, they are “one step ahead.” He concluded by thanking “everyone for making this union number-one.” “This is a proud moment in my seafaring career: an accomplishment that has taken me quite some time,” stated Burke. Now sailing from Algonac, he was a trainee right after high school in 1968. His father is a retired SIU member; a brother, who was also a trainee, is now on the West Coast working for Crowley; and his nephew, who went through the unlicensed apprentice program four years ago, now ships as an AB. Burke has sailed deep sea, Great Lakes and inland and has returned to the school a number of times to upgrade his skills. Having been in their position before, Burke told the trainees that he knows what it’s like being away from home, probably for the first time. He explained that their training at Piney Point is just a beginning, and that once they get aboard a ship, it is their job to expand that base. “Try to remember there are those who will teach you if you will let them,” he said. “Every ship is different, and people are different. Your first ship is what makes you, so if you learn there, the rest is easy.” Now armed with the knowledge to be a better leader, Burke’s intention is to share what he has learned. “Just ask,” he said, and he dedicated the day to all who have helped him along the way. Born in the Philippines, Padua had a background in nautical science before he began shipping in 1977 around his native islands. Two years later he started sailing on foreign-flag ships until he came to America in 1990. He joined the NMU and began sailing and upgrading his skills. Following the merger, he got his STCW certification—and has been sailing with the SIU since. He gave his personal thanks to the SIU and its officials, the Paul Hall Center staff and instructors as well as to Wilmington Port Agent John Cox and his staff. His message to the trainees is to study hard and work hard. “Ask questions when you are out at sea. Make a habit of writing down things you are not familiar with. Listen to your supervisors. Work together as a team.” Padua realizes that graduating from a course or completing a program is just a beginning—the opening of a door to new opportunities, and he urged the trainees to do the best they can and always work safely. “Be proud of yourselves as trained, qualified Seafarers,” he said. McField was excited about everything he learned during the four-week recertification course. A member of the SIU since August 1996, McField now wants to take his new knowledge about how the union works directly to others who have not had the opportunity to see and hear it for themselves. Speaking directly to the union’s president and other officials and department heads was a highlight of the experience for him. McField advised the trainees that the only way they can learn is by asking questions. Coleman agreed that being able to talk directly with the union officials has given him a better understanding of the politics involved in the maritime industry. “I never realized the extent politics played in the whole system,” he said. “We’re really one big voice, and SPAD is so important.” Coleman, who has sailed from the port of Houston since 1988, thanked the staff at the school for their time and patience. He addressed the trainees by reminding them of their role as mariners. “You’re going to have a chance to go out and see the world,” he told them. “Keep in mind that anywhere you go, you’re a merchant seaman. And not only do you represent the SIU, you also represent America. Give us a good name.” Valerie Martin joins her husband, Alvin, in steering the Osprey. After spending the first part of his career as a commercial fisherman, Pompel joined the SIU in 1991 in the port of Seattle. Having worked in another part of the industry, he now has a better sense of the benefits and job security enjoyed by Seafarers. Sailing with the SIU has allowed him to live where he wants, enjoy a comfortable income and, when he wants to sail, he knows he has a job. He thanked the SIU and the staff and instructors at the school for the opportunity to upgrade, and also thanked all the old-timers who taught him how to live and work at sea. He told the trainees, “You’ve got brothers and sisters on the ships willing to teach you. Just show a good attitude and some hard work, and the payoff for your time here will be rewarded.” Seafarers LOG 7 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/26/2005 5:21 PM Page 8 Seaf arer s Par t icipat e in Bene f it s Conferences SAN FRANCISCO On hand in San Francisco to answer questions from Seafarers, pensioners and their families about the change in health care coverage are (from left) Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Plans Administrator Bill Dennis and Carolyn Gentile, counsel to the Seafarers Plans. Right: SIU member Sam Garrett asked about getting more medications for longer voyages. Prescription coverage was on the mind of retiree Jim Saxton. R epresentatives from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) in late April wrapped up a series of conferences that took place at SIU halls across the country. Hundreds of Seafarers, pensioners and their families attended the benefits conferences in Wilmington, Calif.; San Francisco; Tacoma, Wash.; Houston; New Orleans; and Jacksonville, Fla. Earlier in April, conferences were conducted in Piney Point, Md.; Philadelphia; Brooklyn, N.Y.; and Norfolk, Va. Those meetings were covered in the May issue of the Seafarers LOG. The more recent conferences had the same basic structure as the first ones. During the meetings, SHBP representatives and spokespersons discussed adjustments approved by the trustees to the costs of various SHBP coverage. Details were reviewed at the conferences and they also were specified in a letter mailed to individual SHBP participants. Generally, the most significant adjustments are the implementations of deductibles and co-payments. At each of the conferences, a lot of time was spent in question-and-answer periods, with Seafarers, pensioners and their families interacting with SHBP panelists. Among those speaking on behalf of the SHBP were Carolyn Gentile, counsel to the Seafarers Plans; Bill Dennis, Plans administrator; Basil Castrovinci and Matt Castrovinci, actuaries for the Plans; and Colleen Baker, representative from First Health Network. SIU officials also took part in the meetings, including President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President John Fay, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone. Panelists emphasized the advantages of utilizing First Health Network. They also pointed out that there still is no out-of-pocket cost for Seafarers to maintain their coverage through the SHBP. By contrast, most Americans with health benefits have to pay part of their premium. Similarly, eligible Seafarers are part of a small minority of Americans who don’t have to pay all or part of the premiums for dependent coverage. Additionally, SHBP representatives explained the Plan’s structure and operations; talked about the health care crisis from a national standpoint; and cited examples of how those with insurance actually bear the cost of providing treatment to the more than 45 million Americans who have no health coverage. Across the nation, health care costs (including the price of prescription drugs) are increasing by double-digit percentages each year. Credible, high-profile sources from different industries have warned that if the current trend doesn’t improve, health care could ruin the national economy. Behind the many statistics reflecting this crisis are working families and retirees—many with insurance, many without—who remain at risk of financial devastation from one accident or injury. Last month, results from the Harvard Consumer Bankruptcy Project—believed to be the first comprehensive study of medical bankruptcy—found that 1 million Americans per year are bankrupted by medical bills or illness. Of those, more than threequarters had health insurance when they became ill or were injured. Right: Questions were raised about time needed for eligibility. Concerns were expressed about medication refills while aboard shuttle vessels. How the changes will affect retirees was the question on on the minds of many pensioners. There was a good turnout at the San Francisco hall of those wishing to learn more about their health benefits. 8 Seafarers LOG June 2005 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/27/2005 3:49 PM Page 9 Seaf arer s Par t icipat e in Bene f it s Conferences HOUSTON A large group was on hand at the Houston hall to listen as the SHBP representatives and spokespersons talked about the medical care crisis in this country and how the plan is trying contain costs while still providing quality health care coverage. Plans Administrator Bill Dennis (in near right photo) addresses the crowd. Members John Cain (center) and Tom Arriola ask questions regarding their health care coverage. Even with the adjustment to NEW ORLEANS deductibles and co-payments, there still are no out-ofpocket costs for Seafarers to maintain their coverage through the SHBP. By contrast most Americans with health benefits have to pay at least part of their premiums. A good number of SIU members and their families attended the benefits conference at the New Orleans hall including, from left, Bosun George Price III, Electrician Robert Joyce and AB Ricardo Legorreta. AB Randy Bolling (left) has an opportunity to chat with SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. WILMINGTON After learning more about the adjustments made to their health and benefits plan, Seafarers in Wilmington, Calif. had their questions answered by the Plans officials. June 2005 Chief Cook Joe Brooks (left) and Chief Steward Connie Gaines appreciated hearing from the Plans officials. With them is SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Everybody was very interested in how their medical benefits were going to be affected. Husbands and wives of Seafarers as well as current members and retirees were on hand to familiarize themselves with the new conditions. At left is Penny Adams, wife of Ray Adams. Seafarers LOG 9 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/26/2005 10:58 AM Page 10 Trade Show a Success NCL America Is New Participant In Union Industries Show Some 200,000 visitors from up and down the Pacific Northwest Coast recently turned out to the Oregon Convention Center in Portland to witness and enjoy the varied attractions on exhibit during the 2005 AFL-CIO Union Industries Show. Themed “Good Jobs Build Strong Communities” and sponsored by the AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department, the show took place April 29 to May 2. Showcased were the latest in union-made-inthe-USA products including autos and accessories, motorcycles, hardware, clothing, sporting goods and furniture. Also featured were baked goods and groceries, appliances and housewares. Visitors were afforded information on how to acquire training for union jobs. Although a newcomer to the annual AFL-CIO event, SIUcontracted NCL America was a huge participant in the show. For the event’s SIU/UIW grand prize, the deep-sea cruise ship company donated an all-expenses-paid 7-day cruise of the Hawaiian Islands for two. UIW-contracted companies that participated included: Bron Shoe and Franklin International, both of Columbus, Ohio; Church & Dwight, London, Ohio; Kroger, Delaware, Ohio; Sealy Mattress, Williamsport, Md.; Juanita’s Foods, Wilmington, Calif.; Cott Beverages, USA, San Bernardino, Calif.; Del Monte, Terminal Island, Calif.; the Queen Mary, Long Beach, Calif,.; La Victoria Foods, Rosemead, Calif.; and Chicken of the Sea Inc., Terminal Island, Calif. Other major prizes and their respective union donors were: UAW-made autos from GM (2005 Chevy Cobalt) and Ford (a 2005 2X4 Focus); a HarleyDavidson motorcycle; hospitality from Portland’s Benson Hotel; appliances made by members of the UAW, IUE-CWA and USWPACE; and a John Deere Tractor made by Machinists and USW- Notice to CIVMARS Re: 2005-2006 Wages MSC CIVMARS’ wages are determined each year through a series of administrative steps. One of the first steps required by federal law is that each year the union must provide MSC with data for private sector maritime wages for seafarers sailing on American-flag vessels. To do this, the union provides MSC with a letter containing the wages reflected in collective bargaining agreements. MSC uses this information and other types of information to develop the wage scales that apply to CIVMARS. Generally CIVMARS receive increases in July. This year however, because some collective bargaining agreements are being renegotiated there may be a delay in analyzing the wages and the need for retroactive payment for CIVMARS. The union will keep CIVMARS advised as to the status of these negotiations and the impact of the new collective-bargaining agreements on CIVMARS’ wages. The SIU/UIW booth at the 2005 AFL-CIO Union Industries Show, just as in years past, was very popular among those who attended the fourday event. SIU Port Agent Bryan Powell, left, is joined for a photo by Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski, UIW National Director John Spadaro and Maritime Trades Department Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. PACE members. Giveaways included dry goods, USW-PACE paper products, canned goods, and snacks courtesy of Teamster Dairy Division workers and groceries courtesy of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM). “The show was a resounding success,” noted SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell, who helped set up and staff the SIU/UIW booth. “It is such a great public relations opportunity for labor to showcase our products and services as well as interact in a very positive and friendly way with the general public.” “This show has traveled throughout the country these past 60 years to underscore the importance of supporting good union jobs, purchasing union goods and services and keeping union jobs in American communities,” declared Charles Mercer, president of the AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department. Mercer was joined by members of the department’s executive council and Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski to cut the ribbon formally opening the show. Although scores of candidates and celebrities have participated in the show during its long and rich history, Kulongoski was the first host-state governor to join the show’s ribbon-cutting ceremonies. The governor praised the labor movement’s contributions to American culture and society. “The American quality of life is because of the American labor movement,” he said, urging working families to “take pride in what you see here. No country in the world can compete with us if we recognize the efforts of America’s working people.” Update Regarding CMPI 610 Negotiations As has been previously reported, the union has been waiting for MSC to schedule negotiations regarding CMPI 610. Last year APMC submitted a revised version of CMPI 610 for negotiation. Prior to developing counter-proposals, the union submitted a list of questions requesting information and explanations in November 2004. The union has not received responses as of yet. The union will continue to update CIVMARS periodically about the status of these discussions. Retired Clinical Director Bill Eckles Dies at 62 Bill Eckles, who retired last summer after decades of service as the clinical director of the Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Piney Point, Md., died May 12, reportedly from heart failure. He was 62. “Bill was a positive influence on so many people,” noted Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which is affiliated with the ARC. “He was committed to his work and he remained a friend to both the school and the ARC even in retirement.” John Gallagher, director of the ARC, stated, “He’s going to be missed. His contributions to the program here were immeasurable. Really, he’s one of the architects of the program that exists today. That’s one reason he won’t be forgotten.” Eckles joined the SIU in 1965 in his native Philadelphia. He sailed as a recertified bosun 10 Seafarers LOG Recertified Bosun Bill Eckles earned respect and influenced lives as clinical director of the ARC from 1988-2004. and later earned a second mate’s license before coming ashore in 1985 to work as a counselor at the ARC. He became the center’s clinical director three years later. Last year, in an interview for his retirement article in the Seafarers LOG, Eckles said he got started as a counselor because he had gone through the ARC when it opened (in 1975) and he “had a desire to put something back into it.” Previously, in a 1992 piece about the school, Eckles wrote, “I wouldn’t have worked in this field if it wasn’t with merchant mariners. I wasn’t looking for another profession, but going through the ARC program had turned my life around, and I felt I could contribute.” Eckles retired to Silver Spring, Md. Funeral services took place May 17 in Philadelphia. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 625 W. Ridge Pike, Building A100, Conshohocken, PA 19428 or the Caron Foundation, 17 Camp Road, Wernersville, PA 19565. The Seafarers-crewed SSG Edward A. Carter Jr. helps boost America’s sealift capabilities. Seafarers-Crewed Carter Reaches Safety Milestone Seafarers who work aboard a Maersk Line Limited (MLL) operated vessel recently established a safety milestone of which the entire maritime community can be proud. As of April 30, the SIU-contracted SSG Edward A. Carter Jr. marked 1,000 days of accident-free operations, a significant achievement. MLL Director of Maritime Operations Capt. Jerry Eker, in correspondence dated May 1 to the captain and crew of the Carter, said in part: “Please note our congratulations and express our thanks and appreciation to the crew for their continued focus on safety. [One thousand] days is a major accomplishment and one that is not achievable by every vessel. This devotion to the safe working environment is acknowledgement that everyone on board has taken pride in the vessel, their job and the safe working practice of each and every crew member seriously…. This positive accomplishment will confirm to our customer the focus toward safety by each crew member and MLL as a whole.” Owned by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the Carter is one of the command’s eight containerships. It also is part of the 36 ships in MSC’s prepositioning program. Based in Norfolk, Va., MLL has provided the U.S. government with transportation and maritime services for more than 40 years, including every major military operation from the Vietnam War to those now underway in Afghanistan and Iraq. June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 5:42 PM Page 11 Left: Jeremy “J.J.” Evans entered a beautty contest in Wilmington, Calif. last year when she was 10 years old. She was first runner-up. Her proud dad, Shawn Evans, is the recertified bosun on the Green Dale. At right is a recent portrait of AB Paul Riley of Jacksonville, Fla. and his beautiful family — wife Marion, daughter J’cyra and son Paul Anthony Riley III. Seafarers and their families: These are some of the images we all look forward to seeing—and sharing with our brothers and sisters of the sea. If you have a family-related photo you would like to be included in the next family photo page, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photos will be returned, if so requested. If e-mailing digital images, please send them to dhirtes@seafarers.org. The higher the resolution, the better. SIU member Nick Payne is a serious mountain biker. Here he is during a race in Colorado (below) wheree he finished in 3rd place, and in Austin, Texas (right), where he came in 2nd. When not biking, Nick works for G&H Tug Co. as quartermaster and mate. He is the son of Seafarer Jimmy “Indiana” Payne. Tommy Flynn and his wife, Melody, show off their new son, Justus, who was five months old in this photo (he is now eight months old). Tommy currently sails as an electrician on the Horizon Consumer, shipping out of Long Beach, Calif. Proud grandmother, Annette Flynn, who sent this photo to the LOG, works as a programmer at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. Daniel J. Teichman and his family weelcomed a new baby girl Sept. 1, 2004. Jeanette joins three sisters who are doting on her. Daniel ma akes his home in Rutland, Vt. and currently sails as bosun on the SL Liberator. June 2005 Port Agent John Cox and his wife, Tausha, are once again the proud parents of a healthy baby girl. Born March 15, 2005 at 10:17 a.m., Ashley Marie Cox weighed in at 7 lbs. 15 oz. Seafarers LOG 11 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/26/2005 2:43 PM Page 12 “The importance of U.S. mariners is being reinforced every day in the war in Iraq.” — John Jamian Acting Administrator, Maritime Administration “We are here today to pay special tribu to all merchant mariners.” — Elaine L U.S. Secretary of U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao delivered the keynote address at a ceremony at the US. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., sponsored by the U.S. Maritime Administration. “The professionalism and expertise of America’s merchant mariners . . . has been their hallmark and their creed.” Listening to the grim statistics of U.S. Merchant Marine losses duri and World War II are (from left) SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, MM& Brown, Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, MEBA President Ron Davis Michael Sacco and Maria Cino, deputy director of the Department of — Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN MSC Commander “Thank you for your contribution to keeping this nation a great, free country.” — Congressman Roscoe G. Bartlett (R-Md.) Following an afternoon memorial ceremony at the Washington Naval Yard, Vice Adm. David L. Brew the Paul Hall Center. In the front row are (from left) SIU Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta, SIU Se Crumlin, national secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia. 12 Seafarers LOG June 2005 �27970_P1_3,5_6cx,8_10,12_13.qxd 5/26/2005 2:43 PM Page 13 y, 2005 a D e im it r a M National S n by A Proclamatio erica ed States of Am it n U e th f o t n he Preside T our economy more secure and n io at N r ou e ak ected our t mariners m commerce and prot ed ot om pr America's merchan ve ha ey United out our histor y, th ted service of the ca di de e th r no ho stronger. T hrough , we nal Maritime Day freedom. On Natio ortation system Marine. . maritime transp .S U e th States Merchant of en the open en and wom erways and across at w r ou g Each year, the m on al o rg erchant billion tons of ca e transported by m ar se ha rc pu s an move more than 2 meric finished goods in e raw materials A ral products and ltu cu seas. Many of th ri ag ip sh s ant mariner vessels, and merch day. s histor y. nited States ever y lict in our Nation' nf co y er ev in and out of the U ed ith crus have also serv s Armed Forces w n' io at N r ou Merchant mariner e id e, prov demonstrate courag en ant Marine helps ch om er w M d . an .S U en m he T brave those who have equipment. T hese especially honor e w d cial supplies and an ty, du ates is safer and devotion to n. T he United St io at N r ou love of countr y, of e ns ers, and e sacrifice in defe r merchant marin ou of k or w e th made the ultimat of e ore peaceful becaus and the world is m e. e, the Congress, r their servic Merchant Marin . .S U e we are grateful fo th of ce gnated May the importan amended, has desi as , 33 In recognition of 19 , 20 d requested approved on May has authorized an d an ," ay D by joint resolution e m obser"National Mariti r its appropriate as fo ar ng ye lli ch ca ea n io of at m 22 ocla issue an annual pr that the President of the United USH, President B . W E vance. G R O E Maritime FORE, I, G 05, as National 20 , 22 NOW, THERE ay M and laim ate this observance a, do hereby proc br le ce to es at St d States of Americ es. nite in their communiti e people of the U d th an on es up m ll ho ca r I ei . th Day ates at on that day. g of the United St ican flag dress ship er m A e th to display the fla r de un teenth day all ships sailing t my hand this nine se to un re he I also request that ve ha ence of HEREOF, I d of the Independ an e, fiv nd IN WITNESS W sa ou o th ar of our Lord tw enty ninth. of May, in the ye o hundred and tw tw e th a ic er m A of the United States USH GEORGE W. B IU members, officials and a large contingent of unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. on May 19 joined scores of dignitaries who attended and participated in a pair of National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. Sponsored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) and the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the two events were held at the U.S. Navy Memorial and the Washington Naval Yard, respectively. ine L. Chao U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, a strong supporter of the ary of Labor U.S. Merchant Marine, delivered the keynote address at the MarAd ceremony. “We are here today to pay special tribute to all merchant mariners. It is a time for us to reflect and honor the rich history of the United States Merchant Marine,” she stated. “Even before the United States was born, the U.S. Merchant Marine then and now is vital to supporting the twin pillars of our country’s strength, and that is economic prosperity and national security. “In peacetime, a patriotic mariner keeps America working by transporting our imports and exports,” she continued. “They crew the ships that conduct our country’s worldwide commerce. And that’s so important because as many of you in this audience know, 95 percent of our trade is moved by sea.” Secretary Chao also noted the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. “We’ve had the introduction of two new cruise ships to enter the American-flag passenger trade and they are providing thousand of good-paying jobs for American workers,” she stated. “The Pride of Aloha has been operating in the Hawaiian trades now for almost one year. And the Pride of America is expected to reach New York Harbor in early June … and that should be very exciting. “This administration and the maritime community work together to further strengthen the industry by supporting flexibility….. As a result, the American maritime industry is expected to invest more into strengthening our fleet and creating more jobs for our American mariners.” Finally, she observed, “In times of war, our nation is especially grateful for the special role that merchant mariners play in support of national defense. And that realization is never more keen than now. Today, more than 8,000 brave merchant mariners crew auxiliary vessel for the United States Navy to support our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. They have delivered more than 92 percent of the equipment and supplies needed by our troops. It is in part due to the service of the U.S. Merchant Marine that America has gained the strongest military force the world has ever known. “When the history of this era is written, the United States Merchant Marine will be remembered as vital to toppling a brutal regime and helping to s during World War I build a stable and democratic Middle East. The U.S. Merchant Marine serves MM&P President Tim our country during times of peace and war with distinction and often at personDavis, SIU President al risk. So today, I am so pleased to be with all of you so that we together can ent of Transportation. honor their sacrifices which will ensure that freedom and opportunity will forever be a beacon of America’s hope.” At the conclusion of Secretary Chao’s presentation, awards were given to the family of the late Walter Oates and Capt. George Bark, U.S. Merchant Marine (ret.). Despite being the nation’s oldest service, the U.S. Merchant Marine until recent years did not have an official flag or seal. Oates and Bark in 1994 put an end to this absence of a rallying symbol and made history in the process when they created the U.S. Merchant Marine Flag and Seal. Both men attended the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Oates graduated in 1942 while Bark finished in 1944. Congressman Roscoe G. Bartlett (R-Md.) served as the principal speaker during the MSC ceremony which was conducted at the Washington Navy Yard. Representative Bartlett paid tribute to genera- oday ribute Brewer III greeted each of the unlicensed apprentices from U Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Brewer and Padraig June 2005 tions of U.S. merchant mariners by noting the roles they played in America before it officially was a nation. The congressmen reflected on the extreme sacrifice of the merchant marine during times of war when he said, “Your service had the highest casualty rate during World War II except for the Marine Corps… Thank you for your contribution to keeping this nation a great, free country.” Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, MSC’s commander, declared, “The professionalism and expertise of America’s merchant mariners, their dedication to freedom and democracy, and their willingness to sail wherever needed when duty calls has been their hallmark and their creed.” Following the ceremony, Admiral Brewer took time out to meet and greet each of the unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center who were on hand for the observances. Afterward, the apprentices expressed great appreciation for Admiral Brewer’s warmth and sincerity. The unlicensed apprentices stood at parade rest during Maritime Day observances at the Washington Naval Yard as guests applauded the remarks of Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III. Seafarers LOG 13 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/27/2005 3:50 PM Page 14 Around the Port Of Philadelphia SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (center) and SIU Representative Rob Wisler (left) greet AB Kyle Bloom en route to the USNS Seay. SIU-contracted AMSEA began operating both the Seay and the USNS Mendonca April 22 in Philadelphia. Discussing the latest union news are SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Mieluchowski, Recertified Steward Ekow Doffoh and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi at the union hall. SIU officials and Seafarers from the Seay and Mendonca are pictured aboard the latter ship after viewing a vessel familiarization videotape. From left, Recertified Steward Bob Mensching, Oiler Ben Stanley, SIU Representative Rob Wisler and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi talk about the contract covering the LMSRs operated by AMSEA. Seafarers recently rallied in support of fellow union members from UNITE/HERE Local 274 while those members were in contract negotiations with a dozen or so hotels. These three photos show crew members on the Integrity as they gather for a shipboard union meeting. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SEAFARERS MEDICAL CENTER FUND This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Plan, EIN 94-2430964 for the year ended June 30, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The plan has committed itself to pay all medical exam claims incurred under the terms of the plan. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(453,765) as of June 30, 2004, compared to $(442,370) as of July 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $11,395. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $548,558 including employer contributions of $527,179, earnings from investments of $153 and other income of $21,226. Plan expenses were $559,953. These expenses included $457,949 in administrative expenses and $102,004 in benefits paid to or for participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and informa- 14 Seafarers LOG tion on payments to service providers; and 3. Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Plan, P.O. Box 191086, San Francisco, CA 94119, (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.75 for the full annual report, or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the Plan, at 49 Drum Street, Second Floor, San Francisco, CA 941114805, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. Remembering Seafarer Terry Mayes The old newspaper article is understandably worn, having been published during the Vietnam War. The photo really isn’t legible anymore. But the story of the late Seafarer Terry Mayes is just as compelling today as it was when it appeared in the Sunday edition of the Mobile, Ala. Press Register back in March 1967. Terry’s mother, Delores Cain Mayes, wanted to share that account with other readers of the Seafarers LOG. It’s a story of patriotism as well as an SIU legacy. Terry Mayes made two voyages to Vietnam before his 17th birthday; the start of the latter trip was chronicled in the Mobile newspaper. “I want to go to Vietnam because I know that I might be doing something patriotic for my country,” he told the paper. “I am very proud of being in the merchant marine. “Some of the boys over there are not much older than I am,” he continued. “I know they need all the help they can get. And they also are depending upon our merchant fleet for many things. An article from 1966 notes that Terry Mayes (right in 1994) made two voyages to Vietnam before turning 17. “We are all good Americans and we love the United States of America. In a way, I guess we are all brothers.” Mayes’ youth and nationalism weren’t the only noteworthy aspects portrayed in the article. He was signing on board the Free America as an ordinary seaman—a vessel that his father, the late SIU member John Mayes had sailed on 17 years earlier. (At that time, the ship was named the Monarch of the Sea.) In fact, the elder Mayes made his final voyage on that same ship—and it was there that he learned via radio of Terry’s birth in 1949. Terry joined the SIU and first sailed aboard the Alcoa Trader to Vietnam. He then sailed on the tanker Ocean Pioneer to France before making his second voyage to the war zone. He passed away Nov. 23, 2003 at age 54. His uncle John Cain is an active SIU member and another uncle, Hubert Cain, sailed with the union for almost 50 years. “Terry stood for all the things that are good about the SIU and the U.S. Merchant Marine as America’s fourth arm of defense,” stated John Cain. “Even though he didn’t make a career out of sailing after Vietnam, he loved the SIU until the day he died.” June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:07 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July & August 2005 Membership Meetings APRIL 16 — MAY 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Totals 2 5 7 4 4 19 35 1 14 14 20 15 3 25 11 13 3 31 24 1 3 1 2 2 17 14 0 7 11 17 11 2 0 0 5 2 14 15 1 0 4 3 5 17 26 0 8 13 15 13 5 0 3 16 2 20 13 2 4 2 3 3 14 26 0 8 11 13 12 4 11 7 10 4 17 15 0 2 1 1 1 9 8 1 2 2 4 3 0 1 0 4 2 5 5 3 0 0 0 0 6 18 0 4 5 10 4 0 1 3 8 0 6 11 1 0 6 2 11 56 56 0 13 27 51 15 3 2 9 31 1 54 37 6 6 10 11 6 30 59 3 21 24 42 31 4 21 20 15 4 52 35 2 7 2 4 3 38 32 2 10 26 33 18 7 0 1 8 5 32 25 194 250 124 164 166 51 79 375 400 255 Totals Totals All Departments 0 0 5 0 7 14 16 1 4 7 11 6 1 0 3 10 1 11 4 1 1 4 1 1 13 21 0 5 5 4 11 2 1 2 7 5 21 8 0 1 0 0 2 9 9 0 4 1 4 4 2 0 1 2 1 6 6 0 0 3 0 7 7 9 0 9 6 9 4 1 0 1 10 0 7 8 1 0 4 0 4 9 15 0 2 9 6 12 1 1 2 5 3 16 3 0 0 0 0 1 6 7 0 0 1 2 3 0 1 1 0 0 6 3 0 0 1 0 3 3 11 0 1 2 5 6 1 1 2 4 0 5 4 0 0 4 2 9 23 26 1 9 14 20 16 4 2 3 13 3 12 11 0 1 5 4 7 15 35 1 7 13 18 16 3 1 9 10 5 24 20 3 2 0 0 3 9 18 1 6 5 13 3 2 0 1 3 1 6 9 101 113 52 81 93 31 49 172 194 85 0 0 4 0 7 15 18 0 5 9 11 7 1 2 0 18 1 10 24 0 0 1 2 6 5 16 0 3 6 7 7 0 3 1 5 0 6 5 1 0 0 0 3 4 6 0 0 3 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 1 5 11 7 0 2 6 11 4 3 1 0 14 0 11 18 Baltimore ................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Boston.....................Friday: July 8, August 12 Duluth .....................Wednesday: July 13, August 17 Guam ......................Thursday: July 21, August 25 Honolulu .................Friday: July 15, August 19 Houston ..................Monday: July 11 .................................Tuesday: August 16* .................................(*change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Jacksonville ............Thursday: July 7, August 11 Joliet .......................Thursday: July 14, August 18 Mobile ....................Wednesday: July 13, August 17 0 0 1 0 4 3 12 0 3 2 4 7 0 1 1 3 0 3 7 1 0 0 0 3 3 5 0 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 3 5 7 0 2 1 8 2 0 0 0 7 0 5 10 0 0 3 0 15 30 30 0 6 14 30 16 1 7 2 45 3 21 41 1 0 4 4 8 9 30 1 8 8 15 16 2 5 4 9 0 13 15 1 0 0 0 1 7 8 0 0 2 5 4 0 1 0 1 1 4 7 132 73 24 98 51 19 52 264 152 42 0 0 0 0 6 3 3 0 0 1 4 0 0 0 1 4 0 6 3 1 1 3 1 10 16 22 0 8 5 32 11 0 17 3 9 0 19 2 0 6 3 0 7 16 26 1 1 8 25 15 0 28 0 4 0 12 11 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 3 0 3 0 7 10 8 0 9 3 17 6 0 8 1 11 0 7 2 0 1 1 0 7 6 12 1 0 3 13 7 0 28 1 9 0 7 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 5 8 0 2 4 7 0 0 0 2 6 0 11 4 1 2 3 6 17 35 35 1 8 13 57 21 1 20 4 12 1 32 10 3 12 6 4 12 36 44 1 3 21 67 29 2 17 1 11 0 31 23 31 160 163 17 95 101 0 57 279 323 458 596 363 360 405 202 180 868 1,025 705 New York................Tuesday: July 5, August 9 Norfolk ...................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: July 6, August 10 Port Everglades.......Thursday: July 14, August 18 San Francisco .........Thursday: July 14, August 18 San Juan..................Thursday: July 7, August 11 St. Louis..................Friday: July 15, August 19 Tacoma ...................Friday: July 22, August 26 Wilmington ...............Monday: July 18, August 22 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. STEWARD DEPARTMENT 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. June 2005 Algonac ..................Friday: July 8, August 12 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: July 12, August 16 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 Piney Point .............Tuesday: July 5* ................................Monday: August 8 ............................................(*change created by Independence Day holiday) 1 0 2 1 2 33 33 0 8 13 27 6 1 1 3 13 2 27 21 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 Personals Alek Turko would like to hear from any former shipmates. Please e-mail him at allsafeins@aol.com to get in touch. DEBORAH SUTTON Please contct Tim Robert at (504) 628-9007. DONALD HOOD Please contact Leon Fountain at (253) 581-2099. Leon, who retired in 1998, saw your photo in last month’s LOG and would like to hear from you. Correction The Gateway of India, pictured on page 16 of the May Seafarers LOG, is located in Bombay. MV Ascension Honored with Stamp The Ascension Island Post Office recently honored the SIUcrewed MV Ascension with the issuance of a postage stamp bearing its likeness. It is one in a set of four stamps that feature merchant shipping and is in the amount of 15p. Ascension Island is located in the South Atlantic Ocean and is part of the St. Helena Group that is made up of St. Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha. The island was settled by the British with a garrison of Royal Marines in 1815. The French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled on St. Helena, and the British did not want the French to use Ascension Island as a staging post to rescue him. The MV Ascension is owned and operated by Sealift, Inc. It serves as the re-supply ship for “Wideawake Airfield,” the American Air Force Base on Ascension Island. Capt. Dana Haff sent a copy of the stamp to the Seafarers LOG and notes that the vessel sails from Port Canaveral, Fla. and re-supplies the island every 60 days. Since there is no dock at Ascension Island, the ship discharges cargo from an open anchorage onto motorized barges. Seafarers LOG 15 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/27/2005 3:50 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report APRIL 16 — MAY 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 20 1 1 10 0 0 4 41 3 0 2 3 3 1 0 1 13 0 5 7 5 2 1 1 0 21 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 18 1 2 7 0 0 5 37 1 0 2 2 3 1 0 1 10 0 5 5 0 2 2 1 0 15 1 11 1 3 5 0 2 2 25 12 31 13 12 29 6 2 7 112 4 7 5 5 5 1 0 5 32 0 13 2 20 2 0 5 0 42 0 2 2 0 2 0 1 4 11 8 14 6 7 11 1 2 5 54 1 3 8 1 4 0 0 1 18 0 8 4 12 1 1 1 0 27 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 6 7 7 8 5 14 2 0 3 46 1 3 3 0 15 0 0 1 23 0 8 0 16 0 1 2 1 28 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 2 6 1 1 6 0 1 2 19 0 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 6 0 2 8 1 1 0 0 2 14 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 1 6 2 2 3 0 0 1 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 3 7 0 1 0 0 2 13 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 4 3 0 1 3 0 1 0 12 1 1 1 2 2 0 0 1 8 0 3 2 3 0 1 0 2 11 Port 1 4 1 1 4 0 1 1 13 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 5 0 4 3 0 0 1 0 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 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 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 72 27 46 65 17 37 42 212 73 97 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Arthur K. Johannessen of Stavanger, Norway. His previous submission of the steward department on the SS Mariposa was included in the April 2005 issue. This photo was taken aboard the President Wilson in 1962, Johannessen’s first trip to the Far East. “It was a heavenly trip,” he stated in a note accompanying the photo, and “an experience I’ll never forget. The crew in the dining room was like the United Nations. We all got along very well.” Seated on the floor is a crew member named Joe. Johannessen says Joe was a very special, kind person who wanted nothing more than to go to sea. “I think about him a lot,” the former room steward/waiter wrote. After his sailing career, Johannessen, now 80, returned to his native Norway and ran a mink farm until he took a well-deserved retirement. 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. June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:08 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA GERONIMO BARENG, 52, began his seafaring career in 1980, initially sailing aboard the Oceanic Independence. Brother Bareng worked in the steward department and was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the USNS Petersburg. Born in the Philippines, Brother Bareng now lives in Honolulu. IVAN CAPOWSKI, 65, joined the SIU in 1990 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Capowski worked aboard American Overseas Marine vessels, including the USNS Wright and the PFC Dewayne T. Williams. In 1991, the steward department member upgraded his skills at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Capowski was born in New York and calls Florence, Vt. home. EDWARD DeSOUCEY, 43, became an SIU member in 1979 in Piney Point, Md. Brother DeSoucey was born in Red Bank, N.J. and first worked aboard the LNG Leo in the engine department. He enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, Brother DeSoucey shipped on the Horizon Enterprise. Brother DeSoucey lives in San Francisco. MIGUEL HERNANDEZ, 70, started sailing with the union in 1999 from the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Hernandez sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Dyn Marine, including the USNS Pathfinder and the USNS Bowditch. He attended the Piney Point school in 2000 and again in 2004. Brother Hernandez worked as a member of the deck department. Born in California, he now resides in Miami, Fla. PANAGIOTIS KANAVOS, 60, was born in Greece. Brother Kanavos joined the SIU in 1968 in New York. His first ship was the Mankato Victory. Brother Kanavos sailed in the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Commitment. Brother Kanavos makes his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. ALIGI PELLICCI, 64, began his SIU career in 1982 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Pellicci was born in Italy and shipped in the engine department. His first voyage was aboard the Independence. Brother Pellicci is a resident of Auburn, Wash. JIM SAXTON, 65, hails from Louisiana. Brother Saxton joined the MC&S in 1965 in the port of San Francisco. He was a member June 2005 of the steward department and first shipped aboard the President Wilson. Brother Saxton upgraded his skills on many occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently went to sea on the Defender. Brother Saxton calls Hayward, Calif. home. INLAND DALTON DESLATTE, 65, became a member of the SIU in 1963. Boatman Deslatte was born in Texas. He shipped in the deck department, primarily on Moran Towing of Texas vessels. Boatman Deslatte resides in Port Arthur, Texas. THOMAS GUIDRY, 57, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1979 in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Guidry initially sailed with Hvide Marine in the deck department. The Texas-born mariner last went to sea aboard the Titan. Boatman Guidry makes his home in Hemphill, Texas. ROGER HORTON, 62, commenced his seafaring career in 1971 in the port of Houston, initially shipping with Moran Towing of Texas. Boatman Horton was a member of the deck department. He upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. in 2000, 2001 and again in 2002. Boatman Horton, who was born in Ohio, now lives in Ft. Myers, Fla. His final ship was Harrah’s Winstar. RONALD LeBLANC, 72, launched his seafaring career in 1994 in New Orleans. Boatman LeBlanc sailed mainly on Westbank Riverboat’s Boomtown. He was born in Louisiana and worked in the deck department. Boatman LeBlanc makes his home in New Orleans. ROBERT MAZYCK, 61, embarked on his SIU profession in 1977 in the port of Houston. Boatman Mazyck shipped primarily aboard Marine Contracting & Towing vessels. He was born in South Carolina. Boatman Mazyck enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1986. He resides in the Bahamas. MARION PEOPLES, 62, began sailing with the union in 1988 in the port of Houston. Boatman Peoples worked for G&H Towing during his career. A native of Ft. Worth, Texas, he is now a resident of Seabrook, Texas. JOHN SALMON, 55, started shipping with the SIU in 1979 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman Salmon is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He worked for Crowley Towing his entire seafaring career. Boatman Salmon’s first boat was the tug Warrior; his last was the tug Gauntlet. He makes his home in Bonifay, Fla. CADAMUS TREAKLE, 62, became a Seafarer in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. For the duration of his career, Boatman Treakle shipped on Allied Towing vessels. He was born in Virginia and sailed as a member of the deck department. Boatman Treakle upgraded on two occasions at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He lives in his native state. GREAT LAKES RICHARD DHOLS, 65, began sailing with the union in 1971 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Dhols’ initial trip to sea was aboard the George Steinbrenner. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Dhols attended the Piney Point school in 2002. Born in Wisconsin, he most recently sailed on the Joseph H. Frantz. Brother Dhols calls Wisconsin home. EUGENE HAYES, 64, launched his SIU career in 1958 in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Hayes was born in Michigan and sailed as a member of the engine department. In 2003, he attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hayes mainly shipped aboard Inland Lakes Management vessels. He resides in Alpena, Mich. HAROLD NEAL, 64, became a Seafarer in 1963 in Dania, Fla. Brother Neal originally sailed with American Steamship Company. Born in Tennessee, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Neal’s last ship was the Saint Clair. He enhanced his seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center in 1980. Brother Neal calls Pall Mall, Tenn. home. WAYNE PORTICE, 61, was born in Michigan. He joined the union in 1972 in Alpena, Mich. Brother Portice’s first vessel was the Steel T. Crapo, where he worked in the engine department. His final trip was on the Saint Clair. Brother Portice resides in his native state. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 The new agreement with Colonial Navigation was completed and the membership voted overwhelmingly to accept the agreement. The contract provided among other things a two-week annual vacation, closed shop provisions and all hiring to be done through the union hall. SALEH RASHID, 64, began shipping with the SIU in 1964 in Fort Lauderdale. Brother Rashid’s initial trip on the Lakes was aboard an American Steamship Company vessel. He was born in Arabia and worked as a member of the steward department. Brother Rashid most recently shipped on the Richard J. Reiss. He calls Rochester, N.Y. home. LARRY SMITH, 57, hails from Georgia. Brother Smith joined the SIU in 1968 in Detroit. Throughout his seafaring career, he sailed aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Company. Brother Smith attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. The deck department member lives in Thornton, Ill. Editor’s Note: The following former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. Name Age EDP Alicea, Angel Ballestar, Gerardo Bynum, Samuel Gonzalez, Fernando Morgan, Joe Wallerson, Donald Watson, Charles Wells, Henry 65 62 72 60 67 70 65 63 May 1 April 1 April 1 May 1 May 1 April 1 May 1 April 1 1971 The jobs of Seafarers are on the line in the renewed attack on the Jones Act, a body of laws that demands that all domestic shipping be moved on American-flag vessels. The heavy assault on the Jones Act is being led by the oil industry, which wants oil from the rich Alaskan fields carried on runaway-flag tankers. They would rip the heart out of the Jones Act so they could transport Alaskan oil from one U.S. port to another in foreign-built, foreignmanned tankers—paying slave wages and at the same time escarping the taxes that must be paid by American-flag operators…. The SIU is leading a campaign to muster Congressional support to strengthen the Jones Act. This Month In SIU History 1950 On June 15, the SIU Atlantic and Gulf District signed an agreement with the bulk of steamship companies under contract to the union, the terms under which the Seafarers Welfare Plan would operate. The signing paved the way for the plan to begin functioning as soon as the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the NLRB gave their approval to the plan. Under the terms of the Welfare Plan as agreed to by the shipowners committee, Seafarers will receive $500 in death benefits and $7 per week in hospital benefits. The plan provides for the trustees to set up additional benefits as the fund grows. The plan will be supervised by a six-man board of trustees, three from the union and three from the companies. 1994 The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for certifying Seafarers and other personnel involved in the repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment. Late last year, the federal government issued regulations under which anyone involved in the repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment must pass an EPA-approved course by November 14, 1994. This affects QMEDs and any other Seafarers who sail in the engine department and who handle reefers. Seafarers LOG 17 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:08 PM Page 18 Final Departures department, Brother Huston last sailed on the Horizon Consumer. He began receiving his pension in 1982 and resided in Brenham, Texas. DEEP SEA GLENN BAKER SR. Brother Glenn Baker, 60, died Feb. 28. He began sailing with the SIU in 1988 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Florida, Brother Baker was a U.S. Army veteran. He first worked aboard the Falcon Princess in the deck department. Brother Baker’s last trip to sea was on the USNS Sisler. He was a resident of Alabama. NECOLA BATHIA Pensioner Necola Bathia, 79, passed away Jan. 30. Brother Bathia started his seafaring career in 1944 in New York. His first ship was the Robin Kettering. Brother Bathia was born in Dorothy, W.Va. and sailed in the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1984, he worked aboard the Del Viento. Brother Bathia resided in his native state. RONALD BURTON Pensioner Ronald Burton, 85, died Jan. 23. Brother Burton joined the SIU in 1943 in New York. His first trip to sea was on the Arlyn. Brother Burton worked as a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Osprey. Brother Burton lived in Jacksonville, Fla. and started receiving his retirement compensation in 1985. SAW CHENG Pensioner Saw Cheng, 88, passed away Jan. 8. Brother Cheng was born in China and joined the MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) in San Francisco. He worked as a member of the steward department. Brother Cheng went on pension in 1969 and called San Francisco home. EDWARD DUNN Brother Edward Dunn, 48, died Feb. 28. He joined the SIU in 1977 in New York, initially sailing on Penn Tanker’s Champion. Brother Dunn shipped in the steward department, most recently aboard Maersk Line Limited’s Constellation. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and made his home in Portugal. MARK EVANGELISTA Brother Mark Evangelista, 52, passed away Feb. 23. He started sailing with the Seafarers in 1994 in New Orleans. Brother Evangelista, who was born in Massachusetts, worked in the engine department. His first vessel was the USNS Regulus; his last was USNS Altair. Brother Evangelista was a resident of Marrero, La. HARRY HUSTON JR. Pensioner Harry Huston Jr., 88, died Nov. 23. Born in St. Louis, Brother Huston embarked on his SIU career in 1944 in the port of New York. His first ship was an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. A member of the steward 18 Seafarers LOG DAVID LONGANECKER Brother David Longanecker, 83, passed away Feb. 11. He started sailing with the MC&S in 1967 from the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Longanecker’s first voyage was on the Santa Magdelena. The steward department member was born in California. Brother Longanecker most recently worked aboard American Ship Management vessels. He lived in Los Angeles, Calif. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, have passed away. NORBERTO AYALA Pensioner Norberto Ayala, 100, passed away Feb. 27. Brother Ayala joined the NMU in 1936, initially shipping from San Juan. His first vessel was the Yucatan. Born in Yabucoa, P.R., Brother Ayala was a member of the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Mormacisle. Brother Ayala started collecting retirement stipends in 1966. PEDRO DAVILA Pensioner Pedro Davila, 81, died Nov. 10. Brother Davila launched his career with the NMU in 1951. He first shipped from the port of New York on the Cherry Valley. Brother Davila was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the engine department. His final trip to sea was aboard the Export Champion. Brother Davila went on pension in 1974. JOSE DIAS Pensioner Jose Dias, 85, passed away March 4. Born in Portugal, Brother Dias first donned the NMU colors in 1945 in the port of New York. He sailed as a member of the engine department and began receiving his pension in 1981. THOMAS GANDY Pensioner Thomas Gandy, 81, died Feb. 13. Brother Gandy started shipping with the NMU in 1965 in San Francisco. He initially worked aboard the James Lykes. The Alabama-born mariner started collecting his retirement compensation in 1991. Brother Gandy last went to sea on the Marine Duval. RICHARD GREEN Pensioner Richard Green, 83, passed away Feb. 19. Brother Green was born in Jacksonville, Fla. and embarked on his seafaring profession in 1939 in that port. His first ship was the Shawnee; his last was the United States. Brother Green began receiving his pension in 1966. KARL KARLSSON Pensioner Karl Karlsson, 87, died Jan. 31. Brother Karlsson started sailing from the port of New York in 1946. The Swedishborn mariner went on pension in 1968. JORGE LOZA MANUEL RUMION Pensioner Jorge Loza, 91, died March 4. Brother Loza joined the ranks of the NMU in 1943 in the port of New York. He was a member of the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1971, Brother Loza worked on the Mormacisle. Pensioner Manuel Rumion, 76, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Rumion launched his NMU career in Honolulu, first shipping aboard the USAT Comet in the steward department. He was born in Hawaii and last went to sea on the Star Rhode Island. Brother Rumion started collecting his retirement pay in 1991. JAMES POWDRILL Pensioner James Powdrill, 64, passed away March 26. Brother Powdrill started sailing with the NMU in Corpus Christi, Texas. His earliest trip to sea was on the Richmond, where he worked in the engine department. Brother Powdrill most recently sailed aboard the Sheldon Lykes. He began collecting retirement stipends in 1997. JOSEPH WILLIAMS Pensioner Joseph Williams, 79, died March 3. Brother Williams began sailing with the NMU in 1946 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Wilson Victory; his last was the Spirit of Liberty. Brother Williams was born in North Carolina. He worked in the steward department and went on pension in 1974. ALFRED KRUEGER GENARO RODRIGUEZ THEODORE WILLIAMS Pensioner Alfred Krueger, 88, passed away March 9. Brother Krueger began shipping with the NMU in 1958. His first voyage was on the Monte Pascoale. Brother Krueger was born in Germany and worked as a member of the steward department. He went on pension in 1981. Pensioner Genaro Rodriguez, 72, died March 8. The Puerto Rico-born mariner joined the NMU in 1963 in the port of New York. Brother Rodriguez first sailed on the African Moon. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Rodriguez retired in 1989. Pensioner Theodore Williams, 82, passed away March 11. Born in Gainesville, Fla., Brother Williams joined the NMU in the port of New York. The engine department member’s first voyage was on the John E. Schmeltzer. Before retiring in 1972, Brother Williams sailed on the Exporter. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. Name Age DOD Almeida, Edward Aponte, Benjamin Araya, Albert Ballard, James Beckles, Lionel Billett, Raymond Blackwell, Abraham Carrion, Emiliano Dallas, Thomas De Bettencourt, Lawrence DeGroot, Ralph DeSantos, Cesar Diaz, Luis Doctor, Nehemiah Dunagan, Richard Ellis, Alfonso Ellis, Elijah Eng, Land Faller, Marcelino Felice, Joseph Fleming, Fitz Gannaway, Robert Georges, Assoumany Gobin, Albert Gonzalez, Lester Graulau, Juan Gutierrez, Paul Ham, Roy Hayes, Ronald Izquierdo, Anthony Jaros, Raymond Jennings, Kent Jones, Floyd Kirkpatrick, Charles LaSalle, Angel Lewis, Gideon Lopez, Julio 79 85 87 93 77 77 91 64 76 83 82 75 74 76 82 98 84 96 91 86 88 78 82 78 88 87 90 81 72 71 82 82 76 79 90 95 80 Feb. 3 April 8 March 13 Feb. 18 March 22 March 19 April 11 Dec. 21 April 15 April 8 April 1 Dec. 31 April 5 March 16 April 1 March 18 Feb. 25 March 26 March 17 March 7 Feb. 12 Jan. 30 April 8 March 25 April 3 March 21 March 31 March 3 April 4 March 27 Dec. 4 Jan. 11 March 24 Feb. 1 Dec. 13 March 27 March 7 Name Age DOD Maresh, Jerry Martinez, Faustino Mathis, Mason Medich, Ray Medina, Bolivar Melone, Ernest Mendez, Pablo Murphy, Michael Negron, Felipe O’Boyle, Anthony Ocksterwoicz, Edward Pineda, Sergio Pollard, James Pritchard, Louis Raines, James Ratleff, Maurice Razza, Alfred Rivera, Juan Roan, Thomas Rosa, Juan Rosenberg, Abraham Ruiz, Juan Said, Mohsein Sierra, Ramon Snyder, Robert Sorrensen, Gunnar Sumerlin, John Sumlin, Rufus Tollefsen, Sverre Toms, Edward Tripp, Lee Turnquest, Woodrow Vesik, Michael Watkins, Charles White, Winston Wilmore, Clarence Wilson, Leslie Wong, Dock 77 99 73 81 89 86 76 82 80 70 80 93 75 87 81 75 80 69 76 92 89 87 71 94 77 88 79 81 86 92 75 79 83 79 80 79 86 95 March 16 March 28 March 7 Dec. 29 Feb. 20 Dec. 17 Dec. 8 March 23 April 19 June 26, ’04 Jan. 4 Nov. 18 March 1 March 28 April 27 March 16 March 9 March 5 April 2 Jan 16 Dec. 19 April 6 Oct. 15 March 2 April 14 Feb. 4 April 13 Feb. 25 March 8 March 25 March 30 April 9 April 17 March 4 March 5 March 12 March 5 March 22 June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/27/2005 3:51 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 FOREST (Waterman Steamship Corp.), March 20— Chairman Michael Borders, Secretary Demont A. Edwards, Educational Director Melvin L. Kerns, Deck Delegate Scott Heginbotham, Engine Delegate Josh A. Kilbourn, Steward Delegate Terry N. White. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in New Orleans. He reminded crew to check in with patrolman and not to forget passports and other paperwork when leaving ship. Secretary noted need to order more food. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He also advised them to keep a close eye on expiration dates of z-cards and clinic cards. Plumbing problem in pantry needs repair. Clarification requested on daymen working aboard barges. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed concern about gas possibly escaping into engine room. CLEVELAND (Sealift), March 16—Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Miguel E. Vinca, Educational Director Oliver L. Celestial, Deck Delegate Donovan McCants, Steward Delegate Janet Joseph. Chairman thanked everyone for good trip and praised deck department for excellent job cleaning cargo area. Secretary asked those seafarers getting off to clean rooms and make sure fresh linen is available for next person. Educational director advised crew members to enhance skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new washing machine. Crew thanked steward department for great meals and barbecue. Next port: Houston, Texas. COAST RANGE (Intrepid), March 28—Chairman Terry D. Cowans Sr., Secretary Lanette A. Lopez, Deck Delegate Travis L. Stringer, Engine Delegate Scott S. Fuller, Steward Delegate Jorge L. Ellis. Chairman encouraged everyone to read Seafarers LOG and stay current on important issues concerning maritime security. Educational director encouraged crew members to enroll in upgrading courses at Piney Point facility and informed them of need for a valid clinic card to attend. No disputed OT reported. Steward asked that all food be ordered in English off food line. Suggestion made to increase monthly pension. COMET (Maersk Line, Limited), March 14—Chairman Gerry A Gianan, Secretary Jaime Castillo, Educational Director James P. Meyers, Deck Delegate Feliciano Gimutao, Steward Delegate Carlito S. Navarro. Chairman announced payoff March 15 upon arrival in Los Angeles. He reminded those departing to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Secretary thanked Seafarers for keeping lounge and crew mess clean. Educational director informed crew of benefits of upgrading skills at the Paul Hall Center. He recommended that all shipping papers be kept up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. June 2005 Thanks given to Chief Cook Navarro and galley gang for excellent food. Next ports: Los Angeles and and Oakland, Calif. DILIGENCE (Maritrans), March 31—Chairman Roan R. Lightfoot, Secretary Amy K. Rippel, Educational Director Arthur K. Outlaw, Deck Delegate Thomas Komenda, Engine Delegate Patrick D. Carroll Jr., Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman announced payoff April 2 in Tampa, Fla. Educational director told crew to give themselves a raise by increasing their skills and abilities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new washing machine in crew laundry room. Suggestions given for items to be negotiated into next contract. GREAT LAND (Interocean Ugland Management), March 14— Chairman Ernest J. Duhon, Secretary Antoinette M. Amato, Educational Director Eddie Almodovar, Deck Delegate Robert E. Stenehjem, Engine Delegate Joseph I. Laguana, Steward Delegate Karen K. Fensel. Chairman discussed communication received regarding change in cash allowance amount per month. Treasurer stated $10 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to give Seafarers option to have direct deposit. Next port: Oakland, Calif. HORIZON DISCOVERY (Horizon Lines), March 3— Chairman Patrick C. Ray Jr., Secretary Joseph A. Laureta, Educational Director William Payne, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Velez, Engine Delegate Hector J. Ginel, Steward Delegate Miguel A. Barbosa. Chairman announced payoff April 4 in Jacksonville, Fla. He noted five mattresses on order for crew members. Secretary urged mariners to take advantage of opportunities available at Paul Hall Center—and always check that shipping documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made concerning pension and medical plans. Everyone asked to help keep ship clean. Special thanks and job well done to Steward Laureta for exotic menus and great food. Next port: Puerto Rico. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), March 13—Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary Joseph J. Gallo Jr., Educational Director Roy S. Frett, Deck Delegate Isaac V. Mercado, Steward Delegate Anselmo Lopez. Chairman announced payoff March 18 in Jacksonville, Fla. When in port, he stated AB/Watch to check IDs of all visitors boarding vessel. Ship is in great shape after period in yard. Chairman expressed gratitude to all departments for good teamwork and working safely. Secretary thanked Chief Cook Sanchez & SA Lopez for outstanding food. Educational director encouraged members to contribute to SPAD and keep documents current, allowing plenty of time for renewal. No beefs or disputed OT report- ed. Suggestion made to lower seatime requirements to qualify for full pension benefits. Request made for new furniture in crew lounge and new mattresses for bedrooms. Thanks given to steward department and bosun for setup & service at frequent barbecues. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), March 10— Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary William J. Bunch, Educational Director Douglas D. Greiner, Engine Delegate Pablo Albino. Chairman reported on Patrolman Jack Sheehan’s visit on aboard ship in Elizabeth, N.J. to attend to union business. He reminded crew of USDA regulations regarding separation of plastic items and trash bags. Educational director advised crew to allow sufficient time when renewing MMDs. Treasurer reported $2,300 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed contract regarding 120-day limit on seatime and subsequent amendment to this rule. Recommendation made pertaining to way in which pension is calculated. Bosun expressed appreciation to crew for taking care of laundry. He also thanked steward department for great barbecues and fantastic meals each day. INNOVATOR (Maersk Line, Limited), March 6—Chairman Mark S. Lance, Secretary Jessy G. Sunga, Educational Director Richard G. Williams, Deck Delegate Eric Lund, Engine Delegate David Parker, Steward Delegate Timothy A. Laird. Chairman announced crew change April 22 in Tacoma, Wash. and thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean. Secretary wished good luck to all. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center for job security. Treasurer stated $504 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication regarding MML takeover & tentative reflagging read and posted. Suggestion made to review criteria for selecting participants for bosun recertification course. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. PUGET SOUND (OSG Ship Management), March 24— Chairman Joseph G. Humphrey, Secretary Donald F. Dwyer, Educational Director Jose M. Ramirez, Deck Delegate Stanley A. Gurney, Engine Delegate David E. Switzer, Steward Delegate Cleto S. Lindong. Secretary asked crew members to leave copies of OT sheets for reliefs. Educational director advised mariners to keep documents current. Beefs noted in deck and steward departments; disputed OT reported in deck department. Crew requested slop chest and direct deposit. It was suggested that everyone check pay vouchers for any errors. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next port: Wilmington, Calif. SBX-1 (Interocean Ugland Management), March 6— Chairman James D. Crate, Secretary Thomas M. Wybo, Educational Director Kirk Benton, Deck Delegate Joey A. Pauley, Engine Delegate Christopher Schneider, Steward Delegate Angelo Golden. Chairman talked about strength of SIU, with possible contracts on more ships. Secretary went over procedures for dealing with problems aboard ship, from communicating with immediate supervisor first for resolution. He asked everyone to leave rooms clean and turn keys in when departing ship. Steward will provide list of all needed repairs. Educational direc- tor encouraged mariners to donate to SPAD and upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated no money available in ship’s fund. Crew requested profits from slop chest be given to the fund. Other suggestions for generating money for the fund are welcome. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on compensation for shipyard subsistence pay. Concerns also expressed about Coast Guard discharges. Request made for direct deposit to bank accounts. reduce time needed for basic pension. Crew members asked to clean rooms before leaving ship. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great meals. Next ports: Newark; Baltimore, Md.; Newport News, Va.; Charleston, S.C. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Sulphur Carriers), April 1— Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Michael L. With Seafarers on the Alaskan Explorer The photos above were taken in late April when the SIU-crewed Alaskan Explorer stopped in Juneau, Alaska en route to Valdez. That same week, Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski interviewed Alaska Tanker Co. (ATC) President and CEO Anil Mathur for a radio program that touched on job opportunities for Alaskans in the U.S. Merchant Marine. GUDE Luke Bradley (photo at lower right), for instance, is a displaced Alaskan fisherman who found employment via a state program that directs students to the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Also pictured aboard the ATC tanker are (top, from left) Chief Cook David Vaughn and AB Zaid Muthala and (below, left) GUDE Teresa Ward. USNS HENSEN (Horizon Lines), March 13—Chairman Arthur Cross, Secretary Henry Manning, Educational Director Roy W. Dunaway, Deck Delegate Brian Robison, Engine Delegate Robert J. Guilmette, Steward Delegate Mary Whatley. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported no money in ship’s fund. New fund to be started soon. All those going ashore advised to be careful and use metered cab. Crew informed anything white or black on deck “is probably wet paint.” LIBERATOR (Maersk Line Limited), April 9—Chairman Edward J. O’Conner, Secretary Brandon D. Maeda, Educational Director Hardin D. Chancey, Deck Delegate Roy Payne, Engine Delegate David Terry Jr., Steward Delegate Sukirman Suraredgo. Chairman announced payoff April 13 in Newark, N.J. USSM ships now operated by Maersk, and chairman reminded everyone to continue same professionalism and expert seamanship that SIU is known for. Educational director talked about upgrading at Paul Hall Center and suggested all aboard read SIU constitution. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reviewed several documents received from headquarters and talked about temporary suspension of shipping rules. Suggestion made to increase retirement scale and Williams. Educational director advised Seafarers to upgrade skills as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members discussed suggestions for new contract, including pay increase, improved medical, dental and optical plans. Crew requested refrigerator in each room. Next port: Galveston, Texas. USNS GILLILAND (3PSC), April 3—Chairman Louis F. Sorito, Secretary Danelle M. Harvey, Educational Director Peter R. Donat, Deck Delegate Michael T. Murner, Engine Delegate James G. Sloan, Steward Delegate Derrick R. Moore. Bosun commended crew on patience solving engineering problems on board. Educational director told all mariners to give themselves a raise by upgrading skills and ratings at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $142 in ship’s fund. Deck delegate noted that deck department members who were on board during ROS need to make copies of pay vouchers and have wages adjusted. Steward urged fellow crew members to make menu suggestions and stated that requests would be honored if items were on board. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Additional washing machines needed. E-mail from captain read regarding imminent danger pay for March and April. Next ports: Kuwait; Newport News, Va. Seafarers LOG 19 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:09 PM Page 20 Know Your Rights 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.) Support H.R. 23 I am calling on our SIU brothers to contact their local U.S. Congressional representatives to co-sponsor the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2005, H.R. 23. Seafarers did a great job last year generating support for this bill, but we had to start over again this year. By early April, we had 120 co-sponsors. President Franklin D. Roosevelt said during the signing of the GI Bill in 1944, “I trust Congress will soon provide similar opportunities to the members of the merchant marine who have risked their lives time and time again for the welfare of their country.” General Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “The truly heroic man of this war is the GI Joe and his counterpart of the air, Navy and merchant marine.” Finally, Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz pointed out, “The fighting fleets and Marines of our Navy, the ground forces of our Army, and the aircraft of both would have been helpless to pound the enemy into defeat overseas had it not been for the steady stream of personnel, equipment and supplies of every character brought into the rear of the combat areas, and often directly into those areas, by the ships of our own merchant marine and those of our allies.” There are many more quotations from WWII-era leaders, yet I’ve found that most Americans today don’t know about us. Maybe after we get this bill passed, the U.S. Merchant Marine will not be the forgotten service of World War II. Thanks again for your support on this matter. New Center in Baltimore The port of Baltimore has a new full service seafarer center in Dundalk named Stella Maris, Latin for Star of the Sea. It is indeed a bright star for merchant seafarers calling in Baltimore, since it has all the bells and whistles. Located in the old Dundalk Shopping Center on Shipping Place, the center has its own thrift store of high quality used clothing. It features plenty of recreational facilities and equipment, two big-screen TVs and a library. Foreign-language magazines and newspapers are provided. A bank of computers offer internet and email access. Discounted telephone cards and telephones make it possible to call home. Many of the local eateries provide discounts to the seafarers. We also provide doctor, dentist and pharmacy visits. Three vans transport seafarers to the center and around town for shopping, sightseeing, emergency trips to BWI Airport and help in crisis situations. As the center’s director, I emphasize that this is a fully nondenominational ministry. We have scriptures and the holy books of all faiths and in many languages. All of the staff members are volunteers. In fact, I welcome and need additional volunteers to drive vans and work at the center. Of course, donations also are welcome, as the whole operation depends 100 percent on such contributions. (Now I really know what the term “non-profit” means.) I may be contacted at (410) 889-0351 or at johnlfitzgerald@aol.com. I hope to announce an early fall date for a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony in the park in front of the center. Monsignor John L. Fitzgerald Baltimore, Maryland Memorial on the Delaware A memorial on the banks of the Delaware River for the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans and U.S. Navy Armed Guard Veterans who served on the merchant ships and manned the guns during World War II is scheduled to be dedicated on June 11 at 10 a.m. near the battleship New Jersey, in the historic area of the Camden, N.J. waterfront. A large bronze propeller has been donated and will serve as the focal point of the memorial. Landscaping, six flag poles, eight benches for seating and a brick promenade are in place. Donations to the project are still needed and are fully taxdeductible. They may be made directly to the Merchant Marine Veterans of America, Inc., 455 Timberline Trail, West Chester, PA 19382. All donors will receive proper recognition. Donations of time, talent, materials and equipment will also be gratefully appreciated. Many of our World War II merchant marine veterans are rapidly approaching their “final voyage.” Now is the time to recognize and honor these forgotten heroes. Charles Mardigian Mt. Laurel, New Jersey The Seafarers LOG would like to hear from you. If you have a letter to the editor—or an article, story, poem, photo or diary of your life at sea—that you think other Seafarers would be interested in reading, send them to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Richard Wiggins Kansas City, Missouri 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 6/05 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. June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:09 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning April 18 , 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Course FOWT Start Date Date of Completion June 13 August 5 September 19 November 11 QMED - Jr. Engineer June 20 September 8 Welding August 22 September 9 September 19 October 7 October 24 November 11 October 31 November 18 Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 11 August 5 August 22 September 16 October 3 October 28 Course Start Date Date of Completion November 14 December 9 Advanced Fire Fighting* July 18 July 29 June 20 June 24 August 22 August 26 Fast Rescue Boat June 6 June 10 October 24 October 28 Government Vessels July 4 July 8 August 8 August 12 August 22 August 26 September 26 September 30 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) Bridge Resource Management November 14 Safety Specialty Courses (*must have basic fire fighting) November 18 (Unlimited) Celestial Navigation July 18 GMDSS (Simulator) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Radar Radar Renewal (1 day): August 11 October 31 November 4 November 14 November 18 June 27 July 8 August 29 September 9 Medical Care Provider August 1 August 5 October 31 November 11 Tankerman Familiarization/ June 6 June 17 June 27 July 8 Assistant Cargo (DL)* August 1 August 11 (*must have basic fire fighting) September 26 October 7 June 27 July 1 October 17 October 21 August 8 August 19 September 19 September 30 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* October 29 November 11 (*must have basic fire fighting) June 6 June 15 August 8 August 17 October 10 October 19 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. June 27, August 29, October 31 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ June 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. 6/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:11 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 661 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 661 (in alphabetical order) Andre Anderson, Ian Babcock, George Berkovich, Phillip Brant, Eric Dorsey, Edwin Feliciano, Cory Gardner, Thomas Guthrie IV, Hussain Hafid, Pedro Hernandez, Graham Jones, William Little, Marc Maffia, Jimmy McCall, Gulifer Oyao, Holly Pattison, Abede Reda, Lloyd Riddick, Edwin Rivera, Cortney Sacks, Devin Savoie, Tyson Sherman, David Spangler and Mikel Tittsworth. Celestial — Students in the celestial navigation course ending April 8 are (in alphabetical order) Brent Anderson, DeGutenberg Poitevien, Ovidio Santos, Jennifer Senner and David Steinberg. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, is at far left. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (CL) — Completing this course April 15 are (in alphabetical order) George Ashbridge, Robert Austin, Timothy Brock, Daniel Carman, Thanh Duong, Christopher Edyvean, Jerry Guglielmello, Corey Hann, Joselier Itaralde, Michael Kirby, Christian Nikunj, Miguel Pizarro, Steven Randle, Burke Samuels and DeIsrael Williams. Radar — Instructor Michael Smith (right) joins his radar class for a graduation picture April 13. They are Ato Aikins, Gregory Brunson Sr., Shannon Smith and Michael Worthington. Water Survival — April 15 graduates of the water survival course include (from left, front row) Robert Scott, Robert Lee, Nazeh Nasser, Erin O’Toole, Instructor Bernabe Pelingon, (second row) Jerry Stillman, Al ZapataNicholls, Matthew Nuñez, Michael Sykes, (in the boat) Jamar Reed and Alfredo Drake III. Government Vessels — Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course April 8 include (in no specific order) Elliott DelAguila, Louis Kramm, Patrick Ryan, Anthony Roca, Audania Bomar, Timothy Littles, Adam Ramey, Steven Cedres, Michael Rodriguez, Billie Munoz, Jon Silveira, Steve Hurden, Nelson Smith, Karberto Ramos, Norman Dize, Perry King, Samuel Miller, Calvin Andrews Jr. and David Dinan. Computer Lab Classes 22 Seafarers LOG Government Vessels — The 11 recertified bosuns and other students completed this course April 15. They are (in no specific order) Robert Coleman, Michael Lulley, Francis Burke, Willie Marsh, Aristeo Padua, Konstantino Prokovas, Fernando Guity, Ronald Felton, Rosita Livermon, Douglas Perry Jr., German Maximo, Thomas Flanagan, Simplicia Twohie, Left: On April 8, students receive their certificates Christopher Pompel, Eric Berry Rogoberto Boggeano, of achievement for completing various computer Jullian Woods, Timothy Burke, David Hudgins, Homar courses. They are Rigoberto Boggeano, Daniel McField, Kelvin Cherington and Alvin Martin. Link, Lisa Harewood, Craig Burmeister, Trent Enoch, Fernando Guity, Robinson Eromosele, Douglas Perry Jr., Francis Burke and Edward C. Academics — Fore. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, stands in the Jason Simon far back. recently completed two academic Left: March 30: courses while Instructor Rick upgrading at the Prucha (left) school: Math 099 congratulates (developmental Michael mathematics) and McErlean for History 102 (the his achieveU.S. from 1877). ments in masPresenting him with tering two comhis certificates is puter programs. Instructor Peggy Densford. June 2005 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 4:12 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, April 1: David Acosta, Michael Adair, Lawrence Aflague II, Mariqua Alfague, Joy Armstrong, Brandy Baeza, Pedrito Bathan, Paul Bennett, Steven Blank, Banjamin Cohen, Edison Crucena, Dana Davis, Jaroslav Dvorak and Benito Garcia-Vale. Above and Below: STCW — NCL, April 8: Rachel Alarcon, Kuponohiipoi Aweau, Yoko Bearg, Joycelyn Camacho, Diane Clark, Patrick Cruz, Joseph D’Ambra, Shanelle Dragomanavich, Steven Fannin, Yevgeniy Flit, Luis Germosen Jr., Lawerance Gonsalves, Curtis Goodman, Rodrigo Grandison, Jessica Grill, Tierra Harris, Jessica Hawk, Brandon Hiroe, Heather Holmes, Cara Horibe, Walter Intriago, Yoori Kim, Elizabeth Kribble, Doo Eung Lee, Kevin Lynk, Randy McCalip, Meredith McCombs, Damsel Mendoza, Jordan Ofoia, Jacqueline Olmstead, Orlando Ortega, Jeremy Payton, Ramjo Pendon, Joseph Penn, Sabrina Ponciano, Alma Porquez, Ronald Puaza, Melissa Rapp, Jerri Reed, Jerome Robinson, Jairo Sanchez, Jose Sandoval, Dantis Sims, Shonna Sorrell, Elustrious Spikes, Marconi Tuliao, Christopher Ubinger, Alicia VelaBailey, Jonathan Veles and Ashley Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, April 15: Doug Ford, Denolia Hunter, Jack Edwards, Fesuiai Leupolu, Evelyn Lumpkin, Curtis Marshall, Michael Hadley, Angela Kunkle, Tami Lambert, Brent James, Endra Hartanto, Tierra Harris, Patricia Graham, Stephanie Ford, Melissa Kelly, Kathie Gallo, John Elliott, Ann Kelchner, Abby Mardile, Josh Jensen, Paul Hager, Thomas Jordan, Candace Hight and Kevin Keller. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW— April 8: John Kolodziej, Kenneth Johnson, Rudy Lopez, Michael Manekas, Michael McErlean, Victor Nunez, Javier Reyes and Jullian Woods. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, April 15: Cale Brehio, Tegnear Butler, Daniel Bryan, David Cing, Donald Amos Jr., Angela Coleman, DeCarlos Curry, Phillip Botts, Ramy Atienza, Joshua Evans, Christina Clogston, Judith Audie, Scott Bertholf, Katherine Bentzen, Sunshine Brown, Juanita Bautista, Frank Cedeño, Omar Deleon, Wes Burkholder, Joseph Boyle, Andrew Davidsburg and Eric Atkinson. STCW — NCL, April 1: Marline Kahanaoi, Edward Kryzanekas Jr., Mark Layne, Peter Lerma Jr., David Lewis, David Lillis, James Long, Robert Martinez Jr., Brian Musgrove, Meredith Myers, Bridget Oshita, David Owens, Ernesto Ramirez, Talia Rozensky, Paul Ramirez, Edward Resendez, Michael Taijeron, Elvira Tizon, Jaime Vallejos, David VanWart, Adrian White and Grant Yates. (Note: Not all are pictured.) June 2005 STCW — Alaskan Fishermen, April 15: Stephen Cooper, Christopher Demmert, Oliver Fronteras, Tracy Hanson, Nicolas Macaraeg Jr., Robert Mobert, Michael Moody, Dannis Parsons, Richard Pelkey, William Sanborn and Garry Smock. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. STCW — NCL, April 15: Orva Shaffer, Marlo Roberts, Lakeshia Stephens, Rune Retterholt, Kevin Washington, Jeff Scotty, Brian Wright, Barbara Shapiro, Ian Napier, Raymond Santiago Jr., Johanna Quenga, Miguel Mendez, Justin Thulien, Sterling Nolen, Sonia iranda, Morris Wilkes, Clint Wells, Ronald Perdue, Jensen Nguyen and Brian Pagnotti. Seafarers LOG 23 �27970_P4_7,11,14_24.qxd 5/26/2005 5:30 PM Page 24 June 2005 Volume 67, Number 6 A P M R D C F 1 The Maersk Constellation is a combination breakbulk and roll-on/roll-off ship, 598 feet long, that carries its own cranes so the vessel does not have to rely on shore-based cranes for off-loading cargo. The photos appearing on this page were taken aboard the Maersk Line, Limited Constellation during voyages 59 and 60 to Africa and Bangladesh. B They were sent to the LOG by Recertified Steward . Chief Cook Cesar Macias-Ortiz Recertified Steward Jim Battista with the Rock of Gibraltar in the background DEU David Simpson Electrician Roger Phillips Bosun Boyce Wilson Chief Cook Julio Arzu Left: Recertified Steward Jim Battista loading stores in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Below: AB Jose Tagle, Electrician Juan Dansalan, SA Dante Dizon and SA Yahya Munasser AB Edgar Stanley AB Jim McCarthy SA Dante Dizon (left) and SA Yahya Munasser AB James Clark AB Francis Coakley � 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 June 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DELTA MARINER TRANSPORTS BOOSTER CORES FOR DELTA IV FINANCIAL COMMITTEE OKAYS RECORDS SAY IT WITH PRIDE: CHRISTENING SET FOR 2ND NCL AMERICA SHIP MATSON ADDS ANOTHER SHIP LYKES MOTIVATOR CREW RESCUES 3 SWEDISH MARINERS ANWR EXPLORATION CLEARS ANOTHER HURDLE USNS SEAY HELPS SAVE 4 LIVES N.J. GOVERNOR SIGNS UNION-BACKED BILL BANNING OFFSHORING DEPT. OF DEFENSE HONORS MASON FOR SUPPORT OF GUARD/RESERVES GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES UPCOMING PORT GRANTS SEAFARERS PARTICIPATE IN BENEFITS CONFERENCES TRADE SHOW A SUCCESS NCL AMERICA IS NEW PARTICIPANT IN UNION INDUSTRIES SHOW RETIRED CLINICAL DIRECTOR BILL ECKLES DIES AT 62 SEAFARERS-CREWED CARTER REACHES SAFETY MILESTONE MARITIME DAY 2005 SAILING ON THE MAERSK CONSTELLATION 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 06/01/2005 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. 6 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/311eac21c9bedfbbdd6a9befc57603d7.pdf df4a948eb19e6c901ce4d11029201b74 PDF Text Text 27541_Pg1,2,9cx.qxd 4/25/2005 3:34 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 5 May 2005 10 perfect 10 Tankers Ordered! Seafarers Will Sail Aboard New Double-Hulled Ships Photo by Michael Eraña In a major maritime development, SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group last month announced that it will operate 10 tankers scheduled for construction at the Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard. A ceremony (pictured above) took place April 14 at the shipyard. The photo illustration at right depicts the new “Veteran Class” tankers. Page 3. Inspectors Bring 7 Ships Under ITF Agreement LMSR Turnover Continues Alaskan Explorer Delivered The SIU-contracted tanker Alaskan Explorer (above) recently was delivered to BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. Operated by Alaska Tanker Company, the vessel is the second of four Alaska-class double-hull oil tankers being built in San Diego for BP. Page 3. International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspectors from the SIU and the International Longshoremen’s Association recently helped bring seven Panamanian-flag vessels under ITF contract. Above, Inspector Scott Brady (front, leaning forward) is pictured with happy mariners aboard one of those vessels, the containership Sumida. Page 2. Car Carrier Jean Anne Completes 1st Voyage Seafarers-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA) in mid-April began operating two more LMSRs and was scheduled to take control of two others either late in the month or in early May. SIU members climbed aboard the USNS Seay and USNS Mendonca in Philadelphia. Previously, Seafarers crewed up the USNS Shughart (above) in Norfolk, Va. Pictured on the Shughart are Bosun Dave Marks (left) and STOS John Frey. Page 8. Recertified Stewards Speak from the Heart Page 4 Seafarers Participate in Benefits Conferences Page 7 Pages 12-13 �27541_Pg1,2,9cx.qxd 4/23/2005 7:36 AM Page 2 Pride of America Nears Completion President’s Report Future Looks Bright Last month’s announcement that 10 state-of-the-art tankers will be built for SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group isn’t just another good story. It is a huge boost to the future of our union and our industry. As you know, I’ve always been an optimist about the SIU and the whole U.S. Merchant Marine, not to mention American shipbuilding. OSG’s commitment to the Jones Act trade is a tremendous signal for our bright future. Michael Sacco In fact, from my view, our future has never looked better. While the order for 10 tankers in the U.S.-flag commercial sector is tremendously important, it’s not the only recent reason for confidence in the SIU. Along the East and Gulf coasts, Seafarers are crewing up newly contracted military support ships operated by AMSEA. Out West, SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company just took delivery of another double-hulled tanker, the second in a series of four new builds. And, Seafarers recently climbed the gangway of a brand new car carrier operated by Interocean Ugland Management. Overseas, final preparations are being made aboard the Pride of America, the second U.S.-flag cruise ship in NCL America’s fleet. The ship will be christened next month in New York—with an SIU crew on board. Later this year, the new Maritime Security Program goes into effect. The new MSP calls for 60 U.S.-flag ships, 13 more than in the old program. It is a legislative mandate that ensures the U.S. flag will fly on deep sea commercial ships for at least the next 10 years. Closer to home, our affiliated school in Piney Point, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, continues providing top-notch instruction for all of its students, whether they are new to our industry or they’re upgrading for the third or fourth time. The Paul Hall Center is every bit as good as advertised—a world-class maritime training facility that helps turn out professional, reliable, dedicated seafarers. My outlook for our future has always been positive. With so much evidence supporting that point of view, I’m more hopeful than ever about the months and years ahead—and more determined than ever to protect and grow the jobs and job security of this membership. There are those who never would have believed that anyone would order 10 new U.S.-flag tankers from an American shipyard. I’m one who believes that the new OSG ships are just the beginning. Maritime Day Our industry observes National Maritime Day this month, and the SIU as always will be active in ceremonies honoring the mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving as part of our country’s fourth arm of defense. The tributes and memorials hit close to home—thousands of SIU and NMU members gave their lives in World War II. Thousands more have sailed in harm’s way during Korea and Vietnam, during the Persian Gulf War, during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, and any other time we’ve been called upon. The legacy of the U.S. Merchant Marine is one of bravery and reliability. On May 22, or whenever you attend a National Maritime Day ceremony, please remember the courageous souls who gave their all for our freedom. Volume 67, Number 5 Seafarers Report Aboard Ship for Training Seafarers already have reported aboard the Pride of America to begin training on the ship, which currently is undergoing finishing touches in a German shipyard. The NCL America vessel is the first new U.S.-flagged cruise ship in almost 50 years. (The Pride of Aloha, which began its maiden voyage last summer, was the former Bahamian-flagged Norwegian Sky, which reflagged U.S. on June 7, 2004). Sea trials are scheduled this month, and NCL America will take delivery of the Pride of America on June 6. Christening ceremonies will take place in New York later in the month and then in July the vessel will cruise out of San Francisco to begin year-round, seven-night cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. The new ship will carry a “Best of America” theme inside and out. From bow to stern, the SIU-crewed Pride of America salutes the many regions of the United States. Vibrant artwork of stars and stripes adorns the hull, and every inch of the vessel’s décor is dedicated to the places America loves. An Alaskan Gold Rush Saloon, a New Orleansstyle Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge, a French restaurant inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and a Waikiki Bar are just a few of the great choices that include eight restaurants and 10 bars and lounges. The Pride of America is a truly modern ship, offering state-of- The SIU-crewed Pride of America, lying along the outfitting pier at a German shipyard, will begin sea trials on May 22 prior to being delivered to NCL America on June 6. the-art digital technology in each stateroom to allow guests to customize their cruise experience in the comfort and privacy of their own cabins. NCL’s new ship also has the line’s first family suites, each with balcony, living room and a private bedroom. The vessel is 921 feel long with a beam of 106 feet. It features 15 decks and will have a passenger capacity of more than 2,100. Next year, NCL America plans to launch a third SIU-crewed cruise ship—the Pride of Hawaii. Once this third vessel has been added to the fleet, NCL America’s U.S.-flag ships are expected to generate more than $828 million in U.S. economic activity and 20,400 jobs, according to a study by one of the nation’s leading Inspectors Bring 7 Ships Under ITF Agreement International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspectors from the SIU and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) recently helped bring seven Panamanian-flag vessels under ITF contract. SIU ITF Inspectors Scott Brady and Tony Sacco along with ILA ITF Inspector Hans Saurenmann also secured more than $27,000 in back pay for crew members aboard the containership Sumida, part of the fleet owned by Tokyo-based Miyazaki Sangyo Kaiun Co., Ltd. “The ITF had been working for quite a while to get these ships under federation contract, so this is a very welcome development,” said Brady. “It’s obviously good news for the mariners.” The Sumida case began in late March, when Sacco met with Filipino crew members aboard the runaway-flag vessel in Savannah, Ga. He issued the shipowner a warning letter for not having an ITF contract in place and alerted other federation officials. Subsequently, Brady and Saurenmann boarded the Sumida in Miami, where they finalized the contract. At the insistence of Sacco, Brady, Saurenmann and SIU ITF East Coast Coordinator Ricky Esopa, the company agreed to make the pact retroactive to Jan. 1, thereby creating back wages of $27,000, which immediately was paid. “The crew was very happy and grateful,” Brady recalled. The SIU is affiliated with the May 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 SIU ITF inspectors in April helped bring the Sumida and six other vessels under federation contract. economic consultancies. Seafarers who are filling the unlicensed positions aboard the NCL America vessels are being trained at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. and at its affiliated Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii. These facilities offer a number of curriculums, including fire fighting and safety training. In addition to the on-thejob shipboard training now taking place in Germany, mock passenger cabins have been reproduced in their entirety at the Paul Hall Center. The replica cabins are identical in shape and size—and with the same furniture and amenities—as the ones aboard the cruise liner and are helping train housekeepers on specific job aspects of efficient cleaning. 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, which brings together seafaring unions from every continent. It determines ITF policy regarding the campaign to end so-called flags of convenience (FOC) and to eliminate substandard working conditions on such vessels. A flag-of-convenience or runway-flag ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of ownership. Cheap registration fees, low or no taxes and freedom to employ cheap labor typically are among the main motivating factors behind a shipowner’s decision to flag out. In describing the ITF campaign against runaway flags, the federation noted that it believes there should be a “genuine link between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). There is no genuine link in the case of FOC registries…. Some of these registers have poor safety and training standards, and place no restriction on the nationality of the crew. Sometimes, because of language differences, seafarers are not able to communicate effectively with each other, putting safety and the efficient operation of the ship at risk. In many cases these flags are not even run from the country concerned.” May 2005 �2541p3,5,12,13,15.qxd 4/22/2005 8:59 PM Page 3 10 Tankers Ordered SIU-Contracted Overseas Shipholding Group to Operate Vessels For the U.S. maritime industry and the SIU in particular, announcements don’t come much bigger than the one made April 14 at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard involving SIUcontracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). With former President Bill Clinton delivering the keynote address, the unionized shipyard revealed that it has signed a $1 billion agreement to build 10 double-hulled tankers that will be operated by OSG. The contract includes options to build two additional tankers. In the U.S. commercial shipbuilding sector, Kvaerner Philadelphia’s announcement apparently is without modern precedent. The company said the fiveyear construction plan is “believed to be the largest of its kind in American commercial shipbuilding.” SIU President Michael Sacco said the order for the 10 U.S.flag vessels “is fantastic for our entire industry. This is a huge step toward ensuring a strong future for the SIU and for the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole. “It’s also good news for U.S. national and economic security,” he added. “These ships will help ensure that well-trained, loyal, U.S. citizen mariners remain available to serve as the fourth arm of defense in support of our troops and our country.” Each of the environmentally sound “Veteran Class” tankers will be 600 feet long and capable of transporting 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. The vessels will have a deadweight tonnage of 46,000 apiece. The first ship tentatively is scheduled for delivery in 2006; the last in 2010. The vessels are expected to operate in the Jones Act trade. Mariners aren’t the only ones who undoubtedly welcomed the announcement. Kvaerner Philadelphia officials estimated that the order will keep 800 shipyard workers employed for at least the next five years. Additionally, the construction is expected to help create 6,000 related jobs in the Philadelphia region. The elaborate shipyard ceremony drew more than 1,000 people including shipyard workers, customers and others. Clinton, a strong supporter of the U.S. maritime industry throughout both his terms as president, was credited by Kvaerner Philadelphia as playing an important role in the successful, bi-partisan, public-private partnership that set the stage for the shipyard’s revitalization. “I never lost faith in the American shipbuilding industry and neither did so many of our public servants, workers and private businesses,” he told the crowd. “I salute the men and women of Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard for showing all of us once again that it is possible to achieve great things even in the face of seemingly impossible odds. Today’s announcement is good news for the workers here, for America’s maritime industry and for the environment.” Kjell Rokke, Kvaerner’s owner, credited the unionized shipyard workers with helping make the company successful. “I am proud to be able to show how well the people at the yard have stood up to the challenge of turning this (former) Navy yard into the most competitive yard in the Jones Act market,” he said. Other speakers at the ceremony included Pennsylvania Gov- Photo by Michael Eraña Morten Arntzen, president and CEO of SIU-contracted OSG (seated, left) and Kjell Inge Rokke, main shareholder of Kvaerner ASA perform the ceremonial contract signing April 14 in Philadelphia. Looking on are (standing, from left) Leif-Arne Langoy, president and CEO of Aker ASA; Captain Bob Johnston, OSG; Dave Meehan, president and CEO of KPSI; Edward G. Rendell, governor of Pennsylvania; John Graykowski, legal counsel to KPSI (partially hidden); former President Bill Clinton; and John F. Street, mayor of Philadelphia. ernor Ed Rendell, U.S. Rep. Curt Weldon (R-Pa.), Philadelphia Mayor John F. Street and other local, state, and federal govern- ment officials who came together under a red, white and blue banner that read, “Building the Future.” New Tanker Delivered Alaskan Explorer Boosts SIU Job Growth The SIU-contracted tanker Alaskan Explorer recently was delivered to BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. The vessel is the second of four Alaska-class double-hull oil tankers being built in San Diego for BP. The third ship is scheduled for delivery in late 2005 and the fourth ship in 2006. The first in the group, the Alaskan Frontier entered service last year. It is operated by SIUcontracted Alaska Tanker Co., as will be the case with its sister ships. Each vessel is 941 feet long, with a beam of 164 feet and a capacity of 1.3 million barrels of oil. In announcing the Alaskan Explorer’s delivery in midMarch, the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) described the Alaska-class vessels as “the most environmentally friendly oil tankers ever built. Their double-hull construction has been designed for a life of 35 years and their deck structure has a life of 50 years, a robust configuration that will per- The Alaskan Explorer is the newest addition to the SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company fleet. form at peak efficiency for decades in the rigors of the Gulf of Alaska’s waters. The dieselelectric propulsion system, with redundant engines, shafts and screws, significantly increases reliability and reduces air emissions and maintenance downtime. The ships use seawater instead of oil to cool and lubricate their propeller shafts, eliminating the possibility of accidental oil leaks. Their cargo piping, normally installed on the deck, is run inside the cargo tanks, to reduce the risk This artist’s conception of the Kvaerner Philadelphia tankers reflects the vessels’ 600-foot length and 46,000 deadweight tonnage. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, May 30, 2005 for the observance of Memorial Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. May 2005 Rendell noted, “Kvaerner Philadelphia stands as a model to the rest of America of how you can transform a former military base into a successful major employer and economic engine that benefits not just one region, but an entire nation.” Morten Arntzen, president and CEO of Overseas Shipholding Group, stated, “The tenship program is OSG’s first giant step to building a world-class U.S. flag shipping business.” The ceremony also included the announcement of the formation of American Shipping, Inc. as part of Kvaerner’s corporate structure. American Shipping will charter the new tankers to domestic customers, including major oil and chemical producers and suppliers. Brad Mulholland, former president of Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, is the CEO of the new subsidiary. He said the new ships will be among the most efficient tankers ever built. Construction continues in San Diego on two more Alaska-class tankers that will be crewed by Seafarers. of small spills.” The new tonnage brings additional benefits besides modern, safe equipment. When the ship was christened late last year, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez pointed out that the Alaska-class tankers “strengthen the U.S.-flag fleet. They help maintain a pool of well-trained, loyal, reliable U.S. citizen mariners who are available to sail on military support ships for our national defense.” Alaska Tanker Company, based in Beaverton, Ore., began operating in 1999. The company has earned numerous safety awards for its operation of SIUcrewed vessels which primarily sail between Alaska and the West Coast, delivering Alaska North Slope crude oil to refineries. BP is the single, global brand formed by the combination of the former British Petroleum, Amoco Corporation, Atlantic Richfield (ARCO) and Burmah Castrol. Seafarers LOG 3 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/19/2005 12:48 PM Page 4 Car Carrier Brings More New Jobs SIU-Crewed Jean Anne Makes Maiden Voyage to Hawaii The SIU-crewed car carrier Jean Anne made its maiden voyage in late March, departing from San Diego and heading for stops in Hawaii. Christened March 21 in San Diego, the 579-foot vessel signifies new jobs for Seafarers. It is operated by Interocean Ugland Management for Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines and will sail regularly between the West Coast and Hawaii. SIU representatives from the union hall in Wilmington, Calif. met with crew members aboard the Jean Anne before and after the initial voyage, and found the Seafarers in good spirits. They described the ship as immaculate. As previously reported, the Jean Anne, with 387,000 square feet of deck space, can carry more than 3,000 vehicles and other rolling stock. The ship can travel at speeds approaching 20 knots, and its stern ramp is capable of handling up to 100 tons as vehicles are driven on and off. Built at Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Miss., the vessel has a beam of 102 feet, a 28-foot draft and deadweight metric tonnage of 13,000. It features 10 decks, three of which may be hoisted. The ship’s regular stops will include Honolulu; Kahului, Maui; Hilo; and Nawiliwili, Kauai. According to news reports, From left, OS Kevin Johnson, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez and AB Robert Huff celebrate the christening. DaimlerChrysler has inked an agreement with Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines to move approximately 20,000 vehicles per year aboard the Jean Anne. Contracts also reportedly are in place to transport other brands of vehicles, including Honda and Porsche. Media reports further indicated that the company hopes to add a second vessel within three years. On its first trip, the Jean Anne carried more than 2,200 cars along with trucks, boats and more. A Hawaii newspaper described it as the largest single shipment ever of vehicles from the U.S. mainland to Honolulu. SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (third from right) is pictured with Seafarers and officers from the Jean Anne, including AB Robert Huff, AB Bill Cooley, Bosun Dan Davenport, AB Tom Johnson, OS Rick Jones and 2nd Mate Jamie Beadnell. The SIU’s newest contracted car carrier can transport more than 3,000 vehicles. Dozens of Seafarers-Crewed Ships Still Sailing in Support of Troops The SIU-crewed Jean Anne entered service in late March, following its christening in San Diego. Seafarers continue to support U.S. armed forces by delivering an array of goods to servicemen and women in the Middle East for the latest sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom, known as OIF3. SIU members since late last year have been backing the Bosuns’ Meeting Held in Algonac The port of Algonac was the site of a Feb. 16 meeting between American Steamship Company (ASC) representatives and SIU bosuns working aboard ASC vessels. The joint meeting was designed to keep bosuns updated on all issues, including training at the Paul Hall Center and contract questions as well as other items needing clarification. Seated at the conference table in the top photo are (from left) Seafarers Joel Lechel, David Barber Sr., Scott Gallagher, Jeff Eckhart, Al Brzezinski and Michael Keogh, ASC Representatives Mary Banks, Kathy Elinski, Noel Bassett, Jerry Welsch, Kevin McMonagle, Keith Collignon, Tom Anderson and Laurie Montante, and Seafarers William Mulcahy, Ron Bochek, Mike Schaff, Charles Neigebauer and Tim Burke. In the smaller photo are (seated, from left) SIU Representative Don Thornton, Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, SIU VP Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski and Joliet Safety Director Chad Partridge. 4 Seafarers LOG newest phase on the war by trans- Cape Vincent USNS Dahl, USNS porting food, supplies and muni- Pomeroy, USNS Red Cloud, tions to U.S. troops in the Middle USNS Sisler, USNS Soderman, East for OIF3. SIU-crewed ves- USNS Watkins, USNS Watson, sels serving the U.S. Military Cape Domingo, Cape Ducato, Sealift Command (MSC) and Cape Horn, Cape Hudson, Cape docked in ports along the coun- Texas, Cape Trinity, USNS try’s east, west and Gulf coasts in Brittin, USNS Benevidez, USNS late November began mobilizing Bob Hope, USNS Fisher, USNS for this stage of the ongoing mis- Mendonca and the USNS sion. Meanwhile, other SIU- Pililau. crewed ships including preposiThousands of SIU members tioning vessels continued their crewed 100-plus vessels in suprespective involvement. port of U.S. troops during the first As of press time for this edi- phase of OIF. Dozens of SIUtion of the Seafarers LOG, 37 crewed vessels remained active in Seafarers-crewed MSC vessels the massive OIF2 resupply misstill were sailing for OIF3—10 sion that commenced early last fewer vessels than last month at year. MSC reported that U.S.-flag about the same time. More than ships carried heavy volumes of 600 SIU members currently are combat service support gear for crewing these ships. In excess of forces working to steady Iraq. 700 SIU members signed up for Overall, approximately 24 milduty during the initial activations. lion square feet of cargo belongJust as during military support ing to nine units in the U.S. missions before and during the Marine Corps, U.S. Army and all-out combat phase of the war in National Guard was moved by Iraq and OIF2 along with misship during OIF2. sions in Afghanistan, Seafarers again are tasked to deliver materiel to U.S. armed forces in the Middle East. The SIU-crewed vessels currently mobilized in support of OIF3 include: Cape Jacob, USNS Altair, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Capella, USNS Stockham, Cape Intrepid, Cape Island, Cape Wrath, USNS Chesapeake, USNS SIU-crewed ships have delivered the Petersburg, Westward goods for U.S. troops throughout Venture, Cape Knox, Cape Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Kennedy, Cape Victory, Freedom. May 2005 �2541p3,5,12,13,15.qxd 4/22/2005 9:00 PM Page 5 Maersk Wins Contract to Operate 6 Vessels In a move that helps preserve job security for Seafarers, SIUcontracted Maersk Line, Limited recently was awarded an operating agreement from the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) for six vessels. MSC awarded a one-year agreement with options that could bring the contract’s total length to more than four years. As part of the pact, Maersk will continue to operate and maintain four ocean surveillance ships and two missile range instrumentation ships. The ocean surveillance ships—the USNS Effective, USNS Impeccable, USNS Loyal and USNS Victorious—work directly with the U.S. Navy fleets to listen for undersea threats. The range instrumentation ships—the USNS Invincible and USNS Observation Island—support the U.S. Air Force by serving as seaborne platforms for radar systems. Both types of vessels are part NTSB Report Spotlights Weight Standards In Water Taxi Tragedy The U.S. Coast Guard soon may revise the system it uses to calculate the maximum occupant weight capacity for private water taxis, the result of recent recommendations by the National Safety Transportation Board (NTSB). The suggested modifications stem from a 2004 incident that involved a private water taxi in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. As previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, the Lady D, a 36foot, two-ton pontoon boat on March 6 of last year capsized in a fast-moving storm while carrying 25 passengers. Local rescuers quickly pulled most of the passengers to safety but couldn’t find five of them. Ten days later, with assistance from SIU members aboard the Tyco Decisive, the missing bodies were recovered. The remains of the last three victims almost certainly would not have been found and recovered without sophisticated equipment donated by Tyco and another private company for the grim recovery mission. According to the Baltimore Sun, the operators of the Lady D prior to leaving dockside properly had complied with the passenger limit set by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). The problem was that the USCG had established the number of passengers too high when granting the Lady D its certificate of inspection. The agency had relied on outdated estimates of average passenger weight, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. It had used a 1960s-era estimate that an average passenger weighs 140 pounds when it certified the boat’s stability. “The Lady D’s certificate of inspection (COI) stipulated a maximum 25-person capacity, based on the results of a simplified stability proof test weight of 3,500 pounds and the 140pound-per-person allowance,” stated a Dec. 20, 2004 NTSB Safety Recommendation package which was sent to the USCG. “The accident voyage carried a total of 25 persons (14 men, 8 women and 3 children), consistent with the COI. However, the Safety Board determined that the average occupant weight (figuring the children’s weight) was actually 168.4 pounds, 28.4 pounds per person above the May 2005 weight standard. This resulted in an actual total occupancy weight of over 4,200 pounds, 700 pounds above the vessel’s stability proof test weight of 3,500 pounds.” According to the NTSB, the USCG Office of Compliance in October 2004 issued a policy letter to the Officers-In-Charge, Marine Inspection, for evaluating the stability and subdivision requirements of small passenger vessels inspected under 46 CFR, Subchapter T. Included in this guidance was a job aid to which USCG inspectors could refer when calculating stability proof tests for pontoon vessels that operate on protected waters. “The job aid reinforced existing weight allowances” according to the NTSB recommendation package, stating that for testing purposes, the weight per passenger equals 160 pounds, “except when passenger loads consists of men, women and children,” in which case a weight per passenger of 140 pounds “may be used.” In the opinion of the NTSB, if the Lady D were operational today and had been certified for carrying passenger loads consisting of men, women and children, the 140 pound weight allowance for passengers would remain unchanged. The NTSB articulated its concern that the USCG is not using a realistic average occupant weight in calculating the number of people that can be safely carried on pontoon vessels. Besides the significantly higher average weights found on the Lady D accident voyage, the NTSB cited government reports which show Americans of all ages are a great deal heavier today than when the complete rewrite of 46 CFR Part 179 (“Subdivision, Damage Stability, and Watertight Integrity”) was distributed in September 1960. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report issued in October 2004 concluded that in the United States “average weight has increased dramatically in the last 40 years with the greatest increase seen in adults.” According to the CDC report, average adult weights have increased by nearly 25 percent in the last 40 years. Based on the CDC report, as well as recently updated operator of MSC’s Special Mission Program. “Special mission ships provide operating platforms and services for unique U.S. military and federal government missions,” the agency noted in announcing the contract award. “These specialized services include oceanographic and hydrographic surveys, underwater surveillance, missile flight data collection and tracking, acoustic survey and submarine support.” weight and balance program guidance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in which the agency increased its average adult passenger weight from 160 to 170 pounds, the NTSB found the USCG standards suspect. “The Coast Guard’s current 140-pound-per-person weight allowances for operations on protected waters with a mix of men, women, and children does not reflect actual loading conditions,” the NTSB said in its recommendation package to the USCG. “This weight allowance is not supported by recent data from the CDC and is not consistent with the FAA’s 2004 update to its weight and balance guidance. Further the Coast Guard’s weight allowance significantly underestimates the total occupant weight on the accident voyage— using the 140-pound standards, the occupant load (over 4,200 pounds) on the Lady D accident voyage was equivalent to 30 people.” After noting that vessels operated in an overloaded condition are at higher capsize risk, the NTSB pointed out to the USCG that increasing the average weight used to calculate maximum occupant capacity is one avenue through which more accurate vessel loads could be reflected. On the other hand, the board suggested, the weight of persons allowed on board could be limited to the weight resulting from the vessel’s simplified stability proof test. Painting a load reference line on the vessel’s pontoons that could be used to limit the occupant weight, or summing people’s actual weights as they boarded the vessels were suggested as ways to guard against overloads. The NTSB’s final report on the Lady-D incident is expected to be released later this year. The USNS Impeccable will continue to be crewed by Seafarers, along with five other vessels covered in a new contract awarded by MSC to Maersk Line, Limited. Seafarers-Crewed Stockham Commended by U.S. Navy The Seafarers-crewed USNS Stockham, operated by American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA), recently received a citation commending the crew members and officers for their roles in assisting a nuclear submarine after it ran aground south of Guam. The submarine USS San Francisco had been conducting submerged operations and was headed to Australia for a port visit when it grounded in January. One of the San Francisco’s crew members died and 23 others were injured. The Stockham and a U.S. Coast Guard cutter subsequently escorted the submarine to safety. In the commendation to the Stockham, U.S. Navy Rear Admiral A.J. Johnson cited the crew’s “outstanding performance of duties while serving as rescue platform during the emergency response to the grounding … from 8 to 10 January 2005. Demonstrating exceptional readiness, the officers and crew of the USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham prepared the ship to sortie in support of rescue operations in less than four hours. Through meticu- Mariners Included In National Moment Of Remembrance Editor’s note: Acting Maritime Administrator John Jamian last month sent the following letter to officials in the maritime industry, including the presidents of the U.S. maritime unions: As Acting Maritime Administrator, I encourage you to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance, taking one minute at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30, to remember the sacrifices of America’s fallen, from the Revolutionary War to the present. This honors not only members of the Armed Services, but also the U.S. Merchant Marine and other civilians whose devotion has preserved and defended our heritage of freedom. lous attention to detail and unwavering professionalism, the crew safety and expeditiously loaded additional rescue assets to include two 11-meter rigid hull inflatable boats, a sea, air and land medical team, and while getting underway, two HH-60H helicopters…. “Demonstrating the exceptional engineering readiness of Stockham to respond to the mission at hand, the ship made best speed to rendezvous with San Francisco, arriving just after dawn and covering the 350 nautical miles in less than 14 hours. The crew quickly launched the two helicopters to insert muchneeded medical assistance to the damaged submarine. “Additionally, flight deck personnel professionally supported the numerous attempts to evacuate a critically injured submariner, and the crew effortlessly readied the rigid hull inflatable boats for launching should they be needed. “Your quick response, fast transit and the assets you carried on board provided great comfort to the crew of the submarine....” The observance is sponsored by the White House Commission on Remembrance, a bipartisan, independent executive branch agency. I will be directing the ships of the Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force to dress ship on that day and to ring eight bells at 3:00 p.m. local time, wherever they are in the world. I will also be encouraging them to send an e-mail to the Commission, with a picture if possible, at commission@remember.gov. I encourage all U.S.-flag ships and all gatherings of members of the maritime industry to take appropriate steps to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance. We are grateful to the brave men and women who have served this great country so bravely to ensure the many freedoms we enjoy every day. Sincerely, John Jamian Acting Maritime Administrator Seafarers LOG 5 �27541p6.17.22.23.qxd 4/21/2005 8:26 AM Page 6 CIVMARS Mobilize for Earthquake Victims A pair of Seafarers-crewed vessels in late March was ordered to divert from humanitarian relief operations in one overseas location, weigh anchors and steam to another area to perform the same type of mission. The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy and MSC combat stores ship USNS Niagara Falls were directed to get underway from East Timor to Nias Island, Indonesia, March 30 to provide disaster relief and humanitarian assistance following the 8.7 magnitude earthquake off the west coast of northern Sumatra March 28. The vessels are crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division. An additional 175 U.S. Navy medical and support personnel along with 40 non-governmental (NGO) personnel have been requested to augment the ships’ combined crew of 337 U.S. Navy and NGO personnel and 65 MSC civil service mariners. The MSC combat stores ship USNS San Jose, which was en route to Guam after supporting humanitarian assistance operations in the region since Jan. 6, also was directed to Nias Island. Four MH-60S Knighthawk helicopters from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC) 5 detachments embarked on board the Niagara Falls and San Jose are being used to transport relief sup- plies and patients in need of medical care to and from the Mercy. The MSC oiler USNS Tippecanoe also is on hand to provide supply replenishment support to MSC ships in the area. “The civilian mariners aboard Mercy, as well as those aboard Niagara Falls, San Jose and Tippecanoe, are continuing their support of Mercy’s onboard medical treatment facility and of the medical staff gearing up to treat the patients in Nias that await them,” said the Mercy’s master, Capt. Michael Leahy. The Mercy and Niagara Falls were in East Timor as part of a humanitarian aid mission being conducted as the hospital ship was en route back to its San Diego home when both ships were ordered to move toward Nias. During the Mercy’s two-day visit to East Timor, the ship’s medical staff saw more than 1,800 patients. At a prior fourday stop in Alor, Indonesia, the Mercy’s medical team saw more than 6,200 patients. The Mercy on Jan. 5 sailed from San Diego in response to the Dec. 26 tsunami that struck Southeast Asia. Operating off the coast of Banda Aceh from Feb. 6 to March 16, the Mercy’s medical staff treated more than 9,500 patients ashore and afloat, performing 19,512 medical procedures including more than 285 surgical and operating room The USNS Niagara Falls (left) and the USNS Mercy sailed to provide disaster relief and humanitarian assistance following the recent earthquake off the west coast of northern Sumatra. cases. “We are returning to Sumatra to help our friends and neighbors in the Pacific in any way that we can.” said Capt. Mark Llewellyn, MC, USN, commanding officer of the Mercy’s medical treatment facility. “From our first time in Sumatra doing tsunami relief, we feel connected to the wonderful people of Indonesia. We learned many things from our first trip here. One is that earthquakes and tsunamis can damage buildings and injure the body, but they cannot destroy the spirit of a community.” The Mercy is one of two hospital ships in the U.S. Navy. The other is the USNS Comfort, also crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. MSC operates more than 120 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, chart ocean bottoms, conduct undersea surveillance, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military equipment and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces. Alaskans Complete AB Course Citizens from 49th State Find Opportunities at Paul Hall Center Six students from Alaska recently completed the AB course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training, located in Piney Point, Md. Four of those students— Orlando Caro, David F. Osterback, Nelton Rodriguez and Gary Santos—are graduates of the center’s unlicensed apprentice program. The other two, Francis J. Burke and Douglas F. Perry Jr., came to the school via a program for displaced fishermen. The AB course consists of hands-on training and classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, fire fighting, emergency procedures, first aid, anchoring, and mooring, and aids to navigation. Additionally, as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, 10 more Alaskans were reporting to the Paul Hall Center for STCW Basic Safety Training. As previously reported, both the Paul Hall Center and the state of Alaska, in conjunction with the SIU and its contracted employers, help provide residents of America’s northernmost state with the chance to begin careers in the U.S. Merchant Marine. In the late 1990s, the union started 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. More recently, the union and school partnered with Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski and his administration to recruit and train dislocated workers from Clockwise from above left: Nelton Rodriguez graduated from the apprentice program and later upgraded to AB; David Osterback takes the wheel, under direction of Instructor Bernabe Pelingon; Douglas Perry Jr. and Francis Burke receive instruction from Bernabe Pelingon. 6 Seafarers LOG Pictured from left to right are Alaskan upgraders Orlando Caro, David F. Osterback, Nelton Rodriguez, Gary Santos, Francis J. Burke and Douglas F. Perry Jr. Alaska for jobs in the merchant marine through a Ketchikanbased nonprofit agency called SEA Link. 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. Student Gary Santos (left) and Instructor Bernabe Pelingon discuss knot-tying. Left: Orlando Caro and Instructor Larry Malone utilize the crane simulator. May 2005 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/19/2005 12:51 PM Page 7 Stewards Convey Passion About Their Union And Their Work As the newest graduates of the Paul Hall Center’s recertified steward program shared their experiences with fellow Seafarers at the April membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., it became increasingly obvious that each of them has found a home with the SIU. Typically, graduation speeches from recertified stewards and bosuns include personal insights about different aspects of union membership and life as a mariner. Last month was no exception, as the stewards encouraged unlicensed apprentices who attended the meeting and also thanked fellow members and SIU officials for keeping the union strong. Completing the four-week recertification course were Jim Battista, Florencia Farquhar, Fernando Guity, Jose Guzman, Tommy Kleine, Mary Lou Smith, Steve Valencia and Donald Williams. The class is considered the top steward-department curriculum available at the Paul Hall Center. “The thing that keeps us doing our jobs is to do a little more than expected every day and take pride in our work,” noted Battista, who joined the union in Piney Point in 1999. “I always encourage new recruitment and upgrading to all parties with interest. It is a great career and a huge opportunity to be part of a great American tradition.” He added a welcome to new union members who are in training for jobs aboard NCL America cruise ships. “NCL America is part of this growing union, an addition to our family,” Battista stated. “The more ships we have, the more jobs we have.” Guzman was born in Honduras and first shipped in 1979, aboard foreign-flag vessels. “I joined the best maritime union on the globe, which is the SIU, in 1990 in Houston,” he recalled. “Since then, my life has changed for the better. I give thanks to the SIU officers and staff of this school for the good jobs they are doing.” With an unprecedented emphasis throughout the industry on shipboard security, small arms training is more valuable than ever. At right, taking aim on the range are Tommy Kleine and Florencia Farquhar, under the guidance of Instructor Stanley Boothe. Above, Donald Williams does the same. May 2005 Speaking to the apprentices, Guzman said, “Study hard, use the school, work hard and work as a team. When you’re on a ship, listen to your supervisors and we’ll have answers for you.” Williams jokingly told the membership that he was so happy to graduate, he was tempted to break-dance. Turning serious, he said, “I thank our officials and the school—you’ve been great to me and helped me. I don’t know where I’d be without you. I’ve been doing this job for 25 years and loved every year. You can’t find better friends. This is our family.” Farquhar offered similar sentiments, recalling that her introduction to the union in 1990 and subsequent first voyage aboard the Long Lines laid the foundation for “a stable future for my family.” She advised the apprentices to “work hard, achieve your life’s goals and enjoy.” Guity said the SIU “changed my life 180 degrees. I will always thank this organization for making me the person I am today. And in our president’s famous words, it’s all about jobs, jobs, jobs. Well, we’ve got jobs. Thank you, (SIU President) Mike Sacco.” Guity, who joined the union in 1992, also thanked the Paul Hall Center instructors and staff “for helping me and so many others. This is a great school for those who want to get ahead in life.” Smith joined the SIU in 1992 in Honolulu. She said she feels a bond with the union’s officials, symbolized during a mid-1990s rally for the United Farm Workers in California. “We were trying to help them organize strawberry pickers,” Smith remembered. “Midway through the march, I looked up and Mike Sacco was on my left. I was proud to see him do that, and I know our officials are with us all the way.” Kleine said that, like his classmates, he learned a lot during the course and looked forward to “sharing the knowledge acquired with members on ships.” Recertified stewards and SIU officials are pictured at the Paul Hall Center following last month’s membership meeting. Standing left to right are SIU VP Joseph Soresi; Seafarers Jim Battista, Jose Guzman and Fernando Guity; SIU President Michael Sacco; Jessica Farquhar and her mother, Seafarer Florencia Farquhar; Seafarers Tommy Kleine, Steve Valencia and Mary Lou Smith; Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan; Seafarer Donald Williams; and SIU VP Augie Tellez. He took particular interest in the SIU’s political efforts, “learning about the union’s role in Washington and how as union members we can help create a positive image. I now see how much work is involved in putting me on a ship.” Kleine, who signed on with the SIU in 1983 in Honolulu, also urged fellow members to “let your port agent know you’re willing to help when needed, whether it’s a political campaign or a community project. “I have trust in the union and I’m proud to be a member. I loved it from the minute I walked on to the Independence.” Valencia started his maritime career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards, which merged into the SIU in 1978. He expressed “profound appreciation” to Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan and the school’s staff. He encouraged fellow Seafarers to contribute to the union’s voluntary political action fund (SPAD). Lastly, he told President Sacco, “Through your tireless commitment to this membership, you’ve made the SIU Number 1.” Like most Paul Hall Center courses, steward recertification blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. Topics and training components include communications, computer lab, first aid and CPR, fire fighting, small arms training, sanitation, international maritime conventions and more. Students also met with representatives of the union’s contracts and communications departments, respectively, as well as with representatives from the Seafarers Plans. Sampling their work are Jose Guzman (left) and Jim Battista. Steve Valencia (left) and Tommy Kleine both said the recertification course will help them do a better job aboard ship. Florencia Farquhar enjoys participating in the chili cook-off. Mary Lou Smith and Fernando Guity concentrate in the galley. Seafarers LOG 7 �2541p8,14,16,19.qxd 4/21/2005 8:47 AM Page 8 LMSR Changeover Continues Seafarers-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA) in mid-April began operating two more LMSRs and was scheduled to take control of two others either late in the month or in early May. SIU members climbed aboard the USNS Seay and USNS Mendonca in Philadelphia. Previously, Seafarers crewed up the USNS Shughart in Norfolk, Va. The USNS Benavidez and USNS Bob Hope were scheduled for changeover in Violet, La. between late April and early this month. The other four ships that are part of this contract award from the U.S. Military Sealift Command—the USNS Yano, USNS Fisher, USNS Brittin and USNS Pililaau—are slated for turnover throughout June. LMSR stands for large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessel. The aforementioned ships are among 19 such vessels operated by MSC, including 15 new builds and four converted vessels. MSC’s acquisition of those ships resulted from a federally ordered study by the Joint Chiefs of Staff following the Persian Gulf War. The study pointed out America’s urgent need for greater sealift capacity to carry military equipment and supplies during wartime and other national contingencies. According to MSC, all of the LMSRs “have been prime movers of U.S. military equipment during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.” Chief Steward Earl Castain USNS Shughart Chief Cook Anna Alexander USNS Shughart Right: Bosun Dave Marks (left) and STOS John Frey USNS Shughart AB Michael Proveaux USNS Shughart QMED John Hoskins is part of the crew aboard the USNS Shughart, one of nine LMSRs under contract to AMSEA. Pollution Cases Yield Record Fine, Prison Time One of the world’s largest container shipping lines, along with the chairman and owner of a prominent American-based ocean transportation company recently were disciplined in separate federal cases involving the deliberate dumping of oil pollutants into the ocean from ships. In the first litigation, Evergreen International on April 1 in Los Angeles pleaded guilty to secretly dumping waste oil from one of its container ships. Under the terms of a plea agreement, the company will pay $25 million in fines, the largest-ever amount for a case involving deliberate vessel pollution. Evergreen also pleaded guilty to felony charges brought in Los Angeles; Newark, N.J.; Portland, Ore.; Seattle; and Charleston, S.C. The other case involved Rick Dean Stickle, the chairman and owner of Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based Sabine Transportation Company. Stickle on April 1 was sentenced to 33 months in prison after being found guilty of ordering the illegal dumping of 440 tons of oil-contaminated grain into the ocean from the SS Juneau, a Sabine tanker. He also was found guilty of the obstruction of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and Department of Agriculture. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Alan S. Gold in Miami, Fla. Judge Gold also imposed a $60,000 criminal fine on Stickle. Evergreen Pleads Guilty Evergreen pleaded guilty to 24 felony counts and one misdemeanor—five counts from each federal district involved in the case—for concealing the deliberate, illegal discharge of waste oil and for a negligent discharge in the Columbia River. The charges included making false statements, obstruction of USCG inspections, failing to maintain an accurate Oil Record Book, and one negligent violation of the Clean Water Act relating to the discharge in the Columbia River. Following the guilty pleas, U.S. District Judge Terry J. Hatter, Jr. ordered the company to pay $25 million to be divided equally among the five judicial districts involved. 8 Seafarers LOG Of this amount, $10 million will be directed to environmental community service projects in each district. “The deliberate and purposeful pollution of our oceans and America’s waterways must be met with strict enforcement,” said Deputy Attorney General James Comey. “This penalty has secured justice against Evergreen and provided a victory for all Americans who enjoy and respect our environment.” Engine room operations on board large oceangoing vessels generate large amounts of waste oil. International and U.S. law prohibit the discharge of waste oil without treatment by an oil water separator—a required pollution prevention device. The law also requires all overboard discharges be recorded in an Oil Record Book, a required log which is regularly inspected by the USCG. In May 2001, the USCG discovered Evergreen was using bypass pipes aboard their ships to illegally discharge waste oil into the ocean without treating it in an oil-water separator. The discharge of oil and other toxic petroleum-related wastes can cause significant harm to marine life. The investigation of Evergreen ships and companies began in March 2001 after the discovery of some 500 gallons of oil in the Columbia River near Kalama, Wash. Through vessel traffic reports and oil samples, the USCG traced the spill to the Ever Group, a container vessel managed by Evergreen Marine (Taiwan) Ltd., which had negligently discharged the oil. On May 14, 2001, the Washington State Department of Ecology (WDOE) discovered a bypass pipe used by crew members on another Evergreen vessel, called the Ever Given, to illegally discharge waste oil into the ocean. The violations on these two vessels led the USCG to conduct “Priority One” inspections of other vessels owned, operated or affiliated with Evergreen in various United States ports. The federal investigation, conducted with the assistance of the WDOE as well as the EPA’s Criminal Investigations Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, revealed that at least seven Evergreen ships (Ever Group, Ever Given, Ever Dainty, Ever Refine, Ever Gleeful, Ever Laurel and Ever Reward) regularly and routinely used bypass equipment to discharge oily waste and sludge oil while circumventing required pollution prevention equipment and concealing the discharges in fictitious logs which it knew were inspected regularly by the USCG. In a factual statement filed by the court, Evergreen admitted that it knew the fictitious logs were regularly inspected by the USCG. During a 3½ year period, Evergreen discharged waste oil and sludge through bypass equipment and without the use of required pollution prevention equipment from certain ships, with the knowledge that this pollution violated international law. “Evergreen illegally discharged waste oil and then attempted to conceal its actions, thereby compounding its crimes,” said Thomas V. Skinner, EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This guilty plea sends a clear and strong message to shipping companies: they will pay a heavy price if they intentionally violate our nation’s environmental laws.” Four related Evergreen companies—– Evergreen Marine (Taiwan), Evergreen America, Greencompass Marine, S.A., and Evergreen International, S.A.—will be bound by a detailed Environmental Compliance Plan to prevent future violations as a condition of probation. Under the terms of the proposed plan, Evergreen will need to secure every overboard valve and flange with numbered tags and make other hardware changes to make bypassing more difficult. The compliance plan also requires that Evergreen ships visiting the United States be audited by an outside firm which will be reviewed by a special court appointed monitor. Chairman Sentenced A U.S. District Court in Miami on April 1 passed sentence on Sabine Chairman and CEO Stickle, according to the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Stickle received jail time and a criminal fine following a five-week jury trial. The government’s investigation began when the SS Juneau arrived in Portland, Ore., following an overseas voyage. Crew members alerted USCG personnel that a diesel oil leak in one of the Juneau’s main cargo tanks was discovered while the humanitarian shipment of grain was being off-loaded in Bangladesh in December 1998. Approximately 440 metric tons of wheat became saturated with the oil and was rejected by Bengali authorities. During the following month, while the ship was in Singapore, company officials and vessel officers discussed various ways of off-loading the cargo legally, but this option was ultimately rejected by Stickle as too expensive, according to the evidence introduced during the trial. Instead, Stickle and other company officials intentionally misled USCG officers in Singapore and Portland by failing to disclose the true nature of the contaminated residue and seeking authorization to discharge the residue at sea by mischaracterizing the waste’s true nature. Although concealed from the USCG at the time, Stickle and other Sabine executives had decided to retai 15 Bulgarian nationals to board the SS Juneau in Singapore and directly discharge the contaminated wheat into the ocean during the return voyage to the United States. During the first week of February 1999, the crew members of the SS Juneau dumped the 440 tons of diesel-saturated wheat directly into the South China Sea and lied to USCG officials and agents for Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE) to hide the illegal dumping. Sabine Transportation previously pleaded guilty to violations of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and paid a $2 million criminal fine. Stickle was the chairman of Sabine and owner of all of the company’s ships and more than 10 other related companies. Four others have been convicted in related prosecutions, including Michael R. Reeve, a former president of Sabine. May 2005 �27541_Pg1,2,9cx.qxd 4/25/2005 3:38 PM Page 9 At Sea . . . Left: Representatives from the administration, Congress, the military and the labor movement were present at the recent meetings of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board in Las Vegas. With SIU VP Augie Tellez (left) is Lt. Col. Scott Lofreddo, aide-de-camp to the commander, TRANSCOM (Army). Brother Michael Drost made his final voyage Dec. 16, 2004 when his ashes were scattered upon the waters by Chief Mate Daniel Todd. Officers and crew members from the Midnight Sun were in attendance at the burial service, which was conducted by Capt. Dan Severion and SA Thomas Curley and included prayers and a poem. The ship’s whistle sounded three prolonged blasts as the ashes were spread into the ocean at latitude 52-24 north and longitude 123-40 west. Drost, who joined the SIU in 1999 and worked in the engine department, died Nov. 8, 2004 at the age of 37. . . . And Ashore . . . Left: SIU boatmen at Crescent Towing in Alabama recently completed security awareness training provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The course was conducted at Crescent facilities in Mobile. Among those taking the class and pictured at left were Deckhand David Bender, Deckhand Patrick McKibbon, Deckhand Steve Woods, Captain Ronnie Walker, Deckhand Paul Roach, Engineer Roy Saranthus Sr. and Captain Chris Walker. . . . With the SIU Recertified Steward Luis Escobar (left) and Samuel Johnson hold the catch of the day aboard the Brenton Reef as the vessel continues on a coastwise run. Aboard the Cleveland, GSU Alfonso Hernandez (right) cuts the cake celebrating his 70th birthday. The vessel was in Monrovia, Liberia on that February day. Sharing in the festivities (below) are some of his shipmates, including Chief Steward Miguel E. Vinca (who sent these photos to the LOG) and GSU Ehab Ghali. March 11 was membership meeting day in the port of Algonac. Houston Patrolman Michael Russo recently visited with crew members on some of the vessels in the area. In the photo at left, he is flanked by Deckhand Gus Leday II and QM Jason Lee aboard the Seabulk tug Goliath. Above, Russo (right) is present at the payoff on the Brenton Reef. In the photo at right, he poses on board the Crowley Mariner with Chief Engineer Gary Avery and AB Darrel Koonce. May 2005 Seafarers LOG 9 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/19/2005 1:13 PM Page 10 Mealtime Aboard The Seabulk Arctic As the SIU-crewed Seabulk Arctic makes regular calls at refineries along the coasts of Alaska, Hawaii and Washington, mealtimes are always a welcome respite from all the hard work—and Recertified Steward Alan Bartley and Chief Cook Evelina Barnes and their steward department crew do not disappoint. Owned and operated by Seabulk International Inc., the 601-foot double-hull vessel has a capacity of 342,000 barrels of crude oil and other petroleum products. Seven grades of cargo can be loaded or discharged simultaneously, and the system is capable of a complete vessel discharge in 20 hours. Formerly known as the HMI Cape Lookout Shoals, the Seabulk Arctic operates under the Jones Act, the 1920 cabotage law that protects U.S. national and economic security by stipulating that domestic waterborne commerce take place on vessels owned, built, flagged and manned in the U.S. The photos of crew members appearing on this page were sent to the LOG by Chief Pumpman Salome Castro. GVA Rolando Alonzo Chief Pumpman Salome Castro AB Christopher Nichols Right: OMU Ole Olesen AB Victor Kistanov AB Modesto Rabena Recertified Steward Alan Bartley Chief Cook Evelina Barnes AB George Lubialuli AB Toribio Valentin Right: Bosun Juan Castillo (left) and an unidentified person with the catch of the day. Left: Wiper Fathi Almuraisi 10 Seafarers LOG May 2005 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/19/2005 1:19 PM Page 11 Labor Briefs Bill Would Stop Currency Manipulation The U.S. government must stop China’s illegal currency manipulation, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka said April 7 at a Capitol Hill press conference in support of the Chinese Currency Act of 2005. Chinese currency manipulation has led to record U.S. trade deficits with China and contributes to the loss of millions of U.S. manufacturing jobs, according to the AFL-CIO. The bipartisan bill, introduced by U.S. Reps. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) and Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) with 14 co-sponsors, would define currency manipulation as a violation of existing U.S. trade laws and World Trade Organization rules. For 10 years, China has artificially pegged its currency at about 8.28 yuan to one U.S. dollar rather than letting the international financial markets set the exchange rate, Trumka noted. Such undervaluing of its currency gives China an unfair advantage in the international marketplace and the ability to undercut U.S. manufacturing by exporting, on a large scale, products that previously were produced in America. NJ Law Bans Offshoring By a 68-5 vote, the New Jersey state assembly approved legislation on March 14 banning the offshoring of state jobs, the Washington Alliance of Technology Workers (WashTech), a Communications Workers local for information technology professionals, reports. The legislation previously passed the state senate. WashTech, which represents some information technology workers in the Garden State, lobbied hard for the legislation after state officials first disclosed, several years ago, that a firm hired to handle communications with low-income aid recipients had offshored the work to India. Under pressure that decision was reversed, with the work being transferred back to New Jersey—but WashTech wanted to make sure it did not happen again. “More successes are possible if we can get more people involved and taking action,” the union said in a prepared statement. “If we have a few hundred people in each state committed to improving the laws for tech workers, bills like the one in New Jersey can pass in other states.” Negotiations Are a Hit Unlicensed Apprentices Train Aboard the Pride of Aloha After their initial 12-week curriculum at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md.—in which they focus on maritime organization, basic seamanship, emergency action and social responsibility—unlicensed apprentices then move on to the second phase of their instruction. During this 12week session, they focus their training on ship operations and maintenance while working on an actual vessel. The students serve in each of the different departments aboard ship and maintain a journal of their activities. For some students in unlicensed trainee classes 658 and 659, Phase II found them aboard the SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha as it made its weekly trips around the Hawaiian islands. According to Jon Silveira, a member of class 658, his fellow classmates all did a great job aboard the NCL America cruise ship. Silveira, who is from Taunton, Mass., has since returned to the Paul Hall Center to complete the third phase of the program, which includes specialized department-specific training. He sent the Seafarers LOG the three photos appearing on this page that contain himself and his shipmates. Press Associates recently reported that when it comes to putting one’s union bargaining expertise to good use, Communications Workers District 2 Organizing Coordinator Richard Verlander has a tale to tell. Apparently, talks hit a wall between labor—the player agents for his son, pitcher Justin Verlander—and management, also known as the Detroit Tigers. So the senior Verlander, whose son was the team’s top draft pick in 2004, stepped in, to Tiger management’s surprise. Verlander drew on his negotiating experience, including years as Local 2201 president, to break the logjam. He said that when impasse looms, “It’s time for the parties to reach out personally. If (CWA President) Morty Bahr can call the CEO” in bargaining over a telecommunications contract, then “I can call the Tigers.” So he did. The results: a five-year contract befitting Justin, with a healthy bonus and union membership in the Major League Baseball Players Association. Justin is a right-handed pitcher who played for Old Dominion University in Virginia. He has a 99-mph fastball and was the second overall pick in last year’s draft. New Reports Added to ‘Paywatch’ Site Excessive CEO pay enriches corporate executives at the expense of working families’ retirement savings, according to new reports on the Executive Paywatch website, www.paywatch.org, unveiled last month by the AFL-CIO. As part of a growing movement to reform executive pay, the website provides case studies on companies that rewarded CEOs with huge pay packages last year. It gives visitors tools to pressure companies to reform out-of-control CEO pay. According to The New York Times, average CEO pay increased 12 percent in 2004 while the pay of workers increased 3.6 percent. Last year, the average CEO of a major corporation received $9.84 million in total compensation. “We have seen a tremendous amount of interest among workers in holding CEOs and their boards accountable,” said AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka. “They are rightfully outraged when they learn about jawdropping executive compensation packages. It’s time to put the brakes on runaway CEO pay.” This year, union-sponsored pension plans have submitted over 140 shareholder resolutions on CEO pay reform. Working in the butcher shop requires sharp skills, as Steven Hurden finds out during his rotation in the steward department. Receiving shipboard training aboard the Pride of Aloha are members of unlicensed apprentice class 658. From the left are Calvin Andrews, Anthony Roca, Terry Hester and Jon Silveira. Remembering Maida Springer-K Kemp Longtime civil and human rights activist Maida Springer-Kemp died March 29 in Pittsburgh at age 94. A member of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union (now UNITE-HERE), she was the first African American woman to represent the U.S. union movement internationally, promoting freedom of association in Asia, Africa and Latin America. She was instrumental in creating an international labor program at Harvard University and establishing needlework training schools in East Africa. In her honor, the Garment Workers established the Maida SpringerKemp Fund, which supports the needlework schools, provides scholarships for workers’ children and gives women financial aid to start home-based enterprises. To make a tax-deductible contribution to the fund, send a check payable to Solidarity Center Education Fund, to the Solidarity Center, Attn: Lourdes Kistler, 1925 K St., N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006-1105. Write “Maida Springer-Kemp” in the memo line of the check. “Along with A. Phillip Randolph, she was a pioneer in supporting the development of trade unions in Africa,” noted AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “In the 1960s, she helped unite southern black and white workers, and in the 1970s she was vice president of the National Council of Negro Women. As an organizer and activist working for women, civil rights, labor and humanitarian causes, Kemp was a tireless voice for social justice. Working families will greatly miss her.” May 2005 Participating in the weekly lifeboat and safety drills is part of the instruction for crew members and passengers alike. From the left are Kyle Parson, Jon Silveira and Karberto Ramos. Parson and Ramos are unlicensed apprentices from class 659. Seafarers LOG 11 �2541p3,5,12,13,15.qxd 4/23/2005 7:49 AM Page 12 NEW YORK PHILADELPHIA Seafarers John Chapin (left) and Paul Hart attend the conference in Philadelphia. Family members were encouraged to attend the meetings. At the Philadelphia hall, Ellen Murphy (raising hand), wife of member James Murphy (to Ellen’s left, wearing glasses), addresses the panel. SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez Recertified Bosun Greg White asks a question at the Norfolk hall. SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel SIU President Michael Sacco discusses the nationwide escalation of health care costs. QMED William Watterson (light shirt, standing with arms folded) is one of approximately 200 people who attended the conference in Norfolk. Seafarer Dave Vega was part of a strong turnout in Piney Point. Steward/Baker Joe Carrello makes a point at the conference in Norfolk. 12 Seafarers LOG At the Norfolk hall, Pensioner Ernest Binkley inquires about retiree benefits. May 2005 �2541p3,5,12,13,15.qxd 4/23/2005 7:49 AM Page 13 NORFOLK Hundreds of Seafarers, pensioners and their families last month turned out for Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) conferences in Piney Point, Philadelphia, Brooklyn and Norfolk. Additional conferences were scheduled for late April (too late for this edition of the LOG) in Wilmington, San Francisco, Tacoma, Houston, New Orleans and Jacksonville. During the meetings, Plans spokespersons announced and reviewed adjustments approved by the trustees to the costs of various SHBP coverages. The details, most prominently including deductibles and co-payments, also are spelled out in a letter that was scheduled to be mailed by May 1 to individual SHBP participants. Unlike for most people with health insurance—not to mention the more than 45 million Americans with no coverage whatsoever—there still is no out-ofpocket cost for Seafarers to simply maintain their coverage through the SHBP. Further, nationwide, eligible Seafarers are in a small minority who don’t have to pay all or part of the premiums for dependent coverage. A sizeable portion of the conferences PINEY POINT Addressing SHBP participants and guests in Piney Point, Md. are (from left) Carolyn Gentile, counsel to the Seafarers Plans; Matt Castrovinci and Basil Castrovinci, actuaries for the Plans; and Colleen Baker, representative from First Health Network. consisted of question-and-answer sessions between Seafarers, pensioners and their families and the SHBP panelists. The latter group included Carolyn Gentile, counsel to the Seafarers Plans; Bill Dennis, Plans administrator; Basil Castrovinci and Matt Castrovinci, actuaries for the Plans; and Colleen Baker, representative from First Health Network. SIU officials also participated in the conferences, including President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President John Fay, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. During the early moments of the first conference, which took place April 4 at the Paul Hall Center, Gentile stated that the current challenges faced by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan are nothing short of a fight for survival. She also reviewed the Plan’s history, which dates to 1950. Throughout that conference and the others, participants examined the Plan’s current structure and how it operates; discussed the health care crisis from a national perspective; and talked about the importance of being “educated consumers” when it comes to health insurance. One point that resonated with rankand-file members is that the root of the problem is “cost shifting”—health care providers trying to compensate for covering the uninsured. The SHBP, for example, recently has flagged hospital bills that attempted to charge the Plan $14,000 for four bottles of water, and another that attempted to charge $400,000 for a $43,000 pacemaker. Similarly, the SHBP is battling against annual double-digit increases in the cost for health care, including prescription drugs, which are rising by 20 percent each year. The Plan’s costs have increased 65 percent during the current standard contracts. “We also work with other union health plans, and those plans face the same problems,” stated Basil Castrovinci. “The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has fought off the rising costs longer than most.” Pictured from left to right are Pensioner George Thompson (Norfolk), Seafarer Mike Kirby (Piney Point), AB Donald Hood and GUDE Fred Spencer (Norfolk) and Seafarer Nick Conway (Philadelphia). Recertified Steward Bud Marchman, pictured in Norfolk, is among hundreds of Seafarers who participated in last month’s initial conferences. May 2005 Taking part in the Norfolk conference are (from left) Pensioners Lindsey Rhoades and Larry Combs, QMED Taylor Clear and AB/QMED Jim Buckowski. SA Avis Hawkins arrives at the Norfolk conference. Seafarers LOG 13 �2541p8,14,16,19.qxd 4/21/2005 8:49 AM Page 14 Statements Sent to SMPPP Participants The mailing of annual statements from the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) to Plan participants was completed last month, according to SMPPP Administrator Bill Dennis. Based on year-end reports received from Morgan Stanley Dean Witter, SMPPP investment manager, the Plan continues to perform well despite ongoing market volatility. Interest earned on the accounts during 2004 was 6.5 percent; the total amount in all accounts was more than $27.4 million. The SMPPP originated in 1996, as the SIU successfully negotiated the new benefit into the standard freightship and tanker agreements. The SMPPP subsequently has been included in other SIU contracts. Approved by the Internal Revenue Service, the SMPPP is an individual interest-earning investment account funded by a daily contribution made by an SIU-contracted company on behalf of a Seafarer who is working for that employer. SIU members may make voluntary contributions to their respective accounts through a Vacation Plan deduction. The SMPPP is completely separate from a member’s defined benefit pension. Under the SMPPP, a Seafarer is immediately vested from the first day money is received on his or her behalf. Unlike the Seafarers Pension Plan, there is no minimum amount of seatime needed to receive the money from an SMPPP account. Seafarers can collect the funds from their SMPPP account when they reach retirement age, become totally and permanently disabled, or leave the industry. Widows/widowers may collect the funds in the event of their spouse’s death. The annual statements include the following information: Member’s name, address and Social Security number (which is also the participant’s account number); Statement date; The opening balance for 2004 (which was the year-end 2003 closing balance); Interest earned and administrative expenses charged; Any payouts made to the member in 2004; and The closing balance for 2004 (which will appear as the opening balance on next year’s annual statement). NMU PENSION & WELFARE PLAN NMU VACATION PLAN Trustee, Administration and Summary of Material Modifications for the Year 2004 THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES – Co-Chairmen NMU Pension & Welfare Plan and NMU Vacation Plan EMPLOYER TRUSTEES UNION TRUSTEES Thomas Murphy, President Marine Personnel & Provisioning Inc. 1083 N. Collier Blvd, PMB #387 Marco Island, FL 34145 (941) 393-0435 René Lioeanjie, Vice President-at-Large Seafarers International Union of N.A. AGLIWD/NMU 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-1878 AMENDMENTS & OTHER ITEMS NMU Pension Plan, Annuity Plan and 401(k) Plan: During 2004, the Board of Trustees adopted several amendments of significant importance to the membership and the Plans. Generally the amendments: 1. Clarified that a full-time officer or employee of the Union after March 31, 1988 is considered to be in Covered Employment, however, such full-time officer or employee is not eligible for the accrual of Pension Credits. 2. Provided the addition of the phrase, “or successor plan,” to the appropriate sections where the NMU Welfare Plan is indicated. 3. Provided an actuarial increase for delayed pensions. 4. Provided the addition of a new subsection (D) to Section 16.7 which states that an Eligible Employee shall be credited with Vesting Service Credit on or after January 1, 2001 for any employment with an employer who is a signatory to a collective bargaining agreement with the Seafarer’s International Union. 5. Provided for a 2 percent increase at December 31, 2004 for Participants active in 2005. 6. Amended the language in Section 18.4, Return to Covered Employment, to read, “Covered by a collective Bargaining agreement with the Union.” NMU Welfare Plan: During 2004, the Board of Trustees adopted several amendments of significant importance to the membership and the Plans. Generally the amendments: 1. Amended the amount of time for an eligible Employee who becomes unfit for sea duty to be on Disability. The NMU Welfare Plan merged into the SIU Health and Benefits Plan/Level N effective June 1, 2004. NMU Vacation Plan: There were no changes in plan benefits in 2004. ADMINISTRATOR William J. Dennis NMU Benefit Plans 360 West 31rd Street, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001-2727 14 Seafarers LOG CIVMAR Briefs CMPI 610 Update The union has received many questions concerning CMPI 610 negotiations. As previously reported, as part of the negotiation process the union submitted extensive questions to MSC at the end of November 2004. Since that time, the union has contacted MSC on several occasions requesting the status of the responses to these questions. Union representatives have been told that MSC is working on these responses. No further information about a response date was provided by MSC representatives. Credit Reports As background checks for merchant mariner documents and jobs aboard military and privately contracted vessels become more detailed and specific, it is important to know what information centralized reporting companies have collected about one’s work, medical and insurance history. This information is also crucial to ensure that one hasn’t become a victim of identity theft. Under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 everyone is entitled to get a credit report free of charge once a year. Additionally, individuals are entitled to specialty consumer reporting agency reports. These reports are available free of charge once a year. The three major credit reporting companies are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Under the law these companies are required to allow individuals through central source to get credit reports. The telephone number to request your reports is 1-877-322-8228. The web site is www.AnnualCreditReport.com. In addition to one’s credit reports, an individual also may obtain information from the MIB Group, which collects medical information. According to the MIB Group web site, their “records include medical conditions represented by one or more of about 230 codes. Conditions most commonly reported include: height and weight, blood pressure, ECG readings, and laboratory test results if, and only if, these facts are considered significant to health or longevity. There are only a few non-medical codes relating to information that could impact health or longevity including: an adverse driving record, participation in hazardous sports, or aviation activity.” The organization also notes that it will not have a person’s record if he or she hasn’t applied for individually underwritten life, health, or disability insurance during the preceding seven years. MIB records may be requested at www.mib.com or by calling 1-866692-6901. For a report containing one’s insurance history, contact ChoicePoint at www.choicetrust.com or call 1-866-312-8076. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. May 2005 �2541p3,5,12,13,15.qxd 4/22/2005 8:57 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea June & July 2005 Membership Meetings MARCH 16 — APRIL 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Totals 6 3 6 6 4 18 37 2 10 18 25 17 4 7 6 9 5 32 23 1 3 2 2 1 21 20 2 4 10 14 8 2 1 0 1 4 21 11 0 0 7 0 6 21 18 0 7 18 25 3 3 0 5 17 0 26 15 2 2 4 1 8 19 21 0 2 11 12 8 2 16 4 8 5 27 15 0 0 0 1 1 10 5 0 3 5 5 4 0 1 0 2 0 10 6 1 0 1 0 3 10 16 0 4 6 9 6 1 1 2 10 1 20 16 2 0 10 4 13 46 60 0 15 30 49 24 8 1 9 36 2 52 34 8 7 7 11 6 31 62 2 18 24 42 30 6 8 24 15 5 44 35 1 7 4 3 1 36 34 3 6 25 35 14 5 1 2 7 5 33 18 230 238 128 171 167 53 107 395 385 240 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 2 6 10 13 0 8 5 13 7 2 3 0 12 2 10 11 0 3 6 2 4 12 20 0 5 8 10 12 2 2 6 7 3 19 8 2 1 0 0 1 7 12 1 1 4 10 4 0 2 0 1 0 4 5 1 0 6 1 5 5 15 0 4 8 9 4 1 2 2 7 0 11 3 0 2 1 2 3 8 7 0 3 5 4 10 4 0 0 4 0 16 6 1 0 1 0 0 5 2 0 1 1 2 3 0 1 0 2 1 2 4 0 0 1 0 2 3 8 0 1 7 5 1 2 1 1 4 0 7 2 0 0 3 2 9 17 28 0 16 13 22 16 5 2 3 16 2 10 15 0 2 7 4 10 16 35 1 5 17 23 18 2 3 10 9 3 25 15 3 1 1 0 3 7 19 1 2 6 16 3 0 1 2 2 1 8 7 105 129 55 84 75 26 45 179 205 83 0 0 2 1 13 13 12 0 4 5 18 13 4 5 3 27 2 17 21 1 0 3 0 5 5 15 0 3 4 9 12 2 1 5 5 0 5 8 1 0 0 0 1 4 7 0 0 1 3 4 0 1 0 0 1 3 2 1 0 2 0 6 6 13 0 3 4 11 8 1 1 2 20 1 11 10 0 0 1 0 4 2 11 0 2 4 3 8 1 0 1 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 1 0 6 4 3 0 2 5 6 4 1 0 2 9 0 5 8 0 0 5 2 14 31 29 0 4 14 32 16 3 6 2 45 2 29 45 1 0 6 2 10 9 30 1 9 4 13 20 3 3 6 10 0 11 17 1 0 0 0 1 7 8 0 0 4 4 5 0 2 1 1 1 6 8 160 83 28 100 45 10 56 279 155 49 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 4 5 3 0 1 2 5 0 0 0 1 4 0 5 4 3 1 3 2 12 18 15 1 3 9 30 14 1 6 2 13 0 17 6 1 3 3 2 7 20 18 1 1 10 34 18 2 19 2 10 0 20 11 0 0 0 0 1 5 2 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 2 0 2 4 0 3 4 11 0 3 3 16 7 0 9 0 9 1 10 2 0 3 0 0 2 3 5 0 0 0 5 2 0 13 0 3 0 5 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 4 7 0 2 6 11 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 4 3 2 4 6 19 29 27 1 13 14 60 17 1 14 3 18 1 29 13 5 12 5 6 15 35 43 1 3 20 69 28 3 18 3 20 0 36 25 34 156 182 22 84 46 0 61 274 347 529 606 393 377 371 135 208 914 1019 719 *“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. May 2005 Piney Point .............Monday: June 6 ................................Tuesday: July 5* ............................................(*change created by Independence Day holiday) 1 0 6 3 13 24 27 0 10 16 25 18 4 0 6 23 1 29 24 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 Algonac ..................Friday: June 10, July 8 Baltimore ................Thursday: June 9, July 7 Boston.....................Friday: June 10, July 8 Duluth .....................Wednesday: June 15, July 13 Guam ......................Thursday: June 23, July 21 Honolulu .................Friday: June 17, July 15 Houston ..................Monday: June 13, July 11 Jacksonville ............Thursday: June 9, July 7 Joliet .......................Thursday: June 16, July 14 Mobile ....................Wednesday: June 15, July 13 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: June 14, July 12 New York................Tuesday: June 7, July 5 Norfolk ...................Thursday: June 9, July 7 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: June 8, July 6 Port Everglades.......Thursday: June 16, July 14 San Francisco .........Thursday: June 16, July 14 San Juan..................Thursday: June 9, July 7 St. Louis..................Friday: June 17, July 15 Tacoma ...................Friday: June 24, July 22 Wilmington ...............Monday: June 20, July 18 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals CHARLES NEIGEBAUER Please contact your stepson Trevor at: TrevorNeigebauer@aol.com Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers 800 E. Diamond Boulevard Suite 3-227 Anchorage, AK 99515 Phone: (907) 271-6736 Claude Pepper Federal Bldg. 51 S.W. 1st Ave., 6th Floor Miami, FL 33130-1608 Phone: (305) 536-6548/6874 40 South Gay Street Baltimore, MD 21202-4022 Phone: (410) 962-5132 9820 Lake Forest Boulevard Suite P New Orleans, LA 70127-3077 Phone: (504) 240-7300 455 Commercial Street Boston, MA 02109-1045 Phone: (617) 223-3040 Battery Park Building 1 South Street New York, NY 10004-1466 Phone: (212) 668-7492 196 Tradd Street Charleston, SC 29401-1899 Phone: (843) 720-3250 433 Ala Moana Boulevard Honolulu, HI 96813-4909 Phone: (808) 522-8264 8876 Gulf Freeway, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77017-6595 Phone: (713) 948-3350 2760 Sherwood Lane, Suite 2A Juneau, AK 99801-8545 Phone: (907) 463-2458 6767 N. Basin Avenue Portland, OR 97217-3992 Phone: (503) 240-9346 915 Second Ave., Room 194 Seattle, WA 98174-1067 Phone: (206) 217-6115 Oakland Federal Building North Tower 1301 Clay Street, Room 180N Oakland, CA 94612-5200 Phone: (510) 637-1124 Fax: (510) 637-1126 E-mail: recsfbay@d11.uscg.mil 1001 S. Seaside Avenue Building. 20 San Pedro, CA 90731-0208 Phone: (310) 732-2080 1222 Spruce Street Suite 8.104E St. Louis, MO 63103-2835 Phone: (314) 539-3091 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 1302 Memphis, TN 38103 Phone: (901) 544-3297 420 Madison Ave., Suite 700 Toledo, OH 43604 Phone: (419) 418-6010 Seafarers LOG 15 �2541p8,14,16,19.qxd 4/22/2005 8:31 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MARCH 16 — APRIL 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 5 2 4 7 0 1 5 29 0 4 2 0 1 0 0 1 8 0 2 0 4 2 1 1 2 12 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 13 4 2 13 0 0 4 39 0 1 2 1 3 0 0 1 8 0 3 0 0 2 1 0 2 8 1 4 2 2 1 0 0 1 11 12 24 12 14 31 6 2 9 110 2 7 3 5 5 1 0 4 27 0 17 0 22 2 0 6 0 47 0 1 2 0 3 0 1 2 9 7 13 6 8 8 2 1 6 51 1 1 7 2 4 0 0 1 16 0 11 2 13 1 1 1 0 29 1 1 3 0 2 1 0 2 10 4 6 9 5 16 2 1 5 48 1 4 4 0 14 0 0 1 24 0 11 2 15 0 1 2 0 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 9 5 1 2 4 1 0 2 24 1 0 1 0 5 0 0 2 9 0 1 1 3 4 0 2 0 11 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 4 8 2 0 7 1 0 4 26 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 3 0 2 1 1 4 0 1 0 9 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 2 3 1 7 0 0 2 16 1 1 1 0 5 0 0 1 9 0 1 1 0 4 0 2 1 9 Port 0 2 2 2 4 2 0 2 14 1 2 1 1 8 0 0 1 14 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 1 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 69 26 32 79 25 24 30 209 67 107 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Emogene B. Schrum of Lincolnton, N.C. She is the widow of Recertified Bosun Ray E. Schrum, who died April 13, 2003 at the age of 74. The pictures were taken in Calcutta, India in 1966. At far right is Schrum with Bob Harwell, who took the opportunity to see the sights of Calcutta during their time in port aboard the SS Transeastern. The other photo is of a shark, caught during that nearly year-long voyage. Brother Schrum started his SIU career in 1947 in Miami, Fla. He initially shipped aboard Moore-McCormack Lines’ Robin Gray. Brother Schrum worked in the deck department, last sailing on the Courier. He began receiving his pension in 1986. 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. May 2005 �27541p6.17.22.23.qxd 4/23/2005 8:24 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA SILVESTRE BONGOLAN, 67, joined the SIU in 1981 in Honolulu. Brother Bongolan, who was born in Pennsylvania, sailed in the steward department. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bongolan’s first voyage was aboard the Independence; his last ship was the USNS Loyal. He makes his home in Waipahu, Hawaii. WILLIAM DOOLING, 64, became a Seafarer in 1963 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments, most recently aboard the USNS Antares. Brother Dooling calls Starke, Fla. home. NICHOLAS GAINES, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1986 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Gaines first shipped on the USNS Harkness. The steward department member was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gaines most recently worked on the Mokihana. Born in Colorado, he now lives in Los Angeles. MATIAS GARCIA, 67, was born in Texas. Brother Garcia began his seafaring career in 1994 in the port of Houston, initially sailing on the USNS Bellatrix. He shipped in the deck department and enhanced his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school in 1997 and again in 2000. A resident of Texas City, Texas, Brother Garcia last worked on the Chemical Explorer. ERNESTO GUARIN, 65, joined the SIU in 1979 in New York. Brother Guarin was born in the Philippines. He first sailed on the Panama. In 2001 he upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member’s last ship was the Performance. Brother Guarin makes his home in Makati City, in the Philippines. JAMES HOLLAND, 65, hails from Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Holland joined the union in 1982 in the port of Honolulu. His first voyage was on May 2005 Brother Morgan was born in Baltimore, Md. and last shipped on the Overseas Chicago. He makes his home in Brinnon, Wash. the Independence; his last was aboard the R.J. Pfieffer. Brother Holland upgraded his skills a number of times at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The steward department member lives in Honolulu. HELEN ISHIZAKI, 69, joined the SIU in 1992. Sister Ishizaki was a member of the steward department. Her first ship was the Independence. Sister Ishizaki upgraded her skills in Piney Point, Md. She most recently worked aboard the Manukai. Born in Holland, Sister Ishizaki now resides in Honolulu. LEON LOHMAN, 65, commenced his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in New Orleans. Brother Lohman was born in Louisiana and sailed in the deck department. He completed bosun recertification training in 1990 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Lohman initially went to sea on the Manhattan. His final voyage was aboard the LNG Aquarius. Brother Lohman lives in his native state in the city of Violet. RICHARD LOVAAS, 65, joined the SIU in Detroit in 1966. Brother Lovaas shipped in the deck department in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. His first ship was the Detroit Edison. Brother Lovaas improved his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2000 and again in 2002. Prior to retiring, he worked on the CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. Brother Lovaas was born in Miami, Fla. He now resides in Ferndale, Wash. LYNN McGIVENS, 66, started his seafaring career in 1962. Brother McGivens was born in Louisiana and worked in the steward department. His first vessel was the Overseas Ulla; his last was the USNS Bellatrix. Brother McGivens makes his home in Marrero, La. SPERO MOCHE JR., 58, hails from North Carolina. Brother Moche joined the Seafarers in 1970 in New Orleans. His first voyage was on the De Soto. Brother Moche, who was a member of the engine department, upgraded his skills frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Prior to retiring, he sailed on the Commitment. Brother Moche lives in Radford, Va. DONALD MORGAN, 62, joined the SIU in 1967, initially shipping in the engine department aboard the Steel Vendor. He upgraded his skills frequently at the Paul Hall Center, attending the institution seven times during his career. RICHARD PATUREL, 67, began his seafaring career in 1988 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Paturel’s first ship was the USNS Wilkes, where he worked in the deck department. He attended the union-affiliated school often. Born in Auburn, Maine, Brother Paturel resided in San Francisco. He last worked on the Horizon Trader. VERNER POULSEN, 70, joined the SIU in 1962 in Seattle. Brother Poulsen was born in Denmark and shipped in the deck department. His earliest voyage was aboard the Coeur D Alene. Brother Poulsen enhanced his seafaring skills in 1974 and in 2002 at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Tacoma, Wash. MARTIN QADER, 64, was born Arabia. Brother Qader joined the union in 1979 in Norfolk, Va. The steward department member first sailed on the Point Julie. Brother Qader lives in New York and last went to sea on the Seabulk Challenge. RICARDO SANCHEZ, 65, became a Seafarer in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Sanchez worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Born in Central America, his first ship was the USNS Potomac. Brother Sanchez’s most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Colorado. He is a resident of Humble, Texas. CHRISTOS TSIPLIARELES, 55, started shipping with the SIU in 1968 in New York. Brother Tsipliareles initially worked in the engine department aboard the Galicia Defender. He upgraded his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school numerous times. A native of Greece, Brother Tsipliareles last worked aboard the Sealand Pride. He calls Virginia Beach, Va. home. INLAND JOHN BUNTING III, 56, began his seafaring career in 1989. Boatman Bunting worked for Crowley. Born in Philadelphia, he now calls Franklinville, N.J. home. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. HAROLD JOHNSON, 66, joined the NMU in 1991 shipping Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 At the instigation of the SIU, representatives of all AFL maritime unions on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts met in New York on May 20. A resolution was adopted calling on the AFL Executive Council to establish a Maritime Trades Department within the American Federation of Labor. The purpose of this move was to ensure that unions allied in the marine industry would have the same kind of representation within the AFL as do the Building Trades Department and the Metal Trades Department. from the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Johnson was a member of the steward department. Born in Minnesota, he first sailed aboard the Keystoner. Brother Johnson’s last voyage was aboard the Cape Henry. RUFINO RIVERA, 70, was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Rivera began sailing with the NMU in 1966 from the port of New York. He first worked on the Atlantic. Prior to retiring, Brother Rivera shipped aboard the American Lark. ANDREW WASHINGTON, 55, embarked on his NMU career in 1980 in Mobile Ala. Brother Washington’s first ship was the Zoella Lykes. He last sailed on the Green Wave. A member of the steward department, Brother Washington was born in Alabama. NAME AGE EDP Alvarez, Jose 63 March 1 Brown, Herman 64 April 1 Friedman, Mary 65 March 1 Green, George 62 April 1 Hendy, Sydney 72 April 1 Shurtleff, John 65 April 1 Lakes trade and seeking to establish subsidy operations out of the Lakes. Passage of the Landrum-Griffin Act required some modification of the Constitution as to qualifications and elective office, conditions of union membership and similar matters. The Constitution also provides for a monthly membership meeting system. 1993 Although U.S. armed forces have completed their formal withdrawal from Somalia, U.S.-flag merchant vessels— including four contracted with the SIU—still are providing support to U.S. and United Nations troops in the East African nation. Three Ready Reserve Force vessels—the Gopher State, Cape Henry and Rover—as well as the fast sealift vessel USNS Bellatrix continue to provide food, ammunition and other materiel to U.S. soldiers stationed in Somalia as command of all foreign forces in the war-torn nation shifts to the Untied Nations. The five-month U.S. military intervention in Somalia officially came under United Nations control on May 4…. With the changing of the flags, 3,625 U.S. servicemen were left behind in logistics and support roles. The SIU-crewed vessels will remain in support of these American troops until further notice. This Month In SIU History 1960 The revised Constitution of the SIU, Atlantic and Gulf District went into effect on Thursday, May 12 after being ratified by better than 90 percent of all the votes cast. A two-thirds vote was required to pass the amendments but this requirement was far surpassed. During the 30-day vote, 4,178 votes were cast in favor of the amendments and only 322 against. The name of the district union was changed and it is now the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. This change in name was felt necessary by the fact that SIU-manned deep sea ships are participating in the Great Seafarers LOG 17 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/25/2005 8:02 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA WIN CHAN Brother Win Chan, 87, died Nov. 4. He joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. Brother Chan was born in China and shipped in the steward department. He made his home in San Francisco and began receiving his retirement pay in 1970. JOHN DAVIS NICHOLAS OPPEDISANO Pensioner Nicholas Oppedisano, 85, died Jan. 7. Brother Oppedisano joined the SIU in 1950 in New York. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Born in Maine, Brother Oppedisano shipped in the deck department. Brother Oppedisano last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Adventure. A resident of Portland, Maine, he started receiving his pension in 1985. Pensioner John Davis, 74, passed away Jan. 13. Brother Davis became a Seafarer in 1967 in the port of San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Army. He initially sailed aboard the Fanwood, working as a member of the deck department. Brother Davis was born in Cleveland, Ohio and resided in Port Saint Lucie, Fla. Prior to retiring in 1998; he sailed on the LNG Leo. SIXTO RODRIGUEZ ROBERT DAWSON Pensioner James Rogers, 72, died Jan. 17. Born in Bethlehem, Ga., he started his SIU career in 1958 in New York. Brother Rogers worked in the engine department. The U.S. Army veteran last went to sea aboard the Integrity. Brother Rogers retired in 1996 and resided in Shepherd, Texas. Pensioner Robert Dawson, 88, died Dec. 30. Brother Dawson started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Texas, the steward department member began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1976. Brother Dawson lived in Oakland, Calif. ANTONIO GUILLEN Pensioner Antonio Guillen, 85, passed away Jan. 12. Brother Guillen was born in Spain and embarked on his SIU career in 1947 in New York. The deck department member first sailed with A.H. Bull Steamship Co. Brother Guillen went on pension in 1984. He called Woodside, N.Y. home. EDDIE HERNANDEZ Pensioner Eddie Hernandez, 80, died Jan. 13. The Puerto Rico-born mariner started his SIU career in 1951 in New York. Brother Hernandez first sailed aboard the Alamar; his last voyage was on the American Heritage. A pensioner since 1985, he worked in the steward department and lived in San Juan, P.R. WALKER LaCLAIR Pensioner Walker LaClair, 83, passed away Feb. 17. Brother LaClair was a native of Wilmington, N.C. He joined the union in 1948 and sailed in the deck department. Before retiring in 1986, Brother LaClair went to sea on the Sugar Islander. He made his home in Galveston, Texas. 18 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Sixto Rodriguez, 92, passed away Jan. 19. He joined the union in 1939 in New York. Brother Rodriguez was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the engine department. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1972. Brother Rodriguez made his home in Jersey City, N.J. JAMES ROGERS HOWARD SCHNEIDER Pensioner Howard Schneider, 87, passed away Feb. 9. Brother Schneider became a Seafarer in 1967 in Seattle after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Schneider worked in the steward department, first sailing on a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Chicago, he called Camano Island, Wash. home. Brother Schneider began collecting his pension in 1984. JAMES SHEETS Pensioner James Sheets, 74, died March 2. Brother Sheets began shipping with the SIU in 1947 in New York. He first sailed on the Mobilian as a member of the deck department. Brother Sheets was born in Virginia and served in the U.S. Army. Before retiring in 1993, he went to sea aboard the Edward A. Carter Jr. Brother Sheets lived in Norfolk, Va. FRANCISCO TIRADO Pensioner Francisco Tirado, 72, passed away Jan. 25. Brother Tirado joined the SIU in 1962 in New York. His initial trip to sea was aboard the Overseas Ulla. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Tirado shipped in the steward department, most recently sailing on the Motivator. He was a resident of Santa Isabel, P.R. and began receiving his retirement stipends in 1997. CLARENCE WILLIAMS Pensioner Clarence Williams, 77, died Feb. 1. He began his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of San Francisco, initially sailing aboard the Santa Mercedes. Brother Williams, who was born in Louisiana, shipped as a member of the steward department. His last voyage was on the Ewa. Brother Williams began collecting his pension in 2002. He made his home in New Orleans. LOYD ZIMMERMAN Pensioner Loyd Zimmerman, 79, passed away Jan. 3. Brother Zimmerman joined the SIU in 1945 in New York. He was born in Virginia and worked in the steward department. Brother Zimmerman’s first trip to sea was aboard the De Soto; his last was on the Santa Rosa. Brother Zimmerman resided in his native commonwealth and went on pension in 1989. INLAND KENNETH ALEXANDER Pensioner Kenneth Alexander, 55, died Jan. 2. Boatman Alexander started sailing with the Seafarers in 1978 in New Orleans. During his career, he mainly worked on Crescent Towing of New Orleans boats. Boatman Alexander was born in New Orleans, La. and lived in Gretna, La. The deck department member retired in 1997. the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Virginia, he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Johnson retired in 1996 and resided in his native commonwealth. KEITH LOPER Pensioner Keith Loper, 66, died Feb. 19. Boatman Loper became a Seafarer in 1965, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. The U.S. Army veteran initially worked on a Waterways Transportation vessel in the deck department. Boatman Loper was born in Ohio and lived in Plymouth, N.C. He went on pension in 1990. LEONARD PAUL SR. Pensioner Leonard Paul Sr., 70, passed away Dec. 20. He started his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Beaufort, N.C., Boatman Paul shipped in the engine department. His first trip to sea was aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. Boatman Paul was a resident of Belhaven, N.C. He retired in 1995. DEVAIN SARANTHUS Pensioner Devain Saranthus, 63, died Dec. 3. Boatman Saranthus launched his SIU career in 1960 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Alabama, he sailed as a member of the deck department. A pensioner since 1996, Boatman Saranthus lived in Semmes, Ala. RAYMOND TROSCLAIR Pensioner Robert Haught, 76, passed away Dec. 13. Born in Flora, Ill., Boatman Haught began his SIU career in 1964. The U.S. Army veteran was a member of the deck department. Boatman Haught started receiving his retirement pay in 1993. He called Paragould, Ark. home. Pensioner Raymond Trosclair, 82, passed away July 14. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Trosclair joined the SIU in 1962 after serving in the U.S. Army. He sailed primarily aboard Dravo Basic Materials Co. vessels in the engine department. Boatman Trosclair resided in Houma, La. and began collecting his pension in 1985. WILLIAM HORNER JR STEVE WARFORD ROBERT HAUGHT Boatman William Horner Jr., 59, died Jan. 5. He started sailing with the SIU in 1964 from the port of Philadelphia after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Boatman Horner was born in Maryland and shipped primarily on Maritrans vessels. The deck department member lived in Princess Anne, Md. RONNIE JOHNSON Pensioner Ronnie Johnson, 53, passed away Dec. 13. Boatman Johnson joined the ranks of the SIU in 1972 in Pensioner Steve Warford, 75, died Dec. 20. Boatman Warford joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He worked primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels as a member of the deck department. Boatman Warford started receiving his retirement compensation in 2001. The U.S. Army veteran was born in Arkansas and made San Marcos, Calif. his home. GREAT LAKES JOSEPH BAKER Pensioner Joseph Baker, 76, passed away Dec. 17. Brother Baker hailed from Alpena, Mich. Prior to joining the Seafarers in 1960, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Baker sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Paul H. Townsend. He became a pensioner in 1988 and called Michigan home. FRANCIS READ Brother Francis Read, 63, died Nov. 7. He joined the SIU in 1990 in the port of Algonac. Brother Read’s first ship was the Kinsman Enterprise. The deck department member was born in Pennsylvania. Brother Read was a U.S. Navy veteran and last sailed on the American Mariner. He made his home in Echo Township, Mich. 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. JAMES BISHOP Pensioner James Bishop, 83, passed away Feb. 25. He joined the union in 1955. Brother Bishop first sailed from New York aboard the Chester O. Swain. Born in Providence, R.I., he worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1983. Brother Bishop’s last ship was the Keystone. MANUEL CARDONA Pensioner Manuel Cardona, 89, died Feb. 21. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Cardona became an NMU member in 1934. He sailed in the steward department, first shipping from New Jersey. Brother Cardona started collecting retirement stipends in 1969. RAFAEL DELGADO Pensioner Rafael Delgado, 103, passed away Feb. 10. Brother Delgado joined the NMU in 1957. He sailed primarily aboard the Independence. Brother Delgado was born in Salina, P.R. and went on pension in 1965. JOHN FRUIK Pensioner John Fruik, 63, died Feb. 9. He was born in Michigan and joined the NMU in 1972, sailing in the deck department. Prior to retiring in 1994, Brother Fruik worked aboard the Banner. Continued on page 20 May 2005 �2541p8,14,16,19.qxd 4/22/2005 8:11 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. CHEMICAL EXPLORER (Marine Transport), Feb. 6— Chairman Marvin P. Zimbro, Secretary Christina A. Mateer, Educational Director Jeffrey T. Fields, Deck Delegate Timothy J. Jackson, Engine Delegate Anjwar D. Brooks. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 8 in Los Angeles and informed crew that two new washers and dryers were on order. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to lower age requirements for pension benefits and increase vacation days. Discussion held on whether crew fund should be used to pay for satellite TV. Next ports: Long Beach and Richmond, Calif. COAST RANGE (Intrepid), Feb. 26—Chairman Terry D. Cowans Sr., Secretary Lanette A. Lopez, Educational Director Terry T. Smith, Deck Delegate Travis Stringer, Engine Delegate Scott S. Fuller, Steward Delegate Michael Todman. Chairman reminded crew members not to go through payoff without patrolman present. He also suggested that everyone read Seafarers LOG to be better informed of current maritime and union issues. Educational director talked with captain about having computers in crew lounge for e-mail. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills in Piney Point and check documents for expiration. Renewals take time, so do it early. Steward asked crew to clean rooms and get fresh linen before disembarking. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to reduce retirement age and increase medical benefits. Recommendations also given for contracts department to consider when negotiating new agreement. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. EL MORRO (Interocean Ugland Mgmt.), Feb. 27—Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr., Deck Delegate Jay P. Thomas, Engine Delegate Milton L. Israel II. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 28 in San Juan, P.R. Secretary asked everyone to keep noise down in hallways as other crew members may be sleeping. Educational director emphasized importance of keeping all documents current and taking advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested lowering seatime requirements for pension and requested copies of all plans’ financial statements for 2004. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food. HORIZON DISCOVERY (Horizon Lines), Feb. 20—Chairman Patrick C. Ray Jr., Secretary Joseph A. Laureta, Educational Director William Payne, Deck Delegate Roberto Flores, Engine Delegate Hector J. Ginel, Steward Delegate Jorge R. Salazar. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 22 in Jacksonville, Fla. and noted May 2005 ship to stay on same run until July shipyard period. Educational director urged all members to take advantage of upgrading classes at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to help keep ship clean. Special thanks given to Steward Laureta and Chief Cook Salazar for exotic menus and good food. INTEGRITY (Maersk Line Ltd.), Feb. 26—Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Michael H. Dempster, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward Delegate Richard F. Oliva. Chairman announced Maersk Line Ltd. to take over from USSM starting March 1. He reported pleasant voyage in all departments. Secretary thanked wiper for keeping SIU crew deck clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding lowering age required for pension benefits and increasing pension amounts. Steward department thanked for exceptional menu and fine food during voyage. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston, Texas. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line Ltd.—formerly USSM’s Explorer), Feb. 20—Chairman Gerald Freeman, Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Roger D. Phillips, Engine Delegate Lavell Williams. Chairman reported smooth trip en route to payoff Feb. 27 in Balboa, Panama, thanks to great crew. Replacements for three crew members arrived in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Piney Point facility. Treasurer stated $257 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Balboa; San Antonio, Chile. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Ltd.), Feb. 27—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh Wildermuth, Educational Director Danilo Cortez, Deck Delegate Timothy D. Girard, Engine Delegate James R. Oling, Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Chairman announced payoff March 6 in Newark, N.J. and thanked deck department for good performance during trip. He reminded everyone to clean rooms and return keys before leaving ship. Secretary expressed gratitude to crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director advised mariners to stay current on union news. Treasurer stated $1,539 in ships fund after purchase of treadmill for gym and movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made to lower pension eligibility age and increase pension benefits. Expression of thanks given to Seafarers LOG for good work in keeping membership up to date on union matters. METEOR (Maersk Line Ltd.), Feb. 20—Chairman Steve R. Kastel, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Chris L. Earnhart, Deck Delegate Ahmed M. Baabbad, Engine Delegate Samuel Garrett, Steward Delegate Claudia N. Mauricio. Chairman suggested crews of all Champion-class vessels submit list of recommendations regarding new contract and give to patrolman, who will forward to contracts department. Secretary thanked everyone for keeping ship tidy. Educational director reminded mariners about educational opportunities available in Piney Point and about need to keep all paperwork up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to increase dental and optical benefits and to purchase grill and big refrigerator for crew mess. Vote of thanks to galley crew for excellent food. Next port: Los Angeles. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Ship Mgmt.), Feb. 27— Chairman Thomas R. Temple, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John E. Trent, Deck Delegate Maurice D. Hetrick, Engine Delegate William P. Stone, Steward Delegate Jorge L. Ellis. Chairman advised crew members to read Seafarers LOG. It is the lifeline to the union while at sea. He also noted letter received regarding recent SAB ruling. Educational director informed crew that it was to their advantage to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for each SIU crew member to have refrigerator in his or her room. Steward asked that no food scraps be put in garbage; galley crew will dispose of scraps properly. Everyone asked to be respectful of shipmates who may be trying to sleep. Suggestion made to lower age and seatime requirements for pension benefits. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. PERSEVERANCE (Maritrans), Feb. 28—Chairman James E. Bishop, Secretary Catherine M. Hays, Educational Director Kenneth W. Pinchin, Deck Delegate Clarence E. Fortt Jr., Engine Delegate Milton L. Israel, Steward Delegate Luis M. Caballero. Chairman announced payoff March 1 upon arrival in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Educational director spoke about taking advantage of educational facilities available at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication received from headquarters regarding staying on ship longer than normal due to increasing manning during time of war. Crew received two new washing machines within last month and now waiting for a new dryer. Next ports: Cape Canaveral, Port Everglades and Tampa, Fla. P&O NEDLLOYD BUENOS AIRES (Waterman Steamship Corp.), Feb. 27—Chairman Joseph J. White, Secretary Tran Nee, Educational Director Michael L. Mefferd, Deck Delegate Fritz L. McDuffie. Secretary asked those departing vessel to make sure rooms are clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. Treasurer stated $190 in ship’s fund. Suggestions made for pension buy-out and improved medical insurance. Crew requested refrigerator, ice machine, salad bar and microwave for crew mess. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. SEABULK COURAGE (Seabulk Tankers), Feb. 28—Chairman Mario R. Romero, Secretary Luis A. Escobar, Educational Director James L. McDaniel, Steward Delegate Allan M. Melendez. Chairman reported change in run, eliminating Kalama, Wash. and San Francisco. Vessel will now run back and forth from Long Beach to Houston or Corpus Christi for 30-day trips. Secretary urged Seafarers to start renewal process of MMDs early to avoid lastminute delays. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from the LOG, which led to discussion on new MSP program, new jobs for SIU, ways to help in tsunami relief and nationwide health care crisis. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. USNS OBSERVATION ISLAND (Maersk Line Ltd.), Feb. 13— Chairman Cholley L. Moses, Secretary Gregory Heseltine, Educational Director Edward J. Krebs, Deck Delegate Travis L. available at Paul Hall Center and about importance of contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone asked to leave room clean for next person. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. CURTISS (American Overseas Marine), March 6—Chairman Stephen Czaple, Secretary Dorray A. Saberon, Educational Director Jürgen G. Gottschlich, Deck Delegate George W. Mazzola. Chairman reported ship being activated. All going well with good crew and great weather. Educational director suggested everyone upgrade at Piney Point Thanks for a Job Well Done Steward department members aboard the Sulphur Enterprise were given a vote of thanks for the great meals and excellent service. From the left are SA Alexander Cordero, Chief Steward William Blees and Chief Cook Jose R. Norales. The Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel is on a coastwise run. Austin, Engine Delegate Jason A. Powell, Steward Delegate Bill Smalley. Chairman brought meeting to order and gave overview of purpose and importance of electing department delegates. He outlined meeting format and projected schedule. He also reminded membership of upcoming paid holiday, Presidents’ Day, Feb. 21. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held on investigation into rationing of water. Research being done by chairman on reimbursement and pay for crew members traveling to and from vessel. Inquiry also made about availability and eligibility for 401(k) or other money market fund for unlicensed personnel. Request for new (non-industrial strength) laundry detergent. Members were instructed to go through department heads for hot/cold temperature adjustments in rooms. Crew members note that, weather permitting, aft fan tail of ship periodically set up as beach cookout area. USNS POLLUX (American Overseas Marine), Feb. 7—Chairman Wilfredo C. Rice, Secretary Kelvin R. Burrell, Educational Director Troy Ancar, Deck Delegate Timothy R. Kacer, Engine Delegate Bruce N. Zenon. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 16 in Marrero, La. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at Piney Point training center to further career options. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for TV antenna and DVD player for each crew lounge as well as additional washer and dryer. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good meals and service. Next port: Algiers, La. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Ltd.), Feb. 13—Chairman Kenneth L. Steiner, Secretary Walter J. Matt, Educational Director Timothy A. Chestnut, Deck Delegate David L. Hudgins, Engine Delegate Pati F. Taototo, Steward Delegate Kimberly A. Strate. Chairman led discussion concerning training, safety and health care plan. Educational director talked about opportunities whenever possible. Engine delegate reminded crew to keep house door closed since AC is on. He also requested help in separating plastic items from regular trash. Steward delegate asked crew to place dirty sheets in linen locker and said he’ll look into getting extra fans if needed. Technicians will come aboard ship North Carolina to fix satellite TV. Next port: Sunny Point, N.C. DILIGENCE (Maritrans), March 2—Chairman Ronald L. Paradise, Secretary Amy K. Rippel, Educational Director Arthur K. Outlaw, Deck Delegate Stanley E. Howard, Engine Delegate Patrick D. Carroll Jr., Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman announced payoff March 3 in Galena, Texas. He noted satellite TV dues up $5 and expressed gratitude to deck department for good job. Educational director told all departments to give themselves a raise by upgrading at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman discussed SAB No. 426 regarding crew rotations. Recommendation made to increase wages in next contract. New mattresses to be ordered in May when vessel goes into shipyard. Next ports: Baytown and Galveston, Texas. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), March 6—Chairman Dennis S. Brown, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Mohamed N. Asinai. Chairman announced payoff March 9 on arrival in Tacoma, Wash. and thanked everyone for keeping ship clean. He urged crew to keep dues paid and support SPAD. Educational director encouraged all hands to take advantage of opportunities available in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Following reading of president’s report in LOG, discussion ensued on America’s continuing health care crisis. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Seafarers LOG 19 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/25/2005 7:02 AM Page 20 Remembering Capt. George Milburn . . . Pensioner George B. Milburn died last June at the age of 80. He joined the SIU in 1967 in Norfolk, Va. and shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions before retiring in 1981. His son, Bruce Milburn, recently was going through some of his father’s papers and came across a 1972 newspaper article from the Washington Star about tugboat activity on the Potomac River that he wanted to share with readers of the Seafarers LOG. The article, by James Norell, featured Milburn and some of his shipmates on the tug Papa Guy during one of their runs from Washington to Piney Point, Md. Milburn was captain aboard the tug, which at the time was pushing an empty barge to exchange for an identical barge loaded with 43,000 barrels of No. 6 heating oil for Washington furnaces. Milburn was extremely proud of his years with the SIU, and his son is equally proud of the accomplishments of his father. Final Departures Continued from page 18 JAMES GONZALES Pensioner James Gonzales, 94, passed away Feb. 8. The engine department member was born in St. Vincent, B.W.I. and began working for the NMU in 1942. Brother Gonzales first sailed on the Frank W. Spencer. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1975. LESTER MAUL Pensioner Lester Maul, 81, died Jan. 26. A native of St. Louis, Brother Maul launched his NMU career in 1942, first sailing on the Parismina in the deck department. He last sailed on the Independence. Brother Maul started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1967. CHARLES STEAD Pensioner Charles Stead, 88, passed away Feb. 12. Brother Stead started his seafaring career in 1947 in the port of Baltimore. His first vessel was the Carleton Ellis; his last was 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. This is the cover page of a 1972 Washington Star feature on George B. Milburn and his crew on the tug Papa Guy. CARLOS VILLAVICENCIO the Chestnut Hill. Brother Stead went on pension in 1984. LEONARD TAYLOR Pensioner Leonard Taylor, 82, died Feb. 20. Born in the Philippines, Brother Taylor joined the NMU in 1966. Before retiring in 1987, he went to sea on the American Veteran. Pensioner Carlos Villavicencio, 84, passed away Jan. 17. Brother Villavicencio joined the NMU in 1945 in Balboa, Panama. Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, he last went to sea aboard the Santa Maria. Brother Villavicencio began collecting his retirement pay 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 D.O.D. Andrews, Cornelius 81 02/09/2005 Bates, James 80 02/11/2005 Bush, Ramsey 66 02/09/2005 Chavarria, Eloy 82 02/11/2005 Crespo, Francisco 92 02/05/2005 Gonzales, Emilio Jr. 77 02/14/2005 Halison, Frank 85 02/06/2005 Hall, Oscar 80 01/19/2005 Kelly, Agnes 95 01/19/2005 Lenobel, Karl 85 10/02/2004 McGruder, Sherman 77 02/15/2005 Mente, Clarence 75 02/17/2005 Miller, Ramie 63 02/06/2005 Monroe, Johnnie 76 01/20/2005 Mullins, Charles 80 02/19/2005 Randolph, Harry 98 02/18/2005 Sandies, Isaiah 72 02/17/2005 Sax, Jim 84 02/18/2005 Wynne, Thomas 77 01/11/2005 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 20 Seafarers LOG 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. May 2005 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/25/2005 3:45 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning April 18, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion FOWT June 20 September 19 August 11 November 11 QMED - Jr. Engineer June 20 September 8 Welding May 9 August 22 September 19 October 24 October 31 May 27 September 9 October 7 November 11 November 18 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion May 30 July 11 August 22 October 3 November 14 June 24 August 5 September 16 October 28 December 9 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) June 20 August 22 October 24 June 24 August 26 October 28 Bridge Resource Management (Unlimited) May 9 July 11 September 12 November 14 May 13 July 15 September 16 November 18 Celestial Navigation May 16 July 18 September 19 November 21 June 10 August 11 October 14 December 16 GMDSS (Simulator) June 27 August 29 October 31 July 8 September 9 November 11 Lifeboatman/Water Survival May 16 June 27 August 8 September 19 October 21 May 27 July 8 August 19 September 30 November 11 Navigation Fundamentals October 24 November 4 Radar June 6 August 8 October 10 June 15 August 17 October 19 Radar Renewal (1 day): June 27, August 29, October 31 Course Able Seaman Safety Specialty Courses Date of Completion May 16 July 18 September 19 May 27 July 29 September 30 Fast Boat Rescue June 6 June 10 Government Vessels May 23 July 4 August 8 August 22 September 26 October 31 November 14 May 27 July 8 August 12 August 26 September 30 November 4 November 18 Medical Care Provider May 30 August 1 October 3 June 3 August 5 October 7 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* June 6 August 1 September 26 June 17 August 11 October 7 June 27 October 17 July 1 October 21 Advanced Fire Fighting* (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) 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. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Start Date Course Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? 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 ________________________________________________ May 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. 5/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �27541p6.17.22.23.qxd 4/21/2005 10:01 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 660 — Graduating from the water survival Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending April 1 are (in no specific order) Jerald Martinez, Charles Freeman, Jon Carrico, Jullian Woods, Rigoberto Boggeano, Rosita Livermon, Douglas Perry Jr., Nelton Rodriguez, Joseph Waldera, Francis Burke, David Osterback, Eleazar Lozano Jr., Gary Santos, Orlando Caro, Erick Colon, Hector Serrano, Brian Kimbrough, Nathaniel Miller, Daniel Link and Nathaniel Leachman. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at right in the front row. class are unlicensed apprentices from class 660 (in alphabetical order) Remington Aldrete, Jillian Barker, Thomas Brady III, Ian Chin, Christopher Cipres, Steve Concepcion, Sherrod Cutter, Lurex Dela Cruz Jr., Nicholas Dippel, Danny Faidley, Nicole Geideman, Dustin Hennig, Linsey Knight, Louis Kramm, Kenny Potts, Kemer Rojas, Edwin Ruiz Jr., Jennifer Souci, Josh Sypolt, Carlos Vargas Rodriguez, Philander Walton and John Yi. Galley Ops — Working their way up in the galley department are (from left) Robinson Eromosele, Rocky Dupraw, Alfonso Berry, Edward Aguigui Jr., Dave Johnson and their instructor, Ed White. Medical Care Provider — Jr. Engineer — Completing the junior engineer course April 1 are (in no specific order) Jordan Cuddy, Trent Enoch, Walter Rood, Robert Norris, Sharon Gilliam, Alshea Dixon, Husain Ali, Danny Day, Matthew Redlinger, Noel Corrales, Neil Warren, Lisa Harewood and Davon Brown. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Completing the medical care provider course April 1 are (in no specific order) Mike McCourt, Edward Fore, Robert Scott, Craig Burmeister, Shannon Smith, Shelby Rankin, Brian McLarron, Christopher Edyvean, Jerry Sobieraj, Kenneth Lewin and George Ashbridge. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is second from left. Water Survival — March 11 graduates of the water survival class include NCL crew members (in no specific order) Shawn Crowe, Jon Thompson, Troy Larick, Timothy Hall, Shanna Bahr, Marcos Gomez, Carl Collett, Damareo Bailey, Betty Daw, Benny Quintanilla, Marlon Hannigan, Nicanor Dechico, Jason Cruz, Wilma Diaz, Sunshine Gruber, Charlene Street, Raquel Collins, Damien Williams, Bryan Gutierrez and Edwin LaRosa. Their instructors were Stacey Harris (standing far left) and Tony Sevilla (standing far right, front row). Computer Lab Classes Instructor Rick Prucha (standing at far left) congratulates students for their accomplishments in the computer lab. Holding their certificates of completion for various computer courses are (from left, front row) Miguel A. Pizarro, Joselier Itaralde, Eissa Saleh, (back row) Ousmane Ka, Gilbert Johnson and Jess Cooper. Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center) are Seafarers who completed the welding course March 4. They are Ousmane Ka (left) and William Rios. 22 Seafarers LOG May 2005 �27541p6.17.22.23.qxd 4/21/2005 10:27 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Competing this course March 18 are (in no specific order) Hannah Cain, Audania Bomar, Anthony Roca, Samuel Miller, Lou Kramm, Benny Samosan, Tim Rieman, Steve Hurden, Jon Silveira, Tim Johnson II, Iam Manthey, Timothy Littles, Garfield Persley Jr., Adam Ramey, Brian Joyner, Steven Cedres, Fausto Aranda, Billie Muñoz and Michael Rodriguez. Their instructor, Herb Walling, is at far left in the back row. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — A second tanker assistant class graduating March 18 included (in no specific order) Wanda Davis, Gabriel Santa, William Sanchez, Brandon Granger, Jermeka Williams, Elliott Del Aguila, William Burdette, Michael Warner, Terry Hester, Nelson Smith, Edgar Reed, Perry Kin, Calvin Andrews, Brad Dize, Patrick Ryan and Karberto Ramos.Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, March 11: Johnny Marino, Jessica Martin, Dorian Meneses, Charles Miller, Stacy Miller, Mark Moore, Joseph Nason, Gisela Neminske, Shari-Ann Pontin-Yamashita, Donald Provance, Ricardo Puaza Jr., Shawn Riley, Brandon Sanborn, Brian Sanchez, Juan Segura, Adante Smith, Jason Smythe, Hector Solis, Taylor Stephens, David Taylor, Roland Terlaje, Andella Toler, Michael Turner, Lindsey Twonbly, Cameron Werry and John Wess Sr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, March 11: David Aguon, Mark Ambrose, Jon Asis, Jeffer Baguio, Victoria Bejerano, Elena Benavente, James Browne, Griffin Bryant III, Eleanor Cagas, Roger Campo, Celena Carroll, Richard Castro, Vera Christianson, Tyson Cronmiller, Juan Flores, Harold Guillory Jr., Jamel Hatton, Philip Heglmeier, Ray Henderson Jr., Girindhra Henry, Eric Hoffman, Audrey Holmes, Jarret King, Mikki Laster and Sherwin Limos. STCW — March 18: James Collins, Timothy Delapp, Cheryl Grace, Katherine Grove, Ollie Hargrove, Alexander Haymore, Gregory Hidalgo, Rocky Hong, Scott Hooks, Annafay Iokia, Kyle Itani, Maxine Lang, Nichole Lemanski and Grant Haitsuka. STCW — March 18: Christy McCord, Matthew Martin, Jennifer Martinez, Rudy Nucum, Sean Olmo, Leo Pangelinan, Larry Pomerantz, Ulrick Prudent III, Felix Quevedo, David Scharling, Rachael Sherer, Sven Sjoberg, James Smith, Don Thompson, Arthur Valles and Linda Woolley. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, March 25: Joselito Mata, Aston McKen, Donald McMullen, Yvette Nordquist, John O’Hara, Stephen Parker, Sara Pilgreen, Andrea Raviele, Eric Roth, Annette Salvador, Ysue Samaskhan, Jonathan Savares, Timothy Skeith, Lindsey Waitley and Nathaniel Webb. May 2005 STCW — NCL, March 25: Eduardo Bermudez, Jennifer Blackwell, Zachariah Bunnell, Geronimo Cabulhat Jr., Norma Camacho, Caren Comiska, Dustin Elliott, Christopher Gilbert, Sandra Golden, Talia Golden, David Jolin, Ruth Anne Kick, Linda Kloster-Suero, Claudio Leal Jr. and Brian Manibusan. Seafarers LOG 23 �2541p4,7,9_11,18,20,21,24.qxd 4/25/2005 3:46 PM Page 24 May 2005 Volume 67, Number 5 A fter the winter freeze, a new season of shipping on the Great Lakes is under way. The Great Lakes are one of the country’s most important waterways and home to the U.S.-flag Lakes fleet. These vessels carry everything from iron ore and limestone for the American steel and construction industries, to coal for power generation, as well as grain, heating oil, cement, sand and gypsum. On the Great Lakes, as on all U.S. waterways, cargo moving between U.S. ports is governed by the Jones Act. Most of the lakers are “self-unloaders,” which means each boat is so equipped that its crew can unload the vessel without any need of shoreside personnel or equipment—and do the job fast. The photos on this page show early activity on three of American Steamship Company’s SIU-crewed vessels: the Buffalo, Sam Laud and H. Lee White. SAM LAUD Aboard the Sam Laud (clockwise from top left): 2nd Cook Walter Wise, DEU Fadel Quraish, DEU Mohamed Mosed, SA Yelan Slyusar and AB/Watchman Mike Larson BUFFALO Senior Bosun David Barber Buffalo AB Security Watch Leonard Thomas Buffalo SA William Agnello Buffalo Left: Conveyorman Andrew Nowak Buffalo H. LEE WHITE Right: AB/Wheelsman Russell Brown and AB/Watchman Mike Lafoille H. Lee White Bosun James Shupert H. Lee White 2nd Cook Penny Pollard H. Lee White � 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 May 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PRIDE OF AMERICA NEARS COMPLETION INSPECTORS BRING 7 SHIPS UNDER ITF AGREEMENT 10 TANKERS ORDERED SIU-CONTRACTED OVERSEAS SHIPHOLDING GROUP TO OPERATE VESSELS NEW TANKER DELIVERED ALASKAN EXPLORER BOOST SIU JOB GROWTH CAR CARRIER BRINGS MORE NEW JOBS SIU-CREWED JEAN ANNE MAKES MAIDEN VOYAGE TO HAWAII DOZENS OF SEAFATERS-CREWED SHIPS STILL SAILING IN SUPPORT OF TROOPS MAERSK WINS CONTRACT TO OPERATE 6 VESSELS NTSB REPORT SPOTLIGHTS WEIGHT STANDARDS IN WATER TAXI TRAGEDY SEAFARERS-CREWED STOCKHAM COMMENDED BY U.S. NAVY MARINERS INCLUDED IN NATIONAL MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE CIVMARS MOBILIZE FOR EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS STEWARDS CONVEY PASSION ABOUT THEIR UNION AND THEIR WORK LMSR CHANGEOVER CONTINUES POLLUTION CASES YIELD RECORD FINE, PRISON TIME SEAFARERS PARTICIPATE IN A BENEFITS CONFERENCE REMEMBERING CAPT. GEORGE MILBURN… A NEW SEASON BEGINS ON THE GREAT LAKES 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 05/01/2005 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. 5 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/f25376ddad7d805eddff4a740845d5d4.pdf 45484e4d7ab3c6d8347c8163c4330f67 PDF Text Text 26893_P01.qxd 3/24/2005 5:49 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 4 April 2005 MTD Speakers’ Message: U.S. Merchant Marine More Vital than Ever The U.S. Merchant Marine remains a crucial part of America’s national and economic security, according to representatives from the administration, Congress, the military and the labor movement who spoke at the recent meetings of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board in Las Vegas. Those speakers included (left photo, from left) AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, being welcomed by MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco; U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta (above, left), and Gen. John Handy (right), commander, U.S. Transportation Command. Pages 3, 8, 9. Seafarers Crew Up LMSRs SIU members last month crewed up the USNS Shughart in Norfolk, Va., signaling the start of turnover of nine military support ships to SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA). Below (from left), AB Mark Marcus and Recertified Bosun Mike Presser inspect a First Aid station on the Shughart. Page 3. Car Carrier Christened The SIU last month welcomed new shipboard jobs when the car carrier Jean Anne was christened in San Diego. The vessel is owned by Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines, a joint venture between The Pasha Group and Strong Vessel Operators. Page 2. ANWR Update Page 4 Snapshots from Pride of Aloha Pages 12-13 �26893_P2,4,6,12,13.qxd 3/28/2005 6:02 PM Page 2 President’s Report Federation Solidarity When I opened the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board meeting in late February, I emphasized the many things that are good about unions and organized labor as a whole. It’s an important message—one that I share with you here in the hopes of setting the record straight when it comes to proposals that are being made to restructure parts of the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions. First of all, I support AFL-CIO President John Michael Sacco Sweeney, along with Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka and Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson. I believe in their leadership and their integrity. They have done a good job on behalf of America’s working families and the federation’s member unions, including the SIU. No one claims that we don’t have room for improvement within organized labor. That’s true of any association, really. But at times like this, I strongly believe that we must stick together and work together for progress. On many fronts, union members and other workers are facing enormous challenges. Our solidarity is one of our greatest resources. The individual unions within the AFL-CIO may not agree on every issue, but I believe we share plenty of common ground and we’re all pulling in the same direction. We’re working to improve. We’re examining ways to become more efficient. We’re all speaking up and we’re all being heard. In our own industry, we know firsthand the value of solidarity. The waterfront battles between the SIU and the NMU were legendary … and costly. Since we’ve come together as one union, we have grown and become stronger. With that in mind, let’s not lose sight of the many great things about the labor movement, and what we’re capable of when we work together. As I mentioned at the MTD meetings, the things that have always made unions worthwhile are still true today. Unions give workers a real voice on the job. We stand up to protect the rights of our members and their families. We give back to our communities. And you better believe we answer the call. And as President Sweeney stated at those same MTD meetings, “Unity is our greatest asset. That does not mean we should avoid debate, but there can be no real solution that undermines the unity of working people.” When you get right down to it, labor’s essential goals haven’t changed. At some point you may have read or heard the words of Samuel Gompers, the first president of the old American Federation of Labor. His memorable answer to the question of what labor wants included “more schoolhouses and less jails, more books and less arsenals, more learning and less vice, more constant work and less crime, more leisure and less greed, more justice and less revenge, more of the opportunities to cultivate our better natures.” That’s still what unions are all about—improving the lives of members and their families. As the federation works through this period of self-examination, it’s important to also keep an eye on our original—and ongoing—goals. Recognition for Mariners I encourage all Seafarers to read about the MTD meetings in this issue of the LOG. In particular, I call your attention to the many kind words that were said about the U.S. Merchant Marine. It’s always encouraging to know that others understand and appreciate the importance of our role as America’s fourth arm of defense. But when that appreciation comes from high-ranking officials from the military, the administration, Congress and the labor movement, it’s especially uplifting. You have played an exceptional role in helping earn such a good reputation for the entire U.S. Merchant Marine. You deserve the credit, and I know you’ll keep up the good work. Volume 67, Number 4 April 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 New Car Carrier Jean Anne Joins SIU-Contracted Fleet Seafarers will crew all unlicensed positions aboard the new car carrier Jean Anne, which was built to serve in the Jones Act trades between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii. Owned by The Pasha Group of Corte Madera, Calif., and operated by Interocean Ugland Management, the vessel was christened March 21 in the port of San Diego’s National City Marine Terminal. “This is a new addition to the The SIU-contracted Jean Anne has 10 decks and weighs 13,000 deadweight tons. The ship can transport 3,000 vehicles plus other rolling stock, household goods and containers. SIU-contracted fleet, and as always I’m completely confident in the dedication and professionalism of the Seafarers who will sail aboard her,” said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, who attended the christening along with SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone. “After five years of hard work, Pasha Hawaii is eager to announce the christening and inaugural voyage of the Jean Anne,” George Pasha IV, president of Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines, told reporters days before the christening. “The Jean Anne exceeded everyone’s expectations during sea trials…. The Jean Anne is a reflection of the hard work and determination on the part of many people, and we look forward to her ably serving the Hawaii trade for many years to come.” Designed and built to transport more than 3,000 American-sized vehicles and other rolling stock from the West Coast to the Hawaiian Islands, the Jean Anne has a 579-foot roll-on/roll-off platform and can travel at speeds approaching 20 knots. Its stern ramp is capable of handling up to 100 tons as vehicles are driven on and off. The vessel will make stops in Honolulu; Kahului, Maui; Hilo; and Nawiliwili, Kauai, which will reduce about a week of shipping time for the neighbor islands, according to Pasha. The ship was built by Halter Marine at its Pascagoula, Miss. facility. Matson Orders 2 More Ships From Kvaerner Philadelphia Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Co. on Feb. 24 announced plans to purchase two more ships from Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. The vessels are part of a planned $365 million investment in ship, container and terminal assets that will be used to launch a new Guam and China service. The new service is scheduled to start in February 2006. The new vessels will be similar in capacity, speed and operating efficiency to Matson’s Seafarers-crewed MV Manukai and MV Maunawili. Both were built by Kvaerner Philadelphia; they entered service in 2003 and 2004, respectively. According to Matson, the new builds are expected to be delivered and placed in service by July 2005 and June 2006 at an estimated combined cost of $315 million. The company has the option to time charter these vessels in lieu of purchasing them. It also will have a right-of-firstrefusal with the shipyard for up to four other containerships of similar design that are deliverable before June 2010. The company also noted that both new ships by mid-2006 will be deployed in an integrated weekly West Coast-HawaiiGuam-China service together with three of the company’s most efficient diesel-powered containerships. The planned routing will The third ship under construction at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, the Manulani, is a Philadelphia Class CV2600 containership under contract with Matson. Last month, the ship was floated in preparation for its final outfitting prior to delivery. include port calls at Long Beach, Honolulu, Guam and two ports in China. “These new ships, coupled with our other two new KPSI vessels, will ensure that Matson continues to provide Hawaii with efficient, dependable ocean transportation services for decades to come,” said James Andrasick, Matson president and CEO. Matson in recent years has been modernizing its fleet, retiring older steam-powered vessels to improve fuel and operating efficiencies. With the addition of the two newest ships, the average age of Matson’s active container- ship fleet will be a relatively young 14 years. “Matson is very satisfied with the performance of the first two KPSI-built vessels that are now part of the company’s Hawaii service,” added Andrasick. “We are confident that these additional two KPSI ships will further enhance the overall quality and operating efficiencies of the Matson fleet.” Matson provides ocean transportation, intermodal and logistics services in U.S. domestic markets. Matson is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. of Honolulu. April 2005 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/28/2005 6:05 PM Page 3 ‘We Are a Maritime Nation’ MTD Speakers Affirm Need for Strong U.S. Fleet The U.S. Merchant Marine remains a good about the labor movement are still vital part of America’s national and eco- good today. Unions do more good for more nomic security, according to representa- working families than any other organizatives from Congress, the administration, tions out there.” the military and the labor movement who Addressing the executive board were spoke Feb. 24-25 at the meetings of the (in order of appearance) Gen. John Handy, Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO commander, U.S. Transportation Comexecutive board in Las Vegas. mand; John Jamian, acting administrator, Additionally, the guest speakers as well U.S. Maritime Administration; U.S. Rep. as MTD President Michael Sacco, who Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.); Steven Blust, also serves as president of the SIU, cov- chairman, Federal maritime commission; ered other important topics including the U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.); health care crisis, the right Sheila McNeill, president, to organize, support for U.S. Navy League of the United See pages 8 and troops, port security, doStates; AFL-CIO President mestic shipbuilding, fair John Sweeney; U.S. Trans9 for full covertrade, potential reforms portation Secretary Norman within the AFL-CIO and Mineta; U.S. Rep. Norm age of the MTD more. Dicks (D-Wash.); U.S. Rep. executive board The MTD includes 29 Loretta Sanchez (D-Calif.); international unions and U.S. Rep. William meetings. (including the SIU) and 24 Jefferson (D-La.). port maritime councils in Secretary Mineta stated, the United States and Canada representing “We are a maritime nation, and the marapproximately 6.5 million working men itime industry is essential to our economic and women. strength, to our productivity and to the creSacco opened the meetings by remind- ation of American jobs.” ing audience members about some of the Board members approved 16 policy labor movement’s key accomplishments. statements addressing issues and programs He noted that despite current challenges including the Employee Free Choice Act, faced by organized labor, “The bottom line the U.S. Maritime Security Program is that the things that have always been (MSP), port-generated air pollution, chas- MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (right in both photos) welcomes U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta (left) and Gen. John Handy, commander of TRANSCOM, to the MTD executive board meetings in Las Vegas. Secretary Mineta, General Handy and other speakers noted that America’s national security is enhanced by maintaining a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. sis safety, support for Miami’s truck drivers, the right to collective bargaining, and other labor and maritime topics. Several of the speakers pointed out union members continue playing important roles in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. As President Sacco observed, “During the past three years, at least 20,000 union members have been called up as reservists in the war in Iraq. At the same time, more than 4,000 members of our maritime unions have loaded and transported materiel to support our troops in the Persian Gulf. “No matter our individual feelings about the political aspects of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I know that all of you join me in supporting our troops and particularly supporting our union brothers and sisters who are serving overseas.” Secretary Mineta, President Sweeney and the Congressional representatives all conveyed strong support for the MSP and for other laws that promote a vibrant U.S.flag fleet. More College Credits Approved For Paul Hall Center Courses American Council on Education Okays 24 Classes Students who complete certain classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education may receive college credits, thanks to a recent successful evaluation by the American Council on Education (ACE). The council recently approved 24 Paul Hall Center courses for college credits—by far the largest number of classes approved at once by ACE for the Piney Point, Md.-based school. “This review benefits all of our students by providing increased educational opportunities,” noted Paul Hall Center Director of Training Bill Eglinton. ACE reviewed courses offered in the unlicensed apprentice program as well as classes for mariners sailing in the deck, engine and steward departments, respectively. For the past 30 years the Paul Hall Center has utilized the benefits provided by the ACE College Credit Recommendation Service. Generally, this involves having ACE assess new or rewritten curriculums at the school as they become available. In December 2004, a team of four “content experts,” selected from college faculty, reviewed three courses in the steward department program. Then in January, five college professors reviewed 21 additional courses during a two-day evaluation at the Paul Hall Center. As a result of these ACE reviews, the school has reapproved or added about 85 possible credits to its instructional program. For most of these courses, ACE determined that the training is comparable to college-level coursework and has made college credit recommendations accordingly. Continued on page 6 Seafarers Continue Crewing Up LMSRs SIU Climbs Aboard Shughart; More to Follow Seafarers last month crewed up the USNS Shughart in Norfolk, Va., signaling the start of the turnover of nine military support ships to SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA). As previously reported, AMSEA last fall was awarded an operating agreement for nine large, medium-speed, roll-on/ roll-off vessels (LMSRs), including the Shughart. Transfer of the operation had been delayed because of protests by the previous operator. However, the protest to the Government Accountability Office was withdrawn, and the Shughart signaled the start of the turnover that is expected to be completed no later AB Emanuel Wabe mans the Shughart’s gangway. Recertified Steward Bobby Brown recently signed on aboard the USNS Shughart. OMU Melvin Grayson enjoys another hearty meal on board the USNS Shughart. April 2005 Pictured at the Paul Hall Center earlier this year following the ACE review are (from left) Bill Eglinton, the center’s director of training; Lois Stephenson, curriculum development, Paul Hall Center; Dr. George DeSain, Western Carolina University; Don Nolan, vice president, Paul Hall Center; Dr. Ronald Johnson, Old Dominion University; Dr. Celeste Sichenze, Northern Virginia Community College; Dr. James R. Sherrard, Three Rivers Community Technical College; Captain Lee A. Kincaid, American Council on Education; and Edward Fitzgerald, academic coordinator, Paul Hall Center. than early this summer. Seafarers already are sailing aboard two other LMRS—the USNS Gordon and USNS Gilliland—whose separate contract award to 3PSC, LLC was announced at the same time as AMSEA’s. “Since the awards were first delivered by the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the union expected all along that SIU members would man these ships,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “That’s exactly what’s happening, and it means additional jobs for the SIU.” AMSEA will operate the seven Bob Hope-class ships and two converted vessels. The Bop Hope ships are the USNS Benavidez, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Brittin, USNS Fisher, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pililaau and USNS Seay. The converted ships are the USNS Shughart and USNS Yano. Both AMSEA’s and 3PSC’s operating agreements in effect are four years apiece. Officially they are four one-year agreements renewable each year. The Seay and the Mendonca tentatively are slated for turnover this month, followed by the Yano, Bob Hope and Fisher in May, and the Benavidez, Brittin and Pililaau in June. The turnover may be moved up. The Bob Hope ships were built at Avondale in New Orleans, with delivery dates ranging from 1998 to 2003. The Shughart and Yano were converted at NASSCO in San Diego, while the Gordon and Gilliland were converted at Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding. The converted vessels formerly were containerships; all were delivered to MSC by late 1997. MSC cites two key missions— prepositioning and surge sealift— for its LMSRs, including eight Seafarers-crewed Watson-class vessels. The ships vary in length from about 900 feet to approximately 950 feet. Seafarers LOG 3 �26893_P2,4,6,12,13.qxd 3/28/2005 6:07 PM Page 4 Safety Training Pays Off For Seafarers on Kenai Safety training and professionalism paid off for Seafarers and officers aboard the tanker Kenai as they quickly extinguished a shipboard fire while the vessel was tied up at the Valdez (Alaska) Marine Terminal. No one was injured in the Jan. 22 incident, which began when a backup diesel generator ignited. “The crew reacted phenomenally well,” said Captain Richard Holman, master of the Kenai. “You couldn’t ask for a better bunch of people to work with.” Bosun Alvin Martin said the fire “was in a potentially bad spot, but everybody mustered on time, suited up and was ready. Everybody was right there. What impressed me was that we had guys who were volunteering to take care of it. It wasn’t like anyone had to say, ‘You go.’ People were really willing.” Every indication is that the fire essentially was unavoidable and that no one was at fault. SIU members sailing on the Alaska Tanker Company vessel at that time were Bosun Martin; ABs Woodrow Brown, Ramon Guimba, Joshua Kirk, Robert Odmark, Estella Synder and Edward Boyd; QMED/Pumpman Odilio Evora; 2nd Pumpman Orlando Guzman; Engine Utilities Romualdas Videika and Criseldo Espinosa; DEUs Emmanuel Bayani and Edward Tanaka; Steward/Baker Dorothy Odoms; Chief Cook Self Salvation; SA Nagi Saeed; and Unlicensed Apprentice Courtney Sacks. Fourteen of those 17 Seafarers have completed at least one safety course at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md. All of them took part in regular shipboard safety drills on the Kenai. The bosun said the training and drills “definitely” played a big part in the mariners’ efficient response. “We do so many drills out there, we know what we can do and can’t do,” Martin stated. “In this case, we knew right away it was something we could handle. We were in touch with the bridge, and we had a (written) fire plan on board, which was a great assistance. “For that final decision to use the CO2, we just wanted to make sure that when we did it, everything was safe and everything would work,” he added. “It was textbook—kind of like when you go to a fire fighting school and they light off a fire.” The ship had just finished discharging its ballast water and hadn’t started cargo operations Health Care Still a Hot Topic In Negotiations, Job Actions The rising costs of medical benefits remained a prime subject in union contract negotiations and job actions across the nation last month. A small sampling: In Marietta, Ga., 2,800 members of International Association of Machinists Local 709 in mid-March ended a weeklong strike. Their new contract calls for wage increases and a signing bonus but also increases health care and retirement insurance premiums, according to news reports. In Westchester County, N.Y., more than 550 bus drivers who are members of the Transit Workers Union went on strike early last month. The company is demanding that the drivers increase the amount they pay for coverage and health care. Press accounts reported that members already have agreed to boost the amount they pay each week to maintain their premium and also to increase their co-payments for prescription drugs and doctor visits. In Detroit, members of the United Auto Workers were bracing for a possible request by General Motors Corp. to reopen the existing contract covering the workers. A local UAW official told a Detroit newspaper that the union believes its members will be asked to pay more for their health insurance. Last year, the company reportedly spent $5.2 billion on health 4 Seafarers LOG insurance. That figure is expected to jump to $5.6 billion this year. In Collinsville, Ill., the unions representing the town’s police force and civilian workers have asked for mediation to resolve contracts that expired as far back as December 2003. Once again, the rising costs of health care are considered a main point of contention in the effort to secure new contracts. The police officers already share the costs of their coverage. As previously reported, in terms of coverage and cost, the state of American health care is worsening by the day. The labor movement has been an active but hardly isolated voice in pointing out that the health care crisis threatens to crush the U.S. national economy if solutions aren’t applied. According to the most recent estimates, 45 million Americans have no health insurance whatsoever, while on average 6,000 more Americans lose their coverage every day. The costs of insurance premiums alone have increased by double digits every year for the last four years, to say nothing of the expense of actual medical care. Less than a quarter of those Americans who have insurance don’t have to pay out-of-pocket costs simply to carry the coverage. Among those people, only 8 percent don’t have to pay for dependent coverage. when a power failure provided the first indication of trouble. Holman noted that the fire quickly was identified and the alarm was sounded as smoke began coming out of an engine room vent on the starboard side. The ship’s emergency response team was suited up and ready in about five minutes. A local fire fighting crew arrived but basically stayed on the perimeter and served as consultants. Holman said the mariners quickly realized that the fire was “too overwhelming” to initially combat with portable equipment. They then sealed the 15-by-15foot room where the fire was located and used the fixed CO2 system, followed by portable extinguishers. “We attacked the fire in teams of two,” recalled the captain. “There was no apprehension on anyone’s part. They entered the space and extinguished the remaining fire, changed out their equipment and did a great job.” The local firemen complimented the Kenai mariners afterward, noting their focus and proper handling of the equipment. “It’s good to hear that from an outside source,” said Holman. Martin has sailed for 30 years and never had faced a shipboard fire. He said that his confidence in his fellow crew members was reflected in a calm feeling not only during the emergency, but afterward. “If you’ve ever had a close call when you’re driving—you barely avoid being in an accident—you know that your adrenaline really starts pumping right after that, as you’re replaying it in your mind” Martin said. “I didn’t have that feeling at all (on the ship) because I knew from the beginning it was something we could handle.” Senate Votes in Favor Of ANWR Exploration The U.S. Senate last month voted by 51-49 to retain language in the Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Resolution calling for oil and gas exploration in the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). The mid-March vote made front-page news across the country, though additional legislative hurdles must be cleared before ANWR exploration becomes a reality. The Senate’s Budget Resolution now must be reconciled with the House version (which also passed last month). Then, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the House Resources Committee must approve measures spelling out details for ANWR development. According to news reports, it may take seven to 10 years before oil begins flowing from the Coastal Plain. Nevertheless, the Senate vote was welcomed by the administration and by pro-exploration groups including the SIU and other unions. “The SIU strongly believes that safe exploration of ANWR’s Coastal Plain will create good jobs for Americans and also lessen our nation’s dependence on foreign oil,” said Terry Turner, the union’s political director. “The case for safely opening ANWR is extremely strong, and our union supports energy policies that boost America’s national and economic security.” A week before the vote, citing The Coastal Plain is a relatively small part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, as illustrated in this map from the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. potential domestic job growth and increased economic independence for America, officers and representatives from several trade unions (including the SIU) reaffirmed their support of energy policies that promote those goals. U.S. Interior Secretary Gale Norton met with officials from the SIU, Carpenters, Iron Workers, Laborers, Operating Engineers, Teamsters and United Association unions as well as from the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department. They discussed ANWR and other energy-related issues that impact America’s working families. Vincent Giblin, general president of the Operating Engineers, stated, “We in the Operating Engineers support a diverse ener- Benefits Conferences Begin in April Officials from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) will conduct benefits conferences in April at a number of SIU halls. All active members, pensioners and their spouses are invited to the sessions, which will provide an update on the latest happenings with the various Plans. The locations and dates are as follows: Piney Point (joint conference including Baltimore), April 4 (Monday); New York, April 5 (Tuesday); Philadelphia, April 6 (Wednesday); Norfolk, April 8 (Friday); Wilmington, April 18 (Monday); San Francisco, April 20 (Wednesday); Tacoma, April 22 (Friday); Houston, April 25 (Monday); New Orleans (joint conference including Mobile), April 26 (Tuesday); Jacksonville, April 28 (Thursday). Please note that the conferences in Piney Point, New York, Philadelphia, Wilmington and Tacoma will immediately follow the membership meetings at those halls. All other conferences will begin at 10:30 a.m. gy bill in order to strengthen America’s energy options, including oil and gas development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Such legislation would have tremendous potential job growth for Operating Engineers.” According to Arctic Power, a non-profit coalition that favors safe exploration of ANWR, opening the Coastal Plain would create at least 250,000 jobs and possibly as many as 735,000. That’s despite the fact that only 2,000 acres within ANWR’s 19.6 million acres would be considered for exploration. (A typical U.S. airport generally would be about five times larger than the proposed exploration area.) The Interior Department estimates that the Coastal Plain may contain up to 16 billion barrels of recoverable oil, easily making that area America’s most likely location for substantial oil and gas discovery. Following the March 16 vote, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Pete Domenici (R-New Mexico) stated, “I recognize that the vote today is the first of several votes this year regarding ANWR. I will continue working toward the opportunity to develop our greatest onshore oil reserve.” According to government estimates, oil companies would be able to pump nearly 1 million barrels a day from the refuge. The U.S. uses about 7 billion barrels of oil per year. April 2005 �26893_P5,7,15,19,20.qxd 3/28/2005 6:09 PM Page 5 Union Speaks Out About Towing Vessel Inspections In the recently enacted Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004, the Congress directed the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to add towing vessels to the list of craft subject to inspections, and to consider establishing a safety management system appropriate for towing vessels. The USCG, during a series of meetings held recently in selected cities around the country, sought public and industry involvement as they considered how to proceed. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Thomas Orzechowski on Feb. 17 attended one of the public meetings in St. Louis. During that gathering, Orzechowski presented the SIU’s position on the towing vessel inspection issue. “We were the only labor body to make an appearance and make a statement,” Orzechowski said. “About 99 percent of those who attended the meeting represented shipowners and other components of the maritime industry besides labor.” In part, Orzechowski told those assembled, “First and foremost, the SIU welcomes this legislative mandate that has been characterized as the most significant federal action affecting the towing industry since 1972, when towboat operations were required to be licensed. If implemented as intended by Congress, the SIU believes that the inspection requirement will go a long way in improving overall safety on tugs and tows on the inland rivers and coastal waterways. “The SIU unalterably disagrees with the interpretation of the law by many in the towing industry and perhaps, the Coast Guard itself, that the establish- ment of a safety management system will satisfy the requirement for towing vessels inspections. Although we support the establishment of safety management systems for the towing industry as a supplement to vessel inspections, the SIU believes that such a system will not meet Congressional intent and spirit of the law. “This position was recently validated by Representative James Oberstar (D-Minn.), ranking member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in a trade magazine interview, as he rendered his belief that the inspection of towing vessels will have to meet the same legal standards that govern inspections of other classes of vessels. In fact, he stated ‘in bringing towing vessels under inspection, Congress made no changes to the scope or type of inspection required.’ Further, as reported in the publication, according to the congressman, by law, either the Coast Guard or a classification society with inspection authority will have to inspect towing vessels to ensure compliance and issue a five-year certification of inspection … and in between these inspections, the Coast Guard could oversee a safety management system to make certain repairs and maintenance work are conducted properly.” He continued, “The SIU contends that the level of safety for our members working on uninspected towing vessels must be elevated to the same level found on inspected vessels of comparable size and horsepower. This will certainly occur as all towing vessels begin a physical inspection process. Senator Trent Lott Chairs Maritime Subcommittee U.S. Senator Trent Lott (RMiss.) in early February was appointed chairman of the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee under the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. The Surface Transportation Subcommittee has the most extensive jurisdiction of any of the Commerce Committee’s 10 subcommittees with authority over automobiles, trucks, railroads, Amtrak, maritime and ports, driver safety, transportation of hazardous materials, pipelines and transportation research. Lott, who chaired the Aviation Subcommittee in the 108th Congress, said that he welcomed the responsibility of overseeing improvements in the administration of highway, rail and maritime transportation and safety. “One of our first priorities will be the reauthorization of the trucking and automobile safety titles in the overdue highway bill,” Lott said. “It’s vital that these programs have the stability April 2005 Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.) of being renewed in a multi-year reauthorization so that the states can get to work on their implementation.” The senator said the subcommittee also would be looking at freight rail and railroad safety issues early in this Congress. “Port security also continues to be an issue, and we want to make certain that our ports aren’t vulnerable,” he noted. “The SIU will be submitting detailed comments to the docket on this most important issue. We look forward to working with the Coast Guard and the towing vessel industry to develop meaningful, safety-oriented towing vessel inspection regulations that will meet Congressional intent, the needs of the industry and enhance the health and workplace safety of our mariners.” Issues that are of specific concern to the USCG, and for which input was requested, include: Towing vessels of a certain size (300 or more gross registered tons) are already inspected vessels and are subject to a variety of existing requirements. Should the USCG use any of these existing standards (or standards for other types of inspected vessels) for incorporation into the new regulations regarding the inspection of towing vessels? If so, which regulations or standards should be incorporated into these new regulations? Title 46, United States Code, specifies the items covered with regard to inspected vessels including lifesaving, firefighting, hull, propulsion equipment, machinery and vessel equipment. However, the legislation that added towing vessels to the list of inspected vessels, authorized that the USCG may prescribe different standards for towing vessels than for other types of inspected vessels. What, if any, different standards should be considered with regard to inspected towing vessel requirements from other inspected vessels? Towing vessels vary widely in terms of size, horsepower, areas of operation, and type of operation. Under what circumstances, if any, should a towing vessel be exempt from the requirements as an inspected vessel? Should existing towing vessels be given time to implement requirements, be “grandfathered” altogether from them, or should this practice vary from require- SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski ment to requirement? Should existing towing vessels be treated differently from towing vessels yet to be built? The same act that requires inspection of towing vessels authorizes the USCG to develop a safety management system appropriate for the towing vessels. If such a system is developed, should its use be required for all inspected towing vessels? Examples of existing safety management systems include the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. If a safety management system is used, what elements should be included in such a system? New National Maritime Security Group Analyzes Port, Shipboard Safety The National Maritime Security Advisory Committee (NMSAC) from March 3-4 conducted its first meeting in Alexandria, Va. The conference partly served as a get-acquainted forum for the newly created body’s 20 charter members, including Bill Eglinton, director of training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Several top officials from Department of Homeland Security agencies including the U.S. Coast Guard also were in attendance. A series of briefings then took center stage. Presentations were given on the Commercial Operations Advisory Committee, Sector Coordinating Councils, and credentials. The status of the nation’s ports, towing issues to include towing vessel inspections, and probable agendas for future International Maritime Organization meetings also were addressed. Several noteworthy facts surfaced during the presentations involving U.S. ports: There are 3, 500 different port facilities in the United States. An estimated 9,500 American-flag vessels (inspected and uninspected) utilize these ports annually. Some 8,000 foreign-flag vessels also enter and exit these same ports on a yearly basis. These ports account for about $750 billion to the U.S. economy each year Once each of the gathering’s agenda topics had been ad- USCG photo by PA1 Mike Hvozda The Coast Guard cutter Hawser steams up the East River near lower Manhattan during a Homeland Security patrol last month. dressed, the committee decided to form the following four working groups: credentialing, communications, immigration and consistency The DHS in January established the NMSAC under the U.S. Coast Guard. Its mission is to provide advice to the DHS via the Coast Guard on matters such as national maritime security strategy and policy, actions required to meet current and future security threats, international cooperation on security issues, and security concerns of the maritime transportation industry as mandated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. USCG photo by PA3 Prentice Danner Petty Officer Frederick Leland and his K-9 counterpart Asia search a tanker vessel for explosives in the Port of Long Beach, Calif. on Feb. 23. Seafarers LOG 5 �26893_P2,4,6,12,13.qxd 3/24/2005 3:40 PM Page 6 USNS Roy Wheat Crew Donates to Marine Charity Crew members and officers from the Seafarers-contracted USNS Roy Wheat recently donated money to a non-profit group benefiting the families of wounded U.S. Marines. The crew donated $1,000 in honor of the ship’s namesake to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, a non-profit organization that “provides grants to the families of wounded Marines and Sailors who are struggling to make ends meet while helping their injured loved one recover,” the U.S. Military Sealift Command reported. The USNS Wheat 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. The SIU-crewed ship is named for Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat, who received the Medal of Honor for sacrificing his life to save the lives of two of his fellow Marines while serving in Vietnam. The 864-foot ship is operated by Keystone Shipping Co. for MSC. The crew received a $1,000 cash award from Keystone for conducting accidentfree operations throughout the past year. Instead of purchasing items such as exercise equipment and books to improve the quality of life aboard ship, the Wheat’s 31 mariners voted unanimously to donate the cash award to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. MSC quoted the ship’s captain as expressing “a certain kinship with the Marines we serve.” The decision to donate to the Marine Corps fund was reached while the vessel was in a shipyard in Mobile, Ala., according to the company. Those participating in the decision included the following SIU members: Bosun Charlie Haggins, Electrician Frank Michalski, Storekeeper Anthony Simon, Demac Renee Vasquez and Steward Emmanuel Zephyr. MFOW Announces Election Results The Marine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders and Wipers Association (MFOW) recently announced the results of its election for officers. Anthony Poplawski ran unopposed for the office of president, the union reported. He succeeds Henry “Whitey” Disley, who retired following more Anthony Poplawski is the than 30 years in office. Poplawski and the other newly new president of the MFOW. elected officials began a two-year term of office on March 15. The election ended on Feb. 2 and is subject to membership ratification. The MFOW also announced that William O’Brien is the union’s new vice president. He defeated two other candidates. Like Disley, former MFOW Vice President Robert Iwata retired and did not seek reelection. The MFOW is affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America. The SIU-crewed USNS Roy Wheat is part of the Military Sealift Command’s fleet of prepositioning ships. College Credits Approved for PHC Continued from page 3 The Paul Hall Center’s Academic Department reported that eight credits (total) were recommended for five of the unlicensed apprentice courses. The steward department courses reviewed were the Advanced Galley Operations and Chief Steward classes that resulted in the recommendation of 10 additional credits in that department. The Galley Operations and Certified Chief Cook programs were reviewed in 2001. Chef John Hetmanski, an instructor at the school, expressed his pleasure that now all of the courses in the steward department have ACE credit approval and can provide new educational opportunities for members of the department. In the deck department, 19 credits were approved, 10 of which are new. The deck department courses reviewed were Tanker (PIC) Barge (DL), Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman, AB/Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch, and Bridge Resource Management (Unlimited) and Celestial Navigation. Added to the growing list of courses approved by ACE are Fundamentals of Navigation, ECDIS and Tanker Person-inCharge Deep Sea (DL). For many of these courses the review committee recommended credits in Job Well Done on USNS Pomeroy An aerial view of the Paul Hall Center, where college credit is offered for completion of certain classes. Maritime Operations and Technologies. For the engine department a total of 45 credits were recommended for the FOWT, Junior Engineer, Marine Refrigeration Technician, Marine Refrigeration Containers Maintenance, Machinist, Chief Electrician and Marine Electrician courses. Likewise, the review committee recommended that many of these courses receive lower-level college credit in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Marine Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology or Industrial Maintenance Technology. It has long been the policy of ACE that learning outside the classroom can be measured for college credit. Since 1945, ACE’s Military Evaluation Program has assessed formal military courses in terms of academic credit. In 1974, the College Credit Recommendation Service was created to evaluate learning in business and industry settings. The Paul Hall Center called upon ACE in those early years to begin evaluating its courses in order to provide additional educational and training opportunities for its students and to verify the quality of the courses offered to the mariners. Since this initial collaboration with ACE, the College Credit Recommendation Service has saved mariners thousands of dollars in college tuition as students have submitted their course work from the Paul Hall Center to meet college course requirements. Colleges and universities have also been well-served by the program, because qualified adults from the workforce have been motivated to complete their postsecondary education knowing that their previous studies and life experiences can convert into college credits. It is important to note that each college or university determines which of the courses approved by ACE will be accepted toward a certificate or a degree. Students planning to use their Paul Hall Center courses for credit, or wanting information on how ACE-recommended credits could assist them with their continuing education, should contact the Academic Department at the Paul Hall Center prior to submitting their transcript. Any students who have already received transcripts from the center may also want to check with the Academic Department to see if the recent reviews have added additional credits to their transcripts. The school may be reached at (301) 994-0010. Pensioners Get Direct Deposit The master aboard the USNS Pomeroy last month commended SIU members for their work aboard the ship in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. “The crew did an outstanding job operating the vessel from the start of cargo operations in Kuwait until the completion of the download operations in Corpus Christi, Texas,” Captain Mike Finnigan noted. After the mission, “lots of crew were looking forward to heading to Piney Point for training and upgrading of their Coast Guard endorsements.” Pictured aboard the vessel are ABs Adrian Jones, Mark Hummel, Miles Janecka, Samuel Morgan and Sacarias Suazo; OSs Isaac Diaz and Asaad Al-Waseem; Storekeeper Christopher Maye; QMED/Electrician John Bouton; Steward/Baker Javier Delosreyes; Chief Cook Toni Johnson; SA Beverly Stevens; and SIU Patrolman Michael Russo. 6 Seafarers LOG The Seafarers Pension Plan last month announced that the Plan’s trustees have authorized implementation of a direct deposit program for SIU pensioners. According to a letter from Seafarers Plans Administrator Bill Dennis to SIU pensioners that was scheduled to be mailed March 28, for those who sign up for the direct deposit program, “Your benefit would be automatically deposited to either your checking or savings account on the last business day of the month prior to the month that you are being paid for, thus guaranteeing that your pension would be available when it is due. We plan to implement this program effective with the June pension payment.” The letter included an enrollment form which also will be available on the SIU web site (www.seafarers.org). The direct deposit program is set up only for banks located in the United States and Puerto Rico. April 2005 �26893_P5,7,15,19,20.qxd 3/28/2005 6:10 PM Page 7 Officials from ITF, U.S. Gov’t Review Treatment of Mariners ITF Inspector Credits Agencies for ‘Joint Effort’ Four individuals from the international maritime labor community and officials from several U.S. government agencies recently met to discuss circumstances surrounding the 2004 detention of 13 Filipino seamen and the allegations which subsequently were levied. SIU International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Inspector Enrico Esopa and fellow ITF Seafarers’ Section colleagues George A. Quick, Jeff Engels and Dwayne Boudreaux on March 2 converged on the Office of the Judge Advocate General at headquarters, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), to converse with officials from the Department of State, Department of Justice, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the USCG about alleged misconduct on the part of the U.S. during the aforementioned incident and what could be done to prevent future occurrences of such episodes. The 13 Filipino crew members last year were detained as material witnesses in a criminal proceeding involving the discharge of oil at sea. They were prohibited from leaving the United States for five months, but were not adequately provided for by U.S. authorities and were reduced to living on charity furnished by the port community in Los Angeles/ Long Beach. Among other issues, four main areas were discussed during the ITF/U.S. Government agency meeting: Security pacts – When shipowners and crew members are charged with crimes, the usual procedure is to release the ship following the investigation and once enough financial assets have been posted as security to cover potential fines or expenses. The terms of such agreements should specify the obligations of the shipowner as well as the circumstances under which the U.S. government will be permitted to take action against the financial assets of the company. In the situation at hand, the agreement only required the shipowner to provide for the crew members until November 2004. When the case was delayed beyond that date, the owner abandoned the crew. It was agreed during the meeting that future security agreements will be negotiated that provide for reasonable lodging, meals, medical care and continuation of normal wages and benefits until the end of legal proceedings and the repatriation of seafarers. No time limits will be instituted, and the responsible ITF coordinator will be included in the discussions for negotiation of security agreements. Protection from retaliation – The ITF was concerned that crew members who cooperate during criminal investigations against shipowners might be blackballed and denied future employment through agencies in their home countries. It was agreed that security pacts should have provisions against retaliation by the shipowners or their agents. Security agreements only can be enforced while financial assets are posted in the United States. These controls are no longer in effect when criminal proceedings are concluded. Since criminal proceedings end with the entering of a plea agreement to the courts, it was agreed that the plea agreements will incorporate the non-retaliation clause to bring them under court jurisdiction. Proper method of arrest – The ITF faction objected to the procedures employed against crew members who are material witnesses. The federation representatives described the use of armed force and handcuffs to remove peaceful mariners from a vessel as “unwarranted and excessive.” The government response was that such procedures were in place primarily for the safety of arresting officers. Arresting officers do not want to be placed in the position of having to decide who may or may not represent a threat to them. Consideration now is being given to a more appropriate procedure for voluntary surrender. Expediting the proceedings – Members of the ITF group pointed out that their primary goal was the timely release of crew members and their return to their vessel or repatriation. They also questioned whether it was necessary to detain mariners when their testimony could be preserved by deposition. The government response was that they are hampered by procedural rules and defense attorneys’ tactics that slow down the system, among other delays. All parties concerned agreed that each agency would benefit from continuing communications through forums such as their meeting. Perhaps Esopa spoke for everyone involved when he noted, “It was a good joint effort. We got a lot of things out in the open. It was a first-rate meeting, and the government deserves credit for being so open to our suggestions.” As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the Filipino crew members in question on Sept. 14 were detained by the USCG when their runaway-flag vessel, the cargo ship MV Katerina, was boarded and impounded. In addition to finding a host of violations relating to living conditions aboard the ship, officials discovered that the vessel’s oil sludge filter had been disabled and that the captain, chief engineer and second engineer had ordered the crew to dump oil waste and sewage overboard and conceal it from Coast Guard inspectors. One of the ship’s officers allegedly threatened crew members with bodily harm if they cooperated with the Coast Guard. When their vessel was impounded, the crew initially lived in a Holiday Inn in San Pedro, Calif. The shipowner stopped paying the hotel bill before Thanksgiving, so the crew in mid-December was sleeping on the floor of a charity group’s offices in Long Beach. They had no work permits, so they were not allowed to hold jobs. Report Takes Hard Look At Port Vulnerability The United States is using technology, intelligence, international cooperation and other resources in an effort to thwart a potential terrorist nuclear attack on its seaports. Despite these efforts, according to a Congressional Research Service (CRS) Report for Congress authored by Jonathan Medalia, the country’s ability to detect a bomb appears limited. Given this state of affairs, Medalia noted in “Terrorist Nuclear Attacks on Seaports: Threat and Response,” a terrorist nuclear attack on a U.S. seaport could cause local devastation and affect the global economy. Medalia is a specialist in National Defense in the CRS’s Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division. Terrorists might obtain a bomb in several ways, the report said. Each method, however, poses difficulties for the U.S, the report noted. Already, terrorists have tried April 2005 to obtain weapons of mass destruction (WMD)—chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear weapons. While it would probably be more difficult for terrorists to obtain or produce a nuclear weapon than other WMDs, Medalia warned that an attack on ports using a nuclear weapon warrants consideration because in some ways it would have more significant end result. According to the report, a terrorist Hiroshima-sized nuclear bomb exploded in a port would destroy buildings out to a mile or two; ignite fires, especially in a port that handled petroleum and chemicals; spread fallout over many square miles; disrupt commerce and kill many people. Medalia noted that many ports are located in major U.S. cities. A 10- to 20-kiloton weapon detonated in a major seaport would kill 50,000 to 1 million people. Further, the explosion would result in Meanwhile federal prosecutors forced DST Shipping Co., the ship’s operator, to post a $500,000 bond to ensure that it would respond to any future federal subpoenas and to pay for the crew’s lodging while the vessel was made seaworthy. Once upgrades were effected on the Katerina, however, it sailed away and the company reneged on its promise to pay the hotel bill. Since the crew had agreed to cooperate with federal prosecutors in their case against the vessel’s officers and had no place to stay, the government intervened. The one option that the U.S. government had at the time, according to a U.S. Attorney office spokesperson in Los Angeles, was to arrest them, detain them as material witnesses and place them in the care of the U.S. government. U.S. marshals consequently took them into custody. They later were released to a charitable group which arranged for their housing and subsistence until the completion of the trial. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Jan. 31 lodged a protest against the American authorities for their treatment of the crewmen prior to the trial. Published reports quote DFA spokesman Gilbert Asuque as saying that the 13 Filipino crew- men were handcuffed and shackled with leg irons after being subpoenaed as material witnesses for the criminal case by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California. “These are not defense witnesses. These are government witnesses. They invited these people and they still cuffed them. They should show them some courtesy,” Asuque was quoted as saying during a radio interview. “The Attorney General’s Office said this is standard procedure during criminal cases. We are protesting this,” he said, adding that the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. has sent a note to the U.S. Department of State on the ill treatment. In a related development, Ioannis Kallikis, of Athens, Greece, captain of the MV Katerina on Feb. 16 pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California in Los Angeles to charges that he obstructed justice by advising other crew members to destroy and conceal from USGC inspectors incriminating telexes relating to the use of bypass pipes on the vessel. The bypass pipe had been used to illegally discharge oil into the Pacific Ocean. Illegally discharging oil into the ocean can harm fish and other aquatic life. Junior Engineer Program Graduates 1st Female Students The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s junior engineer program that leads to receiving U.S. Coast Guard endorsements for junior engineer and deck engineer has graduated its first two female mariners. Lisa A. Harewood (left) of Brooklyn, N.Y. and Sharon D. Gilliam of Virginia Beach, Va. completed the 12-week course late last month. Gilliam is a member of the union’s Government Services Division. The class has been taught twice a year since its approval by the Coast Guard in 2002. During that time, 64 mariners have successfully completed the training. The program consists of four courses: auxiliary plant maintenance; basic electricity; basic refrigeration and HVAC; and basic propulsion systems maintenance. The junior engineer program is a prerequisite for all advanced engine department courses. direct property damage of $50 to $500 billion, plus $100 to $200 billion in losses because of trade disruption and indirect costs ranging from $300 billion to $1.2 trillion. Medalia suggested that there are many ways through which terrorists could attempt to smuggle a bomb into a U.S. port. One method would be via containers—metal boxes which can be moved between a tractor-trailer, a rail car or vessel. These boxes normally are 8 feet wide by 8-1/2 feet high by 20 or 40 feet long. Some 9 million of these containers enter the United States per year laden with global cargo. Sheer numbers alone also make containers potential couriers to terrorists. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agents screen data for all containers and reportedly inspect about 6 percent of them. These containers could hold a nuclear weapon, giving credibility to the proposition—held by many—that ports and containers are vulnerable. The report quotes an unidentified FBI official as stating, “The intelligence that we have certainly points to the ports as a key vulnerability of the United States and of a key interest to certain terrorist groups….” CBP Commissioner Robert Bonner believes an attack using a nuclear bomb in a container would halt container shipments, leading to “devastating” consequences for the global economy. …” People can, however, find ways to minimize economic problems, the report said. The main approach to reducing vulnerability to a terrorist nuclear attack is defense in depth, the report noted, using multiple methods to detect and stop a weapon. It would be harder to evade several methods than one. In addition, such an approach seeks to push detection and interdiction far from U.S. shores. While there are a great many national and international U.S.-led programs already on line and in operation, the report concluded that three main issues are at the forefront for Congress with respect to thwarting a nuclear attack: safeguarding foreign nuclear material, mitigating economic effects of an attack, and allocating funds between ports and other potential targets. Seafarers LOG 7 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 5:16 PM Page 8 Merchant Marine’s Vital Role In National, Economic Security Spelled Out by MTD Speakers The U.S. Merchant Marine received overwhelming support from high-ranking representatives of the military, Congress and the administration during the recent meetings of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board in Las Vegas. Offering their solid backing of maritime labor were U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta; Gen. John Handy, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); U.S. Reps. Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.), Norm Dicks (D-Wash.) and William Jefferson (D-La.); Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator John Jamian; Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Steven Blust; and Navy League of the United States President Sheila McNeill. MTD President Michael Sacco chaired the meetings, which took place Feb. 24-25. He described the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and talked about the efforts of U.S. citizen seafarers in U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks (D-Wash.) Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and in tsunami relief actions. “As many of you know, during the past three years, at least 20,000 union members have been called up as reservists in the war in Iraq,” Sacco observed. “At the same time, more than 4,000 members of our maritime unions have loaded and transported materiel to support our troops in the Persian Gulf. No matter our individual feelings about the political aspects of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I know that all of you join me in supporting our troops and particularly supporting our union brothers and sisters who are serving overseas.” Secretary Mineta noted, “We are a maritime nation. And the maritime industry is essential to our economic strength, to our productivity, and to the creation of American jobs.” He pointed out that the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) “supports the war on terror by giving us the wherewithal Navy League of the United States President Sheila McNeill MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (right in each photo) welcomes guest speakers to the executive board meetings: U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta; Gen. John Handy, commander, TRANSCOM; and U.S. Rep. William Jefferson (D-La.). to carry equipment and supplies to those charged with defending our freedom and expanding liberty. This program is one more important measure of the maritime industry’s vital importance to our economic and national security, and our commitment to addressing its needs.” Mineta further pointed out that the MSP fleet later this year will expand to 60 ships from its current level of 47. “When the new MSP begins on October 1 of this year, it will bring greater opportunities and more jobs for U.S. citizens,” he said. General Handy thanked everyone involved in the maritime industry for their efforts in supporting the movement of materiel in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. He cited the vast amount of cargo moved during the past three-plus years for those missions: 2.2 million people since October 2001 and almost 4.6 million short tons by sea, not counting 57.1 million barrels of fuel. Handy described the country’s union maritime workers as “incredible Americans” and said that they “stand tall and make you proud as Americans. We couldn’t do it without the incredible support of the nation’s unions.” He noted that 85 percent of the tonnage moved by TRANSCOM goes by sea. “The contribution of our commercial partners and the people you represent is dramatic. We don’t get these jobs done without that very strong tie.” The general further pointed out that the carrying capacity of one LMSR is equivalent to 420 C-17 airlifts. “That is incredible capability, and I wish every single American could understand and appreciate what this nation can do when we team together. But we can’t rest on those laurels. We need to modernize our shipping. We need to modernize our airlift capability.” Berkley said the nation’s cabotage laws are “true national security. I am a supporter of the Jones Act, and I support the Maritime Security Program Fleet.” Dicks echoed those senti- ments, saying that the MSP “is the biggest bargain the government has. This is insurance that saves the government billions of dollars that would be required to build and maintain those ships.” Continued on page 20 U.S. Rep. Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.) Paul Hall Center’s VSO Class 1st with MarAd Certification, Secretary Mineta Announces During his remarks to the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board, U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta delivered big news concerning the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The secretary announced that the Paul Hall Center’s vessel security officer (VSO) course is the first such curriculum approved by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd). He then congratulated SIU President Michael Sacco, the union and the Piney Point, Md.based school for the distinction. The VSO course may be useful for unlicensed and licensed mariners alike, because a ship’s master may designate any crew member to be in charge of vessel security. “This was a great team effort on the part of the instructors, administrators and others,” noted Paul Hall Center Curriculum Development Coordinator Lois Stephenson. “It demonstrated a truly coordinated push by the school, the union and its contracted companies on a matter of great importance to the entire industry: vessel security and related 8 Seafarers LOG mariner training.” The Paul Hall Center’s VSO curriculum consists of 12.5 hours of instruction. According to the school, students who successfully complete the class should be able to undertake the duties and responsibilities of a Ship Security Officer as defined in Section A/12.2 of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Among several others, those duties may include handling regular security inspections of the ship to ensure that appropriate security measures are maintained; maintaining and supervising the implementation of the ship security plan; coordinating the security aspects of the handling of cargo and ship’s stores with other shipboard personnel and with the relevant port facility security officers; proposing modifications to the ship security plan; and reporting to the company security officer any deficiencies and non-conformities identified during internal audits, periodic reviews, security inspections and verifications of compliance and implementing any corrective actions. School personnel noted that efforts to attain U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta (left) presents MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco with a certificate noting government certification of the Paul Hall Center’s vessel security officer course. the needed certification dated to late 2003, when the center’s curriculum development department was tasked with working out a VSO course to meet the industry’s needs. While awaiting finalization of the government approval process, the Paul Hall Center moved forward with the VSO training beginning last year. To date, approximately 200 students have completed the class, both at the Paul Hall Center and at their respective workplaces. That includes mariners from both the deep sea and inland divisions. U.S. Maritime Administrator John Jamian Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Steven Blust April 2005 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 5:35 PM Page 9 Freedom to Unionize Must Be Protected Several speakers at the MTD executive board meetings examined key issues facing the labor movement, with special emphasis by AFL-CIO President John Sweeney on the critical need to protect workers’ rights to join a union. Sweeney, MTD President Michael Sacco, U.S. Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-Calif.) and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) addressed important topics affecting America’s working families that the federation, its member unions (including the SIU) and pro-worker legislators are tackling. The board also passed a resolution supporting the Employee Free Choice Act—legislation designed to end discrimination against workers who try to organize. Additionally, Sacco and Sweeney offered comments on potential restructuring within the AFL-CIO, the national federation of unions. Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, praised the work done by Sweeney and described him as a “great role model for a labor leader. He’s done a tremendous job. Through his leadership and his team, we will continue to move along and do what we must do to protect the job security of our people.” “At a time like this, I think it’s important to remember the many great things about the labor movement, and what we’re capable of when we work together,” Sacco added. As just one recent example, he pointed to organized labor’s united efforts aiding tsunami victims, including the establishment of a relief fund through the Center for International Solidarity and the mobilization of aid workers. Further, he noted that members of the SIU and other maritime unions sailed more than a dozen ships into the disaster area. They carried food, fuel, medical supplies, construction and roadbuilding equipment, power generators and more. “That type of giving and caring—that type of unselfishness and dedication—reflect what the labor movement is all about,” Sacco added. “The bottom line is that the things that have always been good about the labor movement are still good today. Unions do more good for more working families than any other organizations out there.” Sweeney said that workers “need unions now more than ever, and millions would join unions if given a fair chance. That’s a fact. But our unions are struggling to help new workers organize, as more and more jobs are shipped overseas—as employers continue to use an endless variety of legal and illegal tactics to fight us. And as the NLRB (National Labor Relations Board) helps them by eroding the protections of the law.” He added that organized labor needs “a strong, coordinated April 2005 AFL-CIO President John Sweeney campaign to restore the freedom of every worker to organize a union and gain a voice at work.” He touched on internal challenges in the movement and the various proposals that have been submitted to restructure the federation. “We all agree on the need and the urgency to change and to grow…. Unity is our greatest asset. That does not mean we should avoid debate, but there can be no real solution that undermines the unity of working people.” MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco greets U.S. Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-Calif.) at the executive board meetings. Sanchez reminded audience members about the labor movement’s many key accomplishments throughout its history. She noted that unions won the eighthour work day, overtime pay, the 40-hour work week, pension plans, health care plans and the Family Medical and Leave Act. “Labor did that for all American workers, whether they were in a union or not,” she stated. “Each of these ideas of labor collectively working together … were an important piece of mak- ing the standard of living of Americans something that every country envied.” Sanchez was one of several speakers who expressed deep distress over the national health care crisis, pointing out that it is a long-term problem. Additionally, she cited concerns regarding government workers losing their collective bargaining rights under the guise of homeland security. She further suggested that the danger extended well beyond those individuals U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) losing their rights: “Where our government workers go, so goes the private sector.” Thompson emphasized the need for unions to continue organizing new members and pledged his ongoing support to America’s working families. He noted that he has a 100 percent voting record for labor, despite representing part of a socalled right-to-work state. “I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for organized labor,” he said. MTD Board Tackles Key Issues The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, consists of 29 international unions (including the SIU) and 24 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing approximately 6.5 million working men and women. The MTD executive board met Feb. 2425 in Las Vegas, where board members and guests addressed numerous issues of importance to the U.S. Merchant Marine and to all working families. The articles on this page and page 8 are based on remarks and policy statements presented at the meetings. Seafarers LOG 9 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/28/2005 6:44 PM Page 10 Activities Around the Port of Houston Following a meeting on the G&H tug Denia are (from left) Roy Lindley Jr., Charles Barnes, Bradley Albrecht and Forrest Albrecht. Crew members from the Denia and the Manta join forces for a group photo. They include William Ulch, William Ulch Jr., Michael Zepeda, Jacques Mouttet and Jack Gonzalez. In photo at right, Houston Patrolman Michael Russo is surrounded by crew members from the Global Patriot (above) after holding a shipboard meeting aboard the DynMarine vessel. The Global Patriot is the former Buffalo Soldier. When Houston Safety Director Kevin Marchand (right) serviced the USNS Pomeroy in Beaumont, Texas recently, he met up with an old friend, John Kolodziej. The two used to be roommates years ago and are best of friends, even though they had not seen each other in a long time. Kolodziej has come a long way in a short period of time, notes Marchand, by working hard and upgrading at every opportunity. Now he is sailing as a bosun and enjoying life at sea. After meeting with the Houston patrolman, crew members aboard the Charleston gather for a group photo (above right). At left are Steward/Baker Charles Roland (left) and ACU Gamal Asaad. Right: Leoncio Gonzalez, who sails from the port of Houston, just boarded the Lykes Navigator, where he will be the chief cook. These four photos of crew members were taken aboard Sealift’s Wilson. The photo above left was shot on the gangway in Lake Charles, La. before setting sail for Galveston. The others were taken in Galveston following a visit by Safety Director Kevin Marchand. The freighter makes runs to Africa, primarily loaded with grain, but sometimes also is called upon to carry containers. Members of the steward department on the vessel include GSTU Ricardo Arauz, Steward/Baker Arturo Rodriguez, Chief Cook Lizzie Robinson and GSTU Teodoro Flores. The deck department includes OS Melvin Mitchell, AB Miles Souders, AB Christopher Hodder, OMU Antonio Myrick, Bosun Andrew Jones and STOS Angel Manlunas. G&H Towing in Galveston has just taken delivery of a new Z-drive tug, the William M. The tug actually is owned by McAllister Towing but currently is under lease to G&H until their new ones come come out of the yard. G&H Towing is building two new Z-drive tugs for use in the Houston harbor area. 10 Seafarers LOG April 2005 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 7:13 PM Page 11 Happy Holidays at Sea . . . . . . Aboard the Alaskan Frontier The holidays aboard the SIU-crewed Alaskan Frontier were all the merrier with help from the galley gang. From the left are Chief Cook Saleh Ahmed, Steward/Baker Greg Lynch and SA Welington Furment. As the year 2004 came to an end, crew members aboard the Alaskan Frontier were the first to celebrate the holidays on the newly built tanker. Chief Cook Saleh Ahmed considers himself lucky to be among the first to help celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s on the state-of-the-art double-hull oil tanker, commanded by Capt. Richard Beza. He also believes the delicious holidays meals presented to the crew couldn’t have been such a success without the help of Steward/Baker Greg Lynch, Chief Steward John Huyett and the able assistance of SA Welington Furment. The Alaskan Frontier is the first of four Alaska-class double-hull oiler tankers being built for BP Oil Shipping Co., USA and was delivered last August. The environmentally friendly tanker is operated by SIUcontracted Alaska Tanker Company. The Alaskan Frontier and the other tankers in the Alaska Class allow maximum flexibility for oil deliveries from Alaska to West Coast ports, including BP refineries in Los Angeles, Calif., and Cherry Point, Wash. . . . Aboard the PFC Eugene A. Obregon Pre-positioning ships like the SIU-crewed Obregon are chartered by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and carry ammunition, supplies and military vehicles. They are stationed in areas of the world where there is the potential for conflict or a crisis requiring rapid availability of military equipment. As on other ships that are at sea over the holidays, steward department members try especially hard to make the occasions cheerful and festive and with lots of good food, as is evidenced by a copy of the Christmas menu below. Assistant Cook/Utility Chris D’Andrea prepares a plate for one crew member while Chief Cook Jessie Burnett makes up another order. Left: Bosun Bernard “Hutch” Hutcherson enjoys the Christmas dinner with ABs Bill Kratsas, Jason Farr and Angelo Acosta. Chief Steward Patrick Helton applies an egg wash to one of two horns o’plenty before it goes into the oven. It will later be used as a centerpiece for the dessert table. SA Erin Davis stands ready to replenish items on the dessert table as needed. SA Rene Alfaro looks over the salad bar that he and the chief steward put together. The twin turkeys are almost ready, according to Chief Cook Jessie Burnett. April 2005 The assortment of items in the salad bar alone seems to be enough for a meal. Seafarers LOG 11 �26893_P2,4,6,12,13.qxd 3/28/2005 7:22 PM Page 12 Darin Heine Marie Acosta, upholsterer Ryan Arisumi, assistant maître d’ Monica Pratt, senior stateroom steward Kari Moore, restaurant hostess Erwin Villegas at pool barbecue Steven Soltysik, assistant carpenter The “Aloha Spirit” is alive and well aboard the SIU-c Aloha. Taken earlier this year aboard the NCL Amer sailed on one of its seven-day cruises around the Ha these photos show some of the reasons for the ship’s s Whether’s it’s keeping the engines going, the cabins guests well fed and happy—the Seafarers aboard this v of the best trained in their field and have truly helped flag deep sea cruise ship industry a new beginning. Now, more good news is on the way as the com preparations for the launching of the Pride of America and the Pride of Hawaii in 2006. There may be so among the ships, but what remains constant is the positi tude of the Seafarers who make each voyage a safe an Matthew Meehan, assistant waiter Antonio Dayrit The crew galley gang 12 Seafarers LOG Vacuuming hotel deck 5 Yolanda Freeman, stateroom stewardess Deborah Figue April 2005 �26893_P2,4,6,12,13.qxd 3/28/2005 7:24 PM Page 13 Crystal Johnson, junior waitress during a passenger drill Margaret “Maggie” Young, head steward room supervisor The muster leaders: Lisa Robertson, restaurant and Shannon Murphy, cruise staff Jaylin Allen, utility hotel Ernesto Lomboy, AB watch The bakeshop SIU-crewed Pride of America vessel as it e Hawaiian Islands, p’s success. bins spotless or the this vessel are some lped give the U.S.company continues erica later this year, e some differences positive, can-do attie and happy one. The reception crew John Menley, 2nd baker Nikkee Pan Figueroa, Nikkee Pan, Pamela “Sunshine” Woods, Crystal Johnson April 2005 Robert Murray, deck steward/bar department Pacific Heights galley gang Seafarers LOG 13 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 8:11 PM Page 14 In and Around the Mobile Hall B eginning with the expansion of the cotton trade in the 1800s, the port of Mobile has been a major participant in America's waterborne commerce and has contributed to the region's and the nation's economic well being. Depicted in these photos is some of the recent SIU activity around that port. AB Stephen Thompson and his wife, Joyce, look over a copy of the latest Seafarers LOG on a recent visit to the Mobile union hall. PFC EUGENE A. OBREGON — Gathered around a table during the shipboard meeting are (from left) AB Thomas Ward, Bosun Charlie Frisella, AB Michael Long, AB Cleveland West and QMED Mahmoud Khalil. CARIBE PIONEER — Mate Sonny Nguyen (left), OS Steve Kuithe (center) and Cook Ron Gibbs complete another voyage on the Caribe Pioneer, which hauls railroad tanker cars between Mobile and Ponce, P.R. Remembering a Brother MANHATTAN ISLAND — From the left are Floyd Phillips, Nathan Eldridge, Ed Mancke and Daryl Stewart. PFC EUGENE A. OBREGON — Galley gang members on the Obregon include SA Erin Davis, Chief Cook Jessie Burnett, Steward Patrick Helton, ACU Marian Chacon and SA Rene Alfaro. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Robert G. Haller of Williamstown, N.J. kneels in prayer for his late brother Charles “Chuck” William Haller at the U.S. Armed Forces burial grounds in Williamstown on Christmas day. With him is the American flag used in Chuck’s burial services. Chuck Haller was a member of the SIU from 1970 until his death in February 2000. He sailed in the engine department. His younger brother Robert also sails as an engine department member. MANHATTAN ISLAND — Carl Sanderson (left) is the mate aboard the Manhattan Island; Fenton Whitlow is the captain. Membership Approves Tally Comittee Report During the March membership meetings, Seafarers approved the report of the rank-and-file tallying committee, which detailed the results of the recently concluded SIU general election. As constitutionally provided, the union tallying committee did not count the votes for those 25 candidates who were unopposed for any office or job, and such candidates were considered elected. The positions include: Michael Sacco, president John Fay, executive vice president David Heindel, secretary-treasurer Joseph Soresi, vice president Atlantic Coast Dean Corgey, vice president Gulf Coast Nicholas Marrone, vice president West Coast Thomas Orzechowski, vice president Great Lakes and Inland Waters Kermett Mangram, vice president Government Services René Lioeanjie, vice president at large Charles Stewart, vice president at large George Tricker, assistant vice president contracts Nick Celona, assistant vice president Atlantic Coast Ambrose Cucinotta, assistant vice president Gulf Coast Don Anderson, assistant vice president West Coast James McGee, assistant vice president Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters Chester Wheeler, assistant vice president Government Services Edward Morris, Piney Point port agent Robert Selzer, New York port agent 14 Seafarers LOG Joseph Mieluchowski, Philadelphia port agent Edward Kelly Jr., Mobile port agent Stephen Judd, New Orleans port agent Anthony McQuay, Houston port agent Vincent Coss, San Francisco port agent Rebecca Sleeper, St Louis port agent Donald Thornton, Detroit-Algonac port agent. The report noted that there were two or more candidates in each of the following two races for office: vice president contracts and Baltimore port agent. In those respective elections, the committee reported the following results from eligible votes cast: Vice president contracts—Augustin Tellez received 86 percent of eligible votes cast; Carl Sands received 14 percent. Baltimore port agent—Georg Kenny received 81 percent of eligible votes cast; Michael Murphy received 19 percent. The committee also reported that the membership approved each of the two proposed constitutional amendments appearing on the ballot. In order, the amendments pertained to amending Article XII, qualifications for officers, assistant vice president, headquarters representatives, port agents and other elective jobs and amending the first sentence of Article XIII regarding the election of a credentials committee. The proposed amendments were approved with the majority of eligible votes accounting for 86 and 89 percent, respectively. As reported in previous issues of the Seafarers LOG, voting took place via secret ballot from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004. The tallying committee was composed of 20 Seafarers (two members elected from each of the SIU’s 10 constitutional halls). Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. April 2005 �26893_P5,7,15,19,20.qxd 3/24/2005 4:26 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May & June 2005 Membership Meetings FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 1 0 4 1 3 23 23 0 9 14 28 6 4 1 9 18 0 36 18 2 4 7 7 9 23 31 0 8 12 18 19 1 25 12 8 9 28 12 0 5 1 3 1 23 11 1 2 12 11 6 3 0 1 9 1 13 8 2 0 6 0 10 10 17 0 11 9 16 7 2 1 10 10 0 26 23 0 5 7 7 8 13 12 1 8 11 10 12 4 11 3 3 9 15 16 0 3 1 1 3 7 3 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 8 6 1 0 1 0 3 9 13 0 5 5 12 6 1 0 1 5 0 13 10 1 0 11 1 10 50 56 0 15 40 54 10 8 1 11 36 1 61 27 5 7 7 8 14 37 53 1 11 23 35 21 4 16 26 16 5 57 32 0 5 2 3 1 36 30 1 6 23 35 10 4 1 1 9 1 29 20 198 235 111 160 155 42 85 393 378 217 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington 0 0 5 1 4 11 10 1 8 9 8 12 2 0 3 6 0 6 6 0 0 0 3 8 4 16 1 4 14 13 8 3 2 4 5 0 11 14 2 0 0 0 0 5 9 0 1 2 5 2 0 0 1 1 1 6 6 0 0 2 0 5 9 20 1 3 8 5 5 0 0 4 11 0 11 8 0 0 0 1 5 4 13 0 5 5 6 8 1 2 2 5 0 17 8 0 0 0 1 0 4 5 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 5 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 4 0 1 3 9 1 1 0 0 2 0 9 3 2 0 9 1 9 13 33 0 14 16 20 11 5 1 4 17 0 12 8 0 1 3 4 9 12 30 1 5 13 20 15 5 2 6 9 1 27 15 3 0 2 0 3 6 12 0 4 4 13 6 1 1 2 4 2 8 8 Totals 92 110 41 92 82 23 35 175 178 79 1 0 1 0 7 15 15 0 3 8 13 10 1 4 1 22 1 10 16 0 0 3 1 4 3 22 1 5 4 6 11 2 3 2 3 1 6 8 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 0 0 1 1 6 0 1 0 1 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 9 12 7 0 3 5 14 10 2 0 1 16 0 12 9 0 0 0 0 3 1 10 0 1 0 4 13 1 1 3 1 0 2 6 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 5 0 1 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 2 2 7 0 0 2 7 4 0 1 2 3 0 1 3 1 0 5 1 10 27 35 0 7 18 30 13 1 5 2 44 2 30 40 1 0 4 2 8 8 30 1 9 6 7 17 2 3 1 9 2 10 15 0 0 1 0 1 5 5 0 0 3 4 5 0 2 1 2 0 7 9 128 85 25 100 46 16 34 271 135 45 0 0 0 0 2 2 3 0 1 2 7 0 0 0 3 2 0 5 1 0 1 4 4 5 13 13 0 7 5 22 11 0 20 0 9 1 16 5 2 8 0 3 8 17 17 0 2 7 21 8 0 20 2 6 1 15 10 0 0 0 0 3 4 2 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 2 2 2 4 8 0 2 1 12 4 0 5 0 11 1 13 0 0 0 0 0 7 5 5 0 1 2 0 11 0 31 2 3 2 10 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 4 7 0 1 7 10 0 0 0 4 4 0 10 4 0 5 9 4 14 21 31 0 17 12 55 14 0 18 3 15 2 29 12 6 15 2 4 15 29 37 0 3 19 60 14 3 17 0 19 0 26 25 28 136 147 18 68 83 0 62 261 294 446 566 324 370 351 164 154 901 952 635 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 Algonac ..................Friday: May 6, June 10 Baltimore ................Thursday: May 5, June 9 Boston.....................Friday: May 6, June 10 Duluth .....................Wednesday: May 11, June 15 Guam ......................Thursday: May 19, June 23 Honolulu .................Friday: May 13, June 17 Houston ..................Monday: May 9, June 13 Jacksonville ............Thursday: May 5, June 9 Joliet .......................Thursday: May 12, June 16 Mobile ....................Wednesday: May 11, June 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: May 10, June 14 New York ...............Tuesday: May 3, June 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: May 5, June 9 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: May 4, June 8 Port Everglades ......Thursday: May 12, June 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: May 12, June 16 San Juan..................Thursday: May 5, June 9 St. Louis .................Friday: May 13, June 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: May 20, June 24 Wilmington ...............Monday: May 16, June 20 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. With Seafarers on the Cape Orlando STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Piney Point .............Monday: May 2, June 6 ENTRY DEPARTMENT SIU San Francisco Port Agent Vince Coss (left in both photos above) recently met with crew members (top) on the Cape Orlando in San Francisco. The Cape Orlando (below) is a roll-on/roll-off vessel that is part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF). In photo directly above, Coss greets Capt. Frank Johnston, Western Region director for the U.S. Maritime Administration. *“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. April 2005 Seafarers LOG 15 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 8:22 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 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 12 9 5 3 9 2 0 6 46 3 4 4 3 6 0 0 2 22 0 2 4 3 6 1 1 1 18 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 8 11 4 5 13 0 0 5 46 1 2 4 0 4 0 0 2 13 0 3 5 2 6 1 1 1 19 2 3 7 2 5 0 1 1 21 10 32 14 13 39 7 1 8 124 2 5 4 5 7 1 0 5 29 0 23 0 19 2 0 5 0 49 1 1 3 1 1 1 0 1 9 3 15 7 8 11 2 1 10 57 0 1 6 2 1 0 1 1 12 0 16 2 15 0 1 0 2 36 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 3 6 8 6 11 2 1 5 42 1 5 4 1 15 0 0 1 27 0 17 1 15 0 1 0 0 34 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 4 0 1 7 0 0 3 18 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 5 0 0 4 1 1 1 0 1 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 2 0 1 6 0 0 3 16 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 3 1 1 1 0 2 8 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 9 3 3 0 5 1 0 3 24 1 0 3 1 4 0 0 1 10 0 3 0 2 3 0 0 0 8 Port 8 5 3 5 3 0 0 2 26 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 0 7 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 5 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 88 37 34 88 24 32 32 223 68 119 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Arthur K. Johannessen of Stavanger, Norway. It was taken in the early ’70s aboard the SS Mariposa on a 13-day voyage to Alaska. He is the third from the right in the second row. Brother Johannessen joined the union in San Francisco, sailing as a room steward and waiter. He notes that Matson Line’s Lurline was his first ship. “It was like a home to me,” he stated in a note accompanying the photo. “We always had the same crew, and we got along so well. I miss them all.” He returned to his native Norway after the ship was sold and ran a mink farm until he took a well-deserved retirement. Now 80 years of age and in good health, Brother Johannessen sends his warmest greetings to all his friends. 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. April 2005 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/24/2005 5:26 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA JAMES DAVIS, 55, began his Seafaring career in 1967 in New York. Brother Davis, who was born in Virginia, first went to sea aboard the Petrochem. The deck department member was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Davis most recently shipped on the Achiever. He is a resident of his native state. KASSEM SALEH, 61, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Saleh shipped as a member of the steward department in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. He first sailed aboard American Steamship’s Reiss Brothers. Born in Arabia, Brother Saleh enhanced his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. in 2000. He makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. THOR WAAGSBO, 61, joined the SIU in 1967 in Wilmington, Calif., first sailing aboard the Penn Carrier. Brother Waagsbo worked as a member of the deck department and upgraded on two occasions in Piney Point, Md. His last voyage was on the Defender. Born in New Orleans, Brother Waagsbo now resides in Seattle, Wash. SAMUEL WOOTEN, 66, embarked on his SIU career in 1988 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Wooten’s first voyage was aboard the USNS Triumph. The deck department member was born in Louisiana and attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 2004. He last sailed on the Developer and calls League City, Texas home. INLAND ELTON ADAMS, 62, was born in Texas. Boatman Adams began his seafaring career in 1963 in Port Arthur. He first shipped aboard the Seabulk Tanker in the deck department. Boatman Adams lives in his native state. April 2005 ROBERT AUGUST SR., 65, joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman August was a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills numerous times at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He worked primarily aboard vessels owned by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Boatman August, who was born in Georgia, now makes his home in Titusville, Fla. LARRY BELCHER, 64, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1987. Boatman Belcher worked primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels. The Texas-born mariner shipped in the deck department. Boatman Belcher upgraded his skills in 2000 and 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Runge, Texas. DAVID BREUNING, 62, is a native of Colorado and joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Breuning first sailed in the deck department of an Allied Transportation vessel. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Breuning is a resident of Long Beach, Calif. He last sailed aboard a vessel operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. JOHN BUNTING III, 56, began sailing with the SIU in 1989. Boatman Bunting worked as a member of the deck department aboard Crowley vessels. Born in Philadelphia, he now calls Franklinville, N.J. home. ROBERT DOUGLAS, 61, became a member of the SIU in 1969 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Douglas worked in the deck department and sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Interstate Oil Transportation Co. He was born in New Jersey, which is where he continues to live. JAMES HOPPER, 65, launched his seafaring profession in 1981 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman Hopper was born in New York. He first shipped on the Padre Island in the engine department. He most recently went to sea aboard the Sugar Island. Boatman Hopper makes his home in Troy, Pa. GERALD LABOVE, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1986 in the port of Houston. Boatman LaBove was born in Texas and worked in the deck department. He sailed primarily aboard tugs operated by Moran Towing of Texas. Boatman LaBove is a resident of Sabine Pass, Texas. ROY LOFTON, 62, was born in Mississippi. Boatman Lofton joined the union in 1964 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He was initially employed by Dravo Basic Materials Co., where he worked in the deck department. Boatman Lofton lives in Alabama and last sailed aboard the Martin Marietta. Boatman Wells was born in Texas and enhanced his skills frequently at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the USNS Altair. Boatman Wells calls Nederland, Texas home. 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. EMILIO FLORES, 65, joined the NMU in 1969, initially shipping out of the port of Philadelphia. Brother Flores was born in San Juan and worked as a member of the engine department. His first ship was the Gulf Crest; his last was the American Puritan. Name Age EDP Barbo, Ronald 66 Feb. 1 Harris, Larry 55 March 1 Sanbula, Warren 57 March 1 Trotman, Stephen 59 Jan. 1 WILLIAM SMITH JR., 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1969 from the port of Houston. Boatman Smith first shipped with G&H Towing Co. He attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in 2000, 2001 and again in 2004. Born in Texas, Boatman Smith was a member of the deck department. His last trip to sea was on a Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville vessel. Boatman Smith resides in Bellaire, Texas. STEVE WELLS, 57, became a Seafarer in 1973 in the port of Houston. Boatman Wells first sailed on the Puget Sound. The deck department member shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions during his career. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 After a strike of less than one week’s duration, the SIU reached agreement with the Peninsula and Occidental Steamship Company. The agreement provided for a complete closed shop and all hiring to be done through the union hall. In addition to wage increases, the agreement established the payment of overtime for all work performed on Saturday afternoons, Sundays and holidays both at sea and in port, including the standing of regular watches. Cuba and Florida where Cuban MIGs attacked the American shrimp boat Ala with rockets and machine guns on February 20. Seafarer Jack Nelson, an AB, took pictures of the attack from the deck, which he handed over to U.S. intelligence sources when the ship docked in Miami. 1992 Persian Gulf sealift operations, which at one point included 205 dry cargo ships and 22 tankers, ended in midApril when the last vessel carrying U.S. military equipment was redeployed from Ad Dammam, Saudi Arabia, the Military Sealift Command announced recently. That ended a process which began in August 1990, immediately after Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. Since then, more than 15 million tons of cargo and fuel were transported to and from the Middle East aboard U.S.-flag vessels—many of them crewed by SIU members—including Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships, MSC-contracted vessels and privately owned commercial ships. This Month In SIU History 1963 The SIU-manned Floridian became the first American merchant ship fired on by Cuban MIG jet airplanes when she was attacked last Thursday, March 28, by two Russian-built aircraft about 50 miles north of Cuba. The jets first circled the ship for 20 minutes before opening up with their machine guns. The attack came in the same waters between Seafarers LOG 17 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/24/2005 5:37 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE ANNIS Pensioner George Annis, 74, passed away Oct. 24. Brother Annis began his seafaring career in 1953 in the port of Mobile, Ala. after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. He first shipped on the Salem Maritime in the deck department. Brother Annis was born in Philadelphia. His final trip to sea was aboard the Sea-Land Producer. A pensioner since 1988, he lived in Kenner, La. LEONARD BARTLETT Pensioner Leonard Bartlett, 77, died Dec. 26. Brother Bartlett was born in Alabama. He joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Houston. Brother Bartlett was a member of the deck department in both the inland and deep sea divisions. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he last sailed aboard the Rover. Brother Bartlett resided in his native state and went on pension in 1999. MICHAEL DROST Brother Michael Drost, 36, passed away Nov. 8. He first donned the SIU colors in 1999, initially sailing on the Global Sentinel. Brother Drost was born in San Diego, Calif. and shipped as a member of the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Beaver State. Brother Drost made his home in Shelton, Wash. ELTON HAMATY Pensioner Elton Hamaty, 88, died Dec. 14. Brother Hamaty joined the union in 1944 in New York. The U.S. Army veteran initially worked aboard the Cornhusker State in the deck department. His last voyage was aboard the cable ship Long Lines. Brother Hamaty became a pensioner in 1982. Born in Poplar Bluff, Mo., he resided in Norfolk, Va. JOHN KELLEY JR. Pensioner John Kelley Jr., 56, passed away Dec. 31. Brother Kelley embarked on his career with the SIU in 1969 in New York. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and a native of Boston. Brother Kelley initially worked on the Eagle Voyager, where he shipped in the deck department. His final expedition was aboard the Horizon Reliance. Brother Kelley called Puyallup, Wash. home. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2004. MIKE OHANNESIAN Pensioner Mike Ohannesian, 78, died July 8. Brother Ohannesian joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first ship was the 18 Seafarers LOG Alcoa Planter, where he worked in the deck department. Brother Ohannesian was born in Michigan and lived in Long Beach, Calif. Prior to retiring in 1991, he sailed on board the Explorer. EDWIN PARSLEY Pensioner Edwin Parsley, 78, passed away Oct. 4. Brother Parsley started his seafaring career in 1947 after serving in the U.S. Navy. He shipped in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Parsley’s initial trip to sea was aboard a Doric Shipping vessel; his last was on the Liberator. Born in Indiana, Brother Parsley retired in 1983 and made his home in Blue Eye, Mo. ALBERT REEVES Pensioner Albert Reeves, 79, died Oct. 11. Brother Reeves launched his SIU career in 1966 in the port of Houston. The U.S. Navy veteran was born in Alabama and worked in the steward department. Brother Reeves first went to sea aboard the Alice Brown; his last voyage was on the Duchess. Brother Reeves, who went on pension in 1995, was a resident of Houston. STANLEY SCHUYLER JAMES SOTO Brother James Soto, 54, died Oct. 22. He began his seafaring career in 1979 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Soto was a member of the engine department. His first voyage was on the Overseas Aleutian. Brother Soto’s most recent trip to sea was aboard the Allegiance. Born in San Pedro, Calif., he called Sandpoint, Idaho home. LIONEL STROUT Pensioner Lionel Strout, 83, passed away Nov. 13. Brother Strout became a member of the SIU in 1967 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Iberville; his last was the Courier. Brother Strout was born in Maine and worked in the steward department. The U.S. Air Force veteran went on pension in 1986. He made his home in Selma, Ala. TEOFILO TORRES Pensioner Teofilo Torres, 86, died Sept. 27. Brother Torres joined the SIU in 1943 in New York. The Puerto Rico-born mariner sailed in the engine department. Brother Torres began collecting retirement stipends in 1968. He called Fajardo, P.R. home. Pensioner Stanley Schuyler, 88, passed away Oct. 7. Brother Schuyler joined the union in 1950 in New York. He first sailed on a vessel owned by Transport Commercial. Brother Schuyler was a U.S. Army veteran and shipped in the steward department. He was born in Portland, Ore. and resided in Palm Beach, Fla. Brother Schuyler began receiving his retirement pay in 1978. His last ship was the Houston. KIRK VANSCOY SUNG SHU BEN WEINBERG Pensioner Sung Shu, 76, died Dec. 30. Brother Shu began his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. Born in China, he first worked aboard Delta Lines’ Venezuela. Brother Shu’s last ship was the Kainalu. A pensioner since 1994, he called San Francisco home. RONALD SIMS Brother Ronald Sims, 68, passed away Nov. 23. He joined the MC&S in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Sims was born in Nome, Alaska and resided in Bellingham, Wash. Brother Kirk Vanscoy, 58, passed away Dec. 13. Born in Oakland, Calif., he embarked on his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Vanscoy initially went to sea aboard the Santa Mercedes. The steward department member last shipped on the Liberator. Brother Vanscoy made his home in Livermore, Calif. Pensioner Ben Weinberg, 95, died July 17. Born in New York, Brother Weinberg joined the union in 1953. He initially sailed aboard the Santa Venetia in the deck department. Brother Weinberg’s final trip was on the Gateway. He retired in 1977 and called Winnetka, Calif. home. ing with the SIU in 1960 after serving in the U.S. Navy. He shipped in the deck department. Boatman Davis was born in Maryland. Before retiring in 1985, he worked aboard an American Towing & Transport vessel. Boatman Davis was a resident of Berlin, Md. WALLACE DELUCA Pensioner Wallace Deluca, 82, passed away Dec. 20. A U.S. Navy veteran, Boatman Deluca was born in Philadelphia. He began his career in 1975 and went on pension in 1983. Boatman Deluca resided in Damon, Texas. 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. RANDELL ANDERSON Pensioner Randell Anderson, 60, passed away Dec. 23. Brother Anderson became an NMU member in 1973. Sailing from Galveston, Texas, his first ship was the Marine Dow-Chemical. Brother Anderson was born in Texas City, Texas. A pensioner since 1996, he last sailed aboard the Margaret Lykes. JUAN ARROYO Pensioner Juan Arroyo, 84, died Dec. 13. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Arroyo began his seafaring career in 1953 in the port of New York. His initial trip to sea was on the Ranger, where he worked in the engine department. Before retiring in 1980, Brother Arroyo sailed in the steward department aboard the Austral Ensign. WILLIAM COOK INLAND Pensioner William Cook, 78, passed away Dec. 22. Brother Cook joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He was a native of South Carolina and first went to sea on the James Ellwood Jones. Brother Cook’s last voyage was aboard the Ticonderoga. He started collecting his pension in 1972. BRIAN ARNOLIE YOA LOONG Boatman Brian Arnolie, 31, passed away July 27. Born in Louisiana, he joined the SIU in 1993 in New Orleans. Boatman Arnolie shipped aboard Delta Queen Steamship vessels during his career with the union. He resided in his native state. Pensioner Yoa Loong, 93, died Dec. 15. Brother Loong embarked on his NMU profession in 1950. He first shipped from Newport News, Va. aboard the Clarksville. Brother KENNETH DAVIS Pensioner Kenneth Davis, 79, died Dec. 18. Boatman Davis started sail- Loong was born in China and last sailed on the Argosy. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1978. FRANK MARRERO Pensioner Frank Marrero, 80, passed away Jan. 17. Brother Marrero donned the NMU colors in 1945 in New Orleans. His first trip was on the Frank Lever. Brother Marrero worked as a member of the steward department, most recently aboard the Zoella Lykes. He went on pension in 1986. JOHN SHUKIS Pensioner John Shukis, 74, died Dec. 20. Brother Shukis joined the union in 1945 in Seattle. His maiden voyage was aboard the Zoella Lykes. Brother Shukis was born in Centralia, Wash. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1995. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU brothers, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE Baldacchin, Lawrence 84 Blyden, David 84 Boatner, Raymond 68 Brown, Austin 93 Brown, James 68 Caron, Leo 77 Carr, James 74 Chaplain, Dennis 70 Concepcion, Juan 87 Dickerson, Russell 85 DoAmaral, Oseas 92 Duran, Juan 85 Escobar, Nick 94 Estrada, Sancho 82 Forbes, Samuel 89 Frilot, Raymond 77 Gajate, Michael 74 Glenn, Henry 81 Harris, Henry 71 Jacobson, Ray 92 Johnson, Oscar 84 Ledbetter, Paul 79 Litrico, Adriano 80 Martin, Clifford 76 Martin, Gilbert 72 Matlba, Bynun 79 Mazier, Alejandro 82 McElhaney, Gaston 78 Medina, Alfredo 81 Palhao, Domingos 88 Pickens, Maxine 95 Pineda, Juan 84 Robles, Julio 75 Shima, Wilfred 85 Sorapuru, Joseph 82 Steptoe, Jessie 65 Turnbull, Esmond 75 Vlasak, Gustav 85 Waterman, Ervin 82 Woodson, Larkin 81 DOD Dec. 19 Sept. 8 Jan. 18 Jan. 25 Dec. 29 Dec. 13 Dec. 6 Nov. 22 Jan. 25 Dec. 20 Dec. 19 Dec. 18 Jan. 15 Dec. 8 Jan. 26 Dec. 5 Jan. 15 Dec. 14 Oct. 2 Jan. 29 Dec. 27 Jan. 12 Dec. 4 Dec. 31 Nov. 11 Jan. 13 Nov. 22 Jan. 22 Dec. 2 Jan. 22 Dec. 18 Dec. 6 Dec. 22 Dec. 25 Nov. 23 Jan. 20 Jan. 13 Dec. 30 Dec. 21 Oct. 29 April 2005 �26893_P5,7,15,19,20.qxd 3/28/2005 7:26 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. CAPE JACOB (American Overseas Marine), Jan. 28— Chairman Robert W. Johnson, Secretary Anthony L. Curran, Educational Director Matthew P. Ditullio. Chairman talked about vacation pay, how it is calculated and how to apply for it. He announced new e-mail procedures posted on bulletin board in messhall and benefit booklets available to all. Seafarers were asked to return VHS movies in timely manner. Treasurer stated $200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to raise pension benefits. Bosun asked for diligence in separating trash from plastic items, and thanked steward department for creative menus and great food. ITB PHILADELPHIA (USS Transport), Jan. 31—Chairman William K. Barrett, Secretary Justo R. Lacavo, Educational Director Daniel N. Daligcon, Deck Delegate John N. Favero, Engine Delegate Hussein M. Mohamed, Steward Delegate Ali A. Muther. Chairman informed crew of relief situation during war time. He encouraged mariners to read Seafarers LOG to stay up-todate on issues affecting maritime industry. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean. Educational director urged crew members to attend upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase vacation pay and benefits. Request made to get satellite system aboard ship. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great meals. MOTIVATOR (USSM), Jan. 16— Chairman Charles H. Foley, Secretary Anthony J. Houston, Educational Director Oswald N. Bermeo, Deck Delegate Arvid E. Friberg, Steward Delegate Marjorie Mack. Chairmen led discussion on protections that need to be provided by company. Educational director advised crew to look into opportunities available at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested more information on pension plan. Moment of silence held in memory of departed brothers and sisters, including “the brave U.S. military in Iraq.” PERFORMANCE (USSM), Jan. 27—Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Morris A. Jeff, Deck Delegate Timothy K. O’Brien, Engine Delegate Lionel Taylor. Chairman requested clarification on penalty meal hours as well as on vacation benefits. Secretary read and discussed communication from headquarters pertaining to SAB actions. Treasurer noted $1,100 in ship’s fund; crew members voted to purchase weight-lifting equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for Paul Hall Center to offer advanced electronics course for those who work on state-of-the-art digital equipment currently aboard some vessels. April 2005 Request made for new head cleaner for VHS player. Crew members were reminded to clean rooms and put away personal belongings before leaving vessel. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Sulphur Carriers), Jan. 30— Chairman Neftali Santana, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Alfred G. Lane. Secretary asked departing crew members to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director encouraged everyone to enhance their skills whenever possible at Piney Point facility. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested improvements to medical and dental plans as well as to vacation benefits and contract. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tampa, Fla. TONSINA (ATC), Jan. 16— Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Kenneth P. Mitchell, Educational Director Anthony R. Hulsey. Chairman announced payoff Jan. 18. He thanked crew for working hard through the holidays and reminded them to contribute to SPAD for job security. Secretary thanked everyone for working well together. Educational director advised members to renew shipping documents early and read Seafarers LOG to stay informed of changes in industry,including new document requirements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on payment of overweight charges on baggage when joining and leaving vessel. Suggestion made to reduce number of days required for full retirement benefits. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif. and Cherry Point, Wash. DEVELOPER (USSM), Feb. 13 —Chairman Joseph Caruso, Secretary Randy A. Stephens, Educational Director Jorge N. Fernandez, Engine Delegate Charles H. Kennedy, Steward Delegate Obencio M. Espinoza. Chairman discussed new safety and security rules for vessel and reported on ship’s schedule for coming months. Secretary informed crew that he has all applications (vacation, health, etc.). In addition, he urged everyone to check document expiration dates and renew if needed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun explained procedures for written resolutions. Chairman thanked all unlicensed mariners on board for great job during voyage. Next ports: Malaga Spain; Port Said, Egypt; Ningbo, China; Los Angeles. EXPRESS (USSM), Feb. 20— Chairman Trawn D. Gooch, Secretary Frederick L. Saffo, Educational Director Robert J. McMurray, Deck Delegate Konstantinos Prokovas, Engine Delegate James F. Sieger, Steward Delegate Sonia N. Felix. Educational director spoke about courses available at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer spoke about distribution of ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested clarification on possible re-flagging of vessel. Special thanks given to steward department. Next port: New Jersey. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), Feb. 6—Chairman Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary Amanda F. Suncin, Educational Director William Pinkham, Deck Delegate Christopher Fairfax, Engine Delegate John R. Day, Steward Delegate Thomas M. Kelly. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 7 with arrival Feb. 9 in Tacoma, Wash. Secretary encouraged everyone to check out educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. Educational director advised crew members to check expiration dates on z-cards and start renewal process early if necessary. Treasurer noted $200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like satellite TV on all SIU-crewed vessels and internet service in each room. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Feb. 20—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary James N. Brockington, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Gavino A. Octaviano, Engine Delegate Gualberto M. Salaria, Steward Delegate Ely R. Hermano. Chairman announced arrival Feb. 25 in Tacoma, Wash. and requested port agent meet them next day. He asked that everyone turn in videos to proper lockers before leaving. Secretary notified mariners of captain’s sanitary inspection scheduled for Feb. 23. Educational director reminded all mariners about upgrading opportunities available in Piney Point, Md. and suggested they check to see that all shipping documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks to steward department for good food and upkeep of house. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), Feb. 10—Chairman Howard W. Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo C. Ombec, Educational Director Paul D. Hanley, Deck Delegate Michael Penkwitz, Engine Delegate Thomas V. Hastings. Chairman announced expected arrival Feb. 12 in Oakland, Calif. and thanked crew for following safety procedures. Secretary informed crew members there would be one tray of condiments on a table that would be changed often; only salt and pepper to be placed on each table. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility. He also suggested everyone check documents to be sure they have not expired. Bosun currently holding crew fund of $273 (which will be used to purchase new movies in Tacoma) and ship’s fund of $1,405. Movie locker will be locked while in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for great job and delicious food, especially freshly baked goodies. Next ports: Oakland; Honolulu; Guam. MAERSK ALABAMA (Maersk Line Limited), Feb. 7—Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Marvin T. St. George, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Chad B. Chivrell, Engine Delegate Enrique Martinez, Steward Delegate Hamdi H. Hussein. Chairman asked departing crew members to clean rooms and empty trash before leaving ship. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point and keep documents current; renew early, if necessary. Treasurer stated $61 in ship’s fund. Beef noted in steward department regarding room sanitary; no other beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on seniority status aboard Maersk Line’s vessels in all departments. New full-size dryer needed in laundry room. Steward department requested new oven and grill for galley. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. Next port: Kuwait. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), Feb. 13—Chairman Norman G. Tourtellot, Secretary James H. Rider, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Abdul Q. Gharama, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidii, Steward Delegate Chairman Kenneth A. Abrahamson, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Joseph M. Stanford, Deck Delegate Thomas S. Skubinna, Engine Delegate Jose Irigoyen, Steward Delegate Caezer R. Mercado. Chairman reported new ship schedule and reminded seafarers that company contract will be up for bid in June 2005. He announced payoff March 5 in San Diego, Calif. Secretary advised crew of 15-man military security force coming aboard in Long Beach, Calif. on or about Feb. 22. Educational director stressed importance of making sure all nec- Seafarers, Officials Welcomed Seafarers-contracted 3PSC, LLC recently hosted a dinner for crew members of the USNS Gilliland along with SIU officials in Norfolk, Va. Above, SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny (right) chats with (from left) Chief Steward Jose Guzman and Chief Cook Frank Washington. Below, SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) and Kenny are pictured with 3PSC VP Susan King. The Gilliland is a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship (LMSR) that is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command fleet. Cecilio Suarez. Chairman asked crew to keep non-crew members out of mess hall while in Bombay. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to raise pension benefits. Replacement locks needed for broken crew doors. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J.; Malaga, Spain. P&O NEDLLOYD VERA CRUZ (Waterman Steamship Corp.), Feb. 4— Chairman Henry J. Gable, Secretary Charles E. Curley, Educational Director Jan Morawski, Engine Delegate Alton P. Hickman Jr. Chairman announced Feb. 6 payoff in Houston. He asked everyone to clean rooms before leaving vessel. Secretary reported SIU crew just completed second month-long trip to South America since ship was reflagged Dec. 6. Educational director suggested everyone take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Seafarers affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs reported; disputed OT noted in deck department. Crew requested that shipping cards show rating and dates for each job. New equipment requested includes toaster, ice machine, soda machine, microwave oven and new mattresses. Next port: Houston. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding), Feb. 11— essary shipping documents are current and allowing plenty of time for renewals. Treasurer stated $175 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to improve medical and vacation benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Manchester and Ferndale, Wash; Long Beach, Calif. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk), Feb. 20—Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Salome Castro, Deck Delegate Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Engine Delegate Ole J. Olsen, Steward Delegate Evelina Barnes. Chairman reviewed ship’s itinerary, including arrival in Anacortes, Wash. Feb. 21. Secretary asked for everyone’s assistance in keeping ship clean. Educational director advised Seafarers not to let documents expire or they eventually would have to retake all exams. He encouraged everyone to contribute to SPAD and explained how vital it is for the union to fight for jobs and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested union check with company about purchasing new mattresses and ice machine. Clarification requested pertaining to seniority on Seabulk vessels. Next ports: Anacortes and Point Wells, Wash.; Valdez and Kenai, Alaska. Seafarers LOG 19 �26893_P5,7,15,19,20.qxd 3/24/2005 6:14 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. MTD Speakers Spell Out Role of Merchant Marine Continued from page 8 He also stated that the Ready Reserve Force is “an important part of our capability” and the Jones Act “remains the cornerstone of our maritime policy. I consider the Jones Act non-negotiable…. We have to have a strong merchant marine.” Jefferson noted that he is a longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine and believes in “protecting and enhancing the U.S. fleet and providing needed jobs and security for hard-working Americans, for U.S. citizen merchant mariners.” He pointed out that in the port of New Orleans, he sees firsthand the economic importance of the maritime industry. It accounts for $42 billion and 100,000 jobs in and around the region. Jefferson said the tonnage tax which was signed into law last year is of “critical importance” to the industry. He noted that it will benefit U.S.-flag vessel owners and their employees. He was a leading proponent of the legislation. Jamian said that through the years since World War II, some people forgot the history lessons that taught us the great value of the U.S. Merchant Marine. However, that began to change for the better during the first Persian Gulf War. “Today, the importance of these mariners—represented by these labor organizations here in the room—is being reinforced every day in the war in Iraq. More than 8,000 mariners and thousands of longshoremen at our ports have made certain that equipment and supplies for our armed forces in the field arrive safely, where they are needed and when they are needed.” He pointed out that the tragedy of September 11 also underscored the importance of maintaining a viable U.S. fleet. “I believe that we must have a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, crewed by Americans loyal to our nation’s interests, as they have always been, and ready to serve as they have always been.” Jamian called the MSP, the Jones Act and cargo preference laws “the fundamental triad of our nation’s maritime policies,” and said that those programs are “proven essentials” which are critical to U.S. national and economic security. Blust discussed the U.S. Merchant Marine’s history of supporting America’s national defense, from the country’s earli- est days to the present. “The maritime trades are essential to helping support our country and guarantee our freedom. I thank all of you for your patriotic efforts,” he said. McNeill noted, “The Navy League mission strongly supports the longstanding U.S. policy that a viable U.S. maritime industry is a critical part of our national defense and economic security. You can make the case that a viable U.S. maritime capability is more critical today than ever, in this uncertain world of global terrorism. “The rationale for maintaining a commercial fleet under U.S. flag has always been grounded first and foremost in national security.” She added, “The work of the maritime trades is a critical part of this nation’s industrial capacity. Without you, our troops would not have the means to get to the fight, or the equipment and supplies to win when they get there.” She also stressed the need to keep ships on the cutting edge of technology, and praised U.S. mariners for their roles in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as well as tsunami relief. 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 4/05 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. April 2005 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 8:23 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning March 21, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion FOWT June 20 September 19 August 11 November 11 QMED - Jr. Engineer June 20 September 8 Welding May 9 August 22 September 19 October 24 October 31 May 27 September 9 October 7 November 11 November 18 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion May 30 July 11 August 22 October 3 November 14 June 24 August 5 September 16 October 28 December 9 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) June 20 August 22 October 24 June 24 August 26 October 28 Bridge Resource Management (Unlimited) May 9 July 11 September 12 November 14 May 13 July 15 September 16 November 18 Celestial Navigation May 16 July 18 September 19 November 21 June 10 August 11 October 14 December 16 June 27 August 29 October 31 July 8 September 9 November 11 May 16 June 27 August 8 September 19 October 21 May 27 July 8 August 19 September 30 November 11 Navigation Fundamentals October 24 November 4 Radar June 6 August 8 October 10 June 15 August 17 October 19 Radar Renewal (1 day): June 27, August 29, October 31 Course Able Seaman GMDSS (Simulator) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Safety Specialty Courses Date of Completion May 16 July 18 September 19 May 27 July 29 September 30 Fast Boat Rescue May 2 June 6 May 6 June 10 Government Vessels May 23 July 4 August 8 August 22 September 26 October 31 November 14 May 27 July 8 August 12 August 26 September 30 November 4 November 18 Medical Care Provider May 30 August 1 October 3 June 3 August 5 October 7 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* June 6 August 1 September 26 June 17 August 11 October 7 June 27 October 17 July 1 October 21 Advanced Fire Fighting* (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) 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. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Start Date Course Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ April 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. 4/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 8:46 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Completing this course Feb. 18 are (in no specific order) Richard Green, Eric Kjellberg, Stephen Berschger, Gerald Butler Jr., Craig Burmeister, Kamin Raji, Curtis Jackson, Charles Clausen Jr., Clay Brown, Tecumseh Williams, Martin Buck, Carl Motley, Charles Petterson, William Riggs, Jeffrey Coble and Cecilio Johnson. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 659 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 6597 (in alphabetical order) Heather Bushey, Francis Gallagher Jr., Richard Gonzalez, Travis Kirkland, Kathy Lakoduk, Nicole Las, James Mahoney, Ian Manthey, Carlos McPherson, Kendrick Mincey, Kevin Moore, Kyle Parson, Karberto Ramos, Randon Robinson, Michael Sherman, Justin Sleator, Nelson Smith, Ignacio Tanguma, Jermeka Williams and Jacob Wilson. ARPA — The six Seafarers completing the ARPA course Feb. 18 are (in alphabetical order) Randy Diaz, Basil D’Souza, John Henry, Steven Kroner, De Gutenberg Poitevien and Shelby Rankin. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Machinist — With instructor Steve Haver (right) are students who completed the machinist course March 11. From the left are Charles Sneed, Rahul Bagchi and Quincy Wilson. Government Vessels — Upgrading students in the government vessels class ending March 4 include (in no specific order) Miguel Pizarro, Craig Burmeister, Frank Vogler, Gerald Butler Jr., Patrice Williams, Brook Bowers, David Grasso, Saul Suarez, Godofredo Rufo, Jonas Roninson, Eugene Granthan, David Desrosiers, Kim Gardner, Dana Fischer, Richard Otto, Kyle Bloom, Shelby Rankin, Robert Mensching, Richard Green, Martin Buck, Mario Suazo and Zein Achmad. FOWT — Graduates from the FOWT course March 4 include (in alphabetical order) Adam Begleiter, Jorge Bodden, David Brewster, Nicholas Collins, Jess Cooper, Jeffrey Cornett, Jerome Culbreth, Michael Evans, Jim Farmer, Bryan Field, Loy Frye, Orlando Herrera, Demarco Holt, Gilbert Johnson, Brian Leach, Tomas Merel, Orlando Pabon, Jomar Rodriguez, Michael Sanchez, Dominic Whitty and Brett Wilson. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is second from right. Computer Lab Classes Instructor Rick Prucha congratulates students for their accomplishments in the computer lab. In the photo at left are Prucha with Kim Gardner and her son, Julien Shelling. In the photo at right are (seated, from left) Elston Yu-Mateo and Darlene Steede. Prucha is standing behind them. Congratulations to all for a job well done. 22 Seafarers LOG Above, Prucha stands with Nasser H. Ahmed, who completed the Excel course. April 2005 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/23/2005 9:09 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes STOS — Small Arms Training — March 4 was graduation day for those in the small arms training class. They are (in alphabetical order) Saif Ali, Thia Banks, Tedrick Blackstone, Timothy Cullen, Latonia Fury Jr., Mark Keblis, Jerome Prince, Perry Schroff, Scott Spilman, Teresa Ward, Evan Werner and Kenneth Williams. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Feb. 25 from instructor Stacey Harris (in hooded parka) are (in no specific order) Kenneth Williams, James Ruffin, Ronald Whitlow, Timothy Watson, Hector Ortiz, Jerome Prince, Muguel Pizarro, Brian Saba, Teresa Ward, Perry Schroff and Joshua Smith. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, Feb. 18: Dana Anderson, Justin Brown, Robert Daniel II, Jonathan Dubin, Patrick Ehrich, Neil Gerken, Charlotte Greco, Debra Huffman, Lester Jerome, Dennis Kiander, Andrew Moore, Ryan Moore, Lyn Paxman, William Peerson, Maria Sandoval, Robert Schultz, Kyle Siegel, Donald Springfield, Bryan Tranthan, Derek Baron, Benjamin Grier and Adam Martidale. STOS — A second group of students received their STOS certificates of completion Feb. 25. They are (in no specific order) Robert Morrison, Thia Banks, Felsher Beasley, Paul Brown, Ariel Lopez, Stephen Cooper, Tony Fury, Danie Anderson, Muguel Pizarro, James Ruffin, Teresa Ward, Tim Watson, Kenneth Williams and Ronald Whitlow. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is fourth from right. STCW — March 4: Ali Alzokari, Noel Corrales, Wilma Diaz, Timothy Hall, Michael Jarvi, Hussein Jinah, Gerald Karl, John Kelly, John Klein, Troy Larick, Henry Peterson, Eissa Saleh, Youssof Saleh and Daniel Tennant. Tankerman (PIC) Barge — Completing the tankerman (PIC) barge course Feb. 25 are (in no specific order) Douglas Crawford, Thomas Henderson, Ronald Freitas, Russell Horton, Sunday Nwankwo, Russell Hudson, Jerry Karl, Daniel Tennant and Michael Voda. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at far right. Chief Cook — Working their way up in the galley department with instructor John Dobson (left), are Darlene Steede and Robert Borro. STCW-Crowd Management — NCL, March 4: Jim Cruz, Jason Cruz, Sharon Crowe, Betty-Jo Dau, Carl Collett, Shanna Bank, Sunshine Gruber, Troy Larick, Wilma Diaz, Timothy Hall, Annelyn Bautista, Marcos Gomez, Damarco Bailey, Timothy Lambrecht, John Del Mundo, Nicanor Dechico and Henry Davis III. Not pictured is Raquel Collins. April 2005 Seafarers LOG 23 �Pg3,8_11,14,16_18,21_24.qxd 3/24/2005 7:49 AM Page 24 April 2005 Volume 67, Number 4 S a y t e S eafarers aboard the USNS Paul Buck earlier this year completed a successful voyage that was anything but run-of-the-mill. The SIU-crewed vessel delivered gasoline, diesel and jet fuel to McMurdo’s U.S. station, a scientific research facility located in Antarctica. The annual resupply mission (which includes a separate delivery of food and other stores), known as Operation Deep Freeze, takes Seafarers to Earth’s coldest, windiest location—but that doesn’t stop crew members from not only doing the job, but doing it well. “The crew of the Buck was one of the finest I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” stated Bosun Phil Corl, who submitted the photos on this page. “The camaraderie and professionalism of every member of the crew made the voyage not only bearable but a pleasure.” Seafarers sailing aboard the Paul Buck during the resupply mission included Corl, ABs Dio Bermudez, Albert Wambach, Carlos Burroughs and Carlos Machado Gomez, QMEDs Joseph Benavente and Orlando Pajarillo, Pumpman Micah Miller, DEUs Romero Jomoc and Terry Linyear, Chief Steward Norman Jackson, Chief Cook Nathalie Norie, GSUs Adolphus Young and Ahmed Hussain and s a Y d u -tt -d d c s t b a n w a t Unlicensed Apprentice John Yi. “I am, and you can be very proud of these people,” Bosun Corl noted. “They represented themselves and the union at the highest standard. We all delivered the goods.” The USNS Paul Buck is operated by Seafarers-contracted Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. SIU member Dio Bermudez mans the wheel during his first trip as an AB. Bosun Phil Corl credited Bermudez for making extra effort to practice steering throughout much of the mission. ‘Deep Freeze’ Data McMurdo Station is Earth’s southernmost ground accessible by ship Annual resupply mission only is possible in January and February, due to weather considerations Seafarers typically deliver fuel, food and other stores to the base Incredible Scenery Ice cutters assist larger ships to and from McMurdo Bosun Phil Corl Seafarers from the USNS Paul Buck earned praise from MSC for their efforts in Operation Deep Freeze. Pictured near the vessel in Antarctica early this year are (kneeling, from left) QMED Joseph Benavente, AB Dio Bermudez, (standing, from left) Unlicensed Apprentice John Yi, AB Albert Wambach, AB Carlos Burroughs, Steward Norman Jackson, AB Carlos Machado Gomez, GSU Adolphus Young, DEU Romero Jomoc, GSU Ahmed Hussain, Chief Cook Nathalie Norie, Pumpman Micah Miller, QMED Orlando Pajarillo and Bosun Philip Corl. i Pumpman Micah Miller is pictured with Beaufort Island in the background. Unlicensed Apprentice John Yi made his first trip aboard the Paul Buck during Operation Deep Freeze. After the voyage, a communication from the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) praised the crew for its “superlative performance during the recent Operation Deep Freeze polar resupply mission. Operating in severe weather conditions, both ship and crew demonstrated the finest professionalism in providing critical logistical support to the men and women at McMurdo Station. “Your responsiveness and spirited cooperation with the three assist ice breaker vessels was most noteworthy and key to the success of this mission,” the MSC letter continued. “Bravo Zulu and thank you for your superb effort.” McMurdo Station (above right) opened in 1955 and is built on volcanic rock at the southern end of Ross Island, which measures 45 miles by 45 miles. It houses anywhere from 1,100 scientists and support personnel to roughly 250 people (from February to late October). The four photos (left and right) show some of the sights seen daily from aboard and around the vessel. It’s not quite walking on water, but Seafarers take advantage of the chance to “go ashore” on the frozen ocean water near McMurdo Station. U.S. National Science Foundation manages the U.S. Antarctic Program and coordinates research at the base Antarctic Program’s goals include understanding the Antarctic and its associated ecosystems and using Antarctica’s unique features for scientific research that cannot be done as well elsewhere � 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 April 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NEW CAR CARRIER JEAN ANNE JOINS SIU-CONTRACTED FLEET MATSON ORDERS 2 MORE SHIPS FROM KYAERNER PHILADELPHIA ‘WE ARE A MARITIME NATION’ MTD SPEAKERS AFFIRM NEED FOR STRONG U.S. FLEET MORE COLLEGE CREDITS APPROVED FOR PAUL HALL CENTER COURSES AMERICAN COUNCIL ON EDUCATIONS OKAYS 24 CLASSES SEAFARERS CONTINUE CREWING UP LMSRS SAFETY TRAINING PAYS OFF FOR SEAFARERS ON KENAI SENATE VOTES IN FAVOR OF ANWR EXPLORATION HEALTH CARE STILL A HOT TOPIC IN NEGOTIATIONS, JOB ACTIONS UNION SPEAKS OUT ABOUT TOWING VESSEL INSPECTIONS NEW NATIONAL MARITIME SECURITY GROUP ANALYZES PORT, SHIPBOARD SAFETY SENATOR TRENT LOTT CHAIRS MARITIME SUBCOMMITTEE USNS ROY WHEAT CREW DONATES TO MARINE CHARITY MFOW ANNOUNCES ELECTION RESULTS OFFICIALS FROM ITF, U.S. GOV’T REVIEW TREATMENT OF MARINERS ITF INSPECTOR CREDITS AGENCIES FOR ‘JOINT EFFORT’ REPORT TAKES HARD LOOK AT PORT VULNERATBILITY MERCHANT MARINE’S VITAL ROLE IN NATIONAL, ECONOMIC SECURITY SPELLED OUT BY MTD SPEAKERS PAUL HALL CENTER’S VSO CLASS 1ST WITH MARAD CERTIFICAITON, SECRETARY MINETA ANNOUNCES FREEDOM TO UNIONIZE MUST BE PROTECTED ACTIVITIES AROUND THE PORT OF HOUSTON THE WINNING SMILES ABOARD NCL AMERICA’S PRIDE OF ALOHA SEAFARERS STAY COOL UNDER PRESSURE, DELIVER IN OPERATION DEEP FREEZE 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 04/01/2005 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. 4 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/345c72f42e5aa8946acc26c9f4e3ed39.pdf 394536047ec204f72f80643273041c41 PDF Text Text 26668_P01,2,18,19.qxd 2/22/2005 2:52 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 3 March 2005 Targeting the Health Care Crisis… If Not Now, When? AND IF NOW, HOW? America’s health care crisis grows worse by the day. Already, 45 million Americans have no coverage—and an average of 6,000 more people per day join the ranks of the uninsured. The labor movement feels the effects along with everyone else—health care typically is the top issue these days in contract negotiations across the country. For a closer look at this key issue, along with some proposed solutions from the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, see pages 10-11. Still Supporting Our Troops 2 NCL America Ship Set to Join SIU Fleet nd Page 2 New Jobs for CIVMARS Page 3 Snapshots of Holidays at Sea Pages 6, 7 The SIU-contracted Pride of America, NCL America’s second vessel, is on schedule for its maiden voyage in July. The ship will have a passenger capacity of more than 2,100. Page 3. �26668_P01,2,18,19 r1.qxd 2/18/2005 4:18 AM Page 2 President’s Report Supporting Our Troops Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom are the latest instances of SIU members sailing in support of U.S. armed forces, yet in many important ways this is nothing new. Our union was still in its infancy when World War II began—but that didn’t stop SIU members from answering their nation’s call. In fact, we felt the war’s impact long before Pearl Harbor: The SIU-crewed Robin Moor was sunk by a German submarine back in May 1941. Throughout the war, SIU members repeatedly sailed into harm’s way to deliver the goods for our Michael Sacco troops. As the late SIU historian John Bunker once put it, “There wasn’t a beachhead from Anzio to the Philippines, from Normandy to Okinawa, where SIU crews were not in the forefront of war.” Many paid the ultimate price. Overall, more than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in the war. But no SIU ship was ever delayed for lack of a crew. We were ready then. We are ready now. In between, our members also answered the call during Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War and many more military and humanitarian missions. Today, our members are just as committed to their role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. As Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom continue, I remain proud of our members’ patriotism, reliability and professionalism. Keep up the great work, brothers and sisters. Another Battle This month’s LOG devotes a lot of space to examining America’s health care crisis. I encourage all Seafarers and their families to take a few minutes and read the articles addressing medical coverage because this fight affects all of us. Nationwide, there’s just no way that workers and employers can continue bearing the brunt of soaring premiums along with the indirect costs stemming from tens of millions of uninsured Americans. It simply can’t continue at this pace. Something must be done to fix this problem. As usual, the labor movement is taking a leading role on behalf of America’s working families, offering solid ideas and real solutions. The true battle lies in turning those ideas into action by our government. This is a huge fight, but it’s nothing we can’t overcome during the long haul. When you look back at our union’s history, we’ve whipped even bigger obstacles that have threatened all of mankind. SIU’s Bright Future I again thank the membership for the support you’ve shown to this administration, most recently in our union elections that wrapped up at the end of last year. My energy remains focused on securing and maintaining good jobs for this membership, so it’s not often that I look back. Still, in taking just a few moments to consider what the SIU has accomplished in recent years, I find it extremely encouraging. We have increased our employment opportunities aboard military support ships and commercial ships. We helped spur the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry, which again boosted our number of jobs. We consistently negotiated good contracts. Whether they’re outright additions or replacement vessels, we have worked with our contracted companies to bring new, modern tonnage into our fleet. We also continued working with our affiliated training center in southern Maryland to ensure that Seafarers can get the courses they require when they need them, and to bring in new students through the apprentice and veterans programs. The Paul Hall Center sets the standard when it comes to maritime training, which naturally benefits students who take advantage of the classes offered there. We’ve done well in other areas, too, and it truly starts with your support and the great work you do aboard ship. The confidence you’ve shown in me and in the other officials is greatly appreciated. We will continue to earn that confidence. There will be challenges along the way, but I couldn’t be more optimistic about the SIU’s future. Volume 67, Number 3 March 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 SIU Delivers in OIF3 Seafarers since late last year have been delivering goods to U.S. armed forces in the Middle East for Operation Iraqi Freedom 3 (OIF3). SIU-crewed vessels serving the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and docked in ports along the country’s east, west and Gulf coasts in late November began mobilizing for this phase of the ongoing mission, while other SIU-crewed ships including prepositioning vessels simply continued their respective involvement. As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, 47 Seafarers-crewed MSC vessels had been activated for this phase. More than 700 SIU members signed up for duty during the activations. Just as during military support missions before and during the all-out combat phase of the war in Iraq and OIF2 along with missions in Afghanistan, Seafarers again are tasked to deliver materiel to U.S. armed forces in the Middle East. “SIU members are proud of our legacy as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. They take it very personally,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “Our brothers and sisters repeatedly have sailed into harm’s way to support out troops during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. They also have sailed side by side with military security teams aboard our U.S.-flag ships. I have every confidence in their resolve and dedication.” The SIU-crewed vessels mobilized in support of OIF3 include: Cape Jacob, USNS Altair, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Denebola, USNS Pollux, USNS Stockham, Cape Inscription, Cape Intrepid, Cape Isabel, Cape Island, Cape Wrath, USNS Chesapeake, USNS Petersburg, Northern Lights, Westward Venture, Independence, Cape Ray, Cape Knox, Cape Kennedy, Cape Orlando, Cape Victory, Cape Vincent, USNS Dahl, USNS Pomeroy, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, USNS Soderman, USNS Watkins, USNS Watson, Cape Decision, Cape Diamond, Cape Domingo, Cape Edmont, Cape Ducato, Cape Horn, Cape Hudson, Cape Texas, Cape Trinity, USNS Brittan, USNS Benevidez, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Gordon, USNS Fisher, USNS Mendonca, USNS Seay, USNS Yano and the Cape Girardeau. More than 2,000 SIU members crewed 100-plus vessels in support of U.S. troops during the first phase of OIF. Dozens of SIU-crewed vessels remained active in the massive OIF2 resupply mission that commenced early last year. MSC 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. ITF Secures Back Pay for Crew The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) recently secured $347,000 in back pay plus repatriation for 43 crew members on a runaway-flag passenger and gaming vessel. SIU ITF Inspector Scott Brady handled the case on behalf of the multinational mariners from the St. Tropez, a Bahamian-flag ship based in Port Everglades, Fla. The back wages were secured in late January and early February from Florida-based shipowner Southern Navigation. Brady described the fight to obtain the wages as “long and intense,” but the company eventually agreed to the ITF’s demands. The SIU is an affiliate of the London-based ITF, a federation of more than 600 transport-worker Crew members from the St. Tropez received back pay and repatriation, thanks to the ITF. unions in 140 countries. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section. The federation utilizes more than 100 ITF inspectors in ports throughout the world. Those inspectors assist crew members on runaway-flag ships (also known as so-called flagof-convenience vessels) as well as other ships, monitoring the payment of wages and other social and employment conditions, and taking appropriate action. During the past 50 years the ITF’s maritime affiliates have developed a set of policies which seek to establish minimum acceptable standards applicable to mariners serving on runaway-flag vessels. Seafarers Still Sail for Tsunami Relief Although operations in Southeast Asia now are moving from the relief to reconstruction phase in the wake of the Dec. 26 earthquake and tsunami, many Seafarers sill are involved in the activities. As of Feb. 10, three Seafarerscrew ships from the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) continued to participate in the humanitarian operations following the now infamous natural disaster that devastated coastal communities in Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Indonesia and other Indian Ocean nations. Still providing assistance to survivors are Seafarers who crew the hospital ship USNS Mercy and a pair of combat stores vessels, the USNS San Jose and USNS Concord. As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, more than 100 SIU members—including some from the SIU’s Government Services Division—initially crewed 13 MSC vessels and one ship owned by the U.S. Maritime Administration in support of relief operations. The SIU in January donated $10,000 to the International Red Cross for use in the affected areas. In a related development, President Bush on Feb. 9 said he would ask Congress for $950 million for tsunami relief, nearly tripling U.S. aid pledged for victims of the monstrous seismic wave. According to a report by Cox News Service, the president’s latest proposal includes money to cover emergency relief efforts as well as funding to help rebuild bridges, roads, schools and housing destroyed in the natural disaster. SIU Elections Complete As reported last month, the SIU’s tallying committee has released its tabulation of the ballots cast by union members in the voting for national officers of the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU as well as two constitutional amendments. Voting took place Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2004. Above, Recertified Steward Louella Sproul receives her ballot last November from SIU Port Agent Vince Coss in San Francisco. Composed of 20 Seafarers (two members elected from each of the SIU’s 10 constitutional halls), the rank-and-file committee certified the reelection of Michael Sacco as president of the SIU; reelection of John Fay as the union’s executive vice president; reelection of Augie Tellez as vice president of contracts and contract enforcement; and reelection of David Heindel as secretary-treasurer. The tallying committee’s report will be submitted for approval by the membership at union meetings this month (March). March 2005 �26668_P3,5,12cxs.qxd 2/17/2005 4:56 PM Page 3 Pride of America to Sail in July Seafarers Set to Start Crewing 2nd NCL America Ship When NCL America’s SIUcrewed Pride of Aloha began its maiden voyage last summer, it marked an historic occasion—the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. Now, more good news is on the way as the company continues preparations for launching its second vessel, the Pride of America. Seafarers are expected to begin reporting to the vessel this month in anticipation of a July 2005 maiden voyage. “It’s the continuation of an incredible story and another example of job growth for our union,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “If you look at where the U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry was after 911, and compare that to today, it’s really unbelievable.” NCL America also plans to launch a third SIU-crewed cruise ship—the Pride of Hawaii—in 2006. Meanwhile, Seafarers will fill the unlicensed positions aboard the Pride of America, which is undergoing some finishing touches in a German shipyard. The vessel is 921 feet long with a beam of The SIU-crewed Pride of America is scheduled to enter service this summer. 106 feet. It features 15 decks and will have a passenger capacity of more than 2,100. The vessel’s gross tonnage is 72,000. In promoting the new ship, NCL America described it as “a spectacular salute to the many regions of the United States with vibrant Stars & Stripes artwork on the hull. An Alaskan Gold CIVMARS See New Jobs 2 More ‘Lewis and Clark’ Ships Ordered The SIU’s Government Services Division welcomed the recent announcement that the U.S. Navy has exercised options to build two additional ships under the T-AKE program, a new class of combat logistics force ships. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division will fill the unlicensed positions on the new ships, which form the “Lewis and Clark” class of vessels. Overall, the Navy has awarded contracts for eight new Lewis and Clark dry cargo/ammunition ships—with options for an additional four vessels. The vessels are being built at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in San Diego. Construction on the first T-AKE, the USNS Lewis and Clark, began in September 2003. Delivery is scheduled for later this year. Construction started last fall on the second T-AKE (to be named the USNS Sacagawea), which is slated for delivery in 2006. The T-AKE is a dry cargo/ammunition ship that will be operated by the U.S. Military Sealift Command, providing logistic lift from sources of supply either in port or at sea. The ships will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, fuel, repair parts, and expendable supplies and other materiel—to ships and other naval forces at sea. The T-AKE is intended to substantially upgrade the Navy’s ability to maintain its forward-deployed forces, replacing aging T-AE ammunition ships and T-AFS combat stores ships that are nearing the end of their service lives. According to the shipyard, the new vessels will be 689 feet long with 105-foot beams and a design draft of slightly less than 30 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of marine diesel fuel. They will have 40-year life expectancies. In addition to the eight T-AKEs, NASSCO is building three doublehull oil tankers for BP Shipping Company of Alaska. Two others—the Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan Explorer—already have been built and are crewed by SIU members. Rush Saloon, a New Orleansstyle Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge, a French restaurant inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, and a Waikiki Bar are just a few of the great choices that include eight restaurants and 10 bars and lounges.” Like the Pride of Aloha, the newer ship will offer round-trip Hawaiian itineraries. However, the Pride of America also is scheduled to offer voyages with stops in New York, Miami, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Once NCL America’s plans are fully implemented, its U.S.flag ships are expected to generate more than $828 million in U.S. economic activity and 20,400 jobs, according to a study by one of the nation’s leading economic consultancies. Both the Paul Hall Center for SIU Members Applaud Job Growth in New MSP As word spread last month about the extended U.S. Maritime Security Program, SIU members said they are excited about the union gaining 13 vessels under the new MSP. “This means more SIU jobs for the future and it helps the defense of this country,” said Recertified Bosun Michael Presser. “It’s good to see that we’re getting more jobs and that Seafarers can and do contribute as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense.” As previously reported, the U.S. Maritime Administration in January announced the names of the vessels and operators for the new MSP, which takes effect Oct. 1 and lasts for 10 years. The updated fleet contains 60 vessels —all of them under SIU contract. The new fleet consists of the 47 Seafarers-crewed vessels already enrolled in the original MSP (established by the Maritime Security Act of 1996) along with 13 newly contracted SIUcrewed ships. The operators for the 13 new MSP slots are Pacific-Gulf Marine (two ships), Interocean Ugland Management (four), OSG Shipholding Group (three), Central Gulf (one), Liberty Global Logistics (one) and Lykes Lines (two). A complete list of the ships and companies was printed in the February Seafarers LOG and is available on the union’s web site (www.seafarers.org). Meanwhile, SIU members understandably welcomed the MSP announcement. “It’s important to me, for sure,” said Carlos Grillasca, who is upgrading to AB. “It’s good for job security.” QMED Charles Sneed said the new MSP “is a great, great asset and it’ll provide more besides an increase in jobs. This will improve our overall status as part of the maritime community. The new additions allow us to cover more territory, you might say.” Mario Suazo, upgrading to AB, said the expanded MSP fleet “is good, it gives us job security Maritime Training and Education (located in Piney Point, Md.) and its affiliated Seafarers Training Center (located in Hawaii) are providing training for NCL America crews. Both facilities offer fire fighting and safety training; the Piney Point campus also provides departmental training for non-marine personnel. As previously reported, the curriculums are wide-ranging and include (among other topics) communication and diversity training, effective listening, team building, conflict resolution and stress management. Students take STCW Basic Safety Training and courses covering shipboard security, environmental responsibility and medical awareness. They also spend approximately one week in department-specific courses. The NCL America curriculums blend classroom instruction with hands-on training. An article in the Cruise Week newsletter last month that focused on the Piney Point training described the facilities as “surprisingly extensive,” the courses as “rigorous” and the students as “happy about what they were doing” at the school. for years to come.” John Cronan, an instructor at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education who also still sails as an electrician, stated, “It’s a great thing that we’re acquiring new ships and getting new jobs. I think it’s outstanding. Shipping was lean when I started (1983), so it’s refreshing to see that we’re gaining today.” The Maritime Administration describes the MSP as “a fundamental element of the U. S. maritime transportation system, providing an active, privately owned, U.S.-flag and U.S.-crewed liner fleet in international trade which is available to support Department of Defense sustainment in a contingency…. These vessels are modern, efficient and militarily useful commercial dry cargo vessels which can support national security requirements and maintain a competitive U.S.-flag presence in international commerce. The MSP helps retain a labor base of skilled American seafarers who are available to crew the U.S. government-owned strategic sealift as well as the U.S. commercial fleet, both in peace and war.” Benefits Conferences Begin in April Officials from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) will conduct benefits conferences in April at a number of SIU halls. All active members, pensioners and their spouses are invited to the sessions, which will provide an update on the latest happenings with the various Plans. The locations and dates are as follows: Piney Point (joint conference including Baltimore), April 4 (Monday); New York, April 5 (Tuesday); Philadelphia, April 6 (Wednesday); Norfolk, April March 2005 8 (Friday); Wilmington, April 18 (Monday); San Francisco, April 20 (Wednesday); Tacoma, April 22 (Friday); Houston, April 25 (Monday); New Orleans (joint conference including Mobile), April 26 (Tuesday); Jacksonville, April 28 (Thursday). Please note that the conferences in Piney Point, New York, Philadelphia, Wilmington and Tacoma will immediately follow the membership meetings at those halls. All other conferences will begin at 10:30 a.m. The Industrial Challenger, crewed by SIU members in all of the unlicensed positions, is part of the new 60-ship Maritime Security Program fleet. Seafarers LOG 3 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/15/2005 6:27 PM Page 4 Longtime SIU Official Jim Martin Dies at 70 Jim Martin, a vice president of the Seafarers International Union of North America and former SIU port agent, died Feb. 4 at his home in Harvey, La. following a heart attack. He was 70. Martin also served as president of the Greater New Orleans Port Council of the Maritime Trades Department and as a vice president of the Louisiana State AFLCIO (an organization which inducted Martin into its hall of fame early last year). “He was a very dedicated union official who was born into the SIU,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was wellrespected by the rank-and-file membership, especially as a leader in the towboat industry.” “He was a great individual and a very knowledgeable person,” remembered SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, who knew Martin since childhood. “He organized most of the SIU tugs in the Gulf. He was a class guy and a strong family man.” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez said Martin “was completely committed to the union and the membership. He was someone you could always count on, and he’ll definitely be missed.” SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey described Martin as “a guy you’d want with you if you had to go into a foxhole. We went through some real tough battles together and always came out just fine. Jimmy was a brilliant negotiator, a great strategist and a stand-up union guy.” SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee worked with Martin “on some inland beefs in the 1970s, and also later in New Orleans. He was a great man, outstanding. He stood up for union members and their rights.” SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd said Martin’s “experience and the way he conducted himself made the Seafarers name New Luedtke Contract Boosts Wages, Benefits Seafarers at SIU-contracted Luedtke Engineering Company have unanimously approved a new five-year labor agreement that includes significant gains. Negotiated and ratified in January, the new contract features improvements in wages as well as benefits. It covers the 21 Seafarers employed at Luedtke and lasts through the year 2009. Under terms of the pact, mariners will receive wage increases of 3 percent per year during each of the final four years of the agreement. Health benefits will be maintained at Plan Level G (the top level) and pensions will continue at the lop level. For the first time, the company will contribute to the Seafarers Money Purchase Plan for each employee. In addition, Seafarers will receive a 15 percent increase for subsistence. “It’s an excellent agreement with substantial increases,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “Credit goes to both parties for negotiating a good, fair contract.” “Negotiations went very smoothly, although it took the better part of three weeks to finalize the particulars of the new agreement,” said SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “Health benefits were a big issue, of course, and I know everyone was pleased to maintain their coverage.” In addition to Orzechowski, SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak and SIU Representative Don Thornton represented the union during the negotiations. Luedtke is a dredging and marine construction business. Headquartered in Frankfort, Mich., the company has been under contract with the SIU for more than 30 years. something that everybody respected. There have been others who’ve accomplished that for us, but Jim was exceptional. He was a great friend and mentor. Anything we needed, Jim was there.” Recertified Bosun John Cain knew Martin for 20 years. “He loved his family and he loved the union,” Cain said. “He was a good all-around guy, a good union official. We’re really going to miss him.” During his time as a boatman, Martin sailed with Crescent Towing, Dixie Carriers and Capitol Towing. He held all towboat ratings. He came ashore in 1968 as a patrolman at the SIU hall in New Orleans. Martin also worked as an organizer for the union and later served at various times as a representative based in Norfolk, Va. and as port agent in St. Louis and SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) recently reached another safety milestone: more than three years without a lost time injury. According to the company, this covers more than 7 million “man hours” without a lost time injury, including all of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004. In a communication to the fleet earlier this year, ATC President Anil Mathur wrote, “Safety and environmental performance is not some distant philosophical challenge. It is a matter of protecting my own limbs, my body, my mates, and my environment. Our performance enables us to support our loved ones. Our strength does not come from the absence of challenge—it comes from our deep conviction that we have within us the ability and willingness to make ourselves bigger than the challenges we face.” While definitely not taken for granted, safety achievements are nothing new for ATC. Last year, The Seafarers Training Center in Honolulu recently completed a major safety equipment installation patterned after its affiliated Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is based in Piney Point, Md. The Hawaii facility’s main fire fighting and safety training tools (including those pictured above) essentially duplicate the ones at the Maryland school. Courses available at the Seafarers Training Center include STCW Basic Safety Training, water survival, basic and advanced fire fighting and more. Seafarers LOG New Orleans. He was elected a vice president of the SIUNA in 2002. A native of Algiers, La., Martin’s survivors include his wife, Mary Spencer Martin; two sons including Stephen Martin, who sails with the SIU; four daughters; 13 grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Alaska Tanker Company Reaches Safety Milestone Top-Notch Training Tools 4 SIUNA VP Jim Martin (left) last year was inducted into the Louisiana State AFL-CIO Hall of Fame. Celebrating the honor with Martin were (from left) SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, SIU New Orleans Safety Director Chris Westbrook and SIU Representative James Brown. the Beaverton, Oregon-based company received two of the four Legacy Awards issued by the Western States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force. Also in 2004, ATC won a prestigious safety award issued by the U.S. Coast Guard—the William M. Benkert Environmental Award. The Coast Guard, in announcing the award, credited the company with maintaining “well-defined environmental policies and objectives with outstanding measurement tools. The company established performance contracts between owners, management, senior officers and the ship’s crew. These performance contracts identified clear and specific goals, measured trends and/or areas for improvement that allowed ATC to identify mitigation strategies to produce positive results. After ATC reached its most recent milestone, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez noted, “One reason they are so successful is that they truly listen to their crews and to everyone else involved in the process of safe, productive operations. It goes back to one of the basic principles of why unions work— employees are more productive and more reliable when they have a real voice on the job. ATC President Anil Mathur congratulated the crew, officer and company personnel for their commitment to safety. “Seven million hours is a great achievement and I believe there’s plenty of credit to go around, from the Seafarers and officers who crew the ships to the company personnel.” In his note to the fleet, Mathur also credited all concerned and left them with encouragement for continued safety. “I know our hazards to be real and present,” he noted. “Our demonstrated skills and our constant vigilance are just as real and present and we will use these demonstrated skills to overcome the challenges we will encounter.” Alaska Tanker Company’s SIU-contracted fleet includes the Alaskan Frontier, pictured last year during sea trials in San Diego. March 2005 �26668_P3,5,12cxs.qxd 2/18/2005 7:13 PM Page 5 Budget, Bill Include Port Security Components The president’s proposed $2.5 trillion fiscal year 2006 budget, submitted to Congress Feb. 7, is intended to continue ensuring the security of the nation’s borders, ports and transportation systems with enhanced screening of goods and people through programs such as the new Screening Coordination and Operations Office; an increase for the United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (USVISIT) system; additional radiological and nuclear inspection equipment; and expansion of the Container Security Initiative. According to the Congressional Information Bureau, the president’s 2006 financial plan also is aimed at enhancing enforcement, border and port security with increases to the Border Patrol; continued execution of the Arizona Border Control Initiative (ABCI); improvements to the Coast Guard; and new, threat-focused state and local assistance grants. Some officials from public seaports across the United States, however, have a different assessment of the chief executive’s proposed financial package and made their concerns known shortly after its release during the week of Feb. 7. Officials from the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) said port decision-makers are deeply concerned about the plan’s recommended elimination of the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program by lumping it into a sweeping new program that combines the security infrastructure needs of seaports with those of trains, trucks, buses and other public transit. In addition, ports are concerned about the administration’s proposed budget, which some charge would significantly under-fund the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works program and needed deep-draft dredging projects. “Protecting America’s marine facilities from acts of terrorism must be a top administration priority and a shared responsibility between the ports, government and private industry,” said Kurt Nagle, president and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA). Port security-related highlights of the FY 2006 Budget include: An 8 percent increase in government-wide, non-defense homeland security spending over 2005. $3.6 billion for state and local first-responder grants and other assistance. Nearly seven billion dollars has been targeted for the Coast Guard, an 11.4 percent increase over the comparable 2005 level. This includes: $1.9 billion for the Coast Guard’s Port, Waterways, and Coastal Security mission, to fund a variety of high-priority initiatives like armed, high-speed boats in ports with liquefied natural gas terminals, further implementation of the Automatic Identification System to track sea-going vessels and enhance Maritime Domain Awareness, new weapons systems for the Coast Guard’s helicopter fleet, and implementation of the Common Operating Picture to enable Coast Guard assets to work better together. $966 million for the Coast Guard’s Deepwater acquisition Union Mourns Trustee Joe Cecire Joseph Cecire, who for many years chaired the SIU’s Board of Trustees, died Jan. 13 at New York University Hospital following complications from surgery. He was 81. “He was very conscientious and a great advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine,” noted SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was definitely a sailor’s sailor,” said SIU Executive Vice President John Fay. “Even though he sailed captain, he knew the needs of the guys in the fo’c’sle. That’s why he was such a great trustee. He had a lot of feeling for the seaman.” Carolyn Gentile, counsel to the Seafarers Plans, knew Cecire from her earliest days working with the SIU. “He worked with us (through SIUcontracted companies) for many years. He was one of the nicest human beings and a real gentleman,” she recalled. Tony Naccarato, an official with SIU-contracted Marine Transport C and himself a Seafarers trustee, knew Cecire for 30 years. “People trusted him—both management and the unions,” Naccarato stated. “That’s saying something. He was a natural at it and his word was good. “What I remember about him is that he was a gentleman and he cared about the Seafarers,” he added. “He loved this busi- March 2005 Joe Cecire was a steadfast advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine. ness and was a tireless worker for the American Merchant Marine.” Cecire graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and sailed as a captain with the American Maritime Officers, an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America. At different times, he later worked as a representative for companies including (respectively) Robin Lines, MooreMcCormack Lines, Seahawk Management and Bay Ship Management. He became an alternate employer trustee in 1956 and a regular trustee in 1967. He was the head of trustees until retiring in mid-2000. Cecire lived in Westport, Conn. He was buried next to his late wife, Sarah, in Rockland Cemetery in Madison, Conn. project, which will fully recapitalize the agency’s fleet of major ships and aircraft while simultaneously implementing a sophisticated new Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) system. This is an increase of 33 percent over 2005 levels. $37 million for additional border patrol agents, $20 million to continue improving the sensor, communication and video surveillance capabilities along our borders, and $20 million for the acquisition and replacement of aging border patrol aircraft. A $5.4-million increase for the Container Security Initiative, which pre-screens cargo before it reaches America’s shores. $178 million in DHS for improved radiological and nuclear-screening equipment at our borders. An $8.2 million increase for the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) to support partnerships with some of the biggest American importers to improve cargo security. In the proposed FY 06 federal budget, the Port Security Grant Program, which Congress created after 9/11 to reimburse U.S. maritime facilities for pre-approved projects required by federal regulations to enhance national secu- rity, would be eliminated. In its place would be the newly created Targeted Infrastructure Protection program that would lump grant proposals from ports together with requests from a host of other transportation-related industries. Since 2002, the DHS Port Security Grant Program has provided much-needed support to address immediate security needs and assessments. But federal money allocated in the first four rounds of the program—about $565 million—accounted for only about one-sixth of what seaports identified as needs, while a fifth round of grants totaling $150 million has yet to be made available to ports. At the same time, the U.S. Coast Guard has estimated that ports would have to spend $5.4 billion over 10 years on mandated security enhancements. That’s on top of the more than $3 billion they already spend annually on infrastructure improvements and operations, maintenance and personnel expenses just to keep pace with burgeoning world trade. While airports receive most of the federal attention and funding for security and terrorism prevention, seaports—which support 4 million jobs and annually handle $2 trillion worth of cargo and more than 7 million cruise ship passengers—arguably remain largely under-funded at the federal level, according to the AAPA. In the legislative arena, U.S. Rep. Juanita MillenderMcDonald (D-Calif.) in early January reintroduced legislation—H.R. 478—which calls for a multi-year, steady stream funding mechanism for port security mandates. The measure is identical to H.R. 3712, introduced in January 2004. Basically, the bill (United States Seaport Multiyear Enhancement Act of 2005) provides for a five-year, $4 billion grant program and will put port funding on par with aviation security. Referred to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the measure is co-sponsored by U.S. Reps. Jane Harman (D-Calif.), Corrine Brown (D-Fla.), Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam) and Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.). Meanwhile, the United States is pressing for wider global adoption of new shipping rules it enforced after the Sept. 11 attacks and which it believes have deterred potential terrorists, a senior official said Jan. 18. “Terrorists are not just targeting the United States. They’re targeting globalization and the global economy,” said Keith Thomson, assistant commissioner in the Office of International Affairs at the Department of Continued on page 13 House Transportation Committee, Maritime Subcommittee Selected Seventy-five congressional representatives—41 Republicans and 34 Democrats—recently were selected to serve on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for the 109th Congressional Session. Chaired by U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), a strong backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the committee has jurisdiction over the Coast Guard and maritime transportation. It also helps oversee aviation; economic development, public buildings, and emergency management; railroads; highways, transit and pipelines; and water resources and environment. Subcommittees represent each of the Transportation and Infrastructure committee’s areas of authority. The Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation deals with maritime safety, security, law enforcement, and defense. Additionally, the subcommittee exercises jurisdiction over various merchant marine matters. The jurisdiction of this subcommittee does not extend to matters directly related to national defense, which are handled by the Committee on Armed Services. U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (RN.J.) chairs the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee. Also serving on that subcommittee are Republicans Howard Coble (N.C.), Wayne Gilchrest (Md.), Peter Hoekstra (Mich.), Rob Simmons (Conn.), Mario Diaz Balart (Fla.), David Reichert (Wash.), Connie Mack (Fla.), Luis Fortuno (P.R.), Charles Boustany Jr. (La.) and U.S. Government Photo Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.) (right) last fall listens to testimony on the maritime environment including security and environmental safety. Also pictured is Subcommittee Staff Director John Rayfield. Don Young (Alaska). Democrats serving on the subcommittee are Ranking Member James Oberstar (Minn.), Bob Filner (Calif.), Corrine Brown (Fla.), Gene Taylor (Miss.), Juanita Millender-McDonald (Calif.), Michael Honda (Calif.), Anthony Weiner (N.Y.), Brian Higgins (N.Y.) and Brian Baird (Wash.). AMSEA Rated ‘Exceptional’ By Military Sealift Command SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA) last month received an award fee notification from the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) for the fourth year of the fast sealift ship operation and maintenance contract. AMSEA received a score of “exceptional” from MSC in each of the five rating categories, according to a letter from the company. “This is the fourth evaluation we have received since award of this eight-ship contract to AMSEA and, likewise, it is the fourth consecutive year we have received exceptional ratings with the program,” AMSEA President Peter Lawrence noted in a letter to AMSEA employees. “These ratings prove, through our collective hard work and responsiveness to customer and end-user needs, that we have exceeded MSC’s contractual expectations in the operation and maintenance of these vital government assets.” Lawrence credited the “dedication and support” of all AMSEA personnel, “both ashore and afloat…. These ratings are the results of hard work, professionalism, and the total-team approach that we should all be proud of.” Seafarers LOG 5 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/18/2005 7:18 PM Page 6 Celebrating the Holidays at Sea . . . . . . Thanksgiving Aboard the North Star Below: Ham, turkey, deviled eggs, cranberry sauce and all the trimmings were on the Thanksgiving Day menu. Specially prepared holiday meals aboard ship are always a morale booster, and this one was no exception. Crew members aboard the North Star were treated to a delicious traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner by members of the steward department (from left) SA George Gerssing, Steward Veronika Cardenas and Chief Cook Khaled Taffi. . . . Christmas Aboard the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus The 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, a roll-on/roll-off ship in the MSC fleet currently stationed in Guam/Saipan, is now on its way to the island nation of Sri Lanka to assist with relief efforts there following the tsunami disaster of last December. Chief Steward David Gibson notes that an MSC vessel like the Lummus must be ready at all times for any type of activation or operation. With its five passenger decks and 64 staterooms, the ship maintains a full complement in the steward department. One of the challenges of working in this department, according to Cook/Baker Brandon Maeda, is maintaining a high standard of sanitation, cleanliness and food quality. This can often be made more difficult with a full crew of 40 Helping make the holidays bright aboard the 1st Lt. Jack as well as 140 troops to feed while on special Lummus are (from left) SAs Ali Munasar, Reynaldo Baluyot operations, but the Lummus crew has done a great job. and Therese Pinaula. Maeda has been on the ship since the beginning of November and has participated in Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s holidays with the crew. (He also provided the photos from the Lummus appearing on this page.) He notes that he was Chief Steward David Gibson puts the finishing touches on the surprised scallop appetizers. by the variety of menu choices available on board the vessel, including a mixture of old favorites as well as some fusion of eastern and western cuisines. Vietnamese Pho (a hot noodle dish), Falafel (a middle eastern specialty), couscous and curried lamb with fresh pita bread, along with several different types of stir-fried entrees, are all prepared by Chief Cook Erik Loret. Others in the steward department include SAs Ali Munasar, Therese Pinaula, Francisco SA Francisco Martinez assists in the galley Martinez and Reynaldo preparations. Baluyot. 6 Seafarers LOG The 1st Lt. Jack Lummus is stationed in Guam/Saipan. The holiday meals “with all the trimmings and enough sugar and spice to satisfy even the biggest sweet-tooth” were a big hit with the crew. Maeda noted that “as we looked forward to the New Year and counted our many blessings, we were reminded once again of those in need as news flashes of the tsunami that rocked south Asia were shown on television.” Whether it’s military support or humanitarian aid, Maeda said, “whatever the challenge, the SIU steward department of the Lummus will get the job done!” Left: An assortment of appetizers and desserts helps start and end the meal in style. One of several Christmas turkeys is being carved by Chief Cook Erik Loret for the holiday meal. March 2005 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/18/2005 7:20 PM Page 7 Celebrating the Holidays at Sea . . . . . . Christmas on the Overseas Marilyn . . . Christmas on the Chemical Explorer OMU Junius Williams Here are some photos of crew members aboard the SMT Chemical Explorer enjoying their festive holiday meal. Operated by Intrepid Ship Management, the SMT Chemical Explorer is a sophisticated chemical tanker, offering regular service between the U.S. Gulf Coast and the East and West coasts of the country as well as foreign runs. OMU Hilario Martinez and SA Fermin Velasquez Showing their holiday spirit, Chief Cook Isabel Miranda (left) and Chief Steward Tyler N. Laffitte prepare a delicious holiday meal (see menu above). Thanks to Brother Laffitte for sending these photos to the Seafarers LOG. Left: 2nd Mate Robert Sturges and 1st Engineer Dave Krym show their appreciation for the work done by the SIU galley gang to help brighten the holiday for all crew members on the Overseas Marilyn. 3rd Mate Jamie Hall and 3rd Engineer Ben Tague have nothing but praise for the delicious meal. AB Oscar Padilla (left) and AB Julio C. Arzu Enjoying the feast are (from left) Bosun Marvin Zimbro, OMU Michael Gay, AB Greg Jenkins, AB Johney August and DEU Anthony Burrell. March 2005 Seafarers LOG 7 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/15/2005 6:28 PM Page 8 Left: While traveling through Bahrain in mid-December on his way back to Diego Garcia, Michael Thomas had this photo taken aboard a camel. Thomas is an SIU hawsepiper. LIBERTY SUN — The SIU-crewed Liberty Sun recently delivered the largest single load of food aid to Massawa, Eritrea since that country’s independence in 1991. Approximately 61,200 metric tons of U.S.-donated wheat, valued at $18 million, was on board. The shipment came to Eritrea as that nation suffers through its fourth consecutive year of drought and faces another crop failure. Marking the accomplishment are (from left) Steward Steve Dickson, Bosun Richard Barnes, U.S. Ambassador to Eritrea Mr. Scott H. DeLisi and his wife, Chief Cook Willie Toomer, AB Ben Picar, AB George Lubialuli and unlicensed apprentice Michael Moerbeek. Around the World With the SIU USNS CONCORD — Above: Crew members from the USNS Concord took a cab from the Navy Base in Guam to the SIU hall there in order to secure ballots for the SIU elections. With Port Agent Jeff Turkus (second from left) are Seafarers (from left) Ricardo Castillero, Robert Tombolini and K.P. “Spyder” Lord. SEALAND CHARGER — AB Eduardo Malabad sails aboard the Sealand Charger, one of the newer Maersk Line, Limited vessels that recently was transferred into the U.S. Maritime Security Program. USNS PAUL BUCK — At left, AB Jesse Natividad and GSU Adolphus Young are some of the more experienced members on the SIU-crewed USNS Paul Buck. Above, AB Stephen Gately assists during anchoring operations in Onsan, South Korea. The next run for the MSC-owned oil transporter is to supply fuel to the McMurdo Station in Antarctica during Operation Deep Freeze as a service to the National Science Foundation. SBX — These photos are of SIU crew members from the SBX platform in Brownsville, Texas, taken during a barbecue at the shipyard facility there. The crew is working on the semi-submersible craft known as the SBX (an abbreviation for sea-based X-Band radar) during the final phases of construction. They expect to move aboard soon and get ready for sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico. Left: At the barbecue are (from left) AB Mark Simpson, SA Bekki Szlosek and OS Chester Christensen. AB John Fain waits at the hotel for his ride to the shipyard. Above: From the left are SA Ashley Leano, SA Larinda Sawyer, Bosun Steve Medina and Asst. Cook Theresa Ballard. Left: From the left at the barbecue are a security guard for the SBX, OS Chester Christensen, AB Mark Simpson, SA Gene Hoehn and Recertified Steward Brenda Kamiya. 8 Seafarers LOG Chief Cook Eileen Lammers and SA Matthew Jenness get the grill ready. March 2005 �26668_P9cx.qxd 2/17/2005 5:29 PM Page 9 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea April & May 2005 Membership Meetings JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals 1 0 9 0 10 29 44 0 9 24 31 7 5 0 4 14 1 30 21 2 5 3 7 7 23 28 1 7 18 25 8 4 4 13 10 2 24 28 1 2 3 0 0 15 12 1 3 10 19 7 0 0 1 2 1 21 11 2 0 2 0 3 24 33 0 5 7 20 9 4 1 7 10 0 16 16 0 2 1 4 5 13 21 0 5 12 11 13 1 6 5 10 1 18 14 1 0 1 0 0 5 6 0 2 1 6 3 0 1 2 1 1 8 2 0 0 1 0 2 13 16 0 1 6 10 5 1 2 5 4 0 17 7 2 0 13 0 19 42 56 0 19 40 53 15 7 0 16 34 1 62 36 3 8 8 9 14 31 54 2 13 26 40 21 8 9 19 13 6 48 41 1 3 2 2 3 28 27 1 6 17 31 5 1 1 0 5 2 29 27 239 219 109 159 142 40 90 415 371 191 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Totals Totals Totals All Departments Baltimore ................Thursday: April 7, May 5 Boston.....................Friday: April 8, May 6 Duluth .....................Wednesday: April 13, May 11 Guam ......................Thursday: April 21, May 19 Honolulu .................Friday: April 15, May 13 Houston ..................Monday: April 11, May 9 Jacksonville ............Thursday: April 7, May 5 Joliet .......................Thursday: April 14, May 12 Mobile ....................Wednesday: April 13, May 11 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: April 12, May 10 New York................Tuesday: April 5, May 3 Norfolk ...................Thursday: April 7, May 5 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: April 6, May 4 0 0 1 1 2 3 4 1 1 1 4 1 0 0 2 2 1 4 4 0 0 2 0 7 10 9 0 3 5 9 4 3 0 5 5 0 12 4 1 0 3 1 3 6 12 1 1 1 5 6 1 1 3 4 3 13 6 1 0 0 0 2 2 7 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 2 4 4 0 1 0 3 6 1 0 3 1 1 11 3 2 0 5 1 10 14 48 0 11 17 18 6 3 3 7 22 0 18 14 0 2 5 2 6 14 35 0 6 5 12 16 6 3 4 11 1 37 11 1 0 2 1 2 9 10 0 3 4 13 6 1 1 1 7 2 7 9 Port Everglades.......Thursday: April 14, May 12 108 108 32 78 71 22 41 199 176 79 Tim Ryan is trying to get in touch with Bill Dolson and/or Scrap Iron. Please call Tim at (401) 596-9638. 0 0 4 1 12 21 19 0 1 10 19 7 2 0 0 24 0 26 29 0 0 1 1 7 3 14 0 3 2 6 12 0 1 1 7 1 2 7 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 3 3 5 0 2 1 0 0 4 5 1 0 1 1 11 10 17 0 3 4 11 3 4 1 0 16 0 18 21 0 0 0 0 2 1 10 0 1 3 4 7 0 3 2 2 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 5 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 6 0 0 0 6 1 2 1 1 8 0 7 8 0 0 5 1 14 27 29 0 10 19 33 14 2 1 2 44 1 34 36 2 0 2 1 8 8 20 0 5 2 7 21 1 1 2 9 1 6 15 0 0 1 1 1 3 8 0 1 2 7 7 0 2 1 2 0 4 7 175 68 27 122 40 11 44 272 111 47 0 0 0 0 8 4 5 0 0 3 2 0 0 1 1 2 0 6 2 1 3 4 2 10 9 20 0 9 3 39 7 1 2 2 9 2 17 6 2 6 2 1 8 10 20 0 2 4 24 11 1 20 0 11 1 20 14 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 3 3 1 0 0 1 1 0 5 0 1 0 3 0 3 15 11 0 4 5 19 7 1 3 2 11 0 7 4 0 1 1 0 0 6 6 0 0 1 3 5 0 34 0 1 1 6 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 7 8 0 1 7 9 0 0 1 2 5 0 9 3 2 5 7 3 14 16 30 1 15 11 55 10 0 5 6 17 3 34 10 4 8 2 1 21 27 34 0 3 22 58 21 4 31 0 21 1 33 30 34 146 157 17 96 71 0 65 244 321 556 541 325 376 349 144 175 951 902 638 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 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. March 2005 Algonac ..................Friday: April 8, May 6 0 1 3 3 6 11 17 1 3 4 9 9 3 0 2 10 2 19 5 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Piney Point .............Monday: April 4, May 2 0 0 3 0 6 7 28 0 6 8 11 2 3 1 5 9 0 14 5 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 San Francisco .........Thursday: April 14, May 12 San Juan..................Thursday: April 7, May 5 St. Louis..................Friday: April 15, May 13 Tacoma ...................Friday: April 22, May 20 Wilmington ...............Monday: April 18, May 16 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals BILL DOLSON AND SCRAP IRON Correction In the February 2005 edition of the Seafarers LOG, the page 3 article containing the list of union officials elected for the term from 2005-2008 was incomplete. The complete list is as follows: Michael Sacco, president; John Fay, executive vice president; David Heindel, secretary-treasurer; Augie Tellez, contracts and contract enforcement vice president; Joseph Soresi, Atlantic Coast vice president; Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast vice president; Nick Marrone, West Coast vice president; Thomas Orzechowski, Southern Region, Great Lakes and inland waters vice president; Kermett Mangram, Government Services and fishing industries vice president; René Lioeanjie, vice president at large; Charles Stewart, vice president at large; George Tricker, assistant vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement; Nick Celona, assistant vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast; Ambrose Cucinotta, assistant vice president in charge of the Gulf Coast; Don Anderson, assistant vice president in charge of the West Coast; James McGee, assistant vice president in charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and inland waters; Chester Wheeler, assistant vice president in charge of Government Services and fishing industries; Edward “Edd” Morris, Piney Point port agent; Robert Selzer, New York port agent; Joseph Mieluchowski, Philadelphia port agent; Georg Kenny, Baltimore port agent; Ed Kelly, Mobile port agent; Steve Judd, New Orleans port agent; Tony McQuay, Houston port agent; Vince Coss, San Francisco port agent; Becky Sleeper, St. Louis port agent; Don Thornton, Algonac port agent. Seafarers LOG 9 �26668_P10,11,13,15.qxd 2/18/2005 7:54 PM Page 10 Statisti U.S. Health Care A Closer Look SIU, Other Unions Keep Swinging, But It’s Often an Uphill Struggle A little more than one year ago, nearly 80,000 trade unionists— most of them members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW)—either were on strike or were locked out in several states. The UFCW action lasted five months and was driven by bitter conflicts with management over proposed changes in the workers’ health insurance. The details varied from contract to contract, but in one representative case (a Kroger store in Charleston, W. Va.), workers struck in part because of a company proposal that either would have cut their health benefits or cost them up to $100 more per week—per worker—to maintain their current coverage. Since then, while there have been no other job actions involving similarly large numbers of workers, health care costs consistently have been a top issue in union contract negotiations all over the country. A quick check of last month’s headlines turned up the following: In St. Paul, Minn., dozens of United Auto Workers Local 763 members were locked out of their jobs at a parts distribution center, in part because of disputes over health benefits. In northern California, roughly 3,000 UFCW members tentatively reached an agreement with Save Mart Supermarkets, but not before protracted negotiations that often centered on health insurance. Union members said that if it hadn’t been for the strike a year ago, they likely still would be without a new contract. In the northeast, approximately 1,000 turnpike workers who are Teamsters were on the verge of their first strike (in the unit’s 50year history) because of stalled negotiations. Health coverage has been cited as the leading issue in the dispute. In New Jersey, 180 members of Teamsters Local 701 are striking against a waste management company because of proposed cuts in medical coverage. In New York City, 800 members of two Amalgamated Transit Union locals tentatively ended a 10-day walkout largely motivated by concerns about health benefits. In Philadelphia, an official from Transport Workers Union Local 234—which represents 5,000 members—has cautioned that contract negotiations which started in late January between the union and the region’s transit agency will be more difficult than those of 1998, when a 40-day strike occurred. Not surprisingly, health care coverage is a key subject in the current talks. Keep in mind, that’s just a sampling from January. Similar cases involving other unions took place throughout 2004. Meanwhile, the SIU and the Seafarers Plans continue to fight for affordable health care for SIU members and for all Americans. The union is involved in grassroots efforts through the American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations as well as the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department. The SIU also is active in this fight through state labor federations and central labor councils. Additionally, as previously reported, officials from the Seafarers Plans have met with other maritime union plans administrators a half-dozen times during the past 18 months. Collectively, the plans administrators are writing a joint report that is expected to include recommendations to the union presidents for combating the high costs of health care while continuing to provide good benefits. An outside professional will review the report before it is finalized. “One intent of the meetings was simply to examine what other plans are doing to contain costs,” noted Bill Dennis, administrator of the Seafarers Plans. “In our own case, we have fought to maintain good coverage for Seafarers, in part by contracting with (respectively) Prescription Solutions and First Health Network. In the long run, the Plan expects both agreements to benefit participants as well as the Plan itself. “We are committed to taking the steps needed to ensure that the Plan can continue providing adequate coverage in situations where SIU members and their families need health care,” Dennis concluded. Further, both the SIU and the Seafarers Plans are examining the most efficient methods for collecting and reviewing membership input on medical coverage. This may include individual questionnaires that would be mailed to members’ homes as well as printed in the Seafarers LOG and posted on the union’s web site. Sources for these articles on health care included the following: AFL-CIO, Associated Press, Business Week, The Tennessean, The Dallas Morning News, The New York Times, the St. Paul Pioneer Press, The Sacramento Bee, and the New Jersey Home News Tribune. 10 Seafarers LOG MTD Resolution on Editor’s note: The executive board of the AFL-CI was scheduled to receive the following resolution Health Care When asked about the future, Americans invariably list health care as one of their main concerns. Little wonder. The United States spends more on it than any other country in the world, yet nearly 45 million of its citizens lack coverage. Absent some kind of meaningful government action, that figure is sure to rise even further over the next several years. Health care costs have been outpacing the rate of inflation by a factor of five. Even those Americans now covered are not secure. A growing number of employers are seeking to shift more costs onto workers in the form of higher premiums, deductibles and co-payments. Some are even seeking to eliminate that coverage altogether. According to a recent study put out by the Center for Studying Health System Change, premiums for employer-sponsored coverage increased nearly 13 percent in 2002 alone. Rising health care costs are only part of the problem. The refusal of companies like Wal-Mart to provide adequate coverage in sectors of the economy where coverage had been the norm is exacerbating the situation. As a result, emergency room visits form the sum and substance of whatever medical treatment many of their workers receive. As a practical matter, this means that state and federal governments have been effectively subsidizing companies like Wal-Mart to the tune of several thousand of dollars per worker. Companies that provide health care also must pick up the slack in the form of higher premiums. This must change. Legislation mandating Wal-Mart and companies like it to pay their fair share would help correct this problem. In a sector of the economy beset by uncertainty, drug costs are a particular concern. The prescription drug benefit plan enacted by the 108th Congress needs to be reformed to allow the states and the federal government to buy supplies from safe Canada and the United Kingdom in order to cut costs. Moreover, the generous tax cuts doled out to HMOs ia provide a f Similarl equate nur More than ted profess lives. The A make sure Finally, ensure imp Maritime T believe tha All A ingful acce State costs and h Qual health care All u work. The tives and ru of health c Cong Rights. March 2005 �26668_P10,11,13,15.qxd 2/18/2005 7:56 PM Page 11 tically Speaking, the System’s a Mess e: k A counselors believe that retiree benefits will be gone within a few decades. HEADLINE in Business Week earlier this year captured the state of American health care in just four words: “More Money, Less Care.” While there arguably is no way to quantify the struggles of the 45 million United States citizens who have no medical insurance, nor those of millions of others who are under-insured, statistics tell a big part of this story. Start with those 45 million uninsured individuals—and then add 6,000 more every day. That’s the current pace at which Americans are losing their coverage, which projects to more than 2 million people per year. Behind those staggering figures are constantly increasing insurance costs. From the spring of 2003 to the spring of 2004, employer-sponsored health care premiums for a family of four jumped by more than 11 percent, to just under $10,000. That wasn’t an anomaly—it was the fourth straight year of double-digit cost increases. Often, as noted in the headline, it’s a case of paying more for less. Credible estimates are forecasting that employees will see an increase of 14 percent in their share of their premiums this year, while their benefits will be reduced. n Health Care -CIO Maritime Trades Department ion at its meetings this month. should be reworked so that more money goes directly into benefits. The main problem with the bill was not its cost, but that so much money is being diverted into non-productive uses. As the debate over last year’s prescription drug benefits clearly showed, working families and their doctors need to be put on an equal footing with big HMOs and powerful insurance companies. That is why organized labor continues to support the adoption of a Patients’ Bill of Rights. It would protect Americans in private health plans, allow health care consumers a voice, protect health care workers from retaliations from their employees and allow doctors to de a full diagnosis. milarly, many experts have been pointing out that inade nurse staffing is jeopardizing quality patient care. than anything else, it is driving experienced, commitofessionals from the industry. Safe staffing can save The AFL-CIO and many of its affiliates are trying to sure that our hospitals are safer. nally, the AFL-CIO has issued a set of principles to e improved access to affordable, quality care. The ime Trades Department, AFL-CIO and its affiliates e that they offer the hope for a better future: All Americans deserve quality health care and meanaccess to insurance. State-based bulk drug purchasing plans can help lower and help the uninsured buy prescriptions. Quality measures and assurance controls can improve care, save lives and lower costs. All unions should bargain smarter for health care at Some of the results are predictable, with insurers foisting much of the increase on working families as well as retirees. Workers’ premiums have risen at least three times faster than earnings in the past four years. During that same span, Americans whose health-care costs are more than 25 percent of their annual income has jumped to 14 million. Since the year 2000, the overall expense of job-based health insurance has increased by nearly 60 percent, while the percentage of covered workers has dropped from 65 percent to 61 percent. Among those who still have coverage, only 24 percent don’t have to pay to carry single coverage. Even worse, only eight percent work for employers who pay the full cost of family coverage (meaning there’s no out-of-pocket cost to the worker simply to maintain the insurance benefit). Retirees literally are paying the price, too. For those younger than 65 and still receiving benefits from their former employers, their premiums jumped by 25 percent last year. Roughly one in 10 businesses has stopped offering health care coverage to retirees, with more predicted to follow. That latter figure is much worse when considering only the nation’s 1,000 largest employers— less than a third of them offer health coverage to retirees. Some financial Last month, a federal advisory board recommended a cut in Medicare payments promised to hospitals and a freeze in moneys pledged to home care agencies and nursing homes next year. Medicare covers more than 41 million elderly and disabled individuals. The program’s cost jumped by more than eight percent last year (to $300 billion) and is projected to grow by nearly one third from 2005-2007. Nationwide, health care expenses account for 15 percent of America’s gross domestic product (GDP). By some estimates, if the current rate of increase doesn’t change for the better, health care could cripple the U.S. economy by taking up 28 percent of the GDP in 25 years and nearly 50 percent by the middle of the century. The federal government should develop new incenand rules to require all employers to pay their fair share alth care coverage. Congress should immediately pass a Patients’ Bill of s. March 2005 Seafarers LOG 11 �26668_P3,5,12cxs.qxd 2/17/2005 4:57 PM Page 12 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 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 12 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 6 6 4 8 15 0 0 3 42 2 1 3 1 4 0 0 2 13 0 3 5 4 1 2 3 0 18 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 7 3 2 9 1 1 0 26 2 3 1 2 4 0 0 0 12 0 2 5 4 1 3 2 0 17 1 5 4 3 6 2 1 0 22 7 28 14 15 41 5 1 11 122 0 4 5 3 5 2 0 5 24 0 25 0 21 2 0 5 0 53 1 5 1 0 1 1 0 1 10 4 13 7 8 12 2 1 11 58 1 1 4 2 1 0 1 1 11 0 18 1 16 0 1 0 2 38 0 1 3 0 2 0 0 0 6 3 5 7 11 8 1 1 5 41 0 5 2 1 15 0 0 0 23 0 19 1 14 0 1 0 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 7 5 3 3 8 1 0 3 30 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 2 5 0 6 3 1 1 1 2 0 14 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 6 3 3 0 5 2 0 0 19 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 6 0 2 3 0 1 1 2 0 9 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 4 1 4 6 6 0 0 1 22 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 1 7 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 1 5 Port 3 2 2 1 7 0 1 0 16 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 94 25 38 61 20 30 38 221 58 127 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Horace B. Rains of Houston, Texas. They were taken aboard a Liberty ship in Korea in 1952. In the top photo, Rains is second from right in the back row; in the other photo, he is in the front row on the right. Brother Rains joined the union in 1945 in the port of New Orleans, first sailing aboard Bloomfield Steamship Co. vessels, including the Neva West. Born in Kentucky, he served in the Army from 1953 to 1954. He completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1974. The Cove Liberty was his last ship before retiring in March 1991, but then, at age 77, he decided to return to active member status in 2004 to “support my union and serve my country.” He most recently sailed on the Seabulk Trader. 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. March 2005 �26668_P3,9_13,15.qxd 2/18/2005 7:50 PM Page 13 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 HAROLD BOONE, 70, began sailing with the SIU in 1980 in New Orleans. Brother Boone shipped as a member of the deck department in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He first sailed aboard a Dixie Carriers vessel. In 2001, Brother Boone upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, he worked on the Cape Domingo. Brother Boone, who was born in Arkansas, makes his home in Slidell, La. INLAND RAYMOND BRUMBACK, 58, joined the SIU in 1980. Boatman Brumback shipped with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville during his seafaring 2006 Budget Aims to Enhance Security of Nation’s Ports Continued from page 5 Homeland Security. “Collectively we must all do more to secure what goes into, and through, all ports of the world, and not just the United States.” Thomson made those remarks at a conference on maritime security in Berlin. Standards enacted by Washington since the attacks in 2001 include a rule requiring shippers to supply U.S. authorities with details of U.S.-bound cargoes a full 24 hours before the goods are loaded at a foreign port. The data are fed to a National Targeting Center in Virginia, which combs them for risk factors like vague cargo descriptions, suspiciouslooking transport routes, wrong addresses or dispatchers shipping to the United States for the first time. It can then ask the foreign port to investigate further. Thomson said Washington is in favor of all nations adopting the 24-hour rule, plus a common approach to risk management, information-sharing, inspections and fast-track processing for companies that meet “best practice” security standards. He said that an initial draft framework containing these elements had been broadly endorsed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) in December and a revised draft should be ready for submission to the WCO council in June. Countries could begin signing up as soon as it is approved. Elsewhere, the ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee recently said that reliable security and smooth commerce must go hand in hand. U.S. Rep. Don Young (RAlaska) said, “If we become so fail-safe it interferes with the flow of commerce—especially maritime and rail—the bad guys have won.” Young said the maritime and rail industries are ahead of the curve when it comes to security developments and says Congress should not micromanage that. “I have never seen a railroad or a shipping company that wants to have a terrorist act occur upon it,” Young said. “But as congressmen, I can tell you we like to tell you what to do and how to do it, when to do it, and where to do it. March 2005 And I don’t think we’re that expert in that field.” Young said commerce is “what keeps this nation growing. It’s what gives us the freedom. It’s what allows us to be leaders in the world.” In another development, Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, in late January posed questions regarding port security when confirmation hearings commenced to consider Judge Michael Chertoff as the next head of the Department of Homeland Security. “This [port security] is an area that I do believe has not received the attention it deserves nor the funding that is needed,” Collins said. The senator pointed out that Maine’s ports, including New England’s largest port by tonnage, still have significant port security needs. She also relayed concerns expressed by the director of the port of Portland that there is not enough flexibility in the allocation of resources. “The Coast Guard, for example, has estimated that implementing the Maritime Transportation Security Act would cost $7.3 billion over 10 years,” Collins added. “Yet, in the current fiscal year, the Department of Homeland Security will distribute only $150 million in port security grants. That’s a huge gap.” Collins noted that she had recently visited the port of Los Angeles/Long Beach, which handles 43 percent of all the containers coming into the country. “Just a couple of days after I left, an alert crane operator spotted 32 Chinese nationals in two separate containers who had been smuggled into the country,” Collins said. “That really concerns me, because if the smugglers of the illegal aliens know to use the container system, then surely Al Qaida has identified that as a possible means of smuggling an Al Qaida cell into our country. And despite all the hightech cameras and other surveillance techniques and the department’s screening programs, none of those caught these illegal Chinese citizens. It was, in fact, an alert crane operator.” career. He upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. in 2000, 2001 and again in 2004. Boatman Brumback was born in Ohio and sailed in the engine department. He is a resident of Sulphur, La. VIVIAN GAINES, 64, joined the SIU in 1993. Born in Arkansas, Sister Gaines sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Orgulf Transportation Co. She worked in the steward department and calls Tiline, Ky. home. GEORGE WASHINGTON JR., 62, became a Seafarer in 1995 in New Orleans. Boatman Washington worked primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamship Co. vessels in the steward department. He was born in New Orleans and continues to reside there. JULIAN WATLER, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1984 in New Orleans. Boatman Watler’s first ship was the Delta Queen and his most recent was the Mississippi Queen. He was born in New Orleans and sailed as a member of the engine department. Boatman Watler enhanced his skills in 1987 at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He lives in his native state. NMU in 1964, initially shipping from the port of Norfolk, Va. The steward department member first sailed aboard the Pioneer Main. Prior to retiring, Brother Frei worked on the Chesapeake Bay. sailed on the Gloucesterman. The deck department member makes his home in Gloucester. 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. ELY LEGASPI, 58, became an NMU member in 1979, first sailing from San Pedro, Calif. Born in the Philippines, Brother Legaspi sailed in the deck department. His last ship was the Tonsina. ANTHONY ARACRI, 71, began sailing with the NMU from New York. Brother Aracri most recently went to sea aboard the Cape Rise. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Aracri was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. ELMER EARL, 58, joined the NMU in 1979 in New York. Brother Earl’s first ship was the Pioneer Contractor. Born in Mobile, Ala., he was a member of the deck department. Brother Earl last sailed on the Fredericksburg. WARNIE WORTHY, 67, donned the NMU colors in 1963 in New York. Brother Worthy worked in the steward department, initially aboard the African Sun. He was born in North Carolina. His most recent voyage was on the Lykes Discoverer. LYN FREI, 62, was born in Florida. Brother Frei joined the Taking the Message to D.C. Members of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) last month lobbied on Capitol Hill for legislation aimed at providing $1,000 per month to WWII mariners or their widows in lieu of benefits not received after the war. The bill (H.R. 23) also gives Social Security credit for time served in the U.S. Merchant Marine during WWII. Pictured from left to right are AMMV members Angelo D’Alessio, Jody Watson, K.C. O’Brien, Myron Boluch and Ian Allison. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN SALVATORE LOIACANO, 61, joined the Atlantic Fishermen’s Union in Gloucester, Mass. before it merged with the SIU in 1981. Brother Loiacano last Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 Despite the continuing menace of German Uboat packs and continued sinking of American merchant vessels on their dangerous trips to supply the allied armies, the Maritime War Emergency Board decided to slash bonuses for merchant seamen. After assurances to the contrary from Capt. E. Macauley, representative of the Maritime Commission and the War Shipping Administration, the Board decided to slash the extra pay for men working ships in dangerous waters. Seafarers aboard ship had objected to the proposed cuts by letter and telegram, citing the fact that U.S. Navy crews working aboard their vessels were still given extra pay for the voyages, but the MWEB voted on March 14 to reduce the existing rates. begins next month at all SIU and MC&S union halls. Results of the [vote] will be announced in June…. If the merger takes place, it will represent a giant step forward in the consolidation of some of the SIUNA’s seagoing affiliates into one larger, stronger unit. Such a move would provide stronger job security and wider job opportunities for all members. 1991 As the United Nations Security Council moves closer towards approving a resolution that will officially end the war in the Persian Gulf, American ships and American seamen continue to deliver the goods—but this time the materiel is about to be brought home. The amount of equipment shipped to the Middle East has been staggering. Under the auspices of the Military Sealift Command, the Department of Defense agency responsible for coordinating the waterborne carriage of supplies for the American armed forces, more than 3 million short tons of dry cargo has gone by ship to support Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. The MSC reports that some 180 ships are assisting in the sealift effort. This Month In SIU History 1978 Voting on the proposed merger of the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District and the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union Seafarers LOG 13 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/17/2005 5:35 PM Page 14 Final Departures DEEP SEA LOUIS BRIANT JR. Pensioner Louis Briant Jr., 86, died Dec. 8. Brother Briant began his SIU profession in 1944 in New Orleans. He first shipped in the engine department aboard the Del Sud. Brother Briant, who was born in Louisiana, last sailed on Waterman Steamship’s G. Walton. He lived in Metairie, La. and went on pension in 1976. ALBERT COALE JR. Pensioner Albert Coale Jr., 55, passed away Oct. 30. Born in Alabama, Brother Coale started his seafaring career in 1968, first sailing aboard the Fairisle. His last trip was on the Atlantic Forest. Brother Coale worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 2003. He resided in his native state. YUNG GUM Pensioner Yung Gum, 81, died Oct. 13. Brother Gum joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. He was born in China and resided in San Francisco. Brother Gum started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1977. ALVINA HAIL Pensioner Alvina Hail, 97, passed away Sept. 27. Sister Hail began her seafaring career with the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Born in New York, she shipped as a member of the steward department. Sister Hail, who went on pension in 1968, lived in Sausalito, Calif. JOAQUIN MILLER Pensioner Joaquin Miller, 74, died Nov. 10. He joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of San Francisco. The engine department member was born in Massachusetts and called Las Vegas home. Prior to retiring in 1994, Brother Miller worked on the Innovator. RAYMOND SATO Pensioner Raymond Sato, 80, passed away Oct. 26. Brother Sato launched his seafaring career with the MC&S in 1959. The U.S. Army veteran worked primarily aboard Matson Navigation vessels such as the Maui and Lurline. Born in Hawaii, Brother Sato was a member of the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1986 and made his home in Honolulu. RAY SIMS Pensioner Ray Sims, 70, died Oct. 19. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Brother Sims joined the SIU in 1969. He shipped in the engine department, last sailing on the Overseas 14 Seafarers LOG Juneau. Brother Sims was born in Tennessee and lived in San Francisco. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1999. FRANK SMITH Pensioner Frank Smith, 76, passed away Oct. 10. Brother Smith first donned the SIU colors in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard a vessel operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Smith, who was born in Virginia, worked in the deck department. He last sailed on the Leader. Brother Smith lived in his native state and went on pension in 1988. STANDISH WOODELL Pensioner Standish Woodell, 83, died Nov. 9. Brother Woodell started his SIU career in 1943 in New York. Born in West Virginia, he first went to sea aboard the Steel Navigator. Brother Woodell was a member of the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1985, he worked on the Santa Mariana. Brother Woodell called Sacramento, Calif. home. LAWRENCE WRIGHT Pensioner Lawrence Wright, 54, passed away Nov. 13. Brother Wright began shipping with the SIU in 1967, initially aboard the Coeur d’Alene Victory. The engine department member, who was born in Mobile, Ala., lived in New Orleans. His last ship was the Seabulk Challenge. Brother Wright began collecting his pension in 1998. INLAND WILLIAM DELESLINE Pensioner William Delesline, 81, died Nov. 17. Boatman Delesline embarked on his SIU profession in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He first shipped in the deep sea division on the Robin Kettering. Boatman Delesline was born in Florida and shipped as a steward department member. He resided in Williamsburg, Va. and started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1989. JOHN LINDWALL Pensioner John Lindwall, 64, passed away Nov. 15. He joined the union in 1973 in the port of Philadelphia after serving in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Lindwall was born in Philadelphia and lived in Maine. He began receiving his retirement stipends in 2002. GREAT LAKES ROBERT BERTRAND Pensioner Robert Bertrand, 75, died Dec. 15. He joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Bertrand worked primarily on vessels owned by Inland Lakes Management such as the Alpena and J.B. Ford. He shipped in the steward department and went on pension in 1994. Brother Bertrand was born in Detroit and lived in Inverness, Fla. ABDO FOTAIH Pensioner Abdo Fotaih, 64, passed away Nov. 18. A native of Yemen, he started his seafaring career in 1970 in Detroit. Brother Fotaih initially sailed with Michigan Tankers as a member of the deck department. His last trip was aboard an American Steamship vessel. Brother Fotaih retired in 2001 and made his home in Sanaa, Yemen. JOSEPH KELLY Pensioner Joseph Kelly, 58, died Nov. 17. He began his seafaring career in 1964 in Chicago. Brother Kelly shipped on American Steamship’s American Mariner throughout his career. He was born in Rogers City, Mich. and worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Kelly was a resident of Green Cove Springs, Fla. and started collecting his retirement pay in 1999. WILLIAM SLEPKO THOMAS HODGES JORGE PIRES Pensioner Thomas Hodges, 77, passed away Nov. 7. Born in Virginia, Brother Hodges embarked on his seafaring career in 1946 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He first went to sea on the Frederic Remington. Brother Hodges last worked aboard the Delaware. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1968. Pensioner Jorge Pires, 90, passed away July 30. Brother Pires was born in Portugal and began his career with the NMU in 1945 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first vessel was the David G. Farragut, where he worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Pires last sailed aboard the Brazil. He started collecting his pension in 1966. DOMINGO MALDONADO Pensioner Domingo Maldonado, 89, died Nov. 14. Brother Maldonado became an NMU member in 1937. Shipping out of the port of Baltimore, Md., his initial voyage was on the Dixiano. Brother Maldonado was born in Ponce, P.R. He worked as a member of the steward department. A pensioner since 1979, he last sailed aboard the Gulf Banker. ALBERT SABIO Pensioner Albert Sabio, 88, died Nov. 15. Brother Sabio first sailed for the NMU in 1943 from the port of New Orleans. Born in Honduras, his initial voyage was on the Caloria. A member of the deck department, Brother Sabio last shipped aboard the Pioneer Minx. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1970. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU brothers, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. Name Age D.O.D. Biega, Manuel 93 Oct. 17 Clayton, Carver 76 Dec. 9 Cruz, Estanislo 92 Dec. 1 Cruze, John 79 July 5 Frank, Richard 67 Dec. 2 Gatling, Robert 76 Dec. 5 Jeffords, Orvel 77 Nov. 25 Jones, Truly 86 May 21 Krane, Arthur 80 July 17 Layne, Clyde 76 Sept. 22 Loy, George 88 Aug.7 McCurdy, Robert 72 Dec. 6 Mixon, Howard 77 Oct. 30 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. Nunez Cacho, Cornelius 86 Dec. 18 Odell, Edward 76 Nov. 15 Petro, Joseph 77 Nov. 27 Pettersson, Everet 86 Nov. 30 MANUEL DIAZ Reyes, Rafael 83 Nov. 15 Pensioner Manuel Diaz, 87, passed away Dec. 4. Brother Diaz joined the NMU in 1945 in New York. The Puerto Rico-born mariner worked in the engine department. Brother Diaz’s first ship was the Cape Spencer; his last was the Santa Ana. He went on pension in 1964. Reyes, Ramon 83 Oct. 6 Salvage, Thomas 68 Nov. 27 Short, Carl 77 Nov. 6 Stone, Knealand 88 Aug. 26 Storts, John 95 July 1 Taylor, Jimmie 77 Oct. 4 Teeple, Arnold 83 Aug. 4 Tims, Bob 78 Nov. 3 Toth, John 80 Oct. 8 Wilson, Edward 81 Nov. 22 Pensioner William Slepko, 74, passed away Oct. 28. Born in Poland, Brother Slepko joined the union in Cleveland in 1973. His first voyage was on the C. Trader, where he worked in the engine department. Before retiring in 1995, Brother Slepko shipped on the Indiana Harbor. He called Tucson, Ariz. home. ALVARIS DUFFIS Pensioner Alvaris Duffis, 87, died Aug. 10. Brother Duffis began sailing with the NMU in New York. His first ship was the African Grove. The engine department member was born in Colombia. Prior to retiring in 1984, he worked on the Export Aide. “I hope to see my Pilot face to face When I have crossed the bar.” —Alfred Lord Tennyson Crossing the Bar March 2005 �26668_P3,9_13,15.qxd 2/18/2005 7:49 PM Page 15 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. COMET (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 26—Chairman Paul S. Wills, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Dimarko L. Shoulders, Deck Delegate Feliciano M. Gimutao, Steward Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. Chairman announced vessel’s arrival Dec. 28 in Long Beach, Calif. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of upgrading courses offered at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications from headquarters read and discussed. Request made for new mattresses and fans in crew cabins as well as number of items for galley. Vote of thanks to chief cook for excellent meals and steward department for great job. CONSTELLATION (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 12—Chairman Boyce E. Wilson, Educational Director Roger D. Phillips, Deck Delegate Edward E. Jaynes. Chairman notified crew of request from boarding patrolman to have passports, discharge papers and z-cards ready at time of relief. Educational director spoke about opportunities available for mariners to enhance their skills at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $200 available in ship’s fund; he will use funds to purchase DVD player when vessel arrives in Lake Charles, La. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read and discussed president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Requests made for new carpet and draperies in crew quarters. Crew also asked for new mattresses in staterooms and new grill for galley. ENDURANCE (USSM), Dec. 12 —Chairman Mathew J. Bevak, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Donnell C. Tagant, Deck Delegate Dennis A. Hurley, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Carlito S. Navano. Chairman thanked all departments for smooth sailing and enjoyable voyage. Secretary expressed gratitude to crew for helping keep food areas clean. Educational director advised everyone to be sure shipping documents are kept current and suggested everyone take advantage of opportunities available at Piney Point school. He also encouraged them to contribute to SPAD. No beefs reported; disputed OT noted in deck department. Crew members sent their condolences to family of Ken Conklin. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. INNOVATOR (USSM), Dec. 19— Chairman Mark S. Lance, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Richard G. Williams, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Steward Delegate Tammy M. Bingisser. Chairman reported no news on USSM transfer to Maersk Line Ltd. He wished Jose Bayani good luck on new job after many years aboard the Innovator. Secretary thanked crew for outstanding job this trip. Educational director reminded crew members that Paul Hall Center is always open for upgrading and training. He also recom- March 2005 mended they keep all necessary shipping documents current. Treasurer reported $315.53 in entertainment fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication from headquarters regarding recent SAB action read and discussed. Suggestion made to raise salaries of patrolmen, port agents and secretaries. Everyone asked to notify bosun if shower leaks. Vote of thanks given to steward department for delicious food and clean ship. Next port: Los Angeles. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), Dec. 5—Chairman Daniel Laitinen Jr., Secretary Fausto D. Aranda, Educational Director Steven A. Lombardi, Deck Delegate William D. Leachman, Steward Delegate Joel P. Crow. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 11 upon arrival in New Orleans. He thanked crew for safe trip and for keeping rooms neat. Secretary expressed gratitude to mariners for helping keep ship clean and stated it was a pleasure working with them. Educational director stressed importance of making sure all necessary shipping documents are up to date and advised everyone to allow plenty of time—at least six months—for renewal process. He urged crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in engine department. Crew gave thanks for new washing machine. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), Dec. 12. Chairman Richard E. Barnes, Secretary Steven M. Dickson, Engine Delegate Hector A. Guity, Steward Delegate Willie Toomer. Chairman reported company to send checks to crew members for travel. Educational director reminded everyone about educational opportunities available at Piney Point facility and about need to keep all paperwork and documents up to date. Treasurer stated $600 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to unlicensed apprentices for job well done and to steward department for great meals and service. Suggestion made to increase orders of stores. Next port: San Lorenzo, Argentina. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line Limited), Dec. 19—Chairman Eddy E. Stwaeard, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Brian Sengelaub, Deck Delegate Terry N. Arbuah, Engine Delegate Terry J. Mouton. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival Dec. 24 in Newark, N.J. and thanked all departments for pleasant voyage. Secretary thanked crew for helping maintain clean ship. Educational director reminded mariners to pay attention to task at hand and make safety a number-one priority. He thanked crew for outstanding professionalism and performance. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on changing watch hours. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food, especially on Thanksgiving Day. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Newark. MAJ. BERNARD F. FISHER (Sealift), Dec. 26—Chairman Reuben M. Brown, Secretary Walter R. Seals, Educational Director Troy L. Fleming, Deck Delegate Lorenzo Riddick, Engine Delegate Michael C. McNally, Steward Delegate Velonder L. Alford. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 31 in Diego Garcia, where the ship will remain. He reminded crew that safety policies and ship’s company policies are to be followed at all times. Educational director asked crew to check out upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for outstanding holiday meal. Request made for new furniture in crew lounge and new galley equipment, including coffee machine, cooking utensils and pots and pans. NORTH STAR (Interocean Ugland Management), Dec. 12— Chairman John O. Glenn, Secretary Veronika K. Cardenas, Educational Director Daniel P. Mitchell. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 15 in Tacoma, Wash. Crew members will get the day off. He reminded Seafarers of importance of contributing to SPAD. Secretary urged everyone to make sure all MMDs are current. Educational director spoke about the educational facilities available at Piney Point and encouraged everyone to use and enjoy them. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding length of contract and increasing pension benefits. Crew requested access to computer and e-mail. Vote of thanks given to steward department for delicious Thanksgiving feast. USNS HENSON (Horizon Lines), Dec. 17—Chairman Arthur W. Cross, Secretary Henry E. Manning, Educational Director Sharon Sylvia, Deck Delegate Brian Robison, Steward Delegate Melvin Thomas. Chairman warned crew members that relief might be slow to arrive due to war. He also informed them someone from Horizon would visit vessel to talk to them Jan. 3 or 4. Educational director advised mariners to check out what upgrading classes Piney Point has to offer. Treasurer stated $356.68 in ship’s fund. DVD player has been purchased. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate praised deck department for fine job painting ship’s doors. CHEMICAL EXPLORER (Intrepid Ship Management), Jan. 2—Chairman Richard Wilson, Secretary Christina A. Mateer, Deck Delegate Timothy J. Jackson, Engine Delegate Anjwar D. Brooks, Steward Delegate Santiago Amaya. Chairman read and discussed recent SAB action. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated ship’s fund contained enough to pay monthly satellite bill. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding increasing vacation benefit. Special thanks given to steward department for wonderful Christmas meal. Next ports: Texas City, Houston and Galveston, Texas. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Jan. 2—Chairman Lawrence Kunc, Secretary Paul Sullivan, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Evan J. Bradley, Engine Delegate Gregory L. Howard, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Secretary reported new crew washing machine to be installed following arrival in Oakland, Calif.; new juice machine on order. Educational director discussed courses offered at Paul Hall Center and advised crew members to enhance skills whenever possible, including small arms course. Treasurer said holiday spread was “most amazing spread ever on ship,” thanks to steward department. No beefs reported; disputed OT noted in engine department. Recommendation made to reduce time required for pension benefits. HORIZON SPRIT (Horizon Lines), Jan. 6—Chairman Howard W. Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo C. Ombec, Educational Director Paul D. Hanley, Deck elected union officials. Captain promised new recliner chairs in crew staterooms. Next ports: Newark, N.J.; Houston. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), Jan. 9—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Randy D. Clark, Deck Delegate Timothy D. Girard, Engine Delegate James R. Oling. Chairman reported smooth trip and announced payoff Jan. 17 in Newark, N.J. He asked departing crew to clean rooms and leave keys for next person. Secretary thanked mariners for cooperation in help- Crewing up the SBX Seafarers continue working aboard the semi-submersible SBX (an acronym for sea-based X-Band radar), one of the newest additions to the SIU-crewed fleet. Above, crew members recently load provisions in Brownsville, Texas. Among those pictured are OS Chris Christensen, AB John Fain, OS Marc Simpson, Bosun Greg Anderson and OS Amber Michel. Below, the vessel’s construction is nearly complete. Delegate Michael Penkwitz. Chairman reported good crew and thanked everyone for following safety procedures. Educational director urged seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center, check expiration dates on documents and donate to SPAD. He also recommended crew members bring family to Piney Point school for summer vacation. Bosun stated $243 in video fund; he’ll buy new movies next trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone expressed gratitude to steward department for excellent Christmas and New Year’s dinners, including everything from roast pig and Beef Wellington to stuffed crabs and freshly baked cakes and cookies. Next ports: Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong; Tacoma, Wash. LIBERATOR (USSM), Jan. 6— Chairman Daniel J. Teichman, Secretary Robert S. Davis, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate Edwin D. Fuller, Engine Delegate Theodore Wallace. Chairman thanked steward department for fine meals, especially over holidays. Educational director reminded crew members to keep documents current and allow time for renewal process. He also advised them to check out class schedule for upgrading classes at Piney Point. Memo regarding SAB action read to crew. Congratulations offered to newly ing keep vessel clean. Educational director stressed need to allow plenty of time when renewing zcards. Treasurer stated $1,998 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude for receipt of new dryer and refrigerators. Suggestion made reduce time needed to receive pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food and service. PETERSBURG (Interocean Ugland Management), Jan. 5— Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary Wendy G. Fearing, Educational Director James D. Murphy, Deck Delegate Noel R. Camacho, Engine Delegate Roderick T. Frazier, Steward Delegate Marcus J. Nicholas. Chairman expressed gratitude to steward department for job well done. Secretary thanked crew members for help in maintaining house and messhall. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to take advantage of classes available at Paul Hall Center and keep all documents current. Treasurer stated $384 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus updated crew on new SIU-contracted ships and that contract extensions are temporarily allowed due to high volume of F.O.S. ships. He also informed them that, under certain conditions, merchant mariners do not have to pay fees when renewing passports. Seafarers LOG 15 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/17/2005 5:37 PM Page 16 Letter to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) To Mariners Considering Retirement To all mariners, young and old, who may be considering retirement, allow me, as a mariner, to recommend Snug Harbor on Nelson Bay at Sea Level, N.C. I am a retired chief engineer who worked my way up through the ranks beginning as a wiper with the Moore-McCormack lines. I not only sailed on several of their ships, but was a member of their new construction program. We built six constellation class cargo ships and four rollon/roll-off jobs at Pascagoula, Miss. My wife, Millie, sailed as a gift shop operator on the SS United States, the SS Santa Paula and the SS President Wilson. While on the SS Brasil, she served as a waitress, which is where we met in 1959. My wife and I moved into a three-room suite at Snug Harbor in June 2002. Our suite consists of a bedroom with a full bath, living room, kitchenette and private patio. We have ample storage in the three closets located inside our suite. The Harbor provides residents with an extra storage unit for spare items such as luggage, off season clothing, etc. Three excellent meals are served daily in one of the most elegant dining rooms in the area. A full-scale activities calendar is designed to keep the residents young at heart. Some of the activities offered include bingo, musical entertainment, lounge parties, a book club, horse races, card games, etc. The gaming room contains two full-size pool tables and room for additional activities. We look forward to “happy hour” each week, when they serve hors d’oeuvres and light refreshments and provide musical entertainment. Holidays are recognized, with special decorations for everyone to enjoy. Snug Harbor allows mariners who are married to bring their spouses. Some of the spouses are seafaring folks; however, a majority of them are not. Snug Harbor maintains a fully staffed health care center for those needing special care. An out-patient clinic, staffed by a nurse, provides care for the residents in the independent living wing. The assisted living wing provides its residents with around-the-clock nursing staff and certified nursing assistants to help all residents with their individual needs. Millie and I have been at the Harbor for more than two years and find living here safe, relaxing, comfortable and pleasant. We both recommend Snug Harbor as a great retirement facility, free from the worries of home maintenance, personal safety, private home living and home ownership. Family and friends are always free to visit and are grandly welcomed. Robert Durham Snug Harbor For additional information about Snug Harbor, contact: Alice Powell Snug Harbor P.O. Box 150 Sea Level, NC 28577 or call (252) 225-4411. Their website is located at: www.snugharborhome.com While the flag flew at half-mast at 1300 hours on Dec. 12, 2004, the crew of the Sea-Land Liberty gathered to remember Edwin Parsley and pay tribute to his final voyage. Brother Parsley, who sailed deep sea in the steward department, died Oct. 4, 2004 at the age of 79. Before retiring, he last sailed in 1983 aboard the same vessel. Prior to casting his ashes into the sea (above right), Capt. Donald Laverdure, the ship’s master (above left), delivered the eulogy, which included the reading of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s poem “Crossing the Bar” and Capt. John H. Maxwell’s “Psalm of a Mariner.” 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. 16 Seafarers LOG 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: Burial at Sea for Brother Parsley IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE Know Your Rights 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 fulltime 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 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. March 2005 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/15/2005 6:28 PM Page 17 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through September 2005. 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. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning March 7, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion FOWT June 20 September 19 August 11 November 11 Marine Electrician April 18 June 13 QMED - Jr. Engineer June 20 September 8 Welding April 11 May 9 August 22 September 19 April 29 May 27 September 9 October 7 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion April 18 May 30 July 11 August 22 May 13 June 24 August 5 September 16 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 18 June 20 August 22 April 22 June 24 August 26 Bridge Resource Management (Unlimited) May 9 July 11 September 12 May 13 July 15 September 16 Celestial Navigation May 16 July 18 September 19 Course Able Seaman GMDSS (Simulator) Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion May 16 July 18 September 19 May 27 July 29 September 30 Fast Boat Rescue May 2 June 6 May 6 June 10 Government Vessels June 10 August 11 October 14 April 11 May 23 July 4 August 8 August 22 September 26 April 15 May 27 July 8 August 12 August 26 September 30 Medical Care Provider May 30 August 1 June 3 August 5 April 25 June 27 August 29 May 6 July 8 September 9 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* April 4 May 16 June 27 August 8 September 19 April 15 May 27 July 8 August 19 September 30 April 4 June 6 August 1 September 26 April 15 June 17 August 11 October 7 June 27 October 17 July 1 October 21 April 4 June 6 August 8 April 13 June 15 August 17 Course Advanced Fire Fighting* (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Radar Radar Renewal (1 day): (*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. April 25, June 27, August 29 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Yes Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ March 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. 3/05 Seafarers LOG 17 �26668_P01,2,18,19 r1.qxd 2/18/2005 4:19 AM Page 18 Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman— Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 658 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 658 (in alphabetical order) Calvin Andrews Jr., Hannah Cain, Christopher Cox, Timothy Eide, Michael Esterheld, Brandon Granger, Terry Hester, Steven Hurden, Timothy Johnson Jr., Brian Joyner, Perry King, William Markeson, Timothy Rieman, Anthony Roca, Patrick Ryan, Luis Segui Gonzalez, Jon Silveira and William Simms. Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Feb. 18 are (in no specific order) Rick Worthington, Saul Suarez, David Derosiers, Richard Otto, Carlos Grillasca Gay, Jonas Robinson, Kevin Johnson, Kyle Bloom, Dana Fischer, Joshua Robinson, Brett Younginger, Richard Wiltison, Christopher Czarske, Damian Spedale, Patrice Williams, Mario Suazo, Donald Moss, Larry Tribby, Damar Shaw, Tyrone Brown and Steven Kuithe. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Completing this course Feb. 25 are (in alphabetical order) Seafarers Donald Bishop, Leocadio Colon, Robert Crosby and Cynthia Harris and unlicensed apprentices Saif Ali, Anthony Bartley, Timothy Bauer Jr., Benjamin Clark, Timothy Cullen, Troy Davis, Frank Lewis, Stephen Morris III, Frank Muellersman, Scott Spilman, Evan Werner, Ronald Westerfield and William Wilson. Government Vessels — Upgrading students in the government vessels class ending Feb. 11 include (in no specific order) Teresa Ward, Joshua Smith, Thia Banks, Tony Fury, Hector Ortiz, Samantha Murphy, Jerome Prince, Kenneth Williams, Paul Brown, Perry Schroff, James Ruffin, Tim Watson, Jonathan Ives, Robert Morrison, Felsher Beasley, Mark Keblis, Huey Napier, Stephen Cooper, Ron Whitlow, Brian Saba and Ariel Lopez. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, is at far right. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason— that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (far right) are Radar — The five Seafarers completing the radar course Feb. 9 are Welding Seafarers who completed the welding course Feb. 4. They are (in (in alphabetical order) Randy Diaz, Basil D’Souze, Eric Kjellberg, alphabetical order) Charles Davis, Dennis Martin, Bruce Park, Michael DeGutenberg Poitevien and Shelby Rankin. Their instructor, Mike Presser, Edward Thompson, Mike Voda and Jacob Walling. Smith, is at far right. Upgrrade at the Pa aul Hall Centerr Chief Cook — Working their way up in the galley department are Jose Clotter (left) and Connie Tarplin (right). In the center is John Dobson, one of the school’s chef instructors. Deck, Engine and Steward Departments 18 Seafarers LOG March 2005 �26668_P01,2,18,19 r1.qxd 2/18/2005 4:21 AM Page 19 Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Safety Training Water Survival — Feb. 4 graduates of the water survival class include NCL crew members (in alphabetical order) Timothy Baker, Danielle Banks, David Ceballos, Rebecca Crook, Leea Crosgrove, Steele Devela, Dana Distefano, Greg Draper, Joseph Duffy and Tiare Onekea. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. STCW — Alaska fishermen who recently completed Basic Safety Training are (in alphabetical order) Wlozimierz Arendt, Luke Bradley, Allan Coloyan, Sean Dameron, Matthew Flickinger, Robert Hall, Ryan Johnson, Melvin Mitchell, Matthew Musslewhite, Steven Reiber, Martin Rogers, Russell Sawyer, Jeremy Williams and James Williamson. STCW — NCL: Training in Hawaii Lambert DeJesa, Jose Dossantos, Dale Gaddy, Roy Garretson, Maria Ghamarian, Cornelius Hall, Trevyn Hiemann, Stacey Ivey and Teri Johnson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Safety Training and Crowd Management — Class 2: Marc Siciliani, Trevyn Hiemann, Antonio Branco, Jodi Deprey, Nathan Morrow, Vanessa Culver, Jose Abreu, Jamison McIntyre, Elvis Ruiz, Catalina Carmona, Andrew Taylor, Stephen Lundquist, Gary Sutton and Grant Yates. STCW — NCL: Thomas Johnston, Anna Junkins, Edward Karkenny, Stille Keohokapu, Brian Landon, Luis Marez Jr., Christopher McCord Jr., Elias Melendez, Blake Moore, Jeffrey Reel, Stephanie Ross, Noah Rothfeder, Leilua Salima, James Sopel, James Spear, Robert Stanberry, Sterling Townes, Lawrence Ward and James Youmans II. Lifeboat — Class 1: Damon Woods, Emory Costanios, Scott Long, Lindsay Rudell, Mark de la Rosa, Allison Perlmutter, Ernest Nunes, Matthew Olsen, Matthew Kole, Cody Espaniola and their instructor, Joe Curtis. Basic Safety Training and Crowd Management — Class 3: Erwin Haumea, Trevor Maigret, Debra Wigham, Scott Hadell, Paula Braxton, Isagani Zabala, Grace Simon, Michael Wigham, Patricia Mathews-Malczon and Kari Jo Stilwell. March 2005 STCW — NCL, Jan. 28: Hector Perez, Nicholas Profeta, Leonardo Ramirez, Brad Redford, St. Elmo Riley, Scott Salazar, Cara Schachtel, Graydon Southard, Connie Sudo, Edward Tello, Adam Templeton, Ryan Tong, Bernie Villegas, Erwin Villegas, Michael Villegas, Kathleen Watson, Pamela Wood, Terron Wood and Margaret Young. Seafarers LOG 19 �26668_P4_8,14,16,17,20.qxd 2/17/2005 5:38 PM Page 20 Volume 67, Number 3 March 2005 Attention Seafarers: Boost Your Industry.. Conntribute to SPAD.. Left: DEU Jesse Parente (left) and DEU Seddick Ali work aboard the John J. Boland. The Great Lakes Towing tug Wyoming is docked at the SIU union hall in Algonac, Mich. In the pilothouse of the passenger ferry Mackinac Express is Capt. Keith Dufton. The Mackinac Express was at the Arnold Transit Co. dock in Mackinaw, Mich. SA Ahmed Kaid John J. Boland e h t n o k r o W t A s e k a L Great Second Cook Kathryn Hansen frosts a chocolate cake aboard American Steamship Co.’s John J. Boland. OS Abdul Ghaleb John J. Boland AB Lucian Gravelle John J. Boland The Buffalo docks in Marysville, Mich. The Great Lakes Towing tug Virginia assists in the port of Milwaukee, Wis. Deckhand Ron Halberg Corsair James Sorenson is the captain aboard the Arnold Transit Co. freight ferry Corsair, which was docked at Mackinac Island, Mich. � 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 March 2003 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU DELIVERS IN OIF3 ITF SECURES BACK PAY FOR CREW SEAFARERS STILL SAIL FOR TSUNAMI RELIEF PRIDE OF AMERICA TO SAIL IN JULY CIVMARS SEE NEW JOBS SIU MEMBERS APPLAUD JOB GROWTH IN NEW MSP LONGTIME SIU OFFICIAL JIM MARTIN DIES AT 70 ALASKA TANKER COMPANY REACHES SAFETY MILESTONE NEW LUEDTKE CONTRACT BOOSTS WAGES, BENEFITS BUDGET, BILL INCLUDE PORT SECURITY COMPONENTS HOUSE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE, MARITIME SUBCOMMITTEE SELECTED UNION MOURNS TRUSTEE JOE CECIRE AMSEA RATED ‘EXCEPTIONAL’ BY MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND U.S. HEALTH CARE: A CLOSER LOOK SIU, OTHER UNIONS KEEP SWINGING, BUT IT’S OFTEN AN UPHILL STRUGGLE 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 03/01/2005 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. 3 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/8304fbe51a951f480dd5471b3d3aa0ef.pdf 11ccc0478a68bc6ef609da1efe091f17 PDF Text Text 26225_P001.qxd 1/28/2005 9:07 PM Page 1 New MSP Fleet Expands to 60 Vessels Volume 67, Number 2 Page 3 February 2005 : ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ! U I ✩ ✩ S ✩ ✩ ✩ e ✩✩ ✩✩ h t ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ n ✩ ✩ o ✩✩ ✩✩ t ✩ ✩ n ✩ ✩ ✩✩ u ✩ ✩ o ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ C ✩ ✩ ✩ n ✩✩ ✩ a C ✩✩ ✩ ✩ u ✩ o Y ✩✩ ✩ ✩✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ Seafarers Still Deliver in Operation Iraqi Freedom Seafarers continue to back U.S. troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom by delivering vital materiel at key locations in the Middle East. Dozens of SIUcrewed ships are engaged in OIF3, the latest sealift component of the war. Pictured here are Seafarers and troops aboard the Cape Island in Kuwait. They are (clockwise, from upper left) AB Alfred Martin; AB Mickey Earhart and a U.S. Navy master at arms; crew members and officers including GVA Shaun Castain, 3rd Mate Bobby Boone, AB Andy Martinez, Bosun Stephen Castle, Chief Cook Tracy Stewart and a Navy instructor participating in small arms practice; and GVA Abdo “Otto” Saleh, suiting up for hazmat training. Pages 6-8. The hospital ship USNS Mercy, crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division, was one of 14 ships initially mobilized to help with relief following the devastating tsunami that struck coastal communities in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, India and other Indian Ocean nations. Pictured at right is some of the damage in Phuket. Page 2. Union, Seafarers-Crewed Ships Aid in Tsunami Relief Efforts SIU Election Results Page 3 Navy League President Notes RRF’s Value Page 4 Tax Tips for Mariners Pages 12-13 �Pg2,22,23.qxd 1/27/2005 4:49 PM Page 2 Union Donates for Tsunami Relief President’s Report More Job Growth Last month’s news from the Maritime Administration announcing the operating contract awards for the new U.S. Maritime Security Program was a great moment for our union. The extended, expanded MSP helps ensure job security for Seafarers for many years to come. Not only that, it increases the number of shipboard job opportunities available to SIU members. In the bigger picture, the new MSP is good for America. As anyone who truly understands the U.S. Merchant Marine will tell you, we are the nation’s fourth arm of defense. The United States Michael Sacco is best served by a strong U.S.-flag commercial fleet and by the dedicated, well-trained U.S. crews who man those vessels. The 10-year MSP that takes effect this fall is a vital step toward maintaining a capable American-flag fleet and a pool of reliable, well-trained U.S. mariners. As I said when the new MSP was signed into law a little over a year ago, there is plenty of credit to go around. In fact there are too many people and organizations to name here, but certainly I thank President Bush and his administration for not only recognizing the U.S. Merchant Marine’s importance, but also following through and delivering a 60-ship fleet under the new MSP. And I also thank you, the rank-and-file Seafarer. The support you’ve given me and the other SIU officials is gratifying and, more importantly, makes it easier to promote and protect the interests of all Seafarers. Along those same lines, your support of SPAD and the outstanding work you perform every day aboard ship are important parts of our recipe for success. The new, 60-ship MSP fleet is something we can all be proud of. Disaster and Aid Less than three weeks before the high of the MSP announcement, Seafarers joined with other people all over the world in sadly sharing the horror of the tsunami that devastated Asian and African countries right after Christmas, killing hundreds of thousands. I don’t know if any of us can fully comprehend a loss that great. In many ways it’s impossible to understand. And yet I also believe that the disaster’s aftermath once again has brought out the best in so many people, showing the good side of human nature and what we’re capable of when we pull together. Certainly U.S. unions and union members have stepped up to donate record amounts of money to help the victims. The SIU made a $10,000 donation, and SIU-crewed ships are aiding in relief efforts, as reported elsewhere on this page. As of mid-January, I was aware of at least one Seafarer who unfortunately lost all of his possessions to the tsunami but who thankfully was safely at sea at that time. We will pass along news of how the disaster has impacted other members as it becomes available. Meanwhile, if you have the means to donate to one of the many relief funds, I hope you will consider doing so. See the “How You Can Help” article on this page for more information. My heartfelt prayers go out to all the victims and their families. Crisis Continues From time to time in this space, I have written about the ongoing health care crisis in America. If it seems like I won’t get off the subject, there’s a good reason: This crisis is a major threat to working families nationwide. And it’s getting worse by the day. Right now about 45 million Americans have no health coverage at all. Those who have insurance in many cases are paying more and more to maintain their coverage. In other instances, people with insurance are paying more for reduced benefits. It is happening all over the country. This remains a giant problem, but the SIU is committed to helping solve it. We will continue working through the AFL-CIO to enact a fair, workable health care solution for all concerned. In addition to our efforts with the labor federation, health plans administrators from the U.S. maritime unions have met a half-dozen times over the past year and a half, sharing information and trying to find ways to contain costs while still providing good coverage. Those meetings are a step in the right direction as we continue what in many ways is literally a fight for our lives. Volume 67, Number 2 February 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 SIU-Crewed Ships Mobilize for Humanitarian Mission The SIU is actively supporting humanitarian relief efforts for survivors of the Dec. 26 earthquake and resulting tsunami that devastated coastal communities in Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Indonesia and other Indian Ocean nations. The union last month donated $10,000 to the International Red Cross for use in the devastated region. In addition, more than 100 SIU members—including some from the SIU’s Government Services Division— crewed 13 Military Sealift Command vessels and one ship owned by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd). Collectively, these platforms have been directly involved in ferrying emergency personnel and a myri- This photo, taken by Seafarer Bob Stenehjem, shows some of the ad of supplies to the distressed region. devastation in Phuket, Thailand. Six of the 12 vessels that initially were involved in the relief missions— 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, Maj. Stephen W. Pless, Cpl. How You Can Help Louis J. Hauge Jr., Pfc. James Anderson Jr., 1st Lt. st Although the tsunami took place more than a Alex Bonnyman and USNS 1 Lt. Harry L. Martin— month ago, there remains much to be done to restore are Maritime Prepositioning Ships. Part of MSC’s the lives of the disaster’s survivors back to normal. In Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron Three, addition to the International Red Cross these vessels collectively were laden with enough (http://www.icrc.org/eng, mailing address International Committee of the Red Cross, equipment and supplies to support 15,000 Marines 19 avenue de la Paix, CH 1202 Geneva), those wishfor 30 days. The ships carried food, fuel, medical ing to make donations have many other options open supplies, construction and road building equipment, to them. electrical power generating equipment, airfield matThe AFL-CIO American Center for International ting and a Navy field hospital. Labor Solidarity (Solidarity Center) has established a The squadron also has 43 Reverse Osmosis Tsunami Relief Fund to which unions and individuals may donate. The center (www.solidaritycenter.org/) is Water Purification Units, each of which is capable a nonprofit organization that assists workers around of producing 600 gallons of potable water per hour the world who are struggling to build democratic and from sea water. Additionally, five of the ships are independent trade unions. Those interested in concapable of making 25,000 gallons of fresh water tributing to the relief fund should make out a check each day using the ships’ evaporators. The ships can marked Tsunami Relief, payable to Solidarity Center pump water from ship to shore from up to two miles Education Fund, and send it to: Tsunami Relief Fund, Solidarity Center, 1925 K Street, N.W., Suite 300, away using an Amphibious Bulk Liquid Transfer Washington, DC, 20006-1105. System of floating hoses. Another organization that is accepting donations is Two MSC fleet replenishment oilers—the USNS the U.S. Agency for International Development Tippecanoe and USNS John Ericsson—were divert(USAID). The USAID is the U.S. government agency ed to provide fuel to U.S. Navy ships in the tsunami responsible for economic and humanitarian assisrelief area. Two other supply ships—the combat tance around the world. Members of the agency work with a host of organizations to provide assistance to stores ship USNS San Jose and the fast combat supthe victims of the earthquake and tsunami. port ship USNS Rainier—were sent to the area to Those desiring to make donations should visit the provide fuel and other supplies to Navy ships in the center’s website at: www.usaid.gov/locations/theater and to activities ashore as needed. asia_near_east/tsunami/ngolist.html. A list of charities Two MSC oceanographic ships also were that are providing assistance to people affected by ordered into the affected area to conduct hydrothe earthquake and tsunamis can be found at this Continued on page 10 Vacationing Seafarer Lends Hand In Phuket Editor’s note: Seafarer Bob Stenehjem, who sails from the port of Tacoma, Wash., was on vacation in Thailand when the tsunami struck there. He sent an e-mail to friends describing his experience that was excerpted in a Seattle newspaper and also is reprinted here, with his permission. I had a very rewarding but very sad day. At the Patong hospital last night they said there were a lot of injured foreigners so I started to go there on my motorbike. But I passed the Phuket International Hospital and decided to pull in there to see if they needed any help. The lobby was chaos. I went up to a long table full of phones and people and asked what they needed. The people at the table looked overwhelmed. The lady asked what languages I spoke, and I told her a little Spanish, fairly good American Sign site. Donations can be made to either of them via mail, phone, or through their web sites. Language and English. She said sit here and answer phones. I had a list of 575 people who were injured, listed by country. I also had a list of hundreds missing, and there is a whole wall full of photos of entire families, people from all over the world who are missing and most likely dead. The list of the dead was at another table. So I answered the phone and looked up names of the people the callers were looking for. None of the people they were looking for were there, and I gave them numbers of other hospitals. I met four or five other volunteers at my table: a man from Germany, a Swiss woman, an English woman, a Swedish man. A man from the Kuwait consulate office in Bangkok and another from Bahrain’s were looking for anybody from their countries. They didn’t know where all the hospitals were, so I told them I was going to the Patong Hospital later and I would check the list of patients and their huge list of dead for any of their countryman. It turned out that there weren’t any at Patong, but there were about 65 unknown dead. The list of the dead included 160 names with countries listed. Two Americans, five Canadians, most Seafarer Bob Stenehjem pitched in after the tsunami, helping numerous victims in Phuket. from Europe and many Thais. After two hours at the Phuket International Hospital I was bored, as not many people were calling. Then I noticed a woman in her mid-30s who had been sitting with three kids in their teens. One daughter was in a wheelchair with a very bloody bandage on a large leg wound. The mother was pacing around, and I could tell she was freaking out. Then she came up to the table and sort of lost it. Screaming, she said she needed someone to change the bandages on her daughter’s leg. A hospital woman said the mother still had to deal with her consul. Then the mother Continued on page 10 February 2005 �26225_Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/28/2005 6:23 PM Page 3 SIU Gains 13 Vessels New Maritime Security Program Features 60 Ships The U.S. Maritime Administration last month announced the names of the vessels and operators for the new Maritime Security Program (MSP)—and the notice couldn’t have been better for the SIU. The union gains 13 additional ships under the new MSP, which runs from 20052016. Overall, the updated MSP fleet includes 60 vessels—an increase of 13 ships compared to the MSP which expires this fall. Each of the 13 additions to the MSP fleet is operated by an SIU-contracted company. The 47 Seafarers-crewed vessels already enrolled in the MSP have been renewed for the expanded, extended program. “This is a tremendous gain for the membership,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “Bringing 13 additional ships into our contracted fleet is fantastic news. It means new jobs and job security for Seafarers.” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez said the new MSP as a whole “is a win-win situation. It improves our national defense capabilities and it obviously boosts the employment opportunities of Seafarers for at least the next 10 years.” The 13 new MSP slots are assigned to OSG Shipholding Group (three ships), Central Gulf (one), Fidelio (ARC) (four), Liberty Global Logistics (one), Lykes Lines (two), and Patriot (two). Overall, the awards are as follows, with the company name followed by the vessels: APL Marine Services, Ltd.—APL Korea, APL Philippines, APL Singapore, APL Thailand, President Adams, President Jackson, APL China, President Polk and President Truman. Central Gulf Lines, Inc.—Green Cove, Green Point, Green Lake and Hercules Leader. American Auto Carriers, Inc.—Liberty. Fidelio Limited Partnership—Patriot, Freedom, Takasago, Resolve, Otello and Aida. Farrell Lines Inc.—Chesapeake Bay, Delaware Bay, Endeavor, Endurance and Enterprise. Liberty Global Logistics, LLC— Splendid Ace. Lykes Lines Limited, LLC—Lykes Navigator, Lykes Discoverer, Lykes Liberator, Lykes Motivator and Tmm Yucatan. Maersk Line, Limited—Maersk Missouri, Maersk Virginia, Maersk Georgia, Maersk Carolina, Sealand Achiever, Sealand Florida, Sealand Pride, Sealand Motivator, Sealand Commitment, Sealand Atlantic, Sealand Charger, Maersk Alabama, Sealand Lightning, Sealand Meteor, Maersk Arkansas, Sealand Intrepid, Sealand Comet, Sealand Performance and Sealand Quality. OSG Shipholding Group, Inc.— Overseas Joyce, Maersk Rapier, Maersk Regent and Maersk Richmond. Patriot Shipping, LLC—Industrial Challenger and Industrial Chief. Waterman Steamship Corporation— P&O Nedlloyd Vera Cruz, Atlantic Forest, Green Dale and P&O Nedlloyd Buenos Aires. The current MSP expires Sept. 30, 2005, with the new one beginning immediately thereafter. In announcing the awards, the Maritime Administration noted, “The MSP serves to maintain an active, privately owned, U.S.flag and U.S.-crewed liner fleet in international trade. This fleet also is available to support the Department of Defense sustainment in a contingency.” The program was established through the Maritime Security Act of 1996. It helps retain “a labor base of skilled American mariners who are available to crew the U.S. Government-owned strategic sealift fleet, as well as the U.S. commercial fleet, both in peace and war,” the agency pointed out. Seafarers Approve Constitutional Amendments Committee Announces Election Results; Michael Sacco Is Reelected President The SIU’s tallying committee recently released its tabulation of the ballots cast by union members in the voting for national officers of the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU as well as two constitutional amendments. Voting took place Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2004. Composed of 20 Seafarers (two members elected from each of the SIU’s 10 constitutional halls), the rank-and-file committee certified the reelection of Michael Sacco as president of the SIU; reelection of John Fay as the union’s executive vice president; and reelection of David Heindel as secretary-treasurer. Each of those candidates was unopposed. The tallying committee’s report will be submitted for approval by the membership at union meetings next month (March). The committee reported that each of the two proposed constitutional amendments was approved by overwhelming majorities. The amendments concerned eligibility requirements for running for union office, and the election of the credentials committee. Similarly, neither of the two contested races for office was close. The committee reported the election of the following officers, who will serve four-year terms (2005-2008): Michael Sacco, president; John Fay, executive vice president; David Heindel, secretarytreasurer; Augie Tellez, contracts and contract enforcement vice president; Joseph Soresi, Atlantic Coast vice president; Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast vice president; Nick Marrone, West Coast vice president; Thomas Orzechowski, Southern Region, Great Lakes and inland waters vice president; Kermett Mangram, Government Services and fishing industries vice president; George Tricker, assistant vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement; Nick Celona, assistant vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast; Ambrose Cucinotta, assistant vice president in charge of the Gulf Coast; Don Anderson, assistant vice president in charge of the West Coast; Members of the tallying committee met last month at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. to tabulate ballots cast by union members. February 2005 Members of the tallying committee are pictured immediately after finishing their work last month at union headquarters, along with SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (far right) and SIU Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta (standing second from left). Pictured from left to right are (front row) James Greenwood, Ernie Hoitt, Louella Sproul, David Merida, James Bening, (standing) John Cain, Cucinotta, Ed Tully, John Wozunk, Charlie Welsh, Don Graves, Eddie Hall, Marshall Turner, Eric Hurt, Roger Reinke, Terry Mouton, Paul Weil, Terry Smith, Michael Gallagher, Dawn Williams, Pat Farley and Heindel. James McGee, assistant vice president in charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and inland waters; Chester Wheeler, assistant vice president in charge of Government Services and fishing industries; Edward “Edd” Morris, Piney Point port agent; Robert Selzer, New York port agent; Joseph Mieluchowski, Philadelphia port agent; Georg Kenny, Baltimore port agent; Ed Kelly, Mobile port agent; Steve Judd, New Orleans port agent; Tony McQuay, Houston port agent; Vince Coss, San Francisco port agent; Becky Sleeper, St. Louis port agent; Don Thornton, Algonac port agent. The committee met during the week of Jan. 3 at the union’s headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. to receive the ballots from the bank where they were kept, count the votes in the contested races and for the amendments, and deter- mine the status of void or challenged ballots. (In accordance with Article XIII of the union’s constitution, unopposed candidates were considered elected to their respective positions once nominations closed and the membership approved the report of the credentials committee, which took place last fall.) In concluding the report, the committee wrote, “All of the members of the Committee wish to express their deep appreciation for the cooperation and assistance given to us by the Union’s legal department and its technical and clerical staff. Finally, the members of the Union Tallying Committee wish to congratulate the elected officers and jobholders. We extend our best wishes for the next four years. We hope that you will carry on the tradition of our Union and advance the strength of the maritime industry.” The committee elected as chairman Recertified Bosun John Cain, from the port of Houston. Cain said he was genuinely impressed with the committee’s diligence. “Everyone worked very hard throughout the week and no one complained, despite some long hours,” he stated. Also serving on the committee were Paul Weil and Donald Graves from Piney Point, James Greenwood and James Bening from Algonac, Ed Tully and Dawn Williams from Baltimore, Cain and Eddie Hall from Houston, and Terry Smith and Marshall Turner from Mobile. Rounding out the committee were Ernest Hoitt and David Merida from New Orleans, Charles Welsh and Terry Mouton from New York, John Wozunk and Pat Farley from Philadelphia, Louella Sproul and Roger Reinke from San Francisco, and Eric Hurt and Michael Gallagher from St. Louis. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Monday, Feb. 21, 2005 for the observance of Presidents Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Seafarers LOG 3 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:05 PM Page 4 Paul Hall Center’s Eglinton Named to National Maritime Security Committee The U.S. Department of Homeland Security last month announced the appointment of individuals to serve on the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee. Bill Eglinton, director of training at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, was among those named to the group. “On behalf of Secretary Ridge, I am delighted to welcome these advisors to our team,” said Admiral Thomas H. Collins, commandant of the Coast Guard. “We look forward to working with the committee to continue strengthening our efforts to protect our ports and waterways while keeping them open for commerce.” The advisory committee has been established to provide advice to the Department of Homeland Security via the U.S. Coast Guard on matters such as national maritime security strategy and policy, actions required to meet current and future security threats, international cooperation on security issues, and security concerns of the maritime transportation industry as mandated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. Members of the committee are: Eglinton, who has extensive experience in domestic and international forums pertaining to the training and certification of mariners; Christopher Louis Koch, president & CEO, World Shipping Council; Joseph H. Langjahr, vice president and general counsel, Foss Maritime Company; Thomas E. Thompson, executive vice president, International Council of Cruise Lines; and John C. Dragone, vice president, operating division, Maritrans Operating Company, L.P. Also named to the committee were Mary Frances Culnane, manager, San Francisco Bay Area Water Transit Authority; Basil Maher, president and chief operating officer, Maher Terminals; Charles Raymond, chairman, president, and CEO, Horizon Lines; Alice K. Johnson, senior supervisor, PPG Industries, Inc.; Timothy J. Scott, global director, emergency services and security, The Dow Chemical Company; Mark Witten, senior regulatory advisor, Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Business Unit, Chev- ronTexaco; and Robert R. Merhige, III, deputy executive director, Virginia Port Authority. Rounding out the group are Jeffery Wayne Monroe, director of ports and transportation, Portland, Maine; Lisa Himber, vice president, Maritime Exchange for the Delaware River and Bay; Wade M. Battles, managing director, Port of Houston Authority; John Hyde, security and compliance director, Maersk Sealand Inc.; James Stolpinski, president, Local 920, International Longshoremen’s Association; David Halstead, chief, Florida Domestic Security Preparedness, Florida Department of Law Enforcement; Theodore Louis Mar, chief, marine safety branch, California Department of Fish and Game; Bill Eglinton, director of training, Paul Hall Center and Victor Zaloom, professor and chair of industrial engineering and director, engineering graduate programs and Center for Ports and Waterways, Lamar University. Navy League President Praises Ready Reserve Force McNeill Sees Potential for Fleet’s Expanded Role as ‘National Asset’ Sheila M. McNeill, national president of the Navy League of the United States, offered strong support for the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) in a recent editorial. Writing in the Navy League’s monthly magazine, SEAPOWER, McNeill described the RRF as “a major element of our successes in recent conflicts.” She also suggested that the RRF “could have a broader role as a multipurpose national asset able to serve additional agencies with a variety of missions.” Created in 1976, the RRF is a key element of U.S. strategic sealift, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. The 59vessel fleet “is specifically structured to transport Army and Marine Corps unit equipment and initial resupply for forces deploying anywhere in the world during the critical period before adequate numbers of commercially available ships can be marshaled,” the agency noted. In her column, McNeill said the RRF “is the nation’s premier sealift readiness program…. The successful operation of the RRF is a joint effort by government agencies and industry. The program is managed by the Maritime Administration to fulfill the requirements of the U.S. Transportation Command. The ships are operated by commercial companies and crewed by civilian merchant mariners. When activated, they fall under the operational control of the Military Sealift Command (MSC). MEBA, MM&P Announce Election Results The Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) separately announced late last year the results of elections of officers for their respective unions. MM&P reported that its members “elected incumbent Inter- 4 Seafarers LOG Sheila M. McNeill is national president of the Navy League of the United States. “That complex structure is no barrier to success for the RRF ships, which met or exceeded most operational goals during Iraqi Freedom,” McNeill continued. “The RRF in 2004 has met its goal of 100 percent on-time activation, for example, and exceeded the goal that 95 percent of ships be fully capable while working for the MSC. The RRF’s achievement: 99 percent.” She pointed out that the program is funded by the Navy and therefore faces “tremendous competition for Navy funds. That makes a multi-agency assessment all the more vital. The RRF was created long before 9/11 as a Defense Department resource. It comprises highly capable ships national President Tim Brown to a fifth term of office. The election, conducted by a 90-day mail ballot, concluded on Monday, Dec. 13 with the ballots counted that same day. All other incumbent MM&P officials were returned to serve another term of office.” MEBA announced that its members’ re-election of President Ron Davis is “the first re-election of a MEBA president in two decades…. All 14 candidates on Davis’ MEBATEAM II ticket also swept to victory following a 90day referendum.” worth billions of dollars. They could be used in a variety of innovative ways to improve the security of the United States during a terrorist alert, an actual attack or in the event of a natural disaster. For example, the Department of Homeland Security might utilize some as medical platforms for triage or emergency care should there be another attack or disaster on the scale of 9/11.” As an example, McNeill pointed out that the RRF includes 10 crane ships “with unique capabilities.” They could be used to augment Homeland Security efforts “to search suspect ships at sea or in a remote anchorage having no shoreside facilities. A crane ship and companion barge carrier could come alongside, offload some containers and move others, facilitating a rapid and effective search of the huge container ships that ply the world’s oceans.” She concluded, “The feasibility of this approach should be carefully assessed by the Maritime Administration and the departments of Defense and Homeland Security before the RRF is diminished further and its valuable assets are lost to the nation.” The Navy League is the self- described “only civilian organization dedicated to supporting the sea services – the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S.-Flag Merchant Marine.” McNeill is the first woman to serve as president of the organization, which was founded in 1902. She was elected in 2003 and has been a member since 1966. Her official bio notes that she has served “at every leadership level including president of the Camden-Kings Bay Council, Georgia state president and region president for the South Atlantic Coast Region. Most recently, McNeill served as a national vice president responsible for the organization’s legislative affairs activities. While serving in that position, she aggressively sought support on Capitol Hill and made educating congressional members about the sea services her top priority.” RRF vessels including the SIU-crewed Cape Texas (foreground) and Cape Taylor are good for America’s national and economic security. Seamen’s House 2004 Awards SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (center) presented the Prospect Park YMCA Seamen’s House 2004 Person of the Year award to Edward R. Morgan (right), president and CEO of E-Ships. Joining them at the Dec. 8 event in New York City is SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. E-Ships participates in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. The Seamen’s House is a charity that benefits mariners and retirees. February 2005 �Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/24/2005 8:47 PM Page 5 National Directive Addresses Port Security The administration last month released the long-awaited National Security Presidential Directive which addresses port security. According to the Congressional Information Bureau, the new plan provides a strategy designed to coordinate federal, state and local governmental efforts with those of the private sector ports aimed at securing container cargoes, while maintaining surveillance over U.S. territorial waters. The nine-page directive (titled Maritime Port Policy) mandates that the Department of Homeland Security develop—in coordination with key maritime industry stakeholders—“minimum” federal standards for maritime recovery operations, as well as “comprehensive” recovery standards for national infrastructure and a plan to complement those national preparedness goals and standards already set forth in a previous national security directive. According to sources within the Departments of Defense, State, Treasury, Interior, Commerce and Transportation, each also will have roles in the recovery standards initiative. The need for a policy regarding maritime recovery has been emphasized by industry leaders, who have said recently that they were still in the dark about who would be in charge at the ports in the event of a terrorist attack. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives on Jan. 4 approved the creation of a permanent standing Committee on Homeland Security. The move, described by some Washington insiders as the most sweeping reorganization of Congressional jurisdiction since 1947, follows the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that both the House and the Senate should create “a single, principal point of oversight and review for homeland security” across the federal government. While falling short of that sweeping recommendation—which would include all aspects of immigration, Coast Guard, FBI and intelligence—the change to the House Rules established a committee with primary jurisdiction over government-wide counterterrorism policy, and primary jurisdiction over the counterterrorism mission of the Department of Homeland Security. The new committee will have by far the most significant responsibility for homeland security policy of any committee in the House or Senate. House rules surrendering primary jurisdiction over homeland security to the new Homeland Security Committee on Jan. 4 were adopted by the House of Representatives. Rep. Christopher Cox (RCalif.), who served as chairman of the Select Committee on Homeland Security for the past two years, and as a member of the House Leadership for the past decade, is expected to chair the new committee Elsewhere, Kurt Nagle on Jan.3, while responding to recent news coverage about major management challenges facing the DHS, including the way the department has handled its Port Security Grants Program, said the criticism “misses the mark.” Nagle is president of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA). Noting that the program’s biggest problem is a lack of money to assist American seaports in paying for critical security measures, Nagle said, “Like airports, protecting our seaports against terrorism must be a top priority and a shared responsibility between the federal government, local public ports and private industry. The U.S. Rep. Bob Filner (DCalif.) early last month introduced a bill before the 109th Congress to amend title 46, United States Code, and title II of the Social Security Act. The bill, H.R. 23, would provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States Merchant Marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II. Filner last year (Jan. 27, 2004) introduced the same legislation before the 108th Congress. That bill, numbered H.R. 3729 and titled the “Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2004,” had more than 150 cosponsors. The last major action taken on it came July 27 when the Veterans’ Affairs Committee asked for executive comment. No further action was taken on the bill before the 108th Congress adjourned last year, so Filner reintroduced it as H.R. 23 before the new Congress which convened last month. As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, H.R. 3729 among other things called for compensation of $1,000 per month for people in any service in harm’s way—including the U.S. Merchant Marine—during the period from Dec. 5, 1941 through Dec. 31, 1946, the same period as all other GI Bills. The bill also stipulated that any surviving wife of a qualified veteran also shall be eli- U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) U.S. Senator Pete Domenici (R-N.M.) U.S. Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) chairmanship of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Senator Ted Stevens (RAlaska), who did not face re-election last year, has been chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, leaving his six-year chairmanship of, but not his membership on, the Senate Appropriations Committee. Stevens has served in the Senate since his appointment in 1968. Drilling in the area was approved by the House of Representatives during the past two congressional sessions as part of a national energy bill, but the measure yielded to filibuster threats in the Senate. Last year the Senate fell short by two votes to pass a comprehensive energy bill including an ANWR provision. Proponents of safe drilling hope that with the new wave of freshman senators, any ANWR legislation will have an easier time of making it to the president’s desk. Policy Would Create Jobs February 2005 push to develop our vast oil resources in the Arctic Refuge in a way that leaves the environment pristine while stabilizing oil prices and enhancing our energy independence.” The senator continued, “I expect to receive instructions in the Budget Resolution to report ANWR language to the Budget Committee by early May. I will fight on the Senate floor to keep those instructions in the resolution and will fight again to defend our legislation in the budget reconciliation vote later this year. “I am pleased by the strong support for an energy bill expressed by the White House and the House of Representatives. I was pleased to see Speaker Dennis Hastert earlier today reaffirm the House’s commitment to delivering an energy bill the President this year. Energy will clearly be a priority and we have already begun serious discussions about how we will proceed,” Domenici concluded. Senator Lisa Murkowski (RAlaska), a member of Domenici’s committee, also put ANWR drilling at the top of her list after being sworn into office Jan. 4. U.S. Rep. Don Young (RAlaska) also was sworn into office Jan.4 after an election in which he faced no significant opposition. Young has served Alaska in the House since a special election in 1973 and now is the third highest-ranking Republican. In 2001, he gained the Continued on page 10 ‘Belated Thank You’ Legislation Reintroduced by U.S. Rep. Filner Safe Drilling in ANWR Still a Hot Topic in D.C. The likelihood of opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge’s (ANWR) coastal plain to oil drilling has improved in the wake of the 2004 Presidential Elections. Recent press reports and remarks by New Mexico Senator Pete Domenici indicate that the probability for the passage of prodrilling legislation is “looking better than ever.” As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, opening the 1002 Area of the coastal plain to responsible oil development is part of President Bush’s National Energy Plan. It is also a policy that has a very reasonable chance of being supported by a majority of Congress. Estimates vary, but opening the coastal plain to safe drilling potentially would create anywhere from 250,000 to more than 700,000 jobs, according to the pro-exploration coalition Arctic Power. Senator Domenici has identified drilling in the ANWR’s northeast corner as his first priority for the upcoming congressional session. Domenici is the top Republican with authority over energy matters. Almost immediately after being re-elected to his seat as chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for the 109th Congress on Jan. 4, the senator issued a press release promoting his strategy for the 1.5 million-acre coastal plain. “This year will be a dynamic year for the energy committee,” he said. “We are going to make a federal government has mandated security enhancements for marine facilities, but has yet to adequately fund those mandates, creating huge financial burdens on ports that have both security and economic consequences.” Ports already are spending more than $3 billion annually on infrastructure improvements and operating expenses to keep pace U.S. Rep. Bob Filner (D-Calif.) gible to receive the same benefit as the veteran. In official remarks to fellow members of Congress in 2004, Filner noted, World War II Merchant Mariners suffered the second-highest casualty rate of any of the branches of services while they delivered troops, tanks, food, airplanes, fuel and other needed supplies to every theater of the war. Compared to the large number of men and women serving in World War II, the numbers of merchant mariners were small, but their chance of dying during service was extremely high. Enemy forces sank over 800 ships between 1941 and 1944 alone. Filner further pointed out mariners weren’t included in the GI Bill of Rights, which Congress enacted in 1945. “The merchant marine became the forgotten service,” he said. “The fact that merchant seamen had borne arms during wartime in the defense of their country did not seem to matter.” Many WWII mariners finally received veterans’ recognition in 1988, along with access to what Filner described as a “watereddown” GI Bill. It took another 10 years to extend the cutoff date for recognition of mariners as veterans so it matched the date utilized by the military. A member of the U.S. House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Filner observed, “While it is impossible to make up for over 40 years of unpaid benefits, I propose a bill that will acknowledge the service of the veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine and offer compensation for years and years of lost benefits. The average age of (World War II) merchant marine veterans is now 81. Many have outlived their savings. A monthly benefit to compensate for the loss of nearly a lifetime of ineligibility for the GI Bill would be of comfort and would provide some measure of security for veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:06 PM Page 6 SEAFARERS SUPPORT OUR TROOPS aboard the cape ISLAND Seafarers aboard the Cape Island spent the fall and early winter supporting U.S. troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Operated by Crowley, the SIUcrewed vessel last fall departed Texas carrying Army materiel and made subsequent stops in Spain and Crete before offloading in Kuwait. The ship brought back some cargo from the Middle East to Texas by way of Richards Bay, South Africa. Thousands of SIU members have backed U.S. armed forces throughout the various phases of OIF. During the all-out combat phase, more than 7,000 American mariners sailed aboard hundreds of U.S.-flag ships in support of our troops. They executed what has been described by top government and military leaders as the most efficient sealift operation in history. That mission continues today, with dozens of U.S.-flag ships and several thousand mariners mobilized for OIF3. The Cape Island is part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF). The roll-on/roll-off vessel is 685 feet long and has a beam of 102 feet. It can travel at 18.7 knots. SIU members sailing aboard the Cape Island at various junctures last fall and this winter included Bosun Stephen Castle; ABs Mickey Earhart, Ed Plarisan, Fadhel Mohammed, Desta Gebrai, Robert Ellis, Fred Shannon, Clifton Favorite, Andy Martinez, Alfred Martin, Peter Bean and Barry Ford; QMEDs Allen Ward, Clarence Scott, Ronnie Day, Eric Viera and James Donohue; QEE Antoine Jennings; Electrician Robert Rush; GUDE James Lewis; GVAs Reynaldo Downing, Daniel Gamboa, Shaun Castain and Felix Garcia; Chief Steward William Simmons; Chief Cook Tracy Stewart; and SAs Scott Gardner, Abdulsalam Mohamed, Shabain Hamid and Rafael Borja. Special thanks to Third Mate Ed McDonnell for providing the photos on this page as well as those of the Cape Island on page 1. The SIU-crewed Cape Island is part of the Ready Reserve Force. Participating in a fire drill are (from left) SA Abdulsalam Mohamed, AB Peter Bean and Chief Cook Tracy Stewart. QMED James Donohue, QMED Ronnie Day 3rd Asst. Geoff Grossenbach, AB Mickey Earhart, QMED Eric Viera Above: AB Desta Gebrai, Electrician Robert Rush Right: SA Shabain Hamid Left: Bosun Stephen Castle SA Abdulsalam Mohamed, Chief Steward William Simmons, GUDE James Lewis Pictured in Texas is some of the materiel picked up and transported by the Cape Island. Right: AB Alfred Martin AB Clifton Favorite ABs Peter Bean and Ed Plarisan tend to the vessel in Kuwait. AB Andy Martinez Scrubbing the cargo holds are AB Andy Martinez (left) and GVA Shaun Castain. Chief Cook Tracy Stewart 6 Seafarers LOG February 2005 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:08 PM Page 7 SEAFARERS support our troops aboard the USNS WATKINS The USNS Watkins is one of the SIUcrewed ships that keeps the cargo moving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 3 (OIF3). The large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessel has just completed its 13th mission in the Middle East and is getting ready for the next voyage, according to Capt. Kurt Kleinschmidt, himself a former member of the Seafarers International Union. Operated by Maersk Line, Limited for the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the vessel stopped in Jacksonville, Fla. for supplies, training and a crew change before sailing to Savannah, Ga. and then to the Middle East. Bosun Henry Peterson, AB Manuel Davis, AB Greg Brunson and For Seafarers, OIF3 is the continuation of a AB Jesus Olbes understand the importance of their mission. patriotic duty that began with pre-war mobilizations for the all-out combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. Bosun Henry Peterson and the crew aboard the USNS Watkins understand the importance of getting the cargo to U.S. military forces in Iraq. Both Bosun Peterson and AB Greg Brunson have completed five full rotations on board the vessel and enjoy working with Captain Kleinschmidt, who, they say, is very “crew-focused and crew oriented.” Capt. Kurt Kleinschmidt and AB Zack Sullivan Peterson noted he is keep busy in the days before departure. looking forward to the upcoming trip and is proud to play an important part in supporting the troops. Working with him in the deck department during the last voyage were Brunson, AB Zack Sullivan, AB Manuel Davis, AB Jesus H. Olbes, OS Nieves Nunez and OS Matthew Nunez. (Davis, who came aboard the LMSR program as an OS, has since upgraded at Piney Point and is now sailing as an AB.) In preparation for the voyage, the steward department was kept very busy, according to Chief Steward Robert Ramirez. Ramirez, along with SA Jose Clotter and SA Justino Martinez and Chief Cook Alisha Prucnal keep the chow line stocked at all times for the crew, supercargo and security teams. Rounding out the crew are members of the engine departWith decorations in place, the steward department: QMED/Electrician James Demouy, QMEDs Eldon ment is ready for the holidays. From the left are Palmer, Keith Kowaleski and Lloyd Marsh and Wiper Chief Cook Alisha Prucnal, SA Justino Martinez, Chief Steward Robert Ramirez and Christian Ladner. SA Jose Clotter. Like most of the other LMSRs, the USNS Watkins is named after a Medal of Honor recipient. Army Master Sgt. At left and below: The USNS Watkins was in Jacksonville, Fla. for approximately three weeks for supplies, training and a crew change. Travis E. Watkins (1920-1950) was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his gallant leadership when an overwhelming enemy force broke through and isolated 30 men from his unit in Korea from Aug. 31 to Sept. 3, 1950. A non-combatant vessel, the USNS Watkins is the sixth in the Watson class of OS Nieves Nunez, LMSRs. Its roll-on/rollSA Justino Martinez off design makes it ideal for transporting helicopters, tanks and other wheeled and tracked military vehicles as well as combat service support gear. The ship has approximately 390,000 square feet of cargo carrying space. The USNS Watkins is 950 feet in length, has a beam of 105.8 feet and displaces approximately 62,000 long tons. The gas turbine-powered ship is able to sustain speeds of up to 24 knots. The photographs accompanying this article were taken by Capt. Michael F. Finnigan, an SIU hawsepiper. As captain aboard the USNS Pomeroy, Finnigan recently sent photos to the LOG from that vessel’s fifth trip in support of OIF (see October 2004 of the Seafarers LOG). Right: QMED Lloyd Marsh and 1st Asst. Engineer Baxter Hudson (AMO) chat about the upcoming trip. Seafarers working in the engine department aboard the RO/RO vessel include (from left) Electrician James Demouy, Wiper Christian Ladner and QMED Eldon Palmer. OS Matthew Nunez stands gangway watch aboard ship in Jacksonville. AB Manuel Davis and AB Jesus Olbes February 2005 Seafarers LOG 7 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:08 PM Page 8 SEAFARERS SUPPORT OUR TROOPS aboard the WESTWARD VENTURE The SIU-crewed Westward Venture recently loaded its cargo of military equipment and headed for Kuwait in support of the war effort in the Middle East. John Cooper, who sails as a DEU aboard the vessel, sent these photos to the LOG. The Westward Venture is one of five TOTE trailerDEU John Cooper (right) poses with the U.S. Navy security guards ships operated by Interocean Army cargo headed for Kuwait is lined up at the docks in Corpus Christi, Texas for loading onto the trailership. aboard the Westward Venture en route to Kuwait. Ugland Management. Military cargo takes up all the deck space on the ship. A trailer is loaded by crane onto the Westward Venture. Having reached its destination, the cargo is discharged in Kuwait. Holiday Festivities in The Port of Norfolk Above: Tosha Taylor, Joyce Calhoun and Darryl Jackson. Below: AB Thomas Morgan and his wife, Marie. AB Mike Warren (left) gets together with retired Bosun Bobby Riddick (center) and AB Bennie Spencer at the Norfolk holiday party. SIU VP Kermett Mangram (left) and Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny chat with some of the SIU members and their guests. Steward/Baker Army Joe Leake catered the holiday party. Christmas Day came a week early at the Norfolk, Va. hall, as more than 100 Seafarers, pensioners, family members and guests joined in on the festivities Dec. 18. The party was a time for rejoicing, reminiscing and enjoying a wonderful holiday meal, catered by Steward/Baker Army Joe Leake. Christmas Thanks to DEU John Cooper for sending the LOG the photos accompanying this feature. on the LNG Capricorn DEU John Cooper (left) poses with James Burke. Cooper sent these photos to the LOG. OMU Hugh S. Woods 8 Seafarers LOG The steward department on the LNG Capricorn really did themselves proud in preparing a mouth-watering holiday meal for their fellow crew members. From the left are Chief Steward Dana Cunningham, SA Tommy Cyrus, Chief Cook Udjang Nurdjaja, SA Enno Kok and SA Syed Murtaza. February 2005 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:09 PM Page 9 IMO Issues Updated ‘White List’ For STCW Convention Compliance The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee from Dec.1-10 conducted its 79th session at IMO headquarters in London. Algeria Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Australia Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belgium Belize Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Canada Cape Verde Chile China* Colombia Security issues and bulk carrier safety concerns dominated the crammed agenda. Among other items, a highlight of the session was the release of the updated “white list” of countries that have fulfilled requirements set forth in the provisions of the amended International Convention on Standards of Training, Certifi- Ghana Greece Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Ireland Islamic Republic of Iran Italy Israel Jamaica Japan Jordan Kiribati Kuwait Latvia Lebanon Liberia Comoros Côte d’Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Democratic People.s Republic of Korea Denmark** Dominica Ecuador Egypt Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Georgia Germany Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malaysia Maldives Malta Marshall Islands Mauritius Mexico Micronesia (Federated States of) Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Netherlands*** New Zealand**** Nigeria Norway Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Republic of Korea Romania Russian Federation Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa Saudi Arabia Senegal Singapore Slovak Republic Slovenia Solomon Islands Notice Editor’s note: The following SAB action was put in place to help ensure sufficient crewing of SIU-contracted U.S. military support ships for Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. SEAFARERS APPEALS BOARD 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 Action Number 426 Effective: December 9, 2004 The Seafarers Appeals Board acting under and pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Union and the various Contracted Employers, hereby takes the following action. WHEREAS, by prior action the Board has recognized the need for appropriate Shipping Rule adjustments to secure and maintain an adequate supply of qualified and trained personnel aboard various U.S. flagged fleets; and WHEREAS, the Union acknowledges the importance proper manning plays in the successful operation of these vessels; and WHEREAS, because of the recent military vessel activations the Shipping Rules need to be amended by allowing extended tours of duty for unlicensed personnel above entry rating to ensure that every unlicensed billet is filled. NOW THEREFORE, the Seafarers Appeals Board acting under and pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Union and various Contracted Employers hereby amends and enforces the Shipping Rules to provide for the following. AMEND Rule 5 A. (14) (a) quoted below, shall be modified by eliminating the maximum period of employment of one hundred twenty (120) days. “The following specified ratings enumerated in this subsection (a), possessing Class “A” seniority, upon completing a tour of duty aboard a specified vessel of no less, or as close to, seventy-five (75) days and no more, or as close to, one hundred twenty (120) days, shall be designated as having permanent status for such vessel and shall request a relief of no less, or as close to, thirty (30) and no more, or as close to, sixty (60) days depending on the vessels schedule of operations, upon the vessel’s arrival at a port in the Continental United States or Puerto Rico or other mutually agreed to port. Subsequent tours aboard the vessel for permanent personnel shall be between seventy-five (75) and one hundred twenty (120) days duration as agreed by the seaman and the company at time of their sign-on for each tour. Transportation expenses for the seaman requesting a relief and the seaman providing a relief shall be borne by the Company.” It is the intent of this amendment to allow for an unlimited amount of days allotted for tours of duty. The maximum sixty (60) days off will still be in effect. AMEND Rule 5 A. (14) (r) (2) and 5 A. (14) (t) (2) quoted below by eliminating the two-to-one time off ratio and maximum period of employment of one hundred twenty (120) days. “During the specific period of employment, February 2005 cation and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers. Countries appearing on the list have been found by the IMO to be fully and completely compliant with STCW stipulations. The IMO, however, advised maritime administrations, shipowners, ship operators and managers, ship masters and other parties concerned that not all countries appearing on the list provide their tours of duty shall be scheduled at approximately a two-to-one employment ratio with time on off no less, or as close to seventy-five (75) days and no more, or as close to one hundred twenty (120) days of employment between periods of time off of no less, or as close to thirty (30) days and no more, or as close to sixty days (60) of time off. Work schedules may be modified subject to the vessel’s operational necessities, and as mutually agreed to between the Union and the Company. Transportation expenses for the seaman requesting a relief and the seaman providing a relief shall be borne by the Company.” It is the intent of this amendment to allow for an unlimited amount of days allotted for tours of duty. The maximum sixty (60) days off will still be in effect. AMEND Rule 5 A. (14) (r) (4) and 5 A. (14) (t) (4) quoted below shall be eliminated. Rule 5 A. (14) (r) (4) “Seamen possessing Class “B” employment seniority employed above the Entry Level aboard tanker class vessels in the domestic trades upon mutual consent may request a relief of forty-five (45) days upon completion of no less than ninety (90) days employment.” Rule 5 A. (t) (4) “Seamen possessing Class “B” employment seniority employed above the Entry Level may request a relief of forty-five (45) days upon completion of no less than ninety (90) days of employment. Such relief will only be provided in a domestic port and subject to the vessels operational necessities.” It is the intent of this amendment to discontinue reliefs for seaman with “B” seniority employed above Entry Rating. AMEND Rule 10 A. “Special or Emergency Provisions” as quoted below shall be fully enforced. “During any period of emergency, unlicensed seamen possessing Class “B” or “C” seniority, who are in the Entry Rating Department and who have adequate seatime to make application for endorsement in Group II rating or ratings in the Deck or Engine Department and Group II ratings in the Steward Department, shall not be registered for shipping unless they make application for and expeditiously comply with the requisite rules to secure such Group II endorsement or endorsements in the Deck and Engine Departments and Group II ratings in the Steward Department in accordance with the training programs instituted at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship.” The remainder of this section shall also remain in full force and effect. This SAB action shall remain in full force and effect until modified by future SAB action. complete seafarer training; some may only provide a limited range of schooling. The committee also pointed out that since the updated white list was not released until Dec. 10, mariners from some of the new countries on the list—for practical reasons—might not yet possess certificates with updated STCW endorsements. Countries on the update white list are as follows: South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Thailand Tonga Trinidad & Tobago Tunisia Turkey Tuvalu Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom***** United Republic of Tanzania United States of America Uruguay Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Yugoslavia *Includes: Hong Kong, China (Associate Member to the IMO) **Includes: Faroe Islands (Associate Member to the IMO) ***Includes: Netherlands Antilles & Aruba ****Includes: The Cook Islands *****Includes: Isle of Man, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Gibraltar Top MarAd Official Resigns U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta last month announced the resignation of U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William G. Schubert, effective Feb. 12. The deputy administrator of the Maritime Administration, John Jamian, will assume the role of acting maritime administrator during the White House selection process for a new administrator. According to the Transportation Department, Schubert plans to pursue private-sector opportunities in his hometown, Houston. Mineta praised Schubert’s accomplishments and service to the nation during a three-year tenure. “Bill brought real-life maritime experiences directly to his job as administrator and he has been a tremendous asset to the department,” Mineta said. “He was a strong advocate of the nation’s vital maritime transportation system.” Schubert managed a largescale activation of the Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He also negotiated a maritime agreement between the United States and China, Mineta added. SIU President Michael Sacco described Schubert as “a dedicated fighter for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet.” With the resignation of Capt. William Schubert (above) as head of the U.S. Maritime Administration, John Jamian (below) assumes the role of acting maritime administrator. Notice/Reminder Tankerman Assistant DL Endorsement Don’t let your tankerman assistant DL endorsement expire! If you sail on tankers, you may renew your tankerman assistant DL endorsement at a U.S. Coast Guard regional exam center (REC) by showing your discharges from a tanker (reflecting a year of sea service in the previous five years) and by showing a letter indicating your involvement in two loadings or discharges. If you haven’t sailed on tankers in the last five years, you must successfully complete a Coast Guard-approved tanker assistant DL course, such as the two-week curriculum offered at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in order to secure the tankerman assistant DL endorsement. Also, remember that in order to have the tankerman assistant DL endorsement noted on an STCW certificate, that endorsement must appear as current on the mariner’s z-card. Seafarers LOG 9 �Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/24/2005 8:49 PM Page 10 Port Security Addressed Runaway-Flag Grounding in Alaska Triggers Federal Investigation Continued from page 5 with rapidly increasing world trade. Without adequate federal help for security enhancements, Nagle said that ports will be forced to spend money on security instead of capital improvements, likely resulting in a system unable to handle the expected growth in trade volumes and causing enormous impacts on America’s economy. “Ensuring adequate security against terrorism is important for all ports, large and small,” remarked Nagle, reiterating his position that the problem is a matter of funding. Ports handle 95 percent of America’s overseas cargoes and serve as departure points for an estimated 10 million cruise passengers annually. They also help enable deployment of U.S. military vessels, personnel and cargo to support U.S. troops overseas. In another development, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in December issued a report stating that better planning is needed to develop and operate the maritime worker identification card program. The Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to issue a worker ID card that uses biometrics to control access to secure areas in ports and on ships. The program is being delayed, in large part because: Officials had difficulty obtaining timely approval to proceed with the prototype test; Extra time was required to identify data to be collected for a cost-benefit analysis; and Additional work was required to assess card technologies. The agency still lacks an approved comprehensive project plan and has yet to identify eligibility requirements for the ID card. In the congressional arena, several maritime security-related bills last month were introduced: H.R. 91, introduced by Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (RN.J.), would authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to first responders, and for other purposes. H.R. 163, sponsored by Rep. Juanita MillenderMcDonald (D-Calif.), would amend title 46 USC, to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out an empty shipping container sealing pilot program to encourage shipping container handlers to seal empty boxes after they have unpacked them, and for other purposes. H.R. 173, also introduced by Millender-McDonald, is intended to prevent and respond to terrorism and crime at or through ports. Merck Voluntarily Withdraws VIOXX Based on new safety data from a three-year clinical study, Merck & Co., Inc., the manufacturer of VIOXX®, has elected to voluntarily withdraw this product from the U.S. and worldwide market. Results from the study show an increased risk for cardiovascular problems such as heart attack and stroke in patients taking the drug compared to those taking a placebo. All dosage strengths and formulations of the drug are affected by this voluntary withdrawal. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which was informed of the decision along with physicians and pharmacists, recommends that patients who currently are taking VIOXX® contact their physicians to discuss discontinuing use of the product. A number of alternative medications are available and may be prescribed at that time. Merck has established a program to directly reimburse all patients for their unused VIOXX® tablets or oral suspension. Patients who return all or any portion of their prescription in its original container in accordance with the instructions from the National Notification Center will receive a full refund of the price paid as reflected on their pharmacy receipt. You may call the center at 1-800-805-9542. Upon calling, Merck will send you a return kit that will include a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope and instructions regarding how to send back your unused product. Additional information regarding the withdrawal of VIOXX® may be obtained from Merck at either 1-888-368-4699 or on the web at www.merck.com or www.vioxx.com. The Food and Drug Administration also has information available at 1-888-463-6332 or at www.fda.gov/cder. SIU Supports Tsunami Relief Continued from page 2 graphic surveys of the ocean bottom where the 9.0 magnitude earthquake occurred. The USNS Mary Sears and the USNS John McDonnell sailed from Sasebo, Japan. The San Diego-based hospital ship USNS Mercy—crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division —set sail Jan. 5 for the devastated region. The ship’s hospital facility initially was staffed to support 250 patient beds; however, that number could be expanded up to 1,000 with additional medical staff, if necessary. Equipment and supplies were available on the vessel to treat a wide variety of patients from young children to the elderly. The Mercy has 12 10 Seafarers LOG operating rooms, but the focus of care for its tsunami mission was on patients suffering from illness or infection. Also participating in the relief effort was the MarAd-owned and SIU-crewed auxiliary crane ship Cornhusker State. A 610-foot long platform, the Cornhusker State is part of MarAd’s civiliancrewed Ready Reserve Force. As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, the unofficial death toll from the tsunami had surpassed more than 226,000. Various government agencies’ lists included death tolls of 166,320 in Indonesia, 38,000 in Sri Lanka, more than 5,300 in Thailand and 16,383 in India. There had been 137 deaths recorded in East Africa, 74 each in Malaysia and the Maldives, 59 in Burma and two in Bangladesh. A preliminary criminal investigation into the grounding last month of the cargo ship Selendang Ayu in Alaska has been launched by federal agents. According to The Seattle Post-Intelligencer, at least one FBI agent and two Coast Guard criminal investigators—with an assist from an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigator —are trying to determine whether criminal negligence contributed to the disaster, which resulted in six deaths and a major fuel oil spill. Salvage crews are on the lookout for engineroom records that still might be aboard the rear end of the vessel, which as of mid-January was grounded on rocks and being pounded by heavy seas. As reported earlier in the Seafarer’s LOG, the 72,000-ton runaway-flag bulk carrier, with crew members from India and the Philippines, on Dec. 8 was transporting grain to the Far East but also was carrying 470,000 gallons of its own fuel when the vessel ran aground. According to Coast Guard and news reports, the ship lost power Dec. 7, but its captain didn’t notify the U.S. Coast Guard for 13 hours. Owned by Singapore-based IMC Group, the Malaysian-flag ship drifted in 35-foot seas and gusting winds up to 60 miles per hour. Most of the crew members were rescued via helicopter, but during a subsequent attempt to lift the remaining mariners, the helicopter crashed. The three helicopter crew members and a 24-year-old cadet from the ship were rescued by another Coast Guard helicopter. Six mariners—none of whom was wearing a survival suit—were not found. The federal criminal investigation at hand is the third inquiry focused on this catastrophe. The National Transportation Safety Board is also is investigating the grounding, and the Coast Guard has appointed a board to investigate the helicopter crash. The Justice Department has prosecuted a number of foreign-flag cargo shipowners and officers in Alaska, Washington and Oregon for illegal dis- Unified Command photo This photo from Dec. 19 shows the bow and stern sections of the 378-foot runaway-flag freighter Selendang Ayu near Skan Bay. charge of oil. Several of the violations were brought to the attention of the Coast Guard or the Environmental Protection Agency by company whistle-blowers, and they involved attempts by shipowners to cover up oil discharges. Prosecutions of illegal oil discharges are based on the federal Clean Water Act, which can be enforced by EPA civil action and citizen lawsuits as well as criminal prosecution. Prosecution is reserved for severe cases, according to environmental organizations. The maximum penalty for a first conviction for negligence is a year in prison and a $25,000 fine for each day of the violation. Seafarer Helps in Phuket Continued from page 2 freaked out big time. So I got up and asked her to sit down with me and explain exactly what she needed. She said she was Swedish, her children were English and the whole family was washed out to sea about a twohour drive north of Phuket. They were staying on the beach in a bungalow that was sucked out to sea. Her husband had drowned; they found his body last night. They had only the clothes on their backs. She said the Swedish officials were telling her she had to deal with the English. Her daughter needed help, and nobody would give it. I calmed her down, got her some ice water and told her to sit with her kids. I told her I would do her yelling for her. There was an embassy phone list, and I called the English consulate and told them the story. They sent a very nice woman from the office in Bangkok. She was very helpful and said she would take care of all the passport issues for both countries. So that made my day right there. It was still so very sad, as her kids had the thousand-yard stare. In major shock. I went back to my table and looked at the patient list and wrote down room numbers to see what any of them needed. One room I visited had a woman lying in bed, a daughter all bandaged up on a cot and a son in a cast on another bed. They were from Norway, and it was the girl’s 13th birthday. I asked them where they had been. Kamala Bay north of Patong, walking on the beach, when they were slammed up on the rocks and then dragged out to sea. They still have not found their father. Mom started crying but neither child did. They looked numb. They have family members arriving tonight to take them home. I had seen a pizza place close by so I asked if they would like one. The birthday girl smiled. So I went and got them a big pizza and ate it with them. In the next room there were four people from Switzerland. Dad and mom were in their 70s, and their son and his wife were maybe in their 40s. The younger wife was hurt the worst. She had had surgery on her legs. Her husband was bandaged up and bruised, as were mom and dad. They were eating breakfast a block off Patong Beach when the first wave hit and shoved them through the restaurant into the street. Then they were dragged down the street when the wave went back out to sea. Then the big one came in. They were all split up, swimming and trying to grab onto anything. The older man grabbed something but was shocked by some electric wires. He still held on, and Mom grabbed him. Their children were slammed about a block down the street, banging into floating cars and motorbikes. The son saw a boat, jumped onto it and floated off. When the water receded they all found each other and carried the daughter down the street and waited for help. An American doctor drove up in a huge Jeep and took them to the hospital. I asked what they needed. All their passports and money were in a safe in their hotel room, which luckily was on the second floor. I told them I would go and check it out. I found the hotel, and it was in the major damage zone. There was a guard at the makeshift gate, several overturned cars on the grounds plus furniture, etc. Totally full of junk. I found out all the safes were put in one room with a guard in front. We called the hospital, and the Swiss family was very glad to know all their stuff was OK. At the Patong hospital there’s a huge tent set up with hundreds of phones to call anywhere in the world for free. A young couple from Germany came up to me and asked if I knew where they could help. They were pre-med students and had just flown in from Germany. They had not even found a room yet, and the first place they went was somewhere to help. I suggested Phuket International Hospital, as I had heard earlier they needed blood badly but didn’t have enough trained people to draw it. They said they could do that, so I got them the address and off they went. I guess disasters bring out the best in people, and I saw it all day. I saw 40 to 50 tourists making piles of broken-up furniture and destroyed boats. There are tourists on the streets collecting money and clothes. I fly out to Bangkok on Thursday. Now I almost wish I was staying, as these people in the hospitals were so glad just to talk with someone. I gave my card to most of them, and I think I have some e-mail friends for life. February 2005 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:09 PM Page 11 EDUCATION: What’s in It for Me? Let’s face it: The work in our industry is getting more complicated all the time. Just think about all the new things we’ve seen happen in the last few years . . . new Coast Guard regulations, including STCW requirements bigger and more sophisticated ships, boats, tugs and barges new requirements for ratings and licenses If you’re going to have job security, you’ve got to keep up with the industry! That’s what the Paul Hall Center is for—to give those of us working in the deck, engine and steward departments the skills needed to get ahead in our jobs and earn more money. T he Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md., is the largest training facility for unlicensed deep sea merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen in the United States. Its program includes: Unlicensed Apprentice Program. This curriculum provides men and women who have no maritime experience with the basic skills they will need to serve aboard U.S-flag ships or tugs and towboats. It builds manpower for our industry and helps mariners enjoy the benefits of union membership. 1 Upgrading. The Paul Hall Center has courses for every unlicensed rating in our industry, plus a course of study for those pursuing a license. The instructors at the school work with each 2 mariner as an individual, so every student learns what he or she needs to know to get ahead. Upgrading at the Paul Hall Center is an efficient way to help a seafarer get a better job, earn more money and have job security. Academic Education. It can be really difficult to pass a Coast Guard exam if you have trouble with reading or mathematics. The academic program at the Paul Hall Center helps students learn these skills. You can even earn a high school diploma or an associate of applied science degree. 3 Education is one way your union helps all Seafarers get a bigger piece of the pie—better jobs, more security, better pay. To find out which courses currently are scheduled at the Paul Hall Center, turn to page 21. February 2005 Seafarers LOG 11 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:36 PM Page 12 N Here are some of the changes that will take effect in 2004 and 2005 from the Working Families Tax Relief Act of 2004, and the American Job Creation Act of 2004: TUITION AND FEE DEDUCTION — Individual may be able to deduct up to $4,000 if adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is not more than $65,000 ($130,000 if married filing jointly), or deduct up to $2,000 if AGI is higher than that limit but not more than $80,000 ($160,000 if married filing jointly). CHILD TAX CREDIT — Taxpayers with a credit amount more than their tax could get a refund of the difference, up to 10 percent of the amount by which their 2004 taxable earned income exceeds $10,750. This percentage was raised to 15 percent for 2004, meaning a larger refund for many of these taxpayers. COMBAT PAY — Some military personnel receiving combat pay get larger tax credits because of two law changes. The new law counts excludable combat pay as income when figuring the Child Tax Credit and gives the taxpayer the option of counting or ignoring combat pay as income when figuring the Earned Income Tax Credit. Counting combat pay as income when calculating these credits does not change the exclusion of combat pay from taxable income. SALES TAX DEDUCTION — Taxpayers who itemize deductions will have a choice of claiming a state and local tax deduction for either sales or income taxes on their 2004 and 2005 returns. The IRS will provide optional tables for use in determining the deduction amount, relieving taxpayers of the need to save receipts throughout the year. Sales taxes paid on motor vehicles and boats may be added to the table amount, but only up to the amount paid at the general sales tax rate. Taxpayers will check a box on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions, to indicate whether their deduction is for sales or income taxes. CLEAN FUEL VEHICLE DEDUCTION — Federal tax law allows individuals to claim a deduction for the incremental cost of buying a motor vehicle that is propelled by a clean-burning fuel. The clean-burning fuel deduction is up to $2,000 for certified vehicles first put into service in 2004 and 2005. The one-time deduction must be taken in the year the vehicle is originally used. The IRS certified the Toyota Prius for model years 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. The IRS also previously certified the Honda Insight for model years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the Honda Civic Hybrid for model years 2003 and 2004. DEDUCTION FOR DISCRIMINATION SUIT COSTS — A new deduction is available for those who pay attorney’s fees and court costs in connection with discrimination suits. Taxpayers can take the new deduction whether they itemize or not. The deduction cannot exceed the amount included in income for the year on account of a judgment or settlement resulting from the discrimination claim. Generally, personal legal expenses are not deductible, but an employee who incurs legal expenses related to doing or keeping his job could deduct these expenses on Schedule A as a miscellaneous itemized deduction. However, under The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004, an individual with legal fees and court costs arising from a discrimination suit may deduct the costs directly from income on the front of the tax return; this is known as an above-the-line deduction. EARNED INCOME CREDIT — The maximum amount of income taxpayer can earn and still get the credit has increased. You may be able to take the credit if: You have more than one qualifying child and you earned less than $34,458 ($35,458 if married filing jointly), You have one qualifying child and you earned less than T T P R Step 1. Get all records together. Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. Itemized deductions and tax credits. Medical and dental payment records. Real estate and personal property tax receipts. Interest payment records for items such as a home mortgage or home equity loan. Records of payments for child care so an individual could work. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications necessary to assist in filing the return. IRS Publication 17 entitled “Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals” is the most comprehensive guide the agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and many local banks, post offices and libraries have publications designed to provide individuals with information on correctly filing tax returns. Also, you may access the IRS web site at www.irs.gov for forms, instructions and publications. Step 3. Fill in the return. F 2 $30,338 ($31,338 if married filing jointly), or You do not have a qualifying child and you earned less than $11,490 ($12,490 if married filing jointly). The maximum amount of investment income you can have and still get the earned income credit has increased to $2,650. STANDARD DEDUCTION AMOUNT INCREASED — The standard deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040 is, in most cases, higher for 2004 than it was for 2003. The amount depends on your filing status, whether you are 65 or older or blind, and whether an exemption can be claimed for you by another taxpayer. The basic standard deduction amounts for 2004 are: Head of household — $7,150 Married taxpayers filing jointly and qualifying widow(er)s — $9,700 Married taxpayers filing separately — $4,850 Single — $4,850 EXEMPTION — The amount you can deduct for each exemption has increased from $3,050 in 2003 to $3,100 in 2004. You lose all or part of the benefit of your exemptions if your adjusted gross income is above a certain amount. The amount at which the phaseout begins depends on your filing status. For 2004, the phaseout begins at: $107,025 for married persons filing separately, $142,700 for single individuals, $178,350 for heads of household, and $214,050 for married persons filing jointly and qualifying widow(er)s with dependent children. INCOME LIMITS INCREASED FOR HOPE AND LIFETIME LEARNING CREDITS — For 2004, the amount of your HOPE or Lifetime Learning Credit is phased out (gradually reduced) if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is between $42,000 and $52,000 ($85,000 and $105,000 if you file a joint return). You cannot claim an education credit if your MAGI is $52,000 or more ($105,000 or more if you file a joint return). MODIFIED AGI LIMIT FOR TRADITIONAL IRA CONTRIBUTIONS INCREASED — For 2004, if you are covered by a retirement plan at work, your deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA will be reduced (phased out) if your modified adjusted gross income (AGI) is: More than $65,000 but less than $75,000 for a married couple filing a joint return or a qualifying widow(er), More than $45,000 but less than $55,000 for a single individual or head of household, or Less than $10,000 for a married individual filing a separate return. STUDENT LOAN INTEREST DEDUCTION — Final regulations, issued May 7, 2004, changed the rules for deducting student loan interest. The changes apply to interest due and paid after December 31, 1997, on qualified student loans. The 60-day safe harbor for disbursing loan proceeds used to pay qualified education expenses has been increased to 90 days before and 90 days after the academic period to which the expenses relate. The person legally obligated to make interest payments on a student loan may be able to deduct interest payments on that loan made by someone else (third party). MAILING TAX RETURN — IRS has changed the filing location for several areas. If you received an envelope with your tax package, please use it. Otherwise, see Where do you file? on the back cover of the filing instructions. Step 4. Check the return to make sure it is correct. Step 5. Sign and date the return. Form 1040 is not considered a valid return unless signed. A spouse must also sign if it is a joint return. Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. Attach Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099R to the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the payment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form 1040-V (original only). Write name, address, phone number, Social Security number and form number on your check or money order. Payment also can be made by credit card. You may use American Express, Discover, Visa or Master cards. To pay by credit card, call the toll-free number 1-800-272-9829 or 1-729-1040 or visit websites www.officialpayments.com or www.pay1040.com. There is a fee charged based on the amount you are paying. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: Cents may be rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on the tax return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts from 50 to 99 D This is the standard deduction chart for most people. If a taxpayer is 65 or older or blind, there are additional standard deductions ($950 for a married person or “spouse” or $1,200 for an unmarried person). Note that the personal exemption deduction is $3,100. Standard Deduction Filing Status Single. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,850 Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with dependent children. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,700 Married filing separate return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,850 Head of household . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,150 12 Seafarers LOG cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $1.50 becomes $2. Fast Refund: Taxpayers are able to request direct deposit of their tax refunds by filling out lines 72b, 72c and 72d on their Form 1040. Line 72b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 72c indicates the type of account, and line 72d is the taxpayer’s account number at the bank. When tax returns are filed electronically, a refund will be received in about 3 weeks, or in 2 weeks if it is deposited directly into a savings or checking account. For a charge, many professional tax return preparers offer electronic filing in addition to their return preparation services. If an individual prepared his or her own return, a preparer or transmitter in their area can file the return electronically. For a list of who can file a tax return electronically in any given area, call the IRS toll-free number, 1-800-829-1040, and ask for the Electronic Filing Office. A C A C Personal Exemption Amount: The deduction for each exemption—for the individual, his or her spouse and dependents has increased to $3,100 per person. In 2004, the exemption deduction for high income taxpayers may be reduced or eliminated if their adjusted gross income exceeds certain threshold amounts. A child cannot claim an exemption on his or her return or qualify for a higher education credit if the child’s parents claim a dependency exemption for their child. Standard Deduction Has Increased: The T S standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, has increased for most people (see box on this page). Because of this increase, it may be to an individual’s benefit to take the standard deduction this year even if that person has itemized deductions in the past. Personal Interest Deductions: For 2004, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: Interest paid on mortgages or investments is 100 percent deductible. Union Dues Deduction: Union dues, including working dues, are deductible only if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible. SPAD contributions have never been deductible. Club Dues Deduction: No deduction is permitted for club dues; however, dues paid to professional or public service organizations are deductible for business reasons. Deductions Subject to 2 Percent of Adjusted Gross Income: These include investment advisory fees, trustee’s administrative fees, legal expenses that are paid to produce taxable income, unreimbursed employee expenses, safe deposit box rental and tax preparation fees. Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses associated with a seaman’s work may be considered tax deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union’s designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are work-related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of work-related clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the employer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally-owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses—either listing a standard mileage rate or cost. On the tax return d year, the IRS is accepting rate of 37.5 cents per mi ven in 2004. Parking fee added when using the sta If using actual expenses be available on all operati the vehicle, including i taxes, licenses, maintena ciation, gas, oil, tolls and In either the standard m actual cost method of expenses, accurate recor The IRS recommends ke diary listing all expense Only work-related expen by an employer can be cl Deducting Work-Rela Traveling: Workers in allowed a special rate on of $41 per day in the co $46 per day outside th Otherwise the IRS standa is generally $31. In some and in Hawaii and Alaska ferently. Travel expense can only be deducted if one’s work and if they h bursed from any other so There has been a rece (Johnson v. Comm. 1 where a merchant seama deduction for the full M court ruled that in situatio provided at no cost, the rate allowable as an item limited to $3 (in the con rates ranging from $1 to In lieu of these rates, to t receipts, a higher deducti allowed. Limit on Itemized Ded itemized deductions may viduals earning more tha eral adjusted gross inco married and filing separa Earned Income Cred earned income credit (E certain individuals who h and meet certain adjus thresholds. For tax year 2 does not have to have a be eligible for this credit i are met. Different cred T G General Information: 1-800-829-1040 may be called for general information. IRS staff answer questions 24 hours a day. Publications: Call 1-800-829-3676 to order current and prior year forms, instructions and publications. Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in many IRS offices around the country to help with tax questions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone book under “United States Government, Internal Revenue Service.” Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared to answer questions by phone. Through the agency’s taxpayer information service, publications covering all aspects of tax-filing can be ordered. The federal Tele-Tax system has recorded tax information covering about 150 topics. 1-800-829-4477 is the IRS’s automated Tele-Tax system. When calling from a touch tone February 2005 I p “ a a a P d to l a y h n S d I �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:36 PM Page 13 are subject to income limitations. The phaseout of the credits begins for single taxpayers when modified AGI reaches $42,000, and completely phase out when modified AGI reaches $52,000. For joint filers, the phaseout range is $85,000 to $105,000. The HOPE and Lifetime Learning Credit are not available to taxpayers married filing separately. In 2004, the Lifetime Learning Credit will be $2,000. Student Loan Interest: Taxpayers may be able to deduct up to $2,500 of interest paid for qualified education expenses for oneself, spouse or dependents. The deduction is allowed in figuring adjusted gross income. Individual Retirement Accounts: ate or determining actual turn due April 15 of this epting a standard mileage er mile for all miles dring fees and tolls can be he standard mileage rate. enses, information must perating-related costs for ding interest, insurance, ntenance, repairs, deprels and parking. ard mileage rate or the od of determining car records should be kept. ds keeping a log book or penses related to travel. expenses not reimbursed be claimed. Related Meals When rs in transportation are te on the meal allowance the continental U.S. and de the continental U.S. standard meal allowance some locations it is $42, Alaska it is computed difpenses, including meals, ted if directly related to hey have not been reimher source. recent tax court case m. 115 TC210[2000]) eaman was denied a full full M & IE rates. The tuations where meals are t, the incidental expense n itemized deduction is he continental U.S.) and $1 to $53 in other areas. s, to the extent you have eduction amount may be d Deductions: In 2004, s may be limited for indire than $142,700 of fedincome (or $71,350 if eparately). Credit: A refundable dit (EIC) is available to who have earned income adjusted gross income year 2004, an individual ave a qualifying child to redit if certain conditions credit percentages and phase-out percentages are provided based on the taxpayer’s income level and the number of qualifying children eligible, if any. The maximum credit allowed is as follows: Taxpayers with income less than $11,450 and no qualifying children—$390 maximum credit; taxpayers with income less than $30,338 and with 1 qualifying child—$2,604 maximum credit; taxpayers with income less than $34,450 and with 2 or more qualifying children—$4,300 maximum credit. If the earned income credit reduces the income tax liability below zero, a refund will be granted by the IRS. Taxpayers should use form 1040, schedule EIC to see if they are eligible for the credit. Dependent’s Social Security Number: Each dependent must have a Social Security number (SSN). Individuals may get an SSN for their dependent by filing Form SS-5 with their local Social Security Administration office or calling the Administration at 1-800772-1213. It usually takes about two weeks to receive an SSN. Child Child Credit: In 2004, taxpayers who have a qualifying child who is a U.S. citizen and for whom the taxpayer may claim a dependency exemption and who is less than 17 years old, are entitled to the child tax credit. The amount of the credit is $1,000 per child. The credit begins to phase out when modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) reaches $110,000 for joint filers, $75,000 for single taxpayers or $55,000 for married taxpayers filing separately. Credit for Higher Education Tuition: Individuals may be able to take the “HOPE” credit for tuition and related expenses paid for oneself, spouse or dependents to enroll at or attend an eligible educational institution (i.e., college or graduate school or vocational training). The HOPE credit provides a maximum allowable credit of $1,500 per student for each of the first two years of postsecondary education. For qualified expenses paid after January 1, 2002, taxpayers can take the “Lifetime Learning Credit,” that is a credit of 20 percent of qualified tuition expenses paid by the taxpayer for any year (after that date) the HOPE credit is not claimed. This credit is not limited to the first two years of postsecondary education. Also, no credits are available for expenses of a student in any year that tax-free distributions from an education IRA are used to pay the student’s expenses. These credits I e. - phone, the number “9” will repeat the topic and the number “2” will cancel the topic. To listen to a directory of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. You can also check the status of your refund. This telephone service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Personal Computer: Access the IRS’s internet web site at www.irs.gov to: download forms, instructions and publications; see answers to frequently asked tax questions; search publications online by topic or keyword; figure your withholding allowances using their W-4 calculator, check the status of your 2004 refund, send the IRS comments or requests for help via e-mail; and sign up to receive local and national tax news by e-mail. s e Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District Director (listed on the tax form). Include a Social Security number with the letter. n. r s e S s February 2005 Education IRAs—Taxpayers can contribute up to $2,000 each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The contribution is not deductible. Earnings on the contribution will be distributed tax-free provided that they are used to pay the beneficiary’s postsecondary education expenses. However, the exclusion is not available for any year in which the HOPE credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit is claimed. Roth IRAs—The maximum total yearly contribution that can be made by an individual to a Roth IRA is $3,000. Roth IRAs are subject to income limits. The maximum yearly contribution is phased out for single taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) between $95,000 and $110,000, for joint filers with an AGI between $150,000 and $160,000, and for married filing separately with an AGI between $0 and $10,000. Although the contributions are not deductible, the distributions may be tax-free depending on when and why they are made. Penalty-Free IRA Distributions —The additional 10 percent tax penalty on an early distribution from an IRA may not apply if you pay higher education expenses for yourself, spouse or your children or grandchildren. The tax penalty also may not apply if you pay expenses related to the purchase of a home by a first-time homebuyer. Only $10,000 during the individual’s lifetime may be withdrawn without a penalty for this purpose. Also, the tax penalty does not apply to distributions for an individual’s disability, medical care, or to a beneficiary after death of the individual. T I Private Delivery Services: Tax returns and extensions can be mailed through private delivery services such as Airborne Express, DHL Worldwide Express, Federal Express and United Parcel Service. Forms of Payments: One can pay the Internal Revenue Service through credit cards, debit cards, charge cards, bank check or money order. R T K Keep records of income (such as receipts), deductions (for example, canceled checks) and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limitations runs out for that return, usually 3 years from the date the return was due or filed, or 2 years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recommended that all records be kept for about 6 years. Some records should be kept even longer. For example, keep property records (your home, stocks) as long as they are needed to figure the basis of property. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one listed on that person’s last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filled out and filed with the agency. Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before filing a required return for 2004, the taxpayer’s personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a joint return) must file and sign the return for that person. A personal representative can be an executor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of the taxpayer’s property. I T R In addition to wages, salaries, tips, unemployment compensation, capital gains, dividend payments and other income listed on the federal tax return, the following kinds of income must be reported: Jones Act settlements for lost wages. Amounts received in place of wages from accident and health plans (including sick pay and disability pensions) if employer paid for the policy. Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. Canceled debts State income tax refunds Rents Repayments Royalties Unemployment benefits Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. Endowments. Original Issue Discount. Distributions from self-employed plans. Bartering income (fair-market value of goods or services received in return for services). Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act. Lump-sum distributions. Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, silver, gems or other property (capital gains). Accumulation distributions from trusts. Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). Earned income from sources outside the United States. Director’s fees. Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. Embezzled or other illegal income. I B R N The following kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return: Benefits from government welfare programs. Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, medical costs. Maintenance and Cure. Workers’ compensation benefits, insurance, damages, etc. for injury or sickness. Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans’ Administration. Child support. Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. Dividends on veterans’ life insurance. Life insurance proceeds received because of a person’s death. Amounts received from insurance S M A T T Should Seafarers find themselves overseas and seeking IRS forms or assistance, U.S. embassies and consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-related services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates located in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan. because of loss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of normal expenses while living in the home. Certain amounts received as a scholarship. A E IRS Form 4868 can be used to ask for a four-month extension to file IRS Form 1040A. An individual requesting an extension is under no obligation to explain why the additional time is needed. Filing of the form gives an individual until August 15, 2005 to file his or her 2004 federal tax return. The IRS will contact the individual directly only if the request for an extension is denied. To extend the period of time in which one can file a tax return, that individual must correctly fill out Form 4868 and pay all of the tax monies due. If the filing of Form 4868 and the subsequent four-month extension to file does not provide the individual with enough time, he or she can then file Form 2688 until August 15, 2005, known as “Application for Additional Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.” Another option open to the person seeking more time in which to file is to write a letter to the IRS stating the reason the extension is necessary. An individual seeking an extension is advised by the IRS to file Form 4868 before filing Form 2688. Copies of Form 4868 are available by calling the agency’s toll-free number which is dedicated to tax form requests (800) 8293676. Also, the form is available from all main IRS branch offices and from the IRS web site at www.irs.gov. And if a Seafarer finds himself or herself overseas, he or she can obtain the form from any U.S. embassy or consulate. It is important to bear in mind that the filing of Form 4868 requesting an extension does not get one off the hook from having to pay any taxes due. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due the U.S. government from the individual filing the extension. P S I T Federal law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of mariners working aboard U.S.-flag ships. Specifically, the law [46 USCA 11108(11) ] provides that “no part of the wages due or accruing to a master, officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoastal, interstate or non-contiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year—was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one State” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. Seafarers LOG 13 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:10 PM Page 14 Kudos to Benavidez Galley Gang MATSON MOKIHANA — Chief Cook James Boss (photo above right) prepares meatloaf for lunch aboard the Matson Mokihana. In the left photo, he meets with other members of the steward department aboard the vessel: Chief Steward Patricia Geras (center) and ACU Sara Barahona. Around the Port of San Francisco A letter of appreciation was presented to the steward department on the SIU-crewed USNS Benavidez from the U.S. Navy personnel who sailed on board the ship to Bahrain. From the left are SA Sammy Ward, Chief Steward Lonnie W. Jones, Chief Cook John Noel and SA Joel Ramos. The crew members were cited for their “outstanding support, dedication and professionalism” and for their “cooperation, support and contribution to our team and mission. We appreciate the dedication of your department in keeping up the morale of our sailors. Thank you!” Jones, who sent this photo to the Seafarers LOG, said his department gave the Navy personnel and crew members a big cookout and was told that it was the best ever held aboard a ship. The USNS Benavidez was the last of the Bob Hope-class ships built at Avondale in New Orleans. Seafarers-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA) is the operator of the large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessel for the Military Sealift Command. HORIZON SPIRIT — Paul Hanley is chief electrician on the Horizon Spirit. 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. MATSON MAUI — Working in the galley of the Matson Maui are (from left) Chief Steward Lovie Perez, ACU Nasser Ali and Chief Cook Glenn Taan. Scholarship Deadline Just Around Corner Two months remain until the April 15 deadline for receipt of scholarship applications from Seafarers as well as from their spouses and dependent children who wish to continue their education at the college level beginning in the fall of 2005. Three scholarships are being set aside for SIU members—one for $20,000 and two each for $6,000. Additionally, five grants will be awarded to SIU spouses and dependents, each in the amount of $20,000. Send away now for an application booklet (fill out and mail coupon below) or pick one up at any SIU hall. Time is running out to take advantage of this generous benefit for 2005 provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Get your application in today; you have nothing to lose! P lease send me the 2005 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner’s Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address __________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: Self Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 14 Seafarers LOG 2/05 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. February 2005 �26225_Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/28/2005 6:24 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea March & April 2005 Membership Meetings DECEMBER 16, 2004 — JANUARY 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Totals Totals Totals All Departments Algonac ..................Friday: March 11, April 8 1 6 7 4 11 21 25 1 10 20 14 26 4 12 6 7 2 35 17 0 1 0 2 3 17 13 1 7 6 11 1 2 2 0 3 1 18 8 1 0 6 1 7 17 23 0 9 14 14 14 2 1 5 12 2 30 11 1 3 3 2 8 6 21 0 4 12 7 23 2 16 5 8 1 22 13 0 0 0 0 2 10 4 1 5 4 4 4 1 2 0 1 0 14 7 1 2 1 0 6 14 18 0 1 12 14 2 2 2 6 13 2 33 13 4 0 8 0 14 45 56 0 18 28 50 23 6 1 20 33 0 52 41 2 6 7 8 14 31 66 1 16 24 33 28 8 12 11 13 8 49 34 1 2 0 3 3 31 25 0 7 16 30 3 2 2 1 8 3 28 24 Baltimore ................Thursday: March 10, April 7 223 229 96 169 157 59 142 399 371 189 Norfolk ...................Thursday: March 10, April 7 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: March 9, April 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 0 5 0 5 9 21 0 5 9 12 4 2 0 3 15 1 9 8 0 1 2 1 3 11 17 0 5 3 10 11 2 4 4 7 2 21 4 2 0 1 1 2 7 8 0 2 1 10 6 2 1 1 3 0 5 4 1 0 4 0 5 7 16 0 3 6 3 6 1 3 0 6 1 6 3 1 1 2 1 3 11 14 0 2 7 6 9 1 4 1 6 2 13 9 0 0 1 1 0 5 5 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 2 3 0 2 3 0 0 3 0 0 5 14 0 3 5 6 2 1 1 3 10 0 10 2 2 0 5 1 12 19 34 0 11 17 21 9 5 2 10 19 0 19 18 1 1 6 1 4 13 39 0 5 3 16 17 5 5 4 6 3 36 17 2 0 1 0 2 10 16 0 3 5 12 9 1 1 0 8 1 6 9 111 108 56 71 93 27 65 204 182 86 0 0 0 2 5 12 17 1 9 11 19 7 3 4 2 22 1 16 24 1 0 0 1 1 3 16 0 5 4 4 13 1 2 3 3 1 5 10 0 0 1 0 1 3 4 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 2 1 6 11 10 1 5 4 10 6 1 5 1 11 1 11 18 1 0 0 2 2 4 12 0 3 8 2 4 1 0 1 3 0 2 6 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 7 6 0 2 4 3 4 1 2 1 5 0 10 6 1 0 2 1 17 21 33 0 11 16 29 13 5 2 3 41 1 33 33 2 0 1 0 4 6 22 0 5 4 6 19 1 4 4 6 1 7 11 0 0 1 1 2 3 7 0 1 2 7 7 0 0 1 2 0 7 6 155 73 20 104 51 13 54 262 103 47 0 0 0 0 5 1 2 0 0 4 4 1 0 0 2 3 0 6 1 1 1 8 0 5 15 17 0 6 13 21 7 0 10 3 16 0 13 5 2 2 1 3 8 20 17 0 1 12 21 15 2 50 0 6 0 15 12 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 0 0 0 2 0 4 10 9 0 1 5 14 5 0 12 3 6 0 6 3 1 0 0 3 0 11 8 0 0 4 6 9 0 14 0 4 0 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 5 6 1 1 8 11 1 0 0 2 6 0 10 1 3 2 7 2 11 28 28 1 14 14 51 14 0 8 7 23 2 31 13 8 5 2 0 15 27 32 0 4 22 60 19 4 45 0 15 3 33 39 29 141 187 12 80 69 0 61 259 333 518 551 359 356 381 168 261 926 915 655 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Piney Point .............Monday: March 7, April 4 2 0 8 1 13 15 21 0 13 23 20 13 3 1 16 18 1 35 20 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. February 2005 Boston.....................Friday: March 11, April 8 Duluth .....................Wednesday: March 16, April 13 Guam ......................Thursday: March 24, April 21 Honolulu .................Friday: March 18, April 15 Houston ..................Monday: March 14, April 11 Jacksonville ............Thursday: March 10, April 7 Joliet .......................Thursday: March 17, April 14 Mobile ....................Wednesday: March 16, April 13 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: March 15, April 12 New York................Tuesday: March 8, April 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: March 17, April 14 San Francisco .........Thursday: March 17, April 14 San Juan..................Thursday: March 10, April 7 St. Louis..................Friday: March 18, April 15 Tacoma ...................Friday: March 25, April 22 Wilmington ...............Monday: March 21, April 18 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals RUTH CLINTON Please contact Barbara Gaffney at 101 Myrtle Ave., Apt. 234, Staten Island, NY 10310-2052; or telephone (718) 727-4233. DAVID FOLEY Please contact Chris Lipnosky at (530) 587-4045. With Seafarers on the SBX SIU members are working aboard a semisubmersible craft known as the SBX—an abbreviation for sea-based XBand radar. These photos were taken last month along the Gulf Coast. At left, SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell (third from left) meets with QMED Chris Schneider of Anchorage, Alaska while the Seafarer works in a pipe tunnel on the platform. Schneider said that working on a vessel that boosts U.S. national security “makes me feel patriotic.” Below, Powell meets with (from left) Recertified Steward Paula Kaleikini, Chief Cook Theresa Ballard and OS Amber Michel while waiting to load provisions. Kaleikini noted, “I know this will be challenging and very different from what any of us have seen before, but we will tackle it with the energy and professionalism people expect from the SIU!” Seafarers LOG 15 �26225_Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/27/2005 4:41 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report DECEMBER 16, 2004 — JANUARY 15, 2005 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 7 10 4 5 12 2 0 4 44 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 2 8 0 11 8 5 5 2 4 0 35 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 1 7 0 8 8 1 4 2 4 0 27 1 7 3 2 10 1 1 1 26 5 31 11 12 39 6 1 9 114 0 4 3 5 8 2 0 5 27 0 26 0 23 1 0 4 0 54 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 0 8 4 9 5 5 11 3 1 9 47 1 2 4 1 2 0 1 2 13 0 16 1 16 0 1 1 3 38 0 0 5 0 1 2 1 0 9 4 8 4 7 9 2 1 4 39 0 5 2 1 10 0 1 0 19 0 19 1 16 0 1 1 1 39 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 3 4 1 3 0 0 2 16 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 1 6 0 2 3 1 1 0 0 0 7 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 12 4 7 11 0 1 5 45 0 3 6 3 9 0 0 5 26 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 4 3 0 1 0 0 0 8 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 5 2 3 3 1 0 0 2 16 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 6 9 3 1 5 1 0 25 Port 3 4 3 1 0 1 0 0 12 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 3 10 0 1 5 1 0 20 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 76 18 67 83 17 55 43 200 59 131 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by George G. Jamison of New Park, Pa. It was taken in Buenos Aires, Argentina in November 1945. Brother Jamison (left), John Manen of Houston, Texas (center) and Dave Wagman of Red Lion, Pa. were part of the engine department crew on the SIU-crewed Liberty ship Stevenson Taylor. They signed on in Baltimore in June 1945 and had just delivered a load of Army supplies to Calcutta, India when World War II was declared over. The ship sailed to various ports before stopping in Buenos Aires, including Le Havre, France, and then to a shipyard in Cardiff, Wales. It wasn’t until February 1946 that the Stevenson Taylor finally made it to New York for a payoff; it had been nearly six months since any of the crew members had received mail. Brother Jamison last sailed aboard Bull Line’s SS Mae—from May 1949 until April 1955. He then left the sea for a shoreside job and put his SIU book in retirement in December 1956. Jamison still receives the LOG and says he looks forward to reading it each month. 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. February 2005 �26225_Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/27/2005 4:40 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 JUAN AYALA, 70, hails from Puerto Rico. He joined the SIU in 1966 in New York, first sailing aboard the Summit. Brother Ayala worked in the deck department and in 2000 enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the Horizon Challenger. Brother Ayala still calls Puerto Rico home. DAVID BALLARD, 56, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in New York. Born in West Virginia, Brother Ballard upgraded his skills at the union’s affiliated school on numerous occasions. His first ship was the Anniston Victory; his last was the El Yunque. Brother Ballard was a member of the engine department and currently resides in St. Petersburg, Fla. ALPHONSO HOLLAND, 61, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1965 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Holland first sailed on the Ridgefield Victory as a member of the steward department. In 1990 he completed steward recertification training at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, Brother Holland shipped on the USNS Red Cloud. He continues to live in his native Virginia. FRED JENSEN, 65, became a Seafarer in 1963 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The deck department member was born in Denmark and was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, completing his bosun recertification training there in 1980. A resident of Alachua, Fla., he last worked on the ITB Mobile. ABDUL MOHAMED, 58, started his seafaring career in 1966 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Mohamed was born in Arabia and shipped in the steward department. His first ship was the Arizpa. Brother Mohamed improved his skills in 2000 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the Mahimahi, a Matson Navigation vessel. Brother Mohamed makes his home in Garden Grove, Calif. EMMETT NEATHERY, 59, began sailing with the SIU in 1966 in the port of Houston. Born in Kirkland, Wash., Brother February 2005 Neathery upgraded his skills at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He worked in the engine department in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Before retiring, Brother Neathery shipped on the USNS Regulus. He lives in Reno, Nev. JAMES PORTER, 55, first donned the SIU colors in 1969 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Porter’s first trip to sea was on the Robin Gray. The deck department member completed bosun recertification training in 1996 in Piney Point, Md. The Georgia-born mariner’s most recent voyage was aboard the El Yunque. Brother Porter resides in Jacksonville, Fla. JOHN THOMAS, 64, was born in Pennsylvania and started his seafaring career in 1987 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Thomas, who worked in the engine department, enhanced his skills in 2000 at the Seafarers-affiliated school. His first vessel was the USNS Assertive; his last was the USNS Effective. Brother Thomas is a resident of Huntsville, Ala. PETROS TRIANTAFILOS, 64, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1969 in New York, initially sailing on the Western Clipper. Born in Greece, Brother Triantafilos worked in the engine department. He upgraded his skills in 1970 and again in 1974 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Triantafilos’ most recent voyage was aboard the Mariner. He continues to live in Greece. ROBERT TRIGG, 62, started sailing with the SIU in 1987 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Trigg sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions, first working aboard the USNS Lynch. The deck department member improved his skills in 2001 at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Trigg was born in Louisiana and now resides in Ocean Springs, Miss. He last went to sea on the Sugar Island. INLAND ARTHUR KNUDSEN, 62, became a Seafarer in 1970 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Knudsen primarily shipped aboard vessels operated by McAllister Towing of Virginia. A native of New Jersey, he worked in the deck department. Boatman Knudsen upgraded his skills in 1985 at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He makes his home in Boca Raton, Fla. RICHARD McEVOY, 64, began his seafaring career in 1973 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman McEvoy initially shipped on a Puget Sound vessel in the engine department. Born in Georgia, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman McEvoy most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. He lives in his native state. HERMAN MOONEY, 64, launched his SIU career in 1966 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Mooney shipped primarily on Moran Towing of Maryland vessels. The engine department member enhanced his skills in 1985 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Mooney was born in Baltimore, where he continues to reside. GEORGE MOSICH, 62, started shipping with the union in 1994 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Mosich worked primarily aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation vessels. The deck department member was born in San Pedro, Calif. and upgraded his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training. Boatman Mosich lives in his native state. GLENN NAUNDORF, 55, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Naundorf shipped in the steward department. He attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. in 2000 and again in 2001. Prior to retiring, Boatman Naundorf worked on Maritrans Operating Co. vessels. MICHAEL SANDERS, 55, hails from Harlinton, Texas. Boatman Sanders joined the union in 1966 in the port of Houston after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Sanders was a member of the deck department, first shipping on G&H Towing Co. vessels. He enhanced his skills on three occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Sanders resides in Overland Park, Kan. He last worked on the LNG Leo. GREAT LAKES ABDO ALQIRSH, 64, began sailing with the SIU in 1966 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Alqirsh was born in Arabia and worked in the steward department. He shipped primarily aboard American Steamship Co. vessels. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1947 SIU Organizational Director Paul Hall announced last week the signing of a closed shop contract with the American Eastern Steamship Corporation after a 60-day organizing campaign. “In making this announcement,” Hall said, “full credit should be given to the SIU volunteer organizers who sailed aboard American Eastern ships and made possible the signing of a contract for this new company. The fact that it took only 60 days to secure the agreement gives proof to another swell job of organizing done by the rank and file Seafarer.” 1967 LONNIE BROOKS, 64, was born in Michigan and joined the SIU in 1988 in Detroit. Brother Brooks first sailed aboard the J.A.W. Iglehart in the engine department. His last trip was on the Saint Clair. Brother Brooks calls Okeechobee, Fla. home. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN NICHOLAS PARISI, 61, Brother Parisi started his career with the Atlantic Fishermen’s Union, an affiliate of the SIU before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Born in Massachusetts, he is a U.S. Army veteran and last worked aboard the St. Nicholas. Brother Parisi makes his home in Gloucester, Mass. 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. Name Age EDP Beof, Antonio DeCosta, Edward Erese, Cesar Ford, Thomas Hawes, Philip Jetson, James Marshall, James Philpot, James 65 65 65 61 58 50 64 65 Jan. 1 Dec. 1 Jan. 1 Jan. 1 Jan. 1 Dec. 1 Oct. 1 Jan. 1 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 Defense League and offices have been established at One Hanson Place in Brooklyn, N.Y. This Month In SIU History 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 Brother Alqirsh is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. 1987 The U.S. Navy’s first active hospital ship in 13 years, the USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), departed San Diego on Friday, Feb. 27 for a fourmonth training and humanitarian mission to the republic of the Philippines. The purpose of the deployment is to train Navy personnel in the operation and support of the ship and its 1,000bed medical treatment facility during extended operations in a remote area. The medical team aboard the USNS Mercy during this deployment will include civilian and military personnel. The Mercy is one of two identical hospital ships being converted for the Navy. A second ship, the USNS Comfort, will be christened in May. Seafarers LOG 17 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/27/2005 8:32 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA ALBERT BIRT Pensioner Albert Birt, 84, passed away Nov. 8. Brother Birt joined the SIU in 1941 in Tampa, Fla. His first ship was the Alcoa Carrier. Born in Hampton, Fla., Brother Birt was a member of the deck department. His last voyage was on the Sand Captain. Brother Birt began collecting his pension in 1968. He made his home in Spring Hill, Fla. HERMAN BUTTS Brother Herman Butts, 47, died July 15. He began sailing with the SIU in 1970 in the port of Houston. Brother Butts was born in Mobile, Ala. He last worked in the engine department aboard the Seabulk Challenger. Brother Butts was a resident of Texas. CHESTER COCHRAN Pensioner Chester Cochran, 81, passed away Nov. 2. Brother Cochran joined the SIU in 1956 in Detroit, Mich. The engine department member was born in Smokemont, N.C. Brother Cochran shipped in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. He lived in his native state and retired in 1979. LEO DERSTLER Pensioner Leo Derstler, 87, died Sept. 24. Brother Derstler was born in Pennsylvania and embarked on his seafaring career in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was the Robin Gray, where he worked in the deck department; his last ship was the Seattle. Brother Derstler started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1976. He called Columbia, Pa. home. DAVID DICKINSON Pensioner David Dickinson, 77, passed away Dec. 3. Brother Dickinson started shipping with the SIU in 1952 as a member of the deck department. Brother Dickinson most recently shipped on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s John Penn. He was born in Alabama and resided in Leakesville, Miss. Brother Dickinson retired in 1982. BENNIE DRUMGOOLE Pensioner Bennie Drumgoole, 69, passed away Nov. 25. Born in Pine Bluff, Ark., Brother Drumgoole joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the engine department primarily on Sea-Land Service vessels, including 18 Seafarers LOG the Adventurer and the Consumer. Brother Drumgoole was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He retired in 1997 and called Little Rock, Ark. home. LEWIS GLANVILLE Pensioner Lewis Glanville, 83, died August 30. Brother Glanville first donned the SIU colors in 1940 in the port of Baltimore. The Virginia-born mariner shipped as a member of the engine department. Brother Glanville originally sailed on the Steel Seafarer. Before retiring in 1980, he worked on the Montpelier Victory. Brother Glanville started receiving his pension in 1980 and made his home in Seaford, Del. DUDLEY GRANT Pensioner Dudley Grant, 77, passed away Oct. 4. Brother Grant was born in the West Indies. He became an SIU member in 1959 in New York, initially shipping on the Santa Magdelena in the steward department. His final trip to sea was aboard the President Chester B. Arthur. Brother Grant began collecting his retirement pay in 1993. San Francisco was his home. ARK HO Pensioner Ark Ho, 88, died Sept. 12. Brother Ho joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in the port of San Francisco. He was born in China and called Los Angeles home. Brother Ho began receiving his pension in 1971. CLIFFORD PERREIRA Pensioner Clifford Perreira, 81, passed away Oct. 19. Brother Perreira started his seafaring career in 1959 in San Francisco, first working on the Arizpa. Born in Hawaii, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Perreira most recently went to sea aboard the Overseas Ohio. He resided in Sebastopol, Calif. and went on pension in 1994. SALEH SALEH Brother Saleh Saleh, 64, died Oct. 20. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1992 in New York. Brother Saleh’s first vessel was the Samuel L. Cobb; his last was the Franklin J. Phillips. The steward department member was born in Yemen and lived there in the city of Sana’a. JAMES SINEY Pensioner James Siney, 84, passed away Sept. 5. Brother Siney embarked on his SIU career in 1958 in the port of Baltimore. He was born in Maryland and shipped as a member of the engine department. Brother Siney was a veteran of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985 and called Redondo Beach, Calif. home. INLAND GEORGE BALLEW Pensioner George Ballew, 75, died Nov. 27. Born in Virginia, Boatman Ballew started his SIU career in 1959 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He was a member of the deck department. Boatman Ballew made his home in Hampton, Va. He retired in 1989. ROBERT HENDRIX Pensioner Robert Hendrix, 67, passed away Aug. 2. Boatman Hendrix began his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Army. The steward department member, who was born in North Carolina, made his home in Portsmouth, Va. He went on pension in 1990. THOMAS PURSER Pensioner Thomas Purser, 79, died Sept. 26. Boatman Purser became a Seafarer in 1978 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The U.S. Air Force veteran was born in Mississippi. Boatman Purser shipped in the deck department. He began receiving his retirement stipends in 1990 and lived in his native state. ment. Brother Amaya initially went to sea aboard the African Star. Prior to retiring in 1970, he worked on the Argentina. Pensioner James Evans, 73, died Nov. 6. Brother Evans joined the NMU in 1967 in Philadelphia and worked in the steward department. He first sailed aboard the Sinclair Texas. Brother Evans was born in Philadelphia and went on pension in 1987. ALTON GARCIA ROBERT SINGLETON Pensioner Alton Garcia, 88, passed away Nov. 11. Brother Garcia became a member of the NMU in 1939, first shipping out of New York. His initial voyage was on the Clyde. Brother Garcia, who was born in Cuba, last sailed aboard the Brazil. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1970. Pensioner Robert Singleton, 81, passed away Nov. 17. A native of Alabama, Brother Singleton joined the NMU in 1943 initially working on the Dixiano. The engine department member was last employed aboard the Cibao. Brother Singleton went on pension in 1970. DAYMON GREGORY PETE STANDIFER Pensioner Daymon Gregory, 77, died Nov. 1. Brother Gregory joined the ranks of the NMU in 1944 in Boston. Born in West Virginia, he worked in the deck department. Brother Gregory’s first vessel was the Will Rogers; his last was the African Meteor. He began collecting his pension in 1965. Pensioner Pete Standifer, 80, died Nov. 17. Brother Standifer embarked on his seafaring career in 1946. He was born in Oklahoma and most recently worked on the Edgar M. Queeny. Brother Standifer started drawing his pension in 1985. ALFRED HAMPTON 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. GABRIEL ACEVEDO JOSE HERNANDEZ Pensioner Gabriel Acevedo, 91, died Nov. 24. Brother Acevedo was born in San Andres, Columbia and joined the SIU in 1945. His first ship was the Wilson’s Creek. Brother Acevedo was a member of the engine department, last sailing on the Santa Barbara. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1976. Pensioner Jose Hernandez, 83, died Oct. 20. Brother Hernandez started his NMU career in 1957, first sailing from New York aboard the Harpers Ferry. He was born in Puerto Rico and retired in 1982. Pensioner Jamie Amaya, 88, passed away Nov. 30. Brother Amaya joined the NMU in 1941. Born in Honduras, he shipped in the steward depart- JAMES RICHARDSON Pensioner James Richardson, 84, died Nov. 27. Brother Richardson was born in the West Indies and became an NMU member in 1947. His first voyage was on the George W. Kendall. Brother Richardson began receiving retirement compensation in 1984. A member of the engine department, he last shipped aboard the Gulf Trader. JAMES EVANS Pensioner Alfred Hampton, 80, passed away Oct. 21. Born in Louisiana, Brother Hampton launched his seafaring career in New Orleans. He first shipped on the John M. Morehead. Brother Hampton, who last sailed on the Nancy Lykes, started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1986. JAMIE AMAYA in 1978, Brother Matthews went to sea aboard the Keystoner. JOSEPH MATTHEWS Pensioner Joseph Matthews, 91, passed away Nov. 5. Brother Matthews began sailing with the NMU in 1945 from the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Pocahontas, where he worked in the steward department. Before retiring AMADOR VANGA Pensioner Amador Vanga, 92, passed away Oct. 23. Brother Vanga commenced his career with the NMU in 1965, initially sailing from New York. He was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the steward department. Brother Vanga’s final voyage was on the Atlantic. 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 Amento, Anthony Arespe, Arnulfo Astillero, Ramon Bergland, Albert Betancourt, Mario Camalich, Giorgio Cooper, Martin Espinoza, Alberto Ewens, Cecil Foster, Jonathan Herrera, Antonio Holland, Willie Houghton, Edward King, Donald Lawrence, Gerald Mortley, Edward Olivares, Amadeo Peeler, Roy Proctor, Joseph Santiago, Luis Smith, James Sykes, Raymond Tarver, William Walker, Herman Walters, Paul White, John 76 82 78 78 91 75 72 98 80 92 89 80 84 73 80 85 63 84 76 82 83 85 82 79 78 80 DOD Oct. 31 Oct. 19 Oct. 19 Nov. 17 Nov. 19 Oct. 29 Nov. 2 Oct. 17 Oct. 25 July 01 Nov. 17 Nov. 5 Nov. 16 Nov. 10 Nov. 1 Nov. 3 Nov. 4 Sept. 1 Nov. 1 Nov. 7 Nov. 11 Aug. 18 Oct. 12 Nov. 5 Nov. 25 Nov. 6 February 2005 �26225_Pg3,5,10,15_17,19.qxd 1/27/2005 8:36 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. EXPLORER (USSM), Nov. 21— Chairman Amado E. Abaniel, Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Jimmy M. Robles, Engine Delegate Carlos M. Noriega, Steward Delegate Abdulla N. Jinah. Chairman announced arrival Nov. 27 in Los Angeles. He reported good trip and great food, thanks to steward department, and reminded crew members to separate bottles and cans from regular trash. He also asked departing mariners to leave keys in rooms for next person. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $254 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Los Angeles; Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), Nov. 26—Chairman Michael T. Sorensen, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Allen D. Parker, Deck Delegate Amante V. Gumiran, Engine Delegate J. Coleman, Steward Delegate Peter Schuetz. Chairman announced payoff Nov. 27 after arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Educational director urged everyone to keep an eye on their documents’ expiration dates and allow plenty of time for renewal process. Treasurer stated $557 in crew fund; $400 to be used for purchase of new refrigerators. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in engine department. Request made for company to provide more movies on ship. Crew members said they all look forward to receiving new videos, as it’s one of the few recreational activities during the many months at sea. Crew reported current phone system inoperable at sea. Clarification requested on availability of overtime. Seafarers were asked to separate plastic items from regular trash and rewind and return movies after use. Suggestion made to improve dental plan and get a satellite system. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent Thanksgiving Day meals. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. INDUSTRIAL CHALLENGER (Pacific Gulf Marine), Nov. 21— Chairman Shawn Williams, Secretary Ngol T. Allen, Educational Director Earl F. Ebbert, Deck Delegate Wilbur Pantin, Engine Delegate Charlotte LeBlanc, Steward Delegate Gertrudis Arzu. Educational director encouraged all crew members to attend Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. because of new ISO and safety requirements and to improve their job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Adequate deck department crewing needed in part due to heavy amount of work required on ship at sea and in port. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Request made for drinking fountains and better e-mail system. INNOVATOR (USSM), Nov. 21— Chairman Steve R. Kastel, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Chris L. Earhart, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Steward Delegate Tammy M. Bingisser. Chairman reported good trip and thanked all departments for working well together. He praised Chief Cook Tammy Bingisser for outstanding meals. Secretary expressed gratitude to crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director reminded Seafarers to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from Seafarers LOG and discussed communications received from SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox. Suggestion made to increase money purchase pension plan and pension benefits and reduce time required for retirement. Next port: Los Angeles. LTC JOHN U.D. PAGE (Maersk Line), Nov. 24—Chairman Jeremiah J. Harrington, Secretary Abraham Mills, Educational Director Bobby L. Jones, Deck Delegate William Fielding, Engine Delegate Luis A. Soto Amadeo, Steward Delegate Angela Robertson. Chairman read various articles from November Seafarers LOG. He thanked everyone for working so hard while being away from family and friends during holidays. Educational director suggested crew to inform 1st asst. engineer about any electrical problems or repairs needed and be aware of expiration dates on documents needed for shipping. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to get additional help for SA and to improve retirement plan. Next port: Diego Garcia. LIBERATOR (USSM), Nov. 26— Chairman Daniel J. Teichman, Secretary Robert S. Davis, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Engine Delegate Marc J. Poniatouski, Steward Delegate Andy N. Campollo. Chairman Time to Talk Union The union meeting aboard the Industrial Challenger was a time for everyone to ask questions and be heard. From the left are GUDE Charlotte LeBlanc, QMED/Electrician Earl Ebbert, AB Sherwin Frank and AB John Grayson. February 2005 advised Seafarers to read contract and be informed. Educational director urged members to check expiration dates on documents and start renewal process of MMDs at least 6 months in advance. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received from headquarters regarding reflagging. Everyone encouraged to read LOG for information about union and maritime industry. Crew advised to ask questions at union meetings and be knowledgeable of their rights as Seafarers. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAJ. BERNARD F. FISHER (Sealift Inc.) Nov. 28—Chairman Reuben M. Brown, Secretary Walter R. Seals, Educational Director Troy L. Fleming, Deck Delegate Lorenzo Riddick, Engine Delegate Michael C. McNally, Steward Delegate Velonder L. Alford. Chairman announced payoff Nov. 30. Copies of company’s safety policies handed out to members as ship heads to Diego Garcia. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade whenever possible at Piney Point facility. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on weekly pay rate for ship’s committee and department delegates. All crew members now have room keys. Thanks given to crew for separating plastic items from regular trash. It was reported that email is now available on board ship. Next port: Diego Garcia. MIDNIGHT SUN (IUM), Nov. 28—Chairman Fadel Saleh, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Christopher Cunningham, Deck Delegate Brent R. Johnson, Engine Delegate Dennis S. Adjetey, Steward Delegate Nasser S. Hasson. Chairman reminded crew to be aware of ice forming on deck. Those who requested a day off should wait until their reliefs show up before leaving vessel. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep messhall and lounge clean. He asked them to clean room and leave fresh linen for next person. Educational director encouraged members to enhance their skills at Paul Hall Center, contribute to SPAD for job security and check documents for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for fantastic Thanksgiving Day spread. Next ports: Anchorage, Alaska; Tacoma, Wash. USNS DAHL (Maersk Line), Nov. 27—Chairman Walter L. Jeffords, Secretary James H. McLeod, Educational Director Alexander A. Zharkoff. Chairman encouraged crew members to be current on their dues. He noted that LMSR/MSC contracts requires crew members to renew basic safety training (BST) every five years, regardless of Coast Guard rules. He thanked everyone for helping maintain safety record of ship (no accidents). Educational director talked about importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $1,138 in ship’s fund. Crew voted to have tshirts and hats made with Dahl logo to sell. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to the steward department for great meals, especially over Halloween and Thanksgiving Day holidays. Next ports: Savannah, Ga.; Souda Bay, Crete. VOYAGER (USSM), Nov. 21— Chairman Glenn R. Christianson, Secretary William P. McGee, Educational Director Samuel M. Addo, Deck Delegate Charles B. Collins, Steward Delegate Ruben Padilla. Chairman noted handrails missing in various locations on catwalk and advised other mariners to report items in need of repair. Secretary advised everyone that water problems have been solved. Educational director spoke about taking advantage of upgrading benefits at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Several suggestions made regarding union’s prescription plan, vacation checks and increasing pension benefits. Members thanked steward department for great BBQs and meals. Next ports: Malaga, Spain; Gioia Tauro, Italy; Newark, N.J. DILIGENCE (Maritrans), Dec. 26—Chairman Ronald L. Paradise, Secretary Michael J. Wybo, Educational Director Shawn L. Clark. Deck Delegate Wilfredo G. Caidoy, Steward Delegate Bienvenido C. Badillo. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 26. in Tacoma, Wash. At that time ship go port side for removal of damaged gangway. He asked crew members to be considerate of others when washing clothes at night, especially those items with metal buckles or large snaps (they make a lot of noise). Secretary welcomed SIU trainees Linsey A. Knight and Danny L. Faidley aboard and to their first shipboard meeting. He talked about shipboard procedures for settling problems. Steward pro- Industrial Challenger Crew Gathers for Meeting Following a union meeting aboard the Industrial Challenger, Bosun Shawn Williams (right) looks over the minutes, which will be sent to the contracts department at headquarters. With him are ACU Gertrudis Arzu (left) and Steward/Baker Ngol Allen. Gramer, Educational Director Richard A. Huffman, Engine Delegate Patrick D. Carroll, Steward Delegate Harry J. Agatep. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 29 upon arrival in New Orleans, La. Ship will then load for Braintree, Mass., just south of Boston. He recommended cold weather gear for deck department members. Educational director emphasized importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and noted there are opportunities there for everyone. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman discussed SAB 926 regarding crew rotation during recent military ship crew-up. Suggestions made regarding next contract. Gratitude expressed to Steward Gramer and Chief Cook Agatep for delicious Christmas dinner. Thanks also given to SA Shantay Joquin for her festive decorations and Christmas spirit. Crew wished Conklin family all the best. Through his hard work and dedication, Ken Conklin touched the lives of many Seafarers. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Dec. 12—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary James N. Brockington, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Gavino A. Octaviano, Engine Delegate Cecilio A. Banga, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 18 upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. No shore leave will be given until ship clears customs and immigration. Secretary asked crew to return all videos prior to arrival in Tacoma and to clean room and provide fresh linen for relief personnel. Educational director advised members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done and to Tacoma and Oakland shoregangs for assistance in port. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Dec. 19—Chairman Lance X. Zollner, Secretary Thomas M. vides repair list for any repairs needed. Educational director informed crew passport fees are free to seamen. Clarification from headquarters requested. Treasurer reported number of purchases since last meeting: gas for grill, sodas for BBQ, dart set, and surround-sound system. That leaves $589.45 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Memo from headquarters read and posted. Questions raised about new prescription program. Bosun thanked steward department for outstanding job. Next port: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), Dec. 2—Chairman Kenny A. Abrahamson, Secretary Charles D. Washington, Educational Director Paul D. Hanley, Deck Delegate David Garoutte, Engine Delegate Gordon L. Hiltbruner. Chairman informed crew new VCR and DVD player installed. Educational director reminded crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever possible and keep all documents current. Treasurer stated $320 in video fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. ITB JACKSONVILLE (USS Transport), Dec. 5—Chairman John R. Lamprecht, Secretary Warren G. Lombard, Educational Director Stanley M. Sporna, Deck Delegate Abedan P. Lujan, Engine Delegate Hassin Asumari, Steward Delegate Brad E. Stephenson. Chairman discussed amount of ship’s stores brought aboard. Request made for status of new contract and pay increases. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on reimbursement for travel to ship. Suggestion made to reevaluate responsibilities of company and shore facilities to ensure crew members are able to leave premises and not be restricted to ship. Request made for new blankets and bottled water. Good camaraderie among crew was reported. Seafarers LOG 19 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:12 PM Page 20 A Brief History of The MSTS Know Your Rights Editor’s note: The Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS) is the forerunner to today’s Military Sealift Command (MSC). This account of the organization was published in the Aug. 22, 1966 shipboard newsletter, “The Walker Report” aboard the USNS General Nelson M. Walker. In support of our nation’s defense outposts in the Arctic, the Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS) has sealifted more than 5 million tons of cargo to the Far North since 1950. This special mission, called “Operation Sealift for Security,” began in 1950 and reached its peak during the 1955-57 operations when MSTS launched the most gigantic logistic assault upon the North polar region ever undertaken by land or aerial forces of any nation. Termed a logistic miracle by many, this polar “assault” was made to supply men and materials for the construction of the Distant Early Warning (DEW) radar system which, when completed, stretched across the entire Arctic fringe of North America. During the three-year polar assault, despite encountering the worst ice conditions ever recorded in the Arctic, MSTS sealifted more than 1 million tons of cargo and building equipment, plus 10 million barrels of petroleum products to the DEW Line sites. This victory over the hazards of wind, ice and fog would not have been possible without the benefit of eight years’ experience in polar logistics. MSTS began Arctic operations of a modest scale in 1950 when it began the “Seaborne Supply of the North East Command” (SUNEC) in the Labrador/Greenland areas. In 1951, over 50 MSTS-controlled ships in support of operation “Blue Jay” transported materials and personnel to build the Air Force Base at Thule, Greenland. Also at that time, the defense sites at Baffin Island and Labrador were established. Since that time, MSTS has The USNS General Nelson M. Walker had its own shipboard newsletter, from which the history of the MSTS is reprinted on this page. Built in 1945, the vessel transferred to the MSTS in 1950 with the outbreak of hostilities in Korea. Just last month, the retired ship was being towed to Texas for dismantling. been resupplying these bases annually. One of the smallest, yet one of the most interesting, phases of MSTS arctic operations is the resupply of the Pribilof Islands in the Bering Sea. Each year, supplies are sealifted to the U.S. government’s sealing stations on barren St. George and St. Paul islands. The seal products returned to the States are worth more than the material carried to the Pribilofs. In 1957, the long-sought-after Northwest Passage became a reality. Since the 1500s, man has sought a practical deep-draft water passage across the top of North America. MSTS had to develop such a passage as a possible escape route for MSTS ships, which found an ice blockage across their normal route out of the Arctic. Under the direction of Vice Admiral John M. Will, USN, an MSTS task group in 1957 charted such a route at the top of North America’s mainland, through Bellot Strait and its approaches from the westward through Rae, James Ross and Franklin straits. In nine years, MSTS has succeeded in opening the Arctic to sealift on a previously unheard of scale. Through persistence, patience and sheer daring, MSTS military and civilian crews have “cracked” the Arctic. Throughout the DEW Line area, “impassable” uncharged, ice-choked backwaters have become well-traveled supply routes. Forbidding shore sites barbed with fast ice and honeycombs of rocks have become mass staging areas for successful overthe-beach operations around the clock. In 1958, the entire Arctic area in Northern Alaska and Western Canada was assigned as commercial shipping areas. Each year, thanks to the trail blazed by MSTS, commercial shipping is increasing its role in the Arctic resupply operations. Much of the credit for the success of the Arctic operations can be attributed to the joint cooperation of the military and civilian personnel who combined forces to get the job done. Their skill and courage in overcoming many challenging problems is a tribute to the organizations they represent. This includes the governments of the U.S. and Canada, the Navy, Army, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and segments of private industry. The General Nelson M. Walker was first commissioned as the Admiral H.T. Mayo in 1945. The vessel transported troops between Marseilles, France and the U.S. and between Okinawa, Japan and the U.S. In October 1945, the vessel participated in the first of four “Magic Carpet” voyages to Tokyo and Manila carrying replacements for battle-weary veterans whom the vessel was to bring back home. The final voyages were completed in March 1946. It was renamed the General Nelson M. Walker and in 1965 was transferred to the Military Sea Transportation Service. The ship made five cruises from San Francisco to Japan, Okinawa and Vietnam. Following decommissioning and storage, the vessel was transferred to the Maritime Administration in 1970 and laid up in the James River (Va.) berthing area. Just last month, the retired ship left the James River for Brownsville, Texas, where it will be dismantled. 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 2/05 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. February 2005 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:13 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through August 2005. 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. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Feb. 7, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion FOWT March 28 June 20 May 20 August 11 Marine Electrician April 18 June 13 QMED - Jr. Engineer June 20 September 8 Welding March 21 April 11 May 9 August 22 April 8 April 29 May 27 September 9 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Course Able Seaman Safety Specialty Courses Date of Completion Start Date Date of Completion March 14 May 16 July 18 March 25 May 27 July 29 Fast Boat Rescue May 2 June 6 May 6 June 10 Government Vessels March 14 April 11 May 23 July 4 August 8 August 22 March 18 April 15 May 27 July 8 August 12 August 26 Course March 7 April 18 May 30 July 11 August 22 April 1 May 13 June 24 August 5 September 16 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) April 18 June 20 August 22 April 22 June 24 August 26 Bridge Resource Management (Unlimited) May 9 May 13 Celestial Navigation March 14 May 16 July 18 April 8 June 10 August 11 Medical Care Provider March 28 May 30 August 1 April 1 June 3 August 5 April 25 June 27 August 29 May 6 July 8 September 9 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* April 4 June 6 August 1 April 15 June 17 August 11 April 4 May 16 June 27 August 8 April 15 May 27 July 8 August 19 June 27 July 1 Radar April 4 June 6 August 8 April 13 June 15 August 17 Radar Renewal (1 day): April 25, June 27, August 29 GMDSS (Simulator) Advanced Fire Fighting* (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) Lifeboatman/Water Survival 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. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ February 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. 2/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �Pg2,22,23.qxd 1/28/2005 6:22 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 657 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 657 (in alphabetical order) Fausto Aranda, Vincel Banks, Steven Cedres, Clifford Cronan, Wanda Davis, Aaron Dixon, Kenneth Fecher, Jeffery Griffin, Alexander Hill, Jason Jacobs, Edward Johnson, Timothy Littles, Ashley Lund, Michael Moerbeek, Billie Jo Munoz, Roy Nathan, Robert Noble, Garfield Persley Jr., Adam Ramey, Michael Rodriguez, Benny Samosan, William Sanchez, Scott Spillman, Ronald Westerfield and Ryan White. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Dec. 3 are (in alphabetical order) Laurent Abad, Jeremy Abbott, Owen Gallagher, Melvin Gruelle, David Guthrie, Aidan Helt, Christopher Hodder, Forrest Hosier, Gregory Karr, Brian Manion, John Niday, Christopher Paul, Arthur Reeder, Arthur Rogers, Ramiro Rubio, Gregory Scott, Hector Serrano, Douglas Shores and Ben Skuban. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Completing this course Nov. 12 are (in alphabetical order) Seafarer Juan Bell and unlicensed apprentices Ernesto Girau, Joshua Lampke, Jeremy Martinez, Robert Oliveto, David Quade, Jamal Ricks, Steben Torres and Jervona Vorise. Their instructor, John Cronan, is at far left. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Completing the basic auxiliary plant operations course Dec. 12 are (in alphabetical order) upgraders Manuel Lata and Ryan Neathery and Phase III unlicensed apprentices Robin Bourgeois, Anthony Clark, Christopher Eide, Clark Howard, Richard Murray, Maurice Perry and Adam Soto. Their instructor, John Cronan, is third from left. Bridge Resource Management (BRM) — Graduating from the bridge resource management course Dec. 3 are (in alphabetical order) Jared Blavat, Ian Ferguson, Alexander Fyodorovykh, Donald McGraw, Jerry Sobieraj and Jerome Wong. At far left is Capt. Jack Russell. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is third from left. FOWT — Graduates from the FOWT course Dec. 17 include (in alphabetical order) Damien Bautista, Dario Dizon, Kenneth Dyson, David Gulick Jr., Damien James, Peter Jensen, Yuriy Khitrenko, Joshua Kilbourn, Ryan Krom, Roger Nesbeth, Felix Osorio, Bruce Placido, Luis Roebuck, David Simpson, Curtis Tobey, Bruce Zarobell and William Zobel. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is second from left. Computer Lab Classes Instructor Rick Prucha (standing at far right in both photos) congratulates SIU members for their accomplishments in the computer lab. In the photo at left are (seated, from left) Chris Chikwere and Dan Marcus; standing is Abdulmoghni Said. In the photo at right are (seated, from left) Diane Lee House, William Knorr and David Guthrie; standing are Art Rogers, Mel Orville and Forrest Hoster. 22 Seafarers LOG February 2005 �Pg2,22,23.qxd 1/28/2005 6:22 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineer — Galley Ops — Working their way up in the galley department are (from the left) Abdul Hamid, Ed White (instructor), Frances Dvoroznak, Mario Rochez and Arlene Ringler (instructor). Seafarers completing the junior engineer course Dec. 17 are (in alphabetical order) Christopher Bounds, Joie Flesner, Jeffrey McIntosh, Nicholas Murgolo, Ashley Nelson, Jason Powell, Marco Rodriquez, Joseph Sam, Christopher Schneider, Demetrius Simmons, Randy Slue, Charles Sneed and Paul Weil. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far right. Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Unlicensed trainees recently completing this course are (in no specific order) Mark Keblis, Ron Whitlow, Perry Schroff, Teresa Ward, Cheryl Lynch, Scott Spilman, Ben Clark, Timothy Bauer, Anthony Bartley, Jerome Prince, James Ruffin, Frank Lewis, Thia Banks, William Wilson, Stephen Morris, Jonathan Ives, Ron Westerfield and Huey Napier. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. STOS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Jan. 21 from instructor Stacey Harris (far left) are (in no specific order) Melvin Mitchell, Wlodzimierz Arendt, Russell Sawyer, Ryan Johnson, Martin Rogers, Matthew Flickinger, Allan Coloyan, Matt Musslewhite, Jeremy Williams, Luke Bradley, Robert Hall, Jim Williamson and Steven Reiber. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — With instructor Bernabe Pelingon (standTanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Another class of unlicensed trainees completing this course are Robert Morrison, Timothy Watson, Ali Saif, Tim Cullen, Frank Muellersman, Evan Werner, Brian Saba, Troy Davis, Joshua Smith, Andre Robinson, Samantha Murphy, Hector Ortiz, Ariel Lopez, Javier Ortiz, George Phillips, Kenneth Williams, Stephen Cooper, Tony Fury, Tony Beasley, Tedrick Blackstone and Paul Brown. Their instructor, Herb Walling, stands in the back at left. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Dec. 10 are (in alphabetical order) upgraders Marco Figueroa, Ronald Ramos and Abdulmoghni Said and Phase III unlicensed apprentices Michael Broadway, John Frey, William Hunt, Cleveland Lewis, Sean Mitchell, James Nickerson, Norman Rodriguez, Derek Rye, Martin Simmons and Nigel Williams. February 2005 ing second from right) are Jan. 21 graduates of the lifeboatman/water survival course. In alphabetical order of Kyle Bloom, David Desrosiers, Dana Fischer, Felix Garcia, Brian Gauntt, Carlos Gay, Richard Otto, Jonas Robinson, Saul Suarez, Dana Thomas and Rick Worthington. Training in Hawaii Crowd Management Training Class #1 — Many of the students completing this class also were in Class #1 of basic safety training. Above are (in no particular order) Tanya Lowe, Carlos Saflor, Arvilee Branch, William Kupa, Julie Fancois, Robyn Moors, Sherell Reis, Jonathan Williams, Dana Berney, Jacqueline Ortez, Kahainuk Lahens, Peter Winkley and Bobby Joe Harris. Seafarers LOG 23 �Pg4,6_9,11_14,18,20,21,24.qxd 1/24/2005 8:37 PM Page 24 February 2005 Volume 67, Number 2 O f T The U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet continued its recent upgrade late last year as SIU members crewed up two newly reflagged containerships for Waterman Steamship Corp.: the P&O Nedlloyd Veracruz and the P&O Nedlloyd Buenos Aires (pictured at right in Houston). S — p A S T T f 1 a 1 1 — 1 S Recertified Steward Donna DeCesare Chief Pumpman Kenneth Spivey These photos were taken aboard the Puget Sound in October of last year when the ship—which formerly was part of the ATC fleet and was turned over to OSG—recrewed in the port of Orange, Texas. AB Harvey Ramos The captain and crew of the newly reflagged P&O Nedlloyd Buenos Aires pose for a group picture before sailing from the port of Houston. Chief Cook Cesar Avila and SA Faustino Castillo have no trouble finding their way around the galley of the Waterman containership. John Zepeda is the recertified bosun aboard the Puget Sound. Many Seafarers and family members volunteered to help serve the meal. SIU members, along with their families and guests, were treated to Thanksgiving dinner at the Houston hall Nov. 24, 2004. Twelve turkeys as well as ham and the traditional holiday trimmings were prepared by Seafarers to serve the nearly 150 attendees. The line was long—but it went quickly and was well worth the wait. Left: Retiree Ralph Moore helps with the preparations. Right: This is just one of the serving tables laden with delicious holiday fare. Patrolman Kevin Marchand (left) and Seafarer Randy Stevens carve the turkeys. Right: Included among those who joined in on the holiday feast are (from left) Joe Clark, Saundra Leonard, Francisco King, a guest and Richard Henry. When the Liberty Eagle held a recent payoff in the port of Houston, some of the crew posed for a group shot. They are Chief Cook Marcial Avila, GUDE Valerio Manaiza, Patrolman Michael Russo, GUDE Leonel Montes, QMED Stephen Treece, Steward/Baker Pablo Alvarez and departing Chief Cook Johnny Palencia. AB Thomas Corrales enjoys the dinner with his family. � 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 February 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES UNION DONATES FOR TSUNAMI RELIEF VACATIONING SEAFARER LENDS HAND IN PHUKET SIU GAINS 13 VESSELS NEW MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM FEATURES 60 SHIPS SEAFARERS APPROVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS PAUL HALL CENTER’S EGLINTON NAMED TO NATIONAL MARITIME SECURITY COMMITTEE NAVY LEAGUE PRESIDENT PRAISES READY RESERVCE FORCE MEBA, MM&P ANNOUNCE ELECTION RESULTS NATIONAL DIRECTIVE ADDRESSES PORT SECURITY ‘BELATED THANK YOU’ LEGISLATION REINTRODUCED BY U.S. REP. FILNER SAFE DRILLING IN ANWR STILL A HOT TOPIC IN D.C. SEAFARERS SUPPORT OUR TROOPS ABOARD THE CAPE ISLAND RUNAWAY-FLAG GROUNDING IN ALASKA TRIGGERS FEDERAL INVESTIGATION A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE MSTS HAPPENINGS IN HOUSTON 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 02/01/2005 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. 2 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/ffe185e554b1726a956f6692eff89e69.pdf d2e40a935fd4e022105002ee1b87c045 PDF Text Text 26035_P01,4,9,15,16,17.qxd 12/20/2004 7:31 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 1 Alaskan Explorer Christened The SIU-contracted tanker Alaskan Explorer (below) was christened last month at a ceremony in San Diego. It is the second of four new double-hulled tankers being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. Page 3. MSP Fleet Continues Adding Newer Replacement Vessels The U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet continued its recent upgrade last month as SIU members crewed up two newly reflagged containerships for Waterman Steamship. Seafarers also recently crewed up a sixth containership for Maersk Line, Limited that transferred into the MSP. Among the newly reflagged vessels are the Sealand Meteor (below) and the Sealand Charger, whose crew includes (from left in photo at right) Chief Cook Wiley Owens, GVA Charlie Powers and Recertified Steward Roger Linasan. Page 4. Seafarers Rally with Flight Attendants Page 5 San Francisco Hall Hosts Yearly Feast Page 7 SIU’s Year in Review Page 24 January 2005 Paul Hall Center Announces Course Schedules for 2005 The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has announced course dates for this year. A schedule is on page 10; course descriptions are listed on pages 11-14. Pictured below are upgraders in various Paul Hall Center classes. The school is located in Piney Point, Md. �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/20/2004 7:50 PM Page 2 President’s Report Our Children, Our Troops, Our Heroes Making the short climb up the fold-out staircase leading into the airplane, I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I walked through the door. The scene was Scott Air Force Base, Ill., a week before Thanksgiving. The plane was a large old C-141 carrying nearly 100 injured American soldiers back from the fierce fighting in Fallujah and other Michael Sacco Iraqi cities. What happened during my hour aboard that plane will stay with me forever. It may be hard to understand how a brush with wounded soldiers could be positive and uplifting, but my time with those troops was all that and more. Their incredible spirit and bravery, their genuine love of this country, and their unwavering commitment to each other left me with overwhelming feelings of admiration and gratitude. You might expect a planeload of injured troops to be sad or scared or maybe even resentful. The men and women on that aircraft returning from the battlefield were just the opposite. As I walked through the darkened plane, shaking their hands and thanking them for serving our country, soldier after soldier expressed the exact same sentiments. First and foremost, they wanted to get patched up so they could go back to their friends, their fellow soldiers in Iraq. Can you imagine that kind of courage? I saw it up close, and believe me, it’s real. The troops also waved off any description of themselves as heroes. We were just doing our jobs, they said. Maybe so, but in my book they are heroes in the finest sense of the word. Their wounds varied in severity, but even the more seriously injured took a businesslike attitude toward the whole experience. One soldier casually remarked that he planned to save some of the shrapnel that literally had torn through his neck and cheek so he could polish it and turn it into jewelry. Another young man who’d been machine-gunned in the chest calmly pointed out that his flak vest had saved him. As a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, I’ve always admired and believed in our armed forces, but recently witnessing their strength, character and integrity up close was an awesome experience. Their morale couldn’t have been much better, and they said the same is true of their fellow soldiers still in the fight. Keep in mind they are all volunteers, much like our own U.S. Merchant Mariners. The other thing that stood out from my visit was how young so many of the soldiers are. For some of the guests aboard that plane, it was like looking at our children or grandchildren—a jolting feeling. For others, they actually were looking at and visiting with their children. It called to mind some of the stories from World War II, when kids in their mid-teens lied their way into the armed forces or the merchant marine because they wanted to join the fight. They wanted to help win the war. It’s heartening to know that so many Americans were ready then, just as we were in Korea and Vietnam and the first Persian Gulf War. It’s inspirational to see that so many have stepped up to win today’s battles. I went to Scott Air Force Base to join in honoring our good friend, Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, who is retiring as the deputy commander of TRANSCOM, the U.S. Transportation Command. After spending time on the base with General Hughey and on the plane with Lt. Col. Todd Robbins, I came away with an even greater appreciation for the incredible job done by TRANSCOM under the outstanding leadership of its commander, Gen. John W. Handy. I have similarly strong appreciation for the performances of our troops and the unsung heroes who make up the medical staffs for our armed forces. Believe it or not, there were lighthearted moments on the plane, too. The rivalry between the Yankees and Red Sox was in full force, as evidenced by fans of both baseball teams. And a number of the soldiers joked about having a chance to “autograph” the bulkheads, as others had done as far back as the mid-1970s, when that very same plane carried the last known POW’s from Vietnam. Because of the SIU’s role as part of America’s fourth arm of defense, I’ve probably never looked at news reports on the war in Iraq quite the same way as the average American does. Our own SIU brothers and sisters repeatedly have sailed into harm’s way to support our troops in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Our SIU brothers and sisters have sailed side by side with military security teams aboard our U.S.flag ships. So it has always been personal. Still, after spending time on that plane, I’ll never view the war reports the same way. It’s different now, even closer to the heart. We’ve often said in the SIU, we deliver the goods. As we enter the New Year, I want everyone to know that the people we deliver for—the men and women of the United States Armed Forces—are the finest individuals on this planet. God bless us all in 2005 and beyond. Lt. Gen. Hughey, Strong Supporter of U.S. Mariners, Bids Farewell to Marine Corps and U.S. TRANSCOM Lt. Gen. Dail Appointed Deputy Commander of Key Defense Agency The number two general at the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) for the past few years, Lt. Gen. Gary H. Hughey, deputy commander, was honored Nov. 18 at his retirement ceremony at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. Hughey was joined center stage by his wife, Heidi, and daughter Shannon and by Air Force Gen. John W. Handy, commander, TRANSCOM, who presided over the ceremony. SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez represented the SIU at the event. “General Hughey has been a great friend to the U.S. Merchant Lt. Gen. Robert Dail (center), TRANSCOM’s new deputy commander, celebrates his promotion with his wife, Anne, and Gen. John Handy, commander, TRANSCOM. Volume 67, Number 1 January 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 Marine,” Sacco stated. “I know I speak for our entire union when I say that we respect him immensely and we will miss his presence at TRANSCOM. “At the same time, we congratulate his successor, and we look forward to working together to help further ensure that U.S. mariners on U.S.-flag ships continue to serve America’s national and economic security.” Hughey’s official retirement date is Jan. 1, 2005—at which time he will have completed 36 years, 9 months and 18 days of cumulative service to the Marine Corps and a grateful nation, leaving behind a legacy of visionary leadership and logistical innovations. Defense officials recently confirmed Maj. Gen. Robert T. Dail’s appointment to the rank of Lt. Gen. with assignment as Deputy Commander, U.S. Transportation Command. Dail was promoted and assumed his new duties late last year. During Hughey’s retirement ceremony, in front of an audience of friends and family, the majority wearing multi-colored uniforms from each of the military services, Handy presented Hughey the Defense Distinguished Service Medal. The narrator, Navy Capt. Nan Honey, described Hughey’s impact and contributions while reading from the award citation: “During his [Hughey’s] tenure, the command [TRANSCOM] flawlessly supported Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, transporting over 1.5 million passengers, over 4 million short tons of cargo, while concurrently supporting numerous high-visibility operations, peacekeeping efforts around the world, emergency response to the Space Shuttle disaster, Super Typhoon Pongsona, Iranian earthquake relief, the California wildfires, and hurricanes Charley, Frances, Jeanne and Ivan, as well as support to the National Science Foundation in Antarctica.” In a news release about the ceremony, the agency pointed out that Hughey’s leadership at TRANSCOM “came during a pivotal era for military logistics. Hughey has been instrumental in USTRANSCOM’s role as the Distribution Process Owner for the Defense Department. He championed the first-ever joint service distribution command and control entity to integrate, prioritize cargo, and provide end-to-end in-transit visibility of military cargo. This concept has already avoided more than $268 million by shifting lift assets from air to sea.” The agency noted that Dail, an Army Transportation Corps officer, has commanded and led logistics units at every level, Lt. Gen. Gary H. Hughey served as deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. with service in mechanized, airborne and special operations organizations. Since August 2003, he has served as the Director of Operations, J3, at TRANSCOM. In this capacity, Dail oversaw efforts to manage and synchronize the aircraft, ships, trains and trucks that allow America to project power and sustain forces worldwide. During Dail’s tenure, the command conducted the largest rotation of military personnel and assets since World War II. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Monday, Feb. 21, 2005 for the observance of Presidents Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. January 2005 �26035_P3_5,18.qxd 12/17/2004 12:20 PM Page 3 Tanker Alaskan Explorer Christened The second of four new double-hull tankers being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA was christened Dec. 4 at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) yard in San Diego. The Alaskan Explorer will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC). SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone represented the union at the ceremony. “The construction of the Alaska-class tankers is significant on many levels,” noted Tellez. “It means new shipboard job opportunities for SIU members. It strengthens the U.S.-flag fleet. It also helps maintain a pool Seafarers Support Our Troops! Dozens of SIU-crewed military support ships are sailing in what has been dubbed Operation Iraqi Freedom 3, the current phase of the war’s sealift mission. The USNS Watson (top photo) and USNS Pomeroy (below) are among the Seafarers-crewed vessels supporting our troops. The photo above shows participants in a security drill (from left) Sgt. Prem Shahi, Capt. Ryan White, U.S. armed forces member Yam Thapa and AB Sean Farra. Below, celebrating the “birthday” of the U.S. Marine Corps are (from left) Sgt. Dennis Weisend, USMC; Steward/Baker Javier G. “Deli” Delosreyes; Cpl. John Gibbs, USMC; LCpl. Harley Dickson, USMC; Capt. Paul K. Davis, master of the Pomeroy; and Sgt. Gabriel Delarosa, USMC. The celebration reflects the team atmosphere generated by crew members, officers and troops on SIU-crewed vessels. of well-trained, loyal, reliable U.S. citizen mariners who are available to sail on military support ships for our national defense.” Seafarers already are sailing aboard the first ship in this class, the Alaskan Frontier. That vessel was delivered last August. By early last month, the Alaskan Frontier had completed five voyages between Alaska and the West Coast, delivering 5.5 million barrels of Alaska North Slope crude to West Coast ports. “The Alaskan Frontier is performing extremely well in its early months of service and is meeting our every expectation for reliability, safety and efficiency,” said BP Shipping, Ltd. Chief Executive Bob Malone. “We look forward to the addition of the Alaskan Explorer and her sister ships to continue our mission of safe, environmentally friendly transportation of cargoes.” The keel laying for the third ship took place in July. Construction on the steel blocks that will become the fourth ship in the class began in October. The remaining three ships are scheduled to be delivered between now and the end of 2006. Both BP and NASSCO describe the new double-hull vessels as the most environmentally friendly tankers ever built. “These ships use seawater instead of oil to cool and lubricate their propeller shafts, thus eliminating accidental oil leaks,” the companies noted in a news release following the Alaskan Explorer ceremony. “Their cargo piping, normally installed on the deck, is inside the cargo tanks, to reduce the risk of small spills. The ships have twin diesel-electric propulsion systems in separate engine rooms, powering two propellers and twin rudders. Diesel-electric propulsion was The Alaskan Explorer is pictured last summer during a “float out” (top) and earlier in the year while under construction. It is the second of four Alaska-class tankers being built in San Diego for operation by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company. chosen because it significantly increases reliability and reduces air emissions and maintenance downtime.” Each of the ships is 941 feet long and 164 feet wide, with a capacity of 1.3 million barrels. The hulls are designed to last 50 years, the deck structures 35 years. Maureen Hayward, spouse of Tony Hayward, Group Chief Executive of Exploration and Production for BP, was the Alaskan Explorer’s sponsor, officially naming the vessel and striking a ceremonial bottle of champagne across the ship’s hull. Sharon Marshall, spouse of Steve Marshall, President of BP Exploration (Alaska), was the tanker’s Matron of Honor. BP’s Malone was the keynote speaker. In 2004, the SIU-crewed ATC fleet reached another safety milestone: six million man hours without a lost time injury. The company also earned accolades in the form of a “Legacy Award” issued by the Pacific States/ British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force. The award is given for oil spill prevention, preparedness and response. SIU Election Results Will Be Announced Voting was scheduled to be completed at the end of last month, and results of the election of officials for the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU will be announced, in accordance with the SIU constitution, upon completion of the tallying committee’s work. Results of balloting on the two proposed constitutional amendments also will be announced. Special membership meetings were conducted late last month in union halls listed in the SIU con- stitution to elect delegates for a rank-and-file tallying committee. That committee, including two members from each of the union’s constitutional ports, will tabulate results of the election, which started Nov. 1 in all SIU halls and was scheduled to end Dec. 31. The February issue of the Seafarers LOG will carry the results of the election. The ballot included a list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, eight SIU San Francisco Port Agent Vince Coss (right) hands a ballot to Seafarer George Rose. January 2005 vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents (for a total of 27 positions) along with the two proposed constitutional amendments. Individuals elected in this round of balloting will serve a four-year term lasting from 2005 through 2008. Seafarers who were eligible to vote in the election were full book members in good standing, according to the union’s constitution. Members had the opportunity to pick up a ballot either in person at one of the 21 union halls around the country and overseas or via mail (absentee ballot). Article XIII of the union’s constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, the constitutional committee’s report and other related information appears on pages 6-11 of the October 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Additionally, a notice of the election was mailed in October to all members at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. In San Francisco, SIU Safety Director Archie Ware (right) and SIU Representative Lumanlan Romy answer Seafarer John Ropp’s questions about the balloting procedure. SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak (left) assists Chief Steward Lonnie Jones in securing a ballot at the union hall. Seafarers LOG 3 �26035_P01,4,9,15,16,17.qxd 12/20/2004 8:52 AM Page 4 More Ships Rotate into MSP Fleet Replacement Vessels Give Fresher Look to U.S.-Flag Fleet The U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet continued its recent upgrade last month as SIU members crewed up two newly reflagged containerships for Waterman Steamship. Seafarers also recently crewed up a sixth containership for Maersk Line, Limited that transferred into the MSP. All eight of the newly reflagged Seafarers-crewed ships are replacement vessels, giving the MSP fleet a more modern element that bodes well for U.S. national and economic security. The two Waterman ships are the P&O Nedlloyd Veracruz and the Buenos Aires. They are expected to run between the Gulf Coast and the Middle East. Both ships are equipped with cranes. Maersk’s new additions are the Sealand Charger, Sealand Meteor, Maersk Alabama, Sealand Intrepid, Sealand Comet and Sealand Lightning. As previously reported, the U.S. Maritime Administration describes the Maritime Security Program as “a fundamental element of the U. S. maritime transportation system, providing an active, privately owned, U.S.-flag, and U.S.-crewed liner fleet in international trade that is available to support Department of Defense sustainment in a contingency.” Left: AB Jerome Luckett Sealand Meteor Right: OMU Soo Ahn and AB Peter Koucky Sealand Meteor The MSP was established by the Maritime Security Act of 1996 and provides annual funding for up to 47 vessels to partially offset the higher operating costs of keeping these vessels under U.S.flag registry. MSP payments represent approximately 13 percent of the cost of operating U.S.-flag vessels. In December 2003, President Bush signed a 10-year extension of the MSP, set to begin later this year when the current program expires. The updated MSP increases the number of participants from 47 ships to 60 ships and provides financial assistance to construct five newly built tankers in the United States that are capable of carrying military petroleum products during a war. The MSP helps maintain a pool of well-trained American seafarers who are available to crew the U.S. governmentowned strategic sealift fleet as well as the U.S. commercial fleet, both in peace and war. Seafarer and Reservist Approaches Both Jobs with Pride, Patriotism SIU Electrician Notes Merchant Marine’s Key Role SIU member Richard King has seen Operation Iraqi Freedom from the perspective of a merchant mariner, sailing in support of U.S. troops. Now, he is experiencing the mission as an activated member of the U.S. Naval Reserve. King mobilized Nov. 30 for training in Norfolk, Va. before heading to the Middle East. “I’m excited about it,” he said while en route to Norfolk. “I’ve prayed about this, and I’m glad to be one of the guys to stand up and be counted. I definitely believe in the cause, I’m very grateful to be an American and I don’t mind at all paying back what little I can.” King, 34, sails as an electrician with the SIU. He joined the union in 1995 after graduating from Class 540 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. In addition to being a First Class Engineman in the reserves, King also sails with the American Maritime Officers. He enlisted in the Navy out of high school and served four years (including during the Persian Gulf War) before joining the Naval Reserve. The resident of East Alton, Ill. speaks from experience when he says the U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to America’s military capability. “The merchant marine’s role is extremely important. We’re able to deliver mass quantities of the best equipment our country can produce, and the quality that the seamen provide is top notch,” he said. Throughout OIF, members of the armed forces have sailed aboard civilian-crewed U.S.-flag vessels, primarily for security purposes. “That’s the one chance for the military guys (destined for duty overseas) to have a hot meal and a good night’s sleep,” King pointed out. “They appreciate being on merchant ships; they say that all the time. And we get along great with each other. There’s a lot of respect.” King’s wife, Christie, is a nurse who also is a member of the Naval Reserve. She is due to activate next month, likely headed for a hospital compound in Kuwait. “We’re both goal-oriented, and she’s very sup- 4 Seafarers LOG Seafarer Richard King and his wife, Christie, both serve in the U.S. Naval Reserve. portive and understanding,” King said. “She knows I enjoy the profession of being a Seafarer. As a matter of fact, I don’t think I’ll ever not sail. It’s a good niche for me, and I’m a big fan of the travel. It truly is an adventure that lets you learn about cultures.” A frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, King said that another appealing part of his job is “it’s the one place where a guy can literally promote himself. It’s all a matter of time and ambition. If you want to go to the top, you most certainly can.” In the Naval Reserve, King normally works as a barge ferry engineer. “Any time the equipment goes from the ship to the beach, we’re involved,” he explained. For the current mission, however, he was joined by hundreds of fellow reservists from across the country for special training involving vessel and port security. Their assignments with the Naval Expeditionary Logistics Support Force in Iraq and Kuwait apparently will be similar to some of what the Coast Guard does in U.S. ports. “I’m excited about it,” King concluded. “Who knows, I may even get there on an SIU ship.” Seafarers greet SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (second from left) and SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (center, standing) at the newly reflagged Sealand Comet in Los Angeles late last year. Recertified Steward Larry Lightfoot Sealand Meteor Bosun David Collins Sealand Meteor Solidarity with CWA in D.C. Seafarers recently demonstrated with Communications Workers of America (CWA) mailers who are battling to secure a fair contract at The Washington Post. Hundreds of trade unionists participated in the Nov. 15 rally in Washington, D.C. Approximately 400 CWA mailers are part of the bargaining unit which has fought for a new agreement for more than 18 months. “I couldn’t be more proud of them for standing up to this huge conglomerate,” said Bill Boarman, CWA vice president for the Printing Sector. “The Post wants them to work longer for less. They don’t want to give them any pay increase. And they don’t want to give them equal pay for equal work.” The Post also wants the mailers to give up money they’ve contributed to their defined benefit pension. With Starlight Marine Boatmen SIU Assistant VP West Coast Nick Celona (front row, second from left) recently met with boatmen on the Seafarers-crewed tug Millennium Star in San Francisco to catch up on the latest union and industry news. Pictured aboard the boat are Celona and Seafarers Sean Dering, John Paxson, Yorik Cade, Daniel Porschien, Justin Rodgers and Chris Swan. January 2005 �26035_P3_5,18.qxd 12/17/2004 12:20 PM Page 5 Flight Attendants Launch National Campaign Against Corporate Greed Flight attendants, other union members (including Seafarers) and labor supporters rallied in Washington, D.C. and at airports across the country Dec. 14 to focus attention on the critical need for government action to stop management’s assault on workers’ pensions, health care and jobs in the airline industry In Washington, a rally and candlelight vigil took place in the early evening near the White House, on what to that point was the year’s coldest day in D.C. Seafarers joined hundreds of flight attendants, other union members and supporters in hearing from Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President Pat Friend, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney and other speakers. In related events, informational picketing took place at the SeaTac Flag Pavilion, in front of Seattle’s Sea-Tac International Airport, and flight attendants and supporters in San Francisco conducted a march and candlelight vigil outside United Terminal 3 at San Francisco International Airport. These events and others are part of a national effort calling for action by Congress and adminis- tration regulators to end practices that allow companies to abuse the bankruptcy process in order to strip workers of their retirement security and health care, impose devastating wage cuts and destroy careers. AFA also is calling for “a real public policy discussion of aviation policy in the United States to address today’s critical issues,” said President Friend. ”The position of many airline executives that workers must subsidize one failed business plan after another must end,” Friend said, adding that other parties, government, consumers and management must support this industry as well. “Airline management is overreaching, and if they are not stopped, the continuing cuts in wages, benefits and working conditions across the industry will spread to financially health carriers, and then on to other industries.” Sweeney told the crowd at the Washington rally, “Our airlines are Wal-Mart with wings. Thousands of workers and tens of thousands of passengers are sharing substandard and potentially unsafe working and traveling conditions.” The 2004 event took place at the St. Louis America’s Center and drew hundreds of thousands of guests. Portland Hosts 2005 Edition Of Union Industries Show North America’s only allunion product and skills exposition—the AFL-CIO Union Industries Show—will be conducted April 29-May 2 at Portland’s Oregon Convention Center. For four days, virtually everything union men and women make or do will be on display for the public to touch, see and sample. Admission to the outing will be free. “The AFL-CIO Union Industries Show has everything from union-trained seeing eye dogs to union-made wedding cakes, motorcycles and blue jeans, all under one roof,” said Charles Mercer, president of the Union Label and Service Trades Department, AFL-CIO, which produces and manages the event. More than 300 exhibits covering an area equal to four football fields will bring to life the show’s theme, “Good Jobs Build Strong Communities,” Mercer said. The event will feature live skills demonstrations, such as “high iron” construction work, silkscreening, haircutting and other January 2005 crafts and trades. Free prizes, including new cars, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, ranges and refrigerators will be raffled to the public. Students and job seekers can meet training and apprenticeship coordinators and representatives from dozens of different industries. Except for a few years during World War II, the AFL-CIO Union Industries Show has visited one U.S. city each year since 1938. Portland last hosted the show in 1992. “Local and national unions and employers work together at the show to demonstrate the importance of good jobs to the economic and social life of the community,” Mercer explained, adding “This is a highly entertaining, as well as an educational experience, for the entire family—and it’s free admission!” Show hours will be 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 29 through Monday, May 2. More information about the event is available at www.unionindustriesshow.org. Flight attendants are sending a message to airline management, corporate America and Washington’s lawmakers that dragging down the standard of living for flight attendants threatens the very foundation of traditional American values, and that the AFA will fight this assault. In November, the union approved a global strike if a federal bankruptcy court agrees to allow an airline to throw out its collective bargaining agreement. Four airlines have filed for bankruptcy protection and are seeking huge cuts in workers’ pay and benefits; at least two are seeking to abrogate their flight attendant contracts if agreement is not reached on the cuts. Those carriers, United and US Airways, want to walk away from the contracts while slashing retiree medical benefits and eliminating pensions. Flight attendants at those carriers are voting on whether to authorize strike action. The AFA includes more than 46,000 members. Bill Burke/PageOne Photography Seafarers who participated in last month’s rally in Washington, D.C. are pictured with Association of Flight Attendants President Pat Friend (sixth from left) and AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex (right). AFL-CIO President John Sweeney tells a reporter that workers and passengers should not be exposed to potentially unsafe conditions. Filipino Crew of FOC Ship To Testify on Safety Violations The crew of a so-called flagof-convenience vessel is stranded at the Port of Long Beach after becoming unintentional star witnesses in a federal grand jury investigation. Reports say the mariners, 13 Filipinos, don’t know when they will be allowed to return home. Their fate since Sept. 14 has been uncertain since the U.S. Coast Guard impounded their vessel, the Katerina, because of safety and environmental violations. The 13 mariners must remain in the United States until they testify at a trial expected to take place sometime this year. “We are all helpless; we cannot say how long we will be here or what will happen to our families,” said Roberto Yanoc, the ship’s third engineer. “We are sacrificing our professions by being material witnesses.” A 16,320-ton Greek-operated cargo ship, the Katerina in early September was sailing under a Maltese flag of convenience when it steamed into Long Beach. Its cargo was steel coils and reinforced steel bars. Coast Guard officials boarded the craft and discovered that its oil sludge filter had been disabled, toilets were broken and crew members had been deprived of food and water. The vessel was infested with cockroaches and other parasites. Crew members complained that at their last port of call in Balboa, Panama, they had resorted to boiling buckets of river water and fishing off the fantail. Federal prosecutors say the Katernia’s captain, chief engineer and second engineer ordered the crew to dump oil waste and sewage overboard and conceal it from Coast Guard inspectors. One of the ship’s officers also allegedly threatened crew members with bodily harm if they cooperated with the Coast Guard. Continued on page 9 NY Port Council Honors 3 The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s Maritime Port Council of Greater New York and Vicinity on Oct. 16 honored three individuals for their respective commitments to the working men and women of this nation and to the U.S. maritime industry. Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, Commander, Military Sealift Command, was named Government Man of the Year; Joseph P. Gehegan, Jr., president and CEO of United States Shipping LLC received the Herb Brand Memorial Man of the Year Award; and Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union received the Paul Hall Award of Merit. Pictured at the event are (from left) Port Council President Joseph Soresi, who also is vice president of the SIU’s Atlantic Region; Vice Admiral Brewer; Gehegan; Appelbaum; SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco; and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Seafarers LOG 5 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/22/2004 4:28 PM Page 6 Meeting aboard the Puerto Rico Towing tug Punta Borinquen are (clockwise from left) Deckhand Felix Prieto, Deckhand Sinforiano Negron, AB/Delegate Angel Lozada, Deckhand Julio Maldonado, Capt. Alfredo Gonzalez (AMO), SIU Port Agent Victor Nuñez and Crowley Docking Master Johnny Velez. e e Mo v h t n O W Aboard the Horizon Hawaii in San Juan, P.R., Recertified Bosun Stewart Dixon (left) informs SIU Port Agent Victor Nuñez that this will be his last vessel before applying for his pension. ith the U I S In the Tacoma, Wash. SIU hall, Port Agent Bryan Powell (at right in the photo at left) issues a ballot for the SIU election to Ahmed Shaibi. Above, SIU Assistant VP Donnie Anderson is busy at the service counter. When Dragi Odak, 64, retired late last year, he was given a surprise party, complete with a decorated cake (bottom photo) and lots of gifts from fellow crew members and friends at Crowley. Among those pictured with Dragi (top photo) are EU John Tipich, Mate Chad MacAulay, Mate Mike Schmidt and Capt. Ed Brady. Brother Dragi makes his home in San Pedro, Calif. Kermett Mangram, SIU vice president Government Services, attended the Virginia AFL-CIO convention in Williamsburg last August. Above, he shakes hands with Virginia Gov. Mark Warner and, below, he meets with Tim Kaine, the Commonwealth’s lieutenant governor. Left: Crew members aboard the SL Pride attend a shipboard meeting in Houston. Included in the group are Bosun Kyle Schultz, ABs Luis Alvarez, Alan Lumansoc, Lorenzo Tifre, Michael Warren and Hans Gottschlich, Chief Electrician Ronald Pheneuf, QMEDs Pete Murtagh and Alton Hickman Jr., GUDE Angel Bruno, Recertified Steward Pedro Sellan, Chief Cook Leonicio Gonzalez and Utility Terry Allen. Bosun Kyle Schultz (left) and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey talk about a recent voyage. 6 Seafarers LOG Assistant VP Jim McGee (left) poses with Deck Delegate Hans Gottschlich and VP Dean Corgey McGee and Corgey meet with members of the Houston shoregang: Kendra Savage, Bosun’s Mate Gilbert Rodriguez, Robert Zepeda, Eddie Hall and Monte Perina. January 2005 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 9:56 AM Page 7 San Francisco SIU Hall Hosts Holiday Celebration SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona welcome House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to the annual holiday feast at the union hall in San Francisco. Guests at Annual Gathering Give Thanks, Remember Troops Electrician Steven Biles (right) carries the U.S. Merchant Marine flag as members of the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment, present the colors. Art Pulaski, executive secretarytreasurer of the California State AFL-CIO, addresses the crowd. Hundreds of Seafarers, retirees, dignitaries and their families got an early start to Thanksgiving when they celebrated the holiday Nov. 23 at the SIU hall in San Francisco. The 14th annual gathering, organized by SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona with strong support from Recertified Stewards Peter Ciddio and Louella Sproul, lived up to its reputation as one of the most consistently worthwhile labor events in the area. House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi commended the U.S. Merchant Marine for its role in Operation Iraqi Freedom, as did many of the other speakers. As usual, the audience included individuals from labor, business, government and the military. “The whole tone of the event really centered on supporting our troops and maintaining a strong U.S. Merchant Marine to supply those troops,” noted Celona. “We prayed for the troops and gave thanks that we live in a free country.” Alioto’s Restaurant on Fishermen’s Wharf cooked 32 turkeys and 18 hams for the event, while numerous Seafarers joined Ciddio and Sproul in volunteering for further meal preparation and presentation. Altogether, more than 350 people attended. Editor’s note: Thanks to Charlie Farruggia for providing the photos on this page. Left: Enjoying their time at the SIU hall are (from left) San Francisco Chief of Police Heather Fong, Superior Court Judge James McBride and Tony Hall, executive director of the Treasure Island Development Authority. San Francisco District Attorney Kamala Harris said the SIU event represented the city’s finest traditions. California State Senator Jackie Speir shares her Thanksgiving message. Right: The celebration brought together individuals from labor, management, government and the military. Pictured from the left are Eddie Powell, 1st VP, International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees; SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona; U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Mike Samarov; and Lenny Stefanelli, president of Consolidated Environmental Industries. Seafarers Charlie Cowan, Louella Sproul and Peter Ciddio helped make the guests feel welcome at the union hall on Fremont Street. Among those keeping the food in order are (two photos directly above) Retiree Patricio Capito, Chief Cook V. Noble and other Seafarers. SIU VP Nick Marrone (left) and Assistant VP Nick Celona (right) present a ship’s wheel to Walter Johnson, who retired last year as secretary-treasurer of the San Francisco Central Labor Council. January 2005 Seafarers donated their time and talents to help make the gathering successful. Pictured from left to right are Chief Cook C. Maderas and his wife, Chief Cook John Stein and ABs Joe Tallum and A. Aggire. Seafarers LOG 7 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 10:19 AM Page 8 AT THE SIU HALL Seafarers are sworn in at the San Francisco hall as they receive their full book from SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (left). Taking the oath are (from right) Theresa Ballard, Jessie Espiritu and Ralph White. Looking on is SIU Vice President Nick Marrone. APL KOREA At Sea and Ashore in San Francisco PRESIDENT POLK Chief Steward Thomas Barrett, Chief Cook Kenneth Clark, ACU Talama Moega HORIZON ENTERPRISE ACU Jose Maglalang Chief Cook Dante Cruz Chief Steward Franchesca Rose Chief Cook Aleja A. Fabia SA Robert Cartmel 8 Seafarers LOG Chief Steward John Alamar Relief Steward Keene Gregory January 2005 �26035_P01,4,9,15,16,17.qxd 12/23/2004 9:54 AM Page 9 Runaway-Flag Vessel Runs Aground, Breaks Up Near Alaska’s Aleutian Islands A runaway-flag bulk carrier ran aground and broke apart Dec. 8 near the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, spilling an unknown amount of fuel. Six crew members presumably died in a subsequent rescue attempt involving U.S. Coast Guard helicopters and the Malaysian-flag vessel, the 738foot Selendang Ayu. Because the ship foundered in an extremely hard-to-reach area in the Bering Sea, on Unalaska Island between Skan Bay and Spray Cape, some details about the grounding were scarce even a full week after the accident. However, The New York Times called it “potentially the worst spill in Alaska since the Valdez lost 11 million gallons of oil in spring 1989.” A mid-December “situation report” from the U.S. Coast Guard noted that spill response “continues to be limited due to severe weather conditions.” The Selendang Ayu, with crew members from India and the Philippines, was transporting grain to the Far East but also carried 470,000 gallons of its own fuel. According to Coast Guard and news reports, the ship lost power Dec. 7, but its captain didn’t notify the U.S. Coast Guard for 13 hours. The ship drifted in 35-foot seas and gusting winds up to 60 miles per hour. Most of the crew members were rescued via helicopter, but during a subsequent attempt to lift the remaining mariners, the helicopter crashed. The three helicopter crew members and a 24year-old cadet from the ship were rescued by another Coast Guard helicopter. Six mariners—none of whom was wearing a survival suit—were not found. The ship was equipped with three survival suits, according to newspaper accounts. The water temperature at that time was roughly 43 degrees. An hour later, the Selendang Ayu ran aground and split in two, slightly less than one mile off Unalaska Island (approximately 800 miles southwest of Anchorage). The ship is owned by IMC Group, which is based in Singapore. It was built in 1998 in China. The Coast Guard reported that tugboats had tried to stop the drifting vessel, but weather conditions broke the tow lines each time. The Selendang Ayu also lost both anchors. USCG Photo by PA3 Gail Sinner A Coast Guard Jayhawk helicopter hovers over the 738-foot Selendang Ayu as a salvage team inspects the damage caused when the freighter broke in two after grounding Dec. 8 less than a mile from Unalaska Island. With Seafarers on the Great Lakes AB Mark Nicholson gets the job done aboard the Great Lakes Towing tugboat Wyoming, docked near the SIU hall in Algonac, Mich. At SIU-contracted American Steamship Company, safety comes first, as shown in this photo of two crew members pulling cable for mooring the Buffalo in Marysville, Mich. Captain Paul Allers is pictured in the pilothouse of the passenger ferry Straits Express, at the Arnold Transit Company dock at Mackinac Island, Mich. Left: AB Mike Presser works on the deck of the Southdown Challenger in Detroit, with Windsor, Ontario in the background. Stranded Crew to Testify Continued from page 5 The sailors initially lived in a Holiday Inn in San Pedro after their vessel was impounded. The shipowner stopped paying the hotel bill before Thanksgiving so the crew as of mid-December was sleeping on the floor of a charity group’s offices in Long Beach. The crew members have no work permits, so they are not allowed to hold jobs. As a result, they have been unable to send any money home to their families. Prosecutors forced DST Shipping Co., the ship’s operator, to post a $500,000 bond to ensure that it would respond to any future federal subpoenas and to pay for the crew’s lodging while the vessel was made seaworthy. After upgrades were effected on the Katerina, however, it sailed away and the company reneged on its promise to pay the hotel bill. Since the crew had January 2005 agreed to cooperate with federal prosecutors and had no place to stay, the government intervened. “The one option the government had was to arrest them—detain them as material witnesses—and place them in the care of the United States government,” said William Carter, chief of the environmental crimes section of the U.S. Attorney’s office in Los Angeles. U.S. marshals took the men into custody and transported them to the courthouse. Prosecutors asked for a reduced bail and informed a federal magistrate that they were agreeable to the mariners’ release, with assurances that they would testify at a later time. The crew eventually was released to a charitable group that assists mariners, which in turn is working with labor organizations to help feed and house them. Right: DEU Abdul Ghaleb heads back to the John J. Boland in Detroit. NOTICE/BULLETIN Benefits Conferences Postponed Officials from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) announced as this issue of the LOG went to press that the benefits conferences originally scheduled to begin this month and run through midFebruary have been postponed until further notice. The postponement in part stems from unforeseen scheduling conflicts due to a late change in AFL-CIO meeting dates and also due to national security issues (significant numbers of vessel activations). The SHBP apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the postponement. The Plan will announce new conference dates as soon as they are confirmed. All active members, pensioners and their spouses will be invited to the sessions, which will provide an update on the latest happenings with the various Plans. Seafarers LOG 9 �26035_P10,19.qxd 12/17/2004 1:33 PM Page 10 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 August 2005. 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 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Jan. 10, 2005. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT January 10 March 28 June 20 March 4 May 20 August 11 Machinist February 21 April 1 Marine Electrician April 18 June 13 QMED - Jr. Engineer January 10 June 20 April 1 September 8 Welding January 17 February 14 March 21 April 11 May 9 August 22 February 4 March 4 April 8 April 29 May 27 September 9 Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman January 24 March 7 April 18 May 30 July 11 August 22 February 18 April 1 May 13 June 24 August 5 September 16 February 14 April 18 June 20 August 22 February 18 April 22 June 24 August 26 Bridge Resource Management (Unlimited) May 9 May 13 Celestial Navigation March 14 May 16 July 18 April 8 June 10 August 11 GMDSS (Simulator) February 21 April 25 June 27 August 29 March 4 May 6 July 8 September 9 January 10 February 21 April 4 May 16 June 27 August 8 January 21 March 4 April 15 May 27 July 8 August 19 January 31 April 4 June 6 August 8 February 11 April 13 June 15 August 17 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Radar (Inland) January 10 January 14 Radar Renewal (1 day): February 21, April 25, June 27, August 29 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. Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Radar Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* March 14 May 16 July 18 March 25 May 27 July 29 Fast Boat Rescue May 2 June 6 May 6 June 10 Government Vessels February 28 March 14 April 11 May 23 July 4 August 8 August 22 March 4 March 18 April 15 May 27 July 8 August 12 August 26 Medical Care Provider March 28 May 30 August 1 April 1 June 3 August 5 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* February 14 April 4 June 6 August 1 February 25 April 15 June 17 August 11 February 21 June 27 February 25 July 1 (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses � 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 ________________________________________________ 10 Seafarers LOG 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. 1/05 January 2005 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 10:30 AM Page 11 Paul Hall Center School Supplement This handy version of the Paul Hall Center’s catalog is printed in the Seafarers LOG as a convenience to SIU members. Please keep it for reference. NOTE: Prerequisites for all upgrading courses in the SHLSS catalog include being 18 years old, holding a U.S. Merchant Marine Document, passing a physical exam, and English language proficiency in accordance with 46 CFR. F ounded in 1967, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers the most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any maritime school in the nation. Based in Piney Point, Md., the school is a hub of STCW training, featuring unsurpassed educational facilities and peaceful surroundings that facilitate learning. Among the school’s most beneficial training tools are the bridge and engine simulators, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School (located on a nearby satellite campus) and the culinary lab. The Paul Hall Center offers everything from entry training to license preparation to academic support and more. Students at the southern Maryland school also may receive college credit recommendations for Prerequisites for all upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center include being 18 years old, holding a U.S. Merchant Mariner’s Document, passing a physical exam, and English language proficiency in accordance with 46 CFR. DECK Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman Applicants completing our Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman program satisfy: (1) the training, seagoing service, and assessment requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-3(c) and Section AII/4 of the STCW Code, Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch;—AND—(2) if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, the written examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-9 for the “Deck General & Navigation General” and “Deck Safety & Rules of the Road” exam modules for any Able Seaman endorsement and the practical (knot tying) examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.059 for any Able Seaman endorsement PROVIDED that all other requirements of 46 CFR Subpart 12.05, including sea service, are also met. The course consists of hands-on training and classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, fire fighting, emergency procedures, first aid, anchoring, and mooring, and aids to navigation. Prerequisites: Sea service, Water Survival (Lifeboatman), STOS Special: 12 months’ service on deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, the OIC of the navigational watch, or qualified ratings (STCW) Limited: 18 months’ service on deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, OIC, or qualified ratings. Unlimited: 3 years’ deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master or OIC. Bridge Resource Management Applicants completing our 30-hour Bridge Resource Management course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section BVIII/ 2, Part 31 of the STCW Code. Bridge Resource Management-Unlimited is designed for persons with significant shipping experience who hold or are seeking a U.S. Coast Guard license. This course fulfills the training requirements of effective bridge teamwork as set forth in STCW 95, A-II/1, A-II/2, and B-VIII/2 and 46 CFR 10.25 and 10.209. Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 Gross Tons or greater OR January 2005 successfully completing certain sanctioned courses. As vocational training for U.S. mariners seemingly becomes more important each year, the Paul Hall Center continues to offer state-of-the-art schooling for mariners. An overview of the courses available at Piney Point (including the 40-plus Coast Guard-approved classes) is contained in this four-page section. Course descriptions also are listed on the web site www.seafarers.org, in the Paul Hall Center section. Students should note that courses and class dates may change due to the manpower needs of SIU-contracted companies. Therefore, mariners should check the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG as well as the web site for the most up-to-date class listings. The basic eligibility for SIU members who want to seeking an original third mate or limited license Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons or less) Students who successfully complete this course will have the knowledge and experience needed to continually reassess the allocation and use of bridge resources using bridge management principles. Applicants completing our 26-hour Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons) course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section B-VIII/2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. THIS APPROVAL IS LIMITED TO SERVICE UPON VESSELS OF NOT MORE THAN 1600 GROSS TONS (DOMESTIC). Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 gross tons or greater OR in the process of getting license Celestial Navigation Applicants completing our 126-hour Celestial Navigation course with a passing grade of at least 80% satisfy the Celestial Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to signoff for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW upgrade at Piney Point includes 120 days’ sea time in the previous year, one day of sea time in the last six months prior to the date the class starts, a copy of their z-card (front and back), a copy of the identification page of their union book, plus any other course-specific requirements. If the course mandates a U.S. Coast Guard test to acquire the endorsement, then the upgrader must meet all Coast Guard requirements prior to taking the class. Some courses have other specific requirements which are listed in italics. For more information about the Paul Hall Center or any of its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 206740075, or call (301) 994-0010. Code: OICNW-1-1A; OICNW-1-1B; OICNW-1-1C; OICNW-1-1D; OICNW-1-1E and OICNW-1-1F. The course covers the areas of celestial navigation required for licensing as a second or third mate unlimited and for all limited licenses. Students are instructed in latitude observations by sun and Polaris, running fixes by sun, stars, and planets, compass error by amplitude and azimuth, star identification, and care and use of the sextant. Prerequisites: ARPA. Radar Observer, Scientific calculator skill, time/speed/distance formula Crisis Management & Human Behavior Applicants completing our 7-hour Crisis Management & Human Behavior course satisfy: (1) the Crisis Management & Human Behavior training requirements of Table AV/2 and Paragraph 5 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships;—AND—(2) the Passenger Safety training requirements of Paragraph 4 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships. This course is designed for any person responsible for the safety of passengers in an emergency on passenger ships. The training includes organizing the safe movement of passengers when embarking and disembarking, organizing shipboard emergency procedures, optimizing the use of resources, controlling responses to emergencies, control- ling passengers and other personnel during emergency situations, and the establishing and maintaining effective communications. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Crowd Management Applicants completing our 4-hour Crowd Management course satisfy: (1) the Crowd Management training requirements of Paragraph 1 of Section A-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels;—AND—(2) the Safety Training requirements of Paragraph 3 of Section A-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels. This course profiles the required knowledge and applicable skills for crowd management including controlling a crowd in an emergency, locating safety and emergency equipment on board a vessel, complying with ships’ emergency procedures, effective communications during an emergency, and demonstrating the use of personal life-saving devices. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) Applicants completing our 35-hour Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) course are considered to have successfully demonstrated the competencies “Plan and Conduct a Passage and Determine Position: Thorough Knowledge of and Ability to Use ECDIS” of Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code AND “Determine Position and the Accuracy of Resultant Position Fix: Position Determination Using ECDIS With Specific Knowledge of its Operating Principles, Limitations, Sources of Error, Detection of Misrepresentation of information and Methods of Correction to Obtain Accurate Position Fixing” of Table A-II/2 of the STCW Code. The course provides training in the basic theory and use of electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) for those who will be in charge of a navigational watch on vessels equipped with ECDIS. Students learn to use, update, and verify electronic chart information. The training comprises all safety-relevant aspects and aims beyond the use of operational controls. All theoretical aspects and major characteristics of ECDIS data, such as data contents, system integration, information layers, and data updating, are covered in depth. Prerequisites: General Admission requirements; ARPA certificate; Radar certificate; Terrestrial Navigation training for license preparation; USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Fast Rescue Boats Applicants completing our 30-hour Fast Rescue Boats course satisfy the requirements Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 11 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 10:31 AM G Continued from page 11 of Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code, Specification of the Minimum Standard of Competence in Fast Rescue Boats. The Paul Hall Center’s Fast Rescue Boats course trains students to handle and take charge of fast rescue boats during or after launch in adverse weather and sea conditions. Students learn how to operate a fast rescue boat engine, use all locating devices, including communication and signaling equipment between the rescue boat and a helicopter and the ship, and how to carry out search patterns. Prerequisites: Basic Safety, Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than fast rescue boats Fundamental Concepts of Navigation Applicants completing our 70-hour Fundamental Concepts of Navigation course and who present our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 5 YEARS of the completion of training, receive 20 days’ sea service credit that may be used—ONLY—for the following: (1) Any license restricted to service upon vessels of not more than 200 gross tons (domestic); OR (2) Any license restricted to service upon inland or Great Lakes waters; OR (3) Any Able Seaman endorsement PROVIDED that the applicant has at least 6 months of actual sea service that can be credited toward an Able Seaman endorsement. Topics covered in this c1ass include the use of nautical charts, calculating time, speed, and distance problems, the use of plotting instruments and compasses, dead reckoning, bearings, fixes, current sailing, piloting, and an introduction to collision regulations and rules of the road. Prerequisites: 120 days of sea time as an AB Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) Applicants completing our 70-hour Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) course with a passing grade of at least 75% satisfy the GMDSS training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(n) and Table A-IV/2 of the STCW Code. Applicants for this 70-hour course must hold a 200-ton or greater license, or show a current U.S. Coast Guard approval letter indicating they are eligible to sit for a license greater than 200 tons. The class is designed to meet the requirements set forth in Table AIV/2 of the amended STCW convention. Topics include principles of the global marine distress and safety system communications, distress alerting and operational procedures for VHF DSC, INMARST-C, MF/HF, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART, and VHF (SCT). The course blends classroom instruction and practical exercises. Prerequisites: 1 year experience as a member of navigational watch on the bridge of an ocean going vessel OR licensed radio officer or engineer. Government Vessels This 3-week class is open to mariners sailing in any department. The course is structured as three 1-week, stand-alone modules. The modules may be taken in any order. Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command and military vessels, damage control, CBRD (chemical, biological, radiological defense), anti-terrorism level I 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. (This course is required of students attending AB or FOWT courses.) Prerequisites: No additional Radar Observer (Unlimited) Applicants completing our 5-day Radar Observer (Unlimited) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480 for an endorsement as Radar Observer (Unlimited) and the radar training 12 Seafarers LOG Page 12 requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to sign-off for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-2B; OICNW-1-2C; OICNW-3-1A; OICNW-3-1B; OICNW-31C; OICNW-3-1D; OICNW-3-1E; OICNW3-1F; OICNW-3-1G; OICNW-3-1H; OICNW-3-1I; OICNW-3-1J; and OICNW-31K. This course features hands-on training and classroom work, including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision avoidance and navigational exercise. Students operate modern audio-visual and radar simulation gear, as well as the full shiphandling simulator, as they practice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Also included are practical exercises and lectures covering inland waterway and river navigation and piloting. Prerequisites: Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation Radar Observer Recertification Applicants completing our 1-Day Radar Observer Recertification course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisites: No additional Radar Observer Refresher Applicants completing our 3-Day Radar Observer Refresher course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisites: Radar Observer ARPA Applicants completing our 32-hour Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the ARPA training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC) and of 46 CFR 10.205(m)(1). The practical assessments conducted in this course are equivalent to the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-3-2A; OICNW-3-2B; OICNW-3-2C; OICNW-3-2D; OICNW-32E; OICNW-3-2F; OICNW- 3-2G; OICNW3-2H; OICNW-3-2I; OICNW-3-2J; OICNW3-2K; OICNW-3-2L; and OICNW-3- 2M. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) This course of instruction incorporates the use of ARPA simulation equipment to operate, observe, and use the radar plotting aids. Students gain an understanding of the limitations of the aids as well as their performance factors, sensor inputs and malfunctions and gain knowledge of tracking capabilities, processing, operational warnings, and target acquisition. Prerequisites: Radar Observer Medical Care Provider Applicants completing our 21-hour Medical Care Provider course satisfy the Medical First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/4 and Table A-VI/4-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 12.13-1. This course is designed for mariners who are employed or may be employed on U.S.-flag ships. It meets STCW requirements. Students successfully completing this course must take a refresher course within 5 years or provide information to the U.S. Coast Guard documenting maintenance of medical skills. Cardiopulmonary (CPR) certification must be renewed annually. Training as a Medical First Aid Provider is the second level of medical training required by STCW. Topics include a review of cardiac and airway management, rescuer safety, body structure, examining trauma victims and medical patients, treating head and spinal injuries, burns, musculoskeletal injuries, and rescued persons. Also included are obtaining radio medical advice, administering medication, and sterilization techniques. Prerequisite: Candidates for the course must possess current certification from the American Red Cross for CPR for the Professional Rescuer or equivalent certification issued through a similar authorizing agency Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (Including Sea Service) Applicants completing our entire Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch Program, INCLUDING the 360 days of seagoing service: (1) receive 720 days’ sea service credit toward a license as Third Mate of Ocean or Near Coastal Steam or Motor Vessels of Any Gross Tons. Applicants must present evidence of not less than 1 year of qualifying seagoing service obtained AFTER enrollment in the OICNW program, including at least six months performing bridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of the master or a qualified officer. Applicants must have previously completed our entire “Unlicensed Apprentice Program,” and sea service awarded for completion of the “Unlicensed Apprentice Program” may NOT be used to meet the service requirements for OICNW and Third Mate;—AND—(2) Satisfy the training and assessment requirements of 46 CFR 10.910 and Section AII/ 1 and Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code, Specification of Minimum Standard of Competence for Officers in Charge of a Navigational Watch on Ships of 500 Gross Tonnage or More, PROVIDED that they have also completed the following Coast Guard approved courses within five years of completion of the OICNW program: a) Basic Safety Training; b) Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting; c) Medical Care Provider; d) Proficiency in Survival Craft; e) Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids); f) Celestial Navigation (STCW); g) Radar Observer (Unlimited); h) Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA); i) Bridge Resource Management; j) Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS); and k) Visual Communications. Prerequisites: ARPA, Basic/Adv. Fire Fighting, BRM, Celestial Navigation, First Aid, GMDSS, Medical First Aid Provider, Proficiency in Survival Craft or Water Survival, Radar Observer, Tanker Familiarization, Visual Communication, BST, sea time for 3rd Mate and OICNW Oil Spill Prevention and Containment This 1-week course consists of classroom and practical training exercises. Topics include oil types and petroleum products’ behavior on water; pollution prevention regulations; hazardous materials training; spill prevention; absorbents, suction equipment, skimmers, and their proper use; and small boat operations. Students also receive instruction in spill containment booms, boom towing configurations, and anchoring operations. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites HAZMAT Recertification This 1-day class includes a regulatory overview of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, reviews of toxology terminology, medical monitoring instruments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection, and monitoring equipment and new technology. Prerequisite: 24- or 40-hour Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) courses Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities Applicants completing our 4-hour Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(l)(4) and Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-4 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code. This course provides the unlicensed apprentice candidate with a general understanding and basic knowledge of human relationships, social skills necessary for living and working aboard operational merchant ships, and a working knowledge of issues impacting preparedness for international travel. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Survival Techniques Applicants completing our 12-hour Personal Survival Techniques course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Survival training requirements of Section AVI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(1). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques (Lifeboatman) Applicants completing our 37-hour Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques course satisfy: (1) the Survival Craft training requirements of Section A-VI/2 and Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW Code;—AND—(2) the training requirements of 46 CFR 12.10-3(a)(6) for any endorsement as Lifeboatman, PROVIDED that sea service requirements are also met;—AND—(2) if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, the written and practical examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.10-5 for a Lifeboatman endorsement (exam module 481xx) and the written “Survival Craft” examination requirements for service on vessels not equipped with lifeboats (exam module 441xx or 706xx),—AND—(3) the Personal Survival Techniques training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(1). This course helps mariners develop the required knowledge and application skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft, and the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, students learn the procedures necessary to take charge and maintain a survival craft and protect embarked personnel while on board. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman Applicants completing our 70-hour Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training requirements for service as a Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman AND the training and assessment requirements of Table A-II/4 of the STCW Code, “Specification of Minimum Standard of Competence for Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch,” and 46 CFR 12.05- 3(c) PROVIDED they also present evidence of at least 6 months’ sea-going service performing navigational watchkeeping functions under the supervision of the Master or officer in charge of the navigational watch. If the applicant does not present evidence of 6 months of this service, he or she satisfies the training and assessment requirements for certification as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch RESTRICTED to lookout duties only. This certification is valid for 1 year and may not be renewed. This course is designed for deck trainees who need a fast track to Ratings Forming Part of the Navigational Watch. It meets the requirements of 46 CFR 12.05.3(c) and STCW Table A-II/4. Topics covered in the course include: anchoring, mooring, knottying, gyro and magnetic compass, wheel watch, error chain analysis and pilot interactions, helm control, rules of the road, IALA buoy systems, shipboard communication, helm watch relief and lookout watch. Prerequisites: UA Program Phases 1 and 2 Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids Applicants completing our 38-hour Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids Course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training Continued on next page January 2005 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 G Continued from page 12 requirements of 46 CFR 13.309 for an endorsement as Tankerman-PIC (Barge). Prerequisites: Present evidence of service in accordance with 46 CFR 13.303. Fire Fighting may be taken simultaneously with the course Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids Applicants completing our 5-day Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d) (1) (ii) (A), 13.115 (b) (1), 13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement. This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises a specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: 3 months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (Paul Hall Center “Tanker Assistant” course) to cover STCW Code Section A-V/1 para. 2-8. Fire fighting course in accordance with 47 CFR 13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR Paul Hall Center Basic Fire Fighting, U.S.C.G.-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) Applicants completing our 53-hour Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d)(1)(ii)(A), 13.115 (b)(1), 13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement;—AND— receive credit for: (1) two loadings and two discharges which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements of 46 CFR 13.203(b)(1);—AND—(2) one commencement of loading and one completion of loading which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46 CFR 13.203(b)(2);— AND—(3) one commencement of discharge and one completion of discharge which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46 CFR 13.203(b)(3). This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises a specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: 3 months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (Paul Hall Center “Tanker Assistant” course) to cover STCW Code Section A-V/1 para. 2-8. Fire fighting course in accordance with 47 CFR 13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR Paul Hall Center Basic Fire Fighting, U.S.C.G.-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) Applicants completing our 63-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 for an original endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant DL. This course meets the Code of Federal Regulation requirements for personnel not having the required sea service. The objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct operations on tankships. Topics include the 16-hour worker health and safety (HAZWOPER) First Responder/Operations Level, Ship Design and Operation, Cargo Characteristics, Enclosed Space Entry, Cargo Transfer and Shipment, and Pollution Prevention, and Emergency Operations and Response. Prerequisites: Fire Fighting January 2005 10:31 AM Page 13 Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) Applicants completing our 30-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 for an original endorsement as Tankerman- Assistant (LG); —AND— (2) the tanker familiarization training requirements of paragraphs 1-7 of Section A-V/1 of the STCW Code. This course consists of a safety program designed to meet STCW requirements for those who have not served on LNG ships. The course of instruction includes LNG fire fighting, confined space awareness, LNG nomenclature, LNG ship operations, personal safety, LNG safety, hazardous material, LNG cargo tank (level indicators, temperature), LNG cargo pump (Carter pump construction and ops), inert gas generator (general flow system), nitrogen gas system, LNG vapor compressor, warm-up heater and boiloff heater. Prerequisites: Advanced Fire Fighting Vessel Security Officer This 12-hour course provides knowledge to those wishing to perform the duties and responsibilities of a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) as defined in section A/2.1.6 (and section A/12.1) of the ISPS Code with respect to the security of a ship, for implementing and maintaining a Ship Security Plan, and for liaising with the Company Security Officer (CSO) and Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs). Successful students will be able to undertake the duties and responsibilities as Vessel Security Officer as defined in section A/12.2 of the ISPS Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites. Visual Communications (Flashing Light) Applicants completing our 1-day Visual Communications course with a minimum score of 80% will: (1) Satisfy the practical signaling examination requirements (flashing light) of 46 CFR 10.401(h) IF presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training;—AND—(2) Be considered to have successfully demonstrated the competence “Transmit and Receive Information by Visual Signaling” of Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites ENGINE Many engine department courses have prerequisites. For example, to be accepted for Advanced Refrigeration/Containers, students must have successfully completed Basic Marine Electrician and Refrigeration System Maintenance and Operations. Fireman, Oiler & Watertender (FOWT) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and both Basic Motor Plant Operations and Basic Steam Plant Operations will meet the requirements for endorsement as FOWT. (These classes are described below as stand-alone courses.) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and either Basic Motor Plant Operations or Basic Steam Plant Operations will be eligible for an FOWT (Restricted) endorsement. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program; successful completion of the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage and required sea projects; unlicensed apprentice sea voyage performance evaluations within the engine department as completed by the First Assistant Engineer of at least satisfactory or better; recommendation by the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage participating vessel’s Chief Engineer. OR 6 months’ sea time as wiper AND STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training; successful completion of the entrylevel sea voyage and auxiliary plant familiarization sea project; total USCG approved sea service or equivalent sea service in the engine room of vessels of at least 6 months; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department. Military veterans meeting the prior military sea service requirement in the engine room of vessels must meet the following entrance requirements: Prior approval to the military veterans program for ratings forming part of an engineering watch; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation Applicants completing our 140-hour Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course and who present our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 for the General Safety (80XXX) examination module, PROVIDED they have also completed either our 63-hour Basic Motor Plant Operations course and/or our 70-hour Basic Steam Plant Operations course. Applicants who have successfully completed our course need not present individually completed “Control Sheets” for the assessments in application for STCW certification. Successful completion of this course is the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-III/4 of the STCW Code: RFPEW-11A, RFPEW-1-1B, RFPEW 1-1C, RFPEW1-1D, RFPEW-1-1E, RFPEW-1- 1F, RFPEW-1-1G RFPEW-1-1H, RFPEW-1-1I, RFPEW-1-1J, RFPEW-1-1K, RFPEW-1-1L, RFPEW-1-1M, RFPEW-1-1P, RFPEW-1-1R, RFPEW-1-1V, RFPEW-1-3A, RFPEW1-4A, RFPEW-1-5A, RFPEW-3-1A, RFPEW-32A, and RFPEW-3-2B. The objective of this course to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders as they sail in the capacity of FOWT. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and shore-side auxiliary plant simulator practical exercises. Prerequisites: Same as FOWT program Basic Motor Plant Operation Applicants completing our 63-hour Basic Motor Plant Operations course and who presents our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 for the General Safety (80XXX) and Oiler (87XXX) examination modules, PROVIDED they have also completed our 140-hour Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course. Applicants who have successfully completed our course need not present individually completed “Control Sheets” for the assessments in application for STCW certification. Successful completion of this course is equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-III/4 of the STCW Code: RFPEW-11A, RFPEW-1-1B, RFPEW-1-1D, RFPEW1-1U, RFPEW-1-2B, and RFPEW-1-5A. Prerequisites: Same as FOWT Basic Steam Plant Operations Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Steam Plant Operations course and who presents our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 for the General Safety (80XXX), FiremanWatertender (86XXX), and Oiler (87XXX) examination modules, PROVIDED they have also completed our 140-hour Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course. Applicants who have successfully completed our course need not present individually completed “Control Sheets” for the assessments in application for STCW certification. Successful completion of this course is equivalent to the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-III/4 of the STCW Code: RFPEW-11S, RFPEW-1-1T, RFPEW-1-1U, RFPEW1-5A, RFPEW-2-1A, RFPEW-2-1B, RFPEW-2-1C, RFPEW-2-1D, and RFPEW2-1E. The objective of this course to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders in auxiliary plant watchstanding as they sail in the capacity of FOWT. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and shore-side auxiliary plant simulator practical exercises. Prerequisites: Same as FOWT program 203-Hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the General Safety (80XXX), Junior Engineer (81XXX), and Deck Engineer (87XXX) examination modules, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: Basic Safety. Recommended: Tankerman Assistant (DL), QMEDOiler/Motor, Total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent service in engine room of vessels for at least 6 months, Fireman/WT or Oiler rating Basic Electricity Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the General Safety (80XXX), Junior Engineer (81XXX), and Deck Engineer (87XXX) examination modules, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: Basic Safety. Recommended: Tankerman Assistant (DL), QMEDOiler/Motor, Total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent service in engine room of vessels for at least 6 months, Fireman/WT or Oiler rating Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the General Safety (80XXX), Junior Engineer (81XXX), and Deck Engineer (87XXX) examination modules, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days’ engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler prior to commencing the above training. This course provides the mariner the cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of rated engine department members in the area of Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance as they sail in the capacity of Junior Engineer during voyages on U.S.flagged vessels. Prerequisites: Basic Safety. Recommended: Tankerman Assistant (DL), QMEDOiler/Motor, Total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent service in engine room of vessels for at least 6 months, Fireman/WT or Oiler rating Basic Refrigeration & HVAC Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the General Safety (80XXX), Junior Engineer (81XXX), and Deck Engineer (87XXX) examination modules, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days’ engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler prior to commencing the above training. This course provides the mariner the cog- Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 13 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 10:31 AM G Continued from page 13 nitive and practical mechanical skills required of rated engine department members in the area of Basic Refrigeration and HVAC as they sail in the capacity of Junior Engineer during voyages on U.S.-flagged vessels. Prerequisites: Basic Safety. Recommended: Tankerman Assistant (DL), QMEDOiler/Motor, Total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent service in engine room of vessels for at least 6 months, Fireman/WT or Oiler rating Junior Engineer Program Applicants completing our 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the General Safety (80XXX), Junior Engineer (81XXX), and Deck Engineer (87XXX) examination modules, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days engine room service while endorsed as a QMED Oiler prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: Basic Safety. Recommended: Tankerman Assistant (DL), QMEDOiler/Motor, Total USCG-approved sea or equivalent service in engine room of vessels for at least 6 months, Fireman/WT or Oiler rating. Machinist Applicants completing our 102-hour Machinist course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15- 9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the Machinist (85XXX) examination module, provided they also present evidence of completing the requirements to be endorsed with a Junior Engineer rating endorsement prior to commencing the above training. This course provides mariners cognitive and practical mechanical skills in the area of general metalworking and machine tool operations. Prerequisites: STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training, USCG physical standards for QMED OR hold the USCG Oiler Rating endorsement, STCW certificate as a RFPEW, completed QMED Jr. Eng training program, and USCG Jr. Engineer rating. Marine Electrician Applicants completing our 280-hour Marine Electrician course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the Electrician (85XXX) examination module, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days’ engine room service while endorsed as a QMED–Junior Engineer prior to commencing the above training. This course provides Engine Department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on motors, generators, and controllers on board ship. Prerequisites: 6 months QMED Diesel Engine Technology This 4-week course, leading to certification in diesel engine technology, consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Topics of instruction include diesel engine theory; two- and four-stroke cycle operating principles; and the construction, operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of low-, medium- and high-speed diesel engines. Also covered are associated auxiliaries including intake and exhaust systems, lubrication and cooling systems, and fuel injection and starting systems. 14 Seafarers LOG Page 14 Students receive practical training in the operation and repair of diesel engines on board school training vessels. Prerequisites: QMED-Any Rating or equivalent inland experience ing, and cutting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Automated Cargo Ops Galley Operations This course of instruction in the pumpman career track includes classroom and simulator training in all facets of liquid cargo loading and discharge. The curriculum consists of cargo properties and emergency procedures, operation and maintenance of valves and pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump operations, cargo measurement, discharging procedures, ballasting procedures, tank cleaning, inert gas systems and more. Prerequisite: QMED-Any Rating Class 3 or QMED Junior Engineer/Pumpman Class 3. Recommended: Basic and Intermediate Math and Computer Basic. *Advanced plant maintenance must be completed for advancement to QMED Class 2. Refrigeration System Maintenance & Operations Now an elective, this 6-week class blends practical and classroom instruction leading to certification in refrigeration system maintenance and operations. Among the topics covered are theory of mechanical refrigeration, major system components, accessories, cycle controls, refrigerants and oils, and applied electricity. Standard service techniques are emphasized, such as the operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of ships’ stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo ventilation and dehumidifying equipment, and pantry refrigerators, water coolers, and ice machines. Hands-on shop training includes the complete fabrication of a working refrigeration system from basic system components. An introduction to refrigerated container units is also presented. Students must be certified as QMED-Any Rating or have equivalent inland experience or hold Coast Guard endorsements as refrigeration engineer and electrician in order to enroll for this course. Prerequisites: QMED-Any rating, OR Refrigeration Engineer and Electrician OR equivalent inland experience Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance This 4-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of classroom and practical shop training. The training experience enables students to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board ships carrying refrigerated containers. Students receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. This includes the various types of engines, refrigeration, and electrical systems. The course is designed to help students develop a systematic approach to troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures. Prerequisites: 6-months’ sea time as Wiper, 6 additional months’ sea time in any Engineering Department rating. Must hold a QMED-any rating endorsement, or endorsements as Refrigeration Engineer and Electrician, or possess equivalent inland experience Hydraulics The curriculum in the 4-week hydraulics course blends practical training with classroom work. Fluids, actuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols, and hydraulic systems in marine equipment are among the subjects covered in this class. Also addressed are principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships’ steering systems, ramps, fire doors, and a variety of other shipboard systems. Prerequisite: QMED-Any Rating Welding Classroom instruction and hands-on training compose this 4-week course, which features practical training in electric arc welding and cutting and oxy-acetylene brazing, weld- STEWARD The course consists of two 2-week modules (totaling 4 weeks). Each module is 35 hours with additional time participating in the school’s galley operations. This course provides the student with understanding of the basic baking knowledge and skills potentially required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center UA Program and 240 days’ sea time OR 365 days’ sea time as an SA Certified Chief Cook This course consists of six 2-week standalone modules totaling 12 weeks. This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. The objective of the Certified Chief Cook (FSM 203) is to provide Steward Department personnel with an understanding and knowledge of sanitation, nutrition, and the preparation and service of soups, sauces, meats, poultry, and seafood. Prerequisites: Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time Advanced Galley Operations This course consists of four 1-week modules (totaling 4 weeks). The course provides students with a thorough grasp of the advanced baking knowledge and skills required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center Certified Chief Cook and 180 days’ sea time Certified Chief Steward The Certified Chief Steward course is a 12-week course for members of the Steward Department. The course is presented in eight modules. Each module is assessed independently of the others. Modules may be taken in 1 week increments with breaks between. This course trains stewards to take charge of production galley, plan and prepare meals, and supervise employees in galley operations for a period of not less than 28 days. On meeting the minimum requirements for Certified Chief Steward, culinary students will be competent to take charge of a production galley. The Certified Chief Steward course stresses the competencies related to the supervision of the galley, menu planning, requisitioning of supplies, inventory control, and sanitation. Prerequisites: Advanced Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time SAFETY Basic Safety Training Applicants completing our 40-hour Basic Safety Training course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Personal Survival training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(1);—AND— (2) the Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/1-2 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—(3) the Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section AVI/1 and Table A-VI/1-3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(3);—AND—(4) the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-4 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(4). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid & CPR (21-Hour) Applicants completing our 21-hour First Aid & CPR course satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety-Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/ 1-3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(3); —AND— (2)—IF— presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the date of training, the First Aid & CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(h)(1)(ii) and 10.205(h)(2)(iii) for original issuance of a license. Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. Successful students are awarded a certificate from the American Red Cross. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid (8-Hour) Applicants completing our 8-hour Elementary First Aid course and presenting our Certificate of Training at the Regional Exam Center (REC) satisfy: (1) the First Aid training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(h)(1)(ii) for original issuance of a license;—AND—(2) the Basic SafetyElementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1- 3 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(3). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Advanced Fire Fighting Applicants completing our 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. Prerequisites: Basic Fire Fighting Basic Fire Fighting (16-Hour) Applicants completing our 16-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/1-2 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);— AND—(2) the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license;—AND—(3) the Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113 (d)(2)(i)(A), 13.113(e)(1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e), 13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) for any tankerman endorsement. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Basic Fire Fighting (30-Hour) Applicants completing our 30-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/1-2 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—(2) the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license;— AND—(3) the Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d)(2)(i)(A), 13.113(e)(1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e), 13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) for any tankerman endorsement. The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with the chemical process of fire, its behavior and the various methods and equipment used to combat it. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Combined Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting Applicants completing our 32-hour Advanced Fire Fighting course satisfy: (1) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/3 and Table AVI/ 3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2); —AND—(2) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license. The objective of this course is to familiarize students with the fundamentals of shipboard and tank barge fire fighting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites January 2005 �26035_P01,4,9,15,16,17.qxd 12/20/2004 7:37 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea February & March 2005 Membership Meetings NOVEMBER 16 — DECEMBER 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 Totals Baltimore ................Thursday: February 10, February 10 1 2 0 2 2 20 15 0 4 8 16 4 0 3 1 3 2 15 18 1 0 4 2 4 18 29 0 8 16 21 10 3 0 5 14 0 23 16 1 6 3 3 6 18 21 1 6 13 16 15 0 19 7 17 2 22 12 0 3 1 1 0 10 8 0 2 3 6 1 0 3 2 1 2 10 4 1 0 1 0 4 10 22 0 5 14 13 8 1 1 9 9 1 22 7 4 0 8 1 13 47 65 0 21 23 45 26 5 1 10 32 1 47 32 3 3 3 6 12 24 65 0 10 21 33 24 7 20 9 13 8 44 34 2 2 0 2 3 33 21 0 6 15 29 11 1 2 1 8 2 33 30 257 224 116 174 188 57 128 381 339 201 Norfolk ...................Thursday: February 10, March 10 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: February 9, March 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 2 12 13 18 0 9 9 12 6 2 5 6 10 0 12 6 2 2 6 2 6 6 25 1 3 7 3 10 4 3 0 4 2 20 15 0 0 1 0 1 7 9 0 1 2 4 2 0 2 0 9 1 2 6 0 0 4 1 3 9 13 0 5 10 11 1 1 3 2 8 0 6 4 1 1 3 3 10 2 12 1 4 8 6 6 2 1 1 4 1 13 8 0 0 0 0 1 3 6 0 1 1 2 1 0 1 1 1 1 3 4 0 0 3 0 7 2 12 0 1 3 7 0 1 1 2 3 2 13 5 0 0 4 1 15 18 36 0 8 12 13 12 4 5 6 12 0 17 14 2 1 7 3 4 19 41 0 3 8 16 14 6 5 1 9 3 35 22 0 0 1 1 1 10 16 0 2 8 7 4 0 1 0 8 1 6 11 125 121 47 81 87 26 62 177 199 77 0 0 3 0 9 15 13 0 5 8 15 8 2 1 0 28 0 24 20 2 0 1 0 4 8 9 1 2 4 9 11 1 1 1 4 1 3 6 0 0 0 0 1 1 5 0 1 1 3 2 0 0 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 2 0 4 13 13 0 3 14 10 7 3 0 0 19 1 17 17 0 0 0 0 5 2 5 1 2 3 7 13 0 3 0 3 1 7 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 4 7 9 0 0 4 7 3 1 1 0 8 1 11 6 1 0 4 0 18 23 29 0 10 12 23 13 2 4 2 33 1 33 29 2 0 1 1 4 10 23 0 3 10 9 12 1 3 2 9 2 5 11 0 0 1 1 2 4 8 0 1 2 8 9 1 0 2 2 0 7 5 151 68 20 123 59 9 62 237 108 53 0 0 0 0 2 6 4 0 1 2 7 0 0 0 0 6 0 7 1 2 1 3 2 9 20 12 1 6 9 24 7 0 16 3 8 2 20 6 2 2 1 0 5 22 19 0 1 17 28 15 1 28 1 9 1 16 13 0 0 0 0 5 4 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 6 2 0 0 1 1 6 15 9 0 0 8 17 5 0 17 2 4 0 9 6 0 1 1 0 1 12 7 1 1 7 1 10 0 23 2 2 0 12 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 5 6 1 1 7 11 0 0 0 2 8 0 9 0 3 3 5 2 11 26 26 1 14 12 56 14 0 10 10 18 2 27 13 12 3 3 0 8 32 38 0 3 21 64 21 3 29 0 19 3 28 38 36 151 180 24 100 84 0 54 253 325 569 564 363 402 434 176 252 849 899 656 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston.....................Friday: February 11, March 11 Duluth .....................Wednesday: February 16, March 16 Guam ......................Thursday: February 24, March 24 Honolulu .................Friday: February 18, March 18 Houston ..................Monday: February 14, March 14 Jacksonville ............Thursday: February 10, March 10 Joliet .......................Thursday: February 17, March 17 Mobile ....................Wednesday: February 16, March 16 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: February 15, March 15 New York................Tuesday: February 8, March 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: February 17, March 17 San Francisco .........Thursday: February 17, March 17 San Juan..................Thursday: February 10, March 10 St. Louis..................Friday: February 18, March 18 Tacoma ...................Friday: February 25, March 25 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: February 22* .................................Monday: March 21 .................................*(change created by Presidents Day) ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals ANYONE WHO KNEW WILLIAM DEAN William Dean, who sailed as a recertified bosun, mostly recently aboard the SL Defender, died Sept. 6, 2004. His brother, Daniel Dean, also an SIU member, would like to talk with anyone who knew William. Daniel may be reached by phone at his home (573) 686-5518 or his cell phone (573) 576-8532. ENTRY DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals All Departments Algonac ..................Friday: February 11, March 11 1 4 3 4 3 13 38 0 8 13 25 19 3 18 6 10 4 31 21 Port Totals Piney Point .............Monday: February 7, March 7 3 0 6 1 3 33 44 0 13 13 36 17 7 1 8 19 1 31 21 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 *“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. January 2005 Seafarers LOG 15 �26035_P01,4,9,15,16,17.qxd 12/20/2004 8:36 AM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report NOVEMBER 16 — DECEMBER 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 9 4 6 18 1 1 6 50 3 3 2 0 3 1 0 1 13 0 5 8 1 6 4 5 3 32 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 4 24 3 3 15 2 1 7 59 3 5 1 3 2 0 1 1 16 0 8 10 1 6 5 6 3 39 1 7 4 4 10 1 0 0 27 4 26 9 14 40 4 2 12 111 1 4 3 3 9 2 0 5 27 0 24 0 21 0 0 3 0 48 2 6 2 2 8 2 0 2 24 2 6 7 7 15 2 2 13 54 2 1 5 2 1 0 1 2 14 0 18 1 15 0 1 1 3 39 1 1 2 2 8 0 0 1 15 2 7 3 5 10 3 1 2 33 0 6 2 1 10 0 1 1 21 0 17 1 14 0 1 1 1 35 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 3 2 4 9 1 3 6 31 2 0 4 0 0 0 1 2 9 0 7 11 4 2 0 2 5 31 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 1 8 1 1 9 2 3 6 31 1 4 3 0 1 0 0 4 13 0 8 12 4 2 0 2 5 33 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 3 2 2 4 4 1 0 0 16 1 1 1 0 4 0 0 1 8 0 5 8 4 4 1 2 3 27 Port 2 7 3 2 7 1 0 0 22 1 4 2 0 6 0 0 2 15 0 5 10 2 4 3 3 3 30 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 97 30 90 112 44 102 66 198 62 122 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by pensioner Kathryn Mobley Kaufman of Sacramento, Calif. It was taken in October 1956 aboard the SS Mariposa en route to Tahiti. The Mariposa was the first American passenger ship to hire women as waitresses in the dining room for its first-class passengers. Sister Kaufman notes that the vessel made the six-week South Pacific run for 22 years until its final voyage in 1978. She retired in April 1985. Some of the other women pictured at right, whose names Sister Kaufman can still remember, include Alma Becker, Terry Strom, Ginger Gingeroski, Ray Lange, Ann Wynn, Bobby Faust, Anna Perosi, Bea Anderson, Helen Dalrymple, Lorraine Torres, Beth Denton, Sharon Sheldon and Kathy Reynolds. 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. January 2005 �26035_P01,4,9,15,16,17.qxd 12/22/2004 1:42 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 FERNANDO AGUILAR, 65, was born in Honduras and began working for the SIU in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Aguilar initially shipped aboard the Alcoa Trader as a member of the engine department. He upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. in 2000. Brother Aguilar last went to sea on the Global Mariner. He lives in his native country. ROBERTO BENDECK, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in New Orleans. Brother Bendeck first sailed aboard a vessel owned by Seatrain Lines. The steward department member’s last voyage was on the Liberty Star. Brother Bendeck was born in Honduras and now calls Metairie, La. home. DOYLE CORNELIUS, 64, embarked on his seafaring career in 1973 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Cornelius first shipped on Delta Steamship Lines’ Santa Mariana. He completed steward recertification training in 1987 and LNG recertification in 1997, both at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cornelius was born in Kansas. He most recently sailed aboard the Liberty Grace. The steward department member makes his home in Reno, Nev. JOSEPH DUNNAM, 65, became a Seafarer in 1964 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Dunnam worked primarily on Waterman Steamship vessels such as the Topa Topa and the Atlantic Forest. Born in Mississippi, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Dunnam upgraded his skills numerous times at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Leakesville, Miss. OMER A. OMER, 63, hails from Arabia. Brother Omer began his profession with the SIU in 1968 in New York, initially sailing aboard the Alcoa Explorer. The engine department member went to the union’s affiliated school in 2001 to enhance his skills. Brother Omer’s last ship was the Horizon Hawaii. He calls Brooklyn, N.Y. home. EDUARDO PEREIRA, 70, started his seafaring career in 1970 in New Orleans. Brother Pereira, who was born in Brazil, shipped as a member of the engine department. He first worked on Waterman Steamship’s Fairport. Brother Pereira upgraded his skills in 2000 and again in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. His last voyage was aboard the USNS Pollux. Brother Pereira makes his home in Marrero, La. DAVID REGISTER, 64, joined the union in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Register, who was born in Seagate, N.C., shipped primarily on Cape Fear Towing vessels. The engine department member currently resides in Wilmington, N.C. EDDIE WILLIAMS, 62, hails from Parris Island, S.C. Boatman Williams joined the Seafarers in 1974 in Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Navy. He sailed with Crowley Towing of Jacksonville, as a captain until his retirement. Boatman Williams was a frequent upgrader at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He calls Green Cove Springs, Fla. home. INLAND CHARLES SPRINGLE, 65, initiated his SIU career in 1989 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Springle first worked aboard a vessel operated by Steuart Transportation as a member of the deck department. Prior to retiring, he shipped with Penn Maritime. Boatman Springle lives in his native state. MOHAMED NASSIR, 66, launched his seafaring profession in 1970 in Detroit. Born in Arabia, his first ship was the Hennepin. Brother Nassir shipped in the engine department, most recently aboard the Southdown Challenger. He upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2003. Brother Nassir currently lives in Detroit. MITCHELL KILLIAN, 61, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1980 in New York. Boatman Killian worked as a member of the deck department. The Texas-born mariner’s first trip to sea was aboard the Seabulk Tanker. Boatman Killian last went to sea on a vessel owned by Higman Barge Lines. He is a resident of Orange, Texas. RICHARD MOSELEY, 62, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1996 in the port of Houston. Boatman Moseley initially worked on a G&H Towing Co. vessel, but later shipped primarily with Moran Towing of Texas. In 2001 the deck department member upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school. Boatman Moseley was born in Plant City, Fla. and now lives in Houston. WILLIAM WATTIGNEY, 60, became a Seafarer in 1966 in New Orleans, shipping primarily on Cresent Towing vessels. Boatman Wattigney was born in California and sailed as a member of the deck department. He is a New Orleans resident. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 The membership voted overwhelmingly for a resolution that authorized the election of a committee to investigate the possibilities and advisability of establishing an upgrading school in the port of New Orleans. The membership felt very strongly that the union should establish and operate its own training schools rather than have schools controlled and operated by the government. GREAT LAKES 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. Name Age EDP Cruz, Angel 58 Nov. 1 Gonzalez, Ramon 62 Oct. 1 Rivera, Alberto 65 Dec. 1 Valentin, Teodoro 58 Nov. 1 Zander, Stephen Dec. 1 65 exceeding $8,200,000, of which $5,200,000 is invested in government bonds and top grade stocks. 1994 Within hours after an emergency call went out that an oil barge had run aground and was leaking, Seafarers were stringing containment booms and crewing tugboats and skimmers to sweep the petroleum before it reached the beaches of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Around 4 a.m. on January 7, the barge Morris J. Berman broke loose from its line to the tugboat Emily S. and drifted onto a coral reef approximately 300 yards from the beaches that serve some of San Juan’s best-known hotels. The barge was loaded with 1.54 million gallons of heavy number 6 bunker oil. Several of the barge’s holds ripped open, sending its contents toward the shore. Among the first people called out to handle the crisis were Seafarers working for Crowley Maritime. SIU members sprang into action by deploying containment booms around environmentally sensitive areas. This Month In SIU History 1960 S January 2005 D A P During the next two weeks the combined benefits paid out to Seafarers and their families under the Welfare and Vacation Plans will pass the $20 million mark. As of December 18, 1959, the total benefits amount to $19,822,218.45. Of this, more than $7 million represents welfare benefit items with the remaining $12,750,000 coming under the Vacation Plan. The Welfare Plan started functioning in July 1950 and the Vacation Plan in February 1952. In addition, the latest formal report showed total assets of the two plans now Seafarers LOG 17 �26035_P3_5,18.qxd 12/17/2004 12:21 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA DONALD AVERILL Pensioner Donald Averill, 87, died Oct. 26. Brother Averill was a charter member of the SIU, having joined the union in 1939, initially sailing with M. J. Troy Inc. The deck department member was born in Boston, Mass. Prior to retirement in 1979, Brother Averill worked aboard the Sea-Land Resource. He resided in his native state. LIBARDO CIFUENTES Pensioner Libardo Cifuentes, 80, passed away Sept. 1. Born in South America, Brother Cifuentes began his SIU career in 1969 in the port of Houston. His first voyage was on the OMI Sacramento, on which he worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Cifuentes last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Atlantic. He went on pension in 1989 and called Houston home. port of New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first ship was the Oremar; his last was the SeaLand Independence. Brother Kleimola, who was born in Michigan, was a resident of Las Vegas. The deck department member began collecting his pension in 1995. Aug. 19. Brother Turpin joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Air Force. His first ship was the Montpelier Victory; his last was the Sea-Land Patriot. Brother Turpin was born in England and sailed as a member of the deck department. He went on pension the 1987 and was a resident of San Diego, Calif. WALTER MITCHELL Pensioner Walter Mitchell, 84, died Oct. 7. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Mitchell began sailing with the SIU in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard the Alcoa Pointer. Born in Philadelphia, Brother Mitchell was a member of the engine department. He last worked on the Gulf Merchant and began receiving retirement stipends in 1986. Brother Mitchell called Brazoria, Texas home. LLOYD PALMER INLAND WILLIAM CALLAHAN Boatman William Callahan, 70, passed away Oct. 17. He joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Boatman Callahan initially shipped aboard a Dixie Carriers vessel. The U.S. Army veteran worked in the deck department, most recently with Crowley Towing of Jacksonville, Fla. Born in Burlington, Mass., he made his home in Jacksonville. Brother Dennis Coleman, 69, died Sept. 28. He joined the union in 2000 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Coleman worked as a member of the steward department. His first trip to sea was aboard the Global Link. Brother Coleman’s most recent voyage was on the APL Korea. He was born in Freeport, N.Y. and made his home in Hawthorne, Calif. Pensioner Lloyd Palmer, 71, passed away Aug. 20. Born in Mobile, Ala., Brother Palmer first donned the SIU colors in 1987 in the port of Mobile. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Brother Palmer, who worked in the steward department, initially sailed on the USNS Dutton; his last trip to sea was on the Sea-Land Newark Bay. Brother Palmer began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1999 and lived in his native state. CARLOS FIGUEROA RUPERTO PERALTA Pensioner Carlos Figueroa, 78, passed away Aug. 21. Brother Figueroa began his seafaring career in 1969 in the port of New York. He first sailed on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Figueroa’s last ship was the San Juan. The deck department member was born in Manati, P.R. and retired in 1990. Brother Figueroa lived in Manhattan, N.Y. Pensioner Ruperto Peralta, 78, died Oct. 9. Brother Peralta embarked on his SIU career in 1973. The U.S. Navy veteran worked in the steward department. Brother Peralta’s first voyage was on the Sea-Land Pittsburgh. He was born in the Philippines and made his home in San Diego, Calif. Before retiring in 1993, Brother Peralta went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Defender. Pensioner Alton Douglas Jr., 69, passed away Oct. 27. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Douglas joined the SIU in 1958 in New Orleans. He first sailed aboard an Allied Towing vessel in the deck department and most recently sailed as a captain. He worked with Dixie Carriers prior to retiring in 2000. Boatman Douglas resided in his native state. EDWIN GAMBREL CHESTER SPINKS HENRY DUDLEY Pensioner Edwin Gambrel, 51, died Sept. 24. Brother Gambrel began his SIU career in 1973 in the port of Houston. He initially shipped on the Zapata Rover in the deck department. Brother Gambrel’s last voyage was aboard the Liberty Wave. He was born in Mobile, Ala. and continued to reside there. Brother Gambrel went on pension in 2002. Pensioner Chester Spinks, 88, passed away July 16. Brother Spinks commenced his seafaring career in 1946 in New Orleans. The Alabama-born mariner shipped mainly aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. vessels. He first sailed aboard the Phillip Barbara; his last ship was the John Taylor. Brother Spinks was a veteran of the U.S. Army and worked in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1976. Brother spinks called Brewton, Ala. home. DENNIS COLEMAN WILLIAM KLEIMOLA Pensioner William Kleimola, 77, passed away Sept. 9. Brother Kleimola joined the Seafarers International Union in 1951 in the 18 Seafarers LOG RICHARD TURPIN Pensioner Richard Turpin, 85, died in the U.S. Army. Born in North Carolina, he shipped in the deck department, initially aboard a Southern Carriers Corp. vessel. Boatman Furman’s last trip was with Allied Transportation Co. He went on pension in 2000 and lived in Windsor, Va. CALVIN WAGNER Pensioner Calvin Wagner, 78, died July 17. Boatman Wagner joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Houston. The U.S. Army veteran shipped primarily on G&H Towing vessels. Boatman Wagner was a member of the engine department. He was born in Moulton, Texas and resided in Webster, Texas. Boatman Wagner began receiving his retirement stipends in 1989. GREAT LAKES HAROLD ASPSETER, SR. Pensioner Harold Aspseter Sr., 91, passed away Oct. 21. Brother Aspseter joined the ranks of the SIU in 1960 in Detroit. He worked primar- IVIE DANIELS Pensioner Ivie Daniels, 94, died Oct. 30. Boatman Daniels embarked on his seafaring career in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. Born in North Carolina, he first worked on a Wheeling Steel Corp. vessel. Boatman Daniels shipped in the deck department as a captain. Before retiring in 1984, he sailed on the Charles H. Harper. Boatman Daniels made his home in Glen Burnie, Md. ALTON DOUGLAS JR. Pensioner Henry Dudley, 78, died Oct. 13. Boatman Dudley started his SIU career in 1960 in the port of Houston, initially shipping on a Wheeling Steel Corp. vessel. He was born in Galveston, Texas and last went to sea aboard a G&H Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Dudley started receiving his pension in 1991 and called Santa Fe, Texas home. JOHN FURMAN Pensioner John Furman, 66, passed away Oct. 1. Boatman Furman began his seafaring career in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving ily aboard vessels owned by American Steamship Co. Born in South Dakota, Brother Aspseter was a member of the deck department. He started collecting retirement compensation in 1978 and lived in Wisconsin. THOMAS FORGRAVE Pensioner Thomas Forgrave, 62, died Oct. 22. Brother Forgrave was born in Michigan and began his seafaring career there in 1966. The U.S. Army veteran initially shipped aboard a vessel owned by Dunbar & Sullivan. Brother Forgrave, who worked in the deck department, most recently shipped aboard a Luedtke Engineering vessel. He retired in 2004 and made his home in Bay Mills, Mich. EUGENE SVERCL Pensioner Eugene Svercl, 78, passed away Sept. 26. Brother Svercl started his career with the union in 1960 in Toledo, Ohio, initially sailing with American Steamship Co. The deck department member was born in Owatonna, Minn. Brother Svercl last sailed aboard the Saint Clair. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 1986 and called Sandstone, Minn. 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. NAME Bayliss, William Bellaflores, Luis Bellevue, Alexander Borowick, Frank Brooks, Stanley Bush, Alfred Colantino, Peter Coleman, Chancy Colon, Angel DeJan, Byron Ebanks, Hale Ebanks, Royal Eden, Terencio Fonseca, Antonio Hickey, Edward Johnson, Lonnie Kafantaris, Marios Kitagawa, Henley Kowal, Michael Leslie, Wilton MacLean, James Martinez, Antonio Mather, Leon Matute, Teodoro McDonald, Jose Pagan, Juan Polanco, Cesar Raines, Herbert Riley, James Rivera, Francisco Santana, Guadalupe Sigmon, William Snead, John Vega, Paul Waddell, James Wiley, Clyde Williams, James AGE 80 88 96 77 77 76 88 77 87 69 71 95 61 78 88 84 93 88 87 84 93 85 91 87 91 78 83 82 82 84 76 83 90 78 77 78 86 DOD Oct. 3 Sept. 20 Oct. 7 Aug. 4 July 15 Oct. 9 Oct. 5 Aug. 22 Aug. 19 Sept. 3 Sept. 14 Sept. 11 Oct. 16 Sept. 13 Aug. 1 July 29 Aug. 16 July 22 Oct. 11 Sept. 15 Sept.20 Sept. 16 Oct. 21 July 27 Sept. 17 May 18 Sept. 30 Aug. 30 Sept. 17 Oct. 22 Sept. 18 Aug. 7 Oct. 5 Aug. 16 Aug. 11 Oct. 8 July 5 January 2005 �26035_P10,19.qxd 12/15/2004 11:42 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), Oct. 28—Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Educational Director Geoffrey L. James, Deck Delegate Mark E. Pesola, Engine Delegate Ahmed S. Salim, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Chairman thanked watchstanders for excellent job securing ship. He noted everyone has been good about preventing accidents by using safety gear on deck. He asked crew to use portside door to access stern while in port and reminded members about upgrading facilities at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Educational director expressed appreciation for new treadmill and microwave oven for crew use. Treasurer stated $200 being put aside monthly for DVDs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Special thanks given to Steward Amasha for excellent salad bar, baked cookies, breads and cakes. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Treasurer reported zero balance in ship’s fund; money was used to purchase souvenir shirts and hats for crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested by engine department on overtime. Request made to provide chair on bridge for watchstanders. Crew thanked steward department for providing excellent meals during trip. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Sulphur Carriers), Oct. 31— Chairman Thames H. Solomon, Secretary Nee Tran, Educational Director Antenor O. Linares, Deck Delegate Tibby L. Clotter, Steward Delegate Jose R. Norales. Secretary reminded departing crew members to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade whenever possible at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to improve medical and pension plans and increase crew wages. Crew requested refrigerator in every room. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Galveston, Texas. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Nov. 7—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary James N. Brockington, Educational Director Edmund H. Hawkins Jr., Deck Delegate Gavino Octaviano, Engine Delegate Cecilio A. Banga, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia. Chairman informed crew of payoff Nov. 13 in Tacoma, Wash. He reminded crew there would be no shore leave until ship cleared customs and immigration. Coast Guard fire and boat drill to be held Nov. 16 in Oakland, Calif. Secretary notified crew of sanitary inspection Nov. 11 and requested everyone to return videos to locker prior to arrival. Educational director encouraged everyone to be completely truthful when applying for new z-card. Security is very strict. Current courses available at Paul Hall Center posted on notice board; crew urged to take a look. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letters from Seafarers Health & Benefits Plan and from Tacoma port agent read and posted on notice board. Vote of thanks given to steward department for keeping interior of ship clean and for good meals. Thanks also given to Tacoma and Oakland shoregangs for assistance in port. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong. ENDURANCE (USSM), Nov. 9— Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Carlos R. Bonilla, Engine Delegate Wade T. Rudolph, Steward Delegate Carlito S. Navarro. Chairman expressed gratitude to crew members he has worked with during his stay on the Endurance. Secretary thanked Seafarers for keeping common areas clean. Educational director emphasized importance of enhancing skills at union’s affiliated school in Piney Point and contributing to SPAD regularly. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (OSG Management), Nov. 20—Chairman Clyde C. Smith, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Ronnie L. Bond, Deck Delegate Floyd Patterson, Engine Delegate Raul O. Giron, Steward Delegate Leoncio A. Castro. Chairman announced arrival Nov. 22 in New Orleans with payoff same day. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding lowering seatime and age requirements to qualify for pension. Next Security Aboard Ship At the gangway, AB Amir Kasim signs crew members and visitors on and off the LNG Libra while in port. January 2005 ports: Quito, Ecuador; Portland, Ore. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Alaska Tanker Company), Nov. 19—Chairman Tim D. Koebel, Secretary Sean O’Malley, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Gatman, Engine Delegate Antonio N. Liboon, Steward Delegate Johnson Ashun. Chairman spoke of need to vote in SIU elections by Dec. 31 and informed members that when ship is in port, Tacoma (Wash.) SIU hall would provide transportation, if needed. Educational director asked crew to get jump-start on renewing documents and to return DVDs when finished viewing them. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letters from headquarters read responding to last month’s written resolutions and motions. Crew appreciates quick response. Suggestions made regarding vacation pay. Chairman pointed out necessity of having room cleanliness sheets signed by bosun or steward. Thanks given to DEU Bakr Elbana for outstanding sanitary work. Crew also thanked Capt. David Arze for new wide screen TV in crew lounge. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska; Cherry Point, Wash.; Tacoma. RICHARD C. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding), Nov. 3— Chairman Dana Maze, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Thomas S. Scubinna, Engine Delegate Jose J. Irigoyen, Steward Delegate Thomas K. Gingerich. Chairman reviewed various aspects of dental coverage as specified in contract. Bosun discussed importance of SIU elections and urged every full book member to vote. While ship is in Long Beach, Calif., somebody will pick up those wishing to vote and take them to Wilmington union hall. He also explained absentee ballot procedures. Secretary asked crew to clean lint filters before and after drying clothes for fire safety purposes. Educational director advised members to start renewal process of MMDs at least six months in advance. Treasurer stated $150 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held on new health network and LMSR contracts on Bob Hope class vessels. Suggestions made regarding improvement of medical, dental and prescription benefits. Vote of thanks to 1st Engineer Dave Daly for installing satellite dish and to steward department for great job. Next ports: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Cherry Point, Wash.; Long Beach and Crockett, Calif. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Tankers), Nov. 9—Chairman Juan Castillo, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Charles J. Walker, Deck Delegate Marshall Turner, Engine Delegate Abdulhamid Mosa, Steward Delegate Kim Gardner. Chairman informed crew that patrolman will come aboard in Anacortes, Wash. to review and resolve past and current issues. Crew members were advised to pay dues at that time. Secretary reported smooth trip and thanked everyone for helping keep mess hall and house clean. He praised Chief Cook Gardner and steward department for great food. He said Rolando Alonzo was best GVA he has had in his time aboard vessel. Educational director advised Seafarers not to let documents expire; to do so would mean they would have to take all exams over. (Editor’s note: To renew tankerman assistant, one must show proof of being involved in two loadings and/or discharges.) No disputed OT; beefs reported in engine and steward departments. Communication received from union on SIU elections was posted in crew mess hall for all to read. Recommendation made to lower age requirement in order to qualify for pension. Thanks given to chief steward for sharing his DVDs. Next ports: Anacortes; Kenai, Alaska; Barber’s Point, Hawaii. SEABULK CHALLENGE (Seabulk Tankers), Nov. 9—Chairman Harold L. Sebring, Secretary Timothy J. Dowd, Educational Director Randolph E. Scott, Engine Delegate Walter V. Bagby, Steward Delegate Heath G. man Franz C. Eder, Secretary Edgardo H. Ong, Educational Director Katherine A. Craig, Deck Delegate Mike Bay. Chairman discussed company switch from Dyn Marine to Horizon Lines. He reported ship in good condition and expressed gratitude to MSC for smooth turnover. Secretary noted ship would be getting additional coffee and milk due to increased crew size. Educational director stated educational videos available for members to watch on their own time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for reimbursement of safety shoes. Discussion held about new contract. LNG Libra Crew Members Go Ashore Recertified Bosun Frank Hedge (right) and AB Dave Burnham sign out to catch the launch and go ashore in Bontang, Indonesia. Bryan. Chairman informed crew of receipt of communication from union headquarters about questions raised at last shipboard meeting. He thanked everyone for help during recent safety audit and inspections. Secretary urged members to look into taking new safety course offered at Piney Point and advised them to check expiration dates on all documents. “Expired documents means no work.” Educational director noted that renewal process takes time because of new background check procedures. He advised them to have all possible documents at hand to help speed things up. Treasurer stated safety award money used to install new satellite aboard vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on wages paid in lieu of time off. Special thanks given to steward department for wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla.; Texas City, Texas. TONSINA (Alaska Tanker Company), Nov. 7—Chairman Chris J. Kicey, Secretary Ken Mitchell, Educational Director Anthony R. Hulsey, Deck Delegate Bobby P. Belches, Steward Delegate David Vaughn. Chairman announced arrival Nov. 8 in Long Beach, Calif. and departure for Martinez, Calif. two days later. Educational director advised crew members to take advantage of opportunities available at Paul Hall Center to enhance their education. He encouraged them to apply for and renew documents early and spoke about the importance of contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested by engine delegate regarding performing maintenance work while on cargo watch. Suggestion made to lower number of days needed for retirement. Crew thanked Chief Cook Vaughn for his hard work and great food and wished him good luck on next ship. USNS BRUCE C. HEEZEN (Horizon Lines), Nov. 5—Chair- HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), Nov. 3—Chairman Steve L. Bush, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Keith L. Jordan Sr., Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan, Engine Delegate Nabil Ahmed, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. Chairman discussed importance of donating to SPAD. He asked crew to check in with customs and immigration and make sure rooms are clean and supplied with fresh linen before leaving ship. Secretary encouraged members to take advantage of courses offered at Piney Point. He also advised them to keep all documents and drug tests current. Educational director reminded crew to check pay vouchers and not to forget STCW training. Treasurer reported $255 in ship’s fund and $264 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Following reading of president’s report from Seafarers LOG, crew gave vote of thanks to President Sacco and his staff for a job well done. Captain congratulated crew on successful sanitary inspection. Everyone asked to keep noise down while others are resting. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam; Hong Kong; Taiwan. USNS MARY SEARS (Horizon Lines), Nov. 18—Chairman Samuel Duah, Secretary Dennis Hunt, Educational Director Darlene Brooks, Deck Delegate Harlan K. Hulst, Engine Delegate Ryan M. Reedy, Steward Delegate Marvin T. Brooks. Chairman advised crew members to read Horizon/SIU contract. Secretary in process of signing everybody onto ship’s payroll. Educational director advised Seafarers to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. No beefs reported; steward delegate requested clarification on overtime opportunities available for MDRs. Request made for extra copies of crew list roster and ship’s minutes forms. Crew members discussed contract items. Seafarers LOG 19 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 12:27 PM Page 20 Know Your Rights At Work and Play on the Seabulk Mariner At left, AB Albert Mensah Jr. stands aboard a spider rig to give a fresh coat of paint to the no smoking sign on the Seabulk Mariner’s house. The 601-ft. Seabulk Mariner is one of seven petroleum product carriers in the Seabulk Tanker fleet. Built in 1998, the double-hull tanker, which runs coastwise, has a capacity to carry 342,040 barrels of petroleum products. 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. Bosun Ramon Castro (left) directs loading operations while AB Daniel Vasquez (above) stands watch. 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 Break time is just long enough for a quick game of dominoes. The players are Bosun Ramon Castro, AB Matilde Zuniga, AB Daniel Vasquez and OMU Nestor Ramirez. Performing some routine maintenance is Chief Pumpman Oscar Garcia. 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 1/05 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. January 2005 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 10:40 AM Page 21 Union Plus Offers Online Tax Service Union Plus gives SIU members and their families access to a number of cost-saving benefits programs. A new online tax service has been added to the list of programs being offered, beginning the first quarter of 2005, to assist SIU members with filing their income tax returns. Union Plus (formerly Union Privilege) is a non-profit entity created in 1986 by the AFL-CIO to provide union members and their families with valuable consumer benefits. Basically, the organization secures good rates for union members who are enrolled in the various programs, based on the potential collective purchasing power of all members of participating unions. In short, it’s a case of strength in numbers. Below is a summary of the latest benefit, which will provide a low-cost Internet-based tax preparation program for union members and their families. preparation are the computer programs do the math and check for obvious errors like missing information, so there are fewer mistakes on the return. Additionally, e-Filing provides a more rapid refund. Overview „ The online tax preparation and filing for both federal and state returns will cost $21.95. This compares favorably to the competition, which ranges anywhere from $39.99 to $52.95. The filing will be free for individuals with Adjusted Gross Incomes of less than $25,000. „ Members will not be bothered by the promotion of other financial services, including rapid refund loans, which, for a substantial fee, may save only two Many consumers either prepare their own returns or go to tax preparation companies. With the increased use of the computer and Internet, many more individuals who prepare their taxes themselves are opting to use an electronic tax preparation system and file their returns via the Internet. For the 2003 tax year, about 22 percent of individual returns were filed electronically. The advantages of electronic tax Program Provider Union Privilege has selected Dennis G. Jenkins, CPA to provide the program’s service. He will use a website developed by CCH Incorporated to provide the web-based tax service for the Union Plus Online Tax Service. CCH is the leading provider of tax and business law information and software for tax preparation professionals. The company was founded in 1913 and has been providing web-based tax services directly to consumers for five years. Many tax preparation professionals use CCH software to file taxes for their clients. Program Features 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 weeks. „ Members are not charged until they either file or print their returns. How the Program Works The program will be available only through the Internet. Members will log onto the Union Plus Tax Service at www.unionplus.org/taxes. They will then be directed to a Union Plus branded tax preparation site provided by CCH. Once on the site, members will log in and enter their income tax information from their W-2s, 1099s and other tax forms. The entry process is an interview where the program walks the member through the filing process by asking appropriate questions (e.g., did you purchase a house this year?). Once the data is entered, it is placed in the appropriate tax return line. Members will be able to save information and start again later, so they do not have to complete their returns all at one time. Yearto-year information also is saved, so members will be able to import information from a prior year’s returns. For each step there is an extensive online help system that answers many questions the member may have about a particular line on the tax form. If the member has a particular question not answered by the help system, he or she may either e-mail the question to CCH with a 24-hour turn-around for a response at no cost, or chat directly online with a CCH customer service representative for $4.95 per session. At the end of the process, the program checks to ensure all the information needed is correct. A Other Savings Programs Provided by Union Plus Credit Card Apply online at www.unionpluscard.com or call 1-800-5224000. January 2005 Auto Insurance For comparison quotes, go to www.unionplus.org or call 1-800294-9496 to apply. Education Services Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-877-881-1022. College Scholarship For more details, call 1-301431-5404. Secured Credit Card Call 1-800-622-2580. Term Life Insurance Call 1-800-899-2782. Health Savings Call 1-800-228-3523 for more details. For more information about Union Plus Programs, visit www.unionplus.org. April 15, 2005 Is the Scholarship Deadline No matter what your qualifications or needs are, no one can be awarded an SIU scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan by April 15. That leaves three months in which to apply for one of the eight scholarships being given out this year—so don’t put it off any longer. First, obtain a scholarship program booklet which spells out eligibility requirements and procedures for applying. It also includes a copy of the application form. You may get the booklet in any SIU hall or by requesting one from the Scholarship Program of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The application form is very straightforward. But the entire application package contains a number of additional items that must accompany the form and may take a little time to collect. They include: 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 and SAT or ACT results. Three of the scholarships are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. Additionally, five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of eligible Seafarers 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. page with possible errors is displayed with links back to the appropriate spot to correct the information. Once ready to file, the member may print out the return and mail it directly to the IRS and their state authority or file the return electronically. Refunds may be direct-deposited to a checking or savings account or sent via a check. The return will continue to be available throughout the year if the member needs to refer back for any reason. If you sent in an application form in 2004 and were not selected for one of the scholarships, you should try again this year. P lease send me the 2005 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner’s Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address __________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 1/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 10:59 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 656 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 656 (from left, standing) Michael Warner, William Burdette, Stephen Morris, Ronald Stump, Jarret Leask, Frank Muellersman, Stephen Cooper, Robert Morrison, Damaine Thorne, Gabriel Santa, Andre Robinson, Ariel Lopez-Albino, Benjamin Clark, Timothy Watson, (kneeling, from left) Huey Napier, George Phillips, James Ruffin, Mitchell Jordan, Ronald Whitlow and their instructor, Ben Cusic. Small Arms — Nov. 19 was graduation day for those in the small arms training class. They are (in alphabetical order) Richard Avila, Kevin Craigie, David Eller, Barney George, Ernesto Girau, Lionel Hall, Christopher Jackson, Carlos Llanos, Jeremy Martinez, Daniel McFarland, Stefon Otey, Jamal Ricks and Jervona Vorise. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Advanced Fire Fighting— Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Oct. 22 are (in alphabetical order) Michael Copple, Joseph Dupre, Bradley Flowers, Raymond Hotchkiss, Joshua Kirk, Kevin Koch, Tina Lester, Donivan McCants, Michael Merrell, Willie Myrick, George Peters, Steven Richards, Oscar Swangin and Michael Widmark. Government Vessels — Completing the government vesses course Nov. 26 are unlicensed apprentices (in alphabetical order) Michael Broadway, Nicholas Fleming, John Frey, William Hunt, Cleveland Lewis, Sean Mitchell, James Nickerson, Norman Rodriguez, Derek Rye, Martin Simmons and Nigel Williams. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, is at far left. ARPA — Earning their ARPA certificates Nov. 19 are (from left) Mike Smith (instructor), Clifford Lattish, Justin Von Sprecken, Christopher Waldo, Ronel Guerzon and Kreg Stiebben. Medical Care Provider — Under the instruction of Jennifer Lankford (not pictured) are Nov. 5 graduates of the medical care provider course. They are (from the left) Brian Miller, Ian Ferguson, Jerome Wong and Lawrence Richardson. Radar — Earning their radar endorsements Nov. 10 are (from left) Mike Smith (instructor), Justin VonSprecken, Kreg Stiebben, Steven Kroner, Ronel Guerzon, Clifford Lattish and Christopher Chikwere. Computer Lab Classes Instructor Rick Prucha (standing at far right) congratulates students for their accomplishments in the computer lab. Seated (from the left) are Donivan McCants, Kirk Fisher and Jared Blavat. Standing (from the left) are Wardell Paze, Steve Richards Kevin Koch and Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG GMDSS — Completing their GMDSS training Nov. 5 are (from left) Brad Wheeler (instructor), Joel Fahselt Henry Gamp, Christopher Waldo, Peter Wojcikowski, William McLaughlin and Jared Blavat. Culinary Classes — Working in the culinary lab are (from left, front row) Paul Armstrong (chief cook), Glenn Toledo (chief steward), Adele George (chief steward), (back row) Frederick Gilbert (chief cook), Brandy Parmer (chief cook), and Paul Hall Center employees Paul Gelrud, David Potter and Robert Johnson. January 2005 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 11:16 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Lifeboatman/Water Survival — With instructor Tony Sevilla (far right) are Nov. 5 graduates or the water survival course (in alphabetical order) Laurent Abad, James Benefield, Ryan Burrows, Andres Cruz, James Footer, Diana House, Greg Karr, Art Rogers, Elaine Watts and Velicia Williams. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given Nov. 19 to (in alphabetical order) Grey Hann, Charles Jones, Yuriy Khitrenko, Dan Marcus, Aaron Matuszuy, Gerardo Vega and John Watson. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is third from left. Celestial Navigation — Graduating from the celestial navigation course Oct. 22 are (in no specific order) Darryl Alexander, Johnie Chavis, Steve Randle, Jared Blavat, Peter Wojcikowski, Tzvetan Ovalov and Brian Miller. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, is at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Nov. 19: Jeannette Aguon, Christopher Amarillo, Jennifer Ancheta, Patrick Apa, Yolanda Arceo, Roeno Babaan, Matthew Baptist, Michael Blas, Robert Bordallo, Fred Buckley, Esperanza Bugarin, Josephine Calaguas, Joao Coentro, Erano Cortez, Steven Cruz, Kimberly Dale, Emilio DeLeon, Donta Drake, Willy Duenas, Kathleen Edayan and Joshua Esau. STCW — Nov. 19: Edward Mendiola, Kenneth Mills, Herminia Molina, Timothy Moses, Jezabel Narvaez, Matthew Nelson, Daniel Nickerson, Angela Ohelo, Francisco Ortega, Patrick Pablo, Jake Palacios, Madelon Parrillo, Lyn Pimauna, Edgar Quejado, Peter Quenga, Erik Raker, Angelo Ramat, Jennifer Ramirez, Anthony Rauch, Joycelynn Rivera and Robert Rivers. Their instructor, Mike Daras, is at far left. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Nov. 12 from instructors Stacey Harris (far left) and Herb Walling (far right) are SIU member Nicasio Arzu (second from right) and unlicensed apprentices (in alphabetical order) Richard Avila, Ernest Cannon, Kevin Craigie, Vincent Deguzman, David Eller, Matt Faber, Barney George, Lionel Hall, Christopher Jackson, Carlos Llanos, Daniel McFarland, Stefon Otey, Miles Partridge, Jeffrey Raum and Ronald Williams. January 2005 STCW — Nov. 19: Dennis Essen, Derrick Francis, Larry Green, Natalie Grimaldi, Jerrick Guerrero, Andy Gutierrez, Andre Holcom, James Hunt, Lilani Itliong, Ernesto Javier, Carlton Knight, Moana Lane, Jill Latza, Diana Laureano, Villamore Leones, Crisanto Leonor Jr., Joseph Licup, Edgar Malaga, Edgardo Manahan and Connie McComas. STCW — Nov. 19: Shirley Roberts, Lynn Rolland, Rustico Rosales, Katy Rupp, Jacob Sablan, Abdulmoghni Said, Lisa Salmans, Nathan Santos, Jennifer Sieczka, Bethany Tarantino, Tiffany Terrell, Richard Toliver, Manuel Trillana, Hidelisa Tunac, Francisco Valdez, Rommel Valdez, Benjamin Vogel and Jason Yets. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Graduating from this course Nov. 5 are (in no particular order) Cleveland Lewis, Nigel Williams, Anthony Clark, Richard Murray II, Derik Rye, James Nickerson, Adam Soto, Michael Broadway, Christopher Samuel, Sean Mitchell, William Hunt, John Frey, Clark Howard, Maurice Perry, Robin Bourgeois, Aaron Ford, Craig Artice , Todd Gallagher, Martin Simmons Jr., Norman Rodriguez, Nick Fleming and Chris Eide. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Seafarers LOG 23 �26035_P2, 6_8, 11_14, 20_24.qxd 12/15/2004 11:26 AM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 1 H G January 2005 p C f 1 -1 1 f o 2 t l 2004 in Review Job Growth, Sealift Efforts, Good Contracts Highlight Another Strong Year for Seafarers For the SIU, the year 2004 was packed with important news and substantial progress. Seafarers began the year by mobilizing for the second phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom’s sealift component; they finished 2004 by activating for OIF3. In so doing, they reliably supported our troops and strongly upheld their role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. When it came to new shipboard job opportunities, the union once again had no shortage of gains. Among all the additions, NCL America’s Pride of Aloha garnered the most headlines, as it signaled the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. Less obviously, but also with great significance, the union negotiated contracts that unfailingly included top-of-the-line medical benefits at affordable rates. Given the dismal state of health insurance costs across the country, the SIU’s steady victories at the bargaining table arguably were remarkable in their consistency. “This is a great time for our union,” noted SIU President Michael Sacco. “We made a lot of progress in the past 12 months and I’m looking forward to another good year with the support of the membership. What we’ve accomplished has happened because of teamwork—a team that cares about the issues and gets things done.” Following is a look back at some of the highlights from 2004. New Ships, More Jobs Christened in Honolulu on Independence Day, the Pride of Aloha marked a milestone in the U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry’s rebirth. The first of three such ships planned by NCL America, the Pride of Aloha set sail in July and offers seven-day, round-trip Hawaii itineraries. The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education added and refined courses pertaining to shipboard security. The SIU participated in domestic and international forums on security, including extensive involvement in the U.S. Coast Guard’s Area Maritime Security Committees. The 9/11 Commission Report identified need to invest in maritime security. The Apostleship of the Sea worked to improve potentially dangerous and often unnecessary restrictions on mariners’ shoreleave rights. ITF Throughout the year, Seafarers sailed aboard U.S.-flag ships in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Here, the SIU-crewed Westward Venture loads materiel in Anchorage, Alaska. with newer ones in the U.S. Maritime Security Program; Waterman is doing the same with two of its MSP ships. Further, the SIU maintained jobs on seven surveillance ships when MSC awarded an operating contract to Horizon Lines. Finally, the union won organizing campaigns at Hornblower Marine Services in Philadelphia; Puerto Rico Towing in San Juan; and Laken Shipping LLC in Cleveland. Supporting Our Troops Thousands of Seafarers sailed in OIF2 and OIF3, with dozens of SIU-crewed vessels on the move as of late last month. In one of the more newsworthy missions, five Seafarerscrewed LMSRs loaded out more than 70,000 tons of Army hardware in Antwerp, Belgium for the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division, better known as Big Red One. Additionally, among many other key missions involving Seafarerscrewed military support ships, the Flickertail State delivered critical cargo to U.S. Marines in Haiti. High-level recognition of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s importance was evident throughout the year. Early in 2004, three well respected U.S. military leaders jointly testified before the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee’s Seapower Subcommittee, where they reaffirmed the U.S. Merchant Marine’s importance in national security. Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); Vice Adm. The SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha is the first vessel in NCL David L. Brewer III, USN, commander, Military Sealift America’s fleet. Another is due out this year, with a third sched- Command (MSC); and Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, USA, commanding general, Surface Deployment and Distribution uled to follow in 2006. Command (SDDC—formerly the Military Traffic Management Command), submitted a joint statement to the subcommittee March 10. Chaired by Sen. James Talent (R-Mo.), the That ship was far from the only new SIU-crewed vessel in hearing pertained to a mobility requirements study. 2004. Among other additions were the Liberty Eagle, Liberty Additionally, U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta, Maritime Corp.’s eighth vessel, which transports food shipments U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow and U.S. Maritime overseas; the chemical tanker Charleston, which carries various Administrator Capt. William Schubert emphatically stated the chemicals between U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports; Alaska administration’s support for the U.S. Merchant Marine during Tanker Company’s newly built Alaskan Frontier and Alaskan the Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting in Explorer; and Matson’s new containership Maunawili. Hollywood, Fla. Additionally, construction continued on the first two Lewis Contracts, Benefits and Clark-class ships—T-AKE vessels that will be manned by members of the union’s Government Services Division. Even as health care benefits clearly became the top issue in CIVMARs also welcomed new jobs as the USNS Bridge trans- contracts across the country—for all unions—the SIU secured ferred from commissioned service to the U.S. Military Sealift agreement after agreement that maintained or established good, Command (MSC). affordable coverage along with other gains. New pacts were Adding a new twist to its role as part of the fourth arm of approved at Material Services Corporation, Allied Transdefense, the SIU gained jobs aboard a semi-submersible craft portation, Cape Fear Towing, USS Transport, Keystone Barge, under the direction of the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. Bisso, Moran, Seabulk, and Crescent Towing. In a major maritime development, SIU-contracted operators The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) made two won bids for 11 LMSRs, including the seven Bob Hope ships and bold moves resulting in savings to the Plan and to participants four converted ships. Seafarers-contracted American Overseas while maintaining quality health insurance coverage levels. One Marine Corporation (AMSEA) will be the new operator of nine was an agreement with Prescription Solutions, the other a conLMSRs, including the seven Bob Hope-class ships and two con- tract with First Health Network. verted vessels. SIU-contracted 3PSC, LLC will operate two Benefits conference dates for 2005 were announced, and the other converted LMSRs. MSC announced the bid awards in early SHBP also selected one Seafarer and five SIU dependents for September. scholarships worth a total of $106,000. A protest of the awards delayed the turnover but was not The Plan contracted with new clinics in Charleston, S.C. and expected to change MSC’s original decisions in favor of Boston. AMSEA and 3PSC, respectively. In fact, the government recentThe NMU Welfare Plan merged into the SHBP. Benefits ly upheld the latter award, and a ruling on AMSEA’s contract remained the same, but consolidating their administration saved was expected as this issue of the LOG went to press. money. The Bop Hope ships are the USNS Benavidez, USNS Bob Shipboard and Port Security Hope, USNS Brittin, USNS Fisher, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pililaau and USNS Seay. AMSEA also will operate the USNS Shipboard and port security commanded enough attention to Shughart and USNS Yano, while 3PSC, LLC will operate the write a series of books, but among the most significant developUSNS Gordon and USNS Gilliland. ments were the July 1 implementations of the International Ship Seafarers also experienced upgrades in the form of replace- and Port Facility Security Code as well as the Maritime ment tonnage. Maersk Line, Limited replaced six older ships Transportation Security Act. The SIU remained an active affiliate of the International Transport Workers’ Federation, an organization that fights for workers’ rights around the globe. Among many other activities, SIU ITF inspectors recovered millions of dollars in combined back pay for crew members from the foreign-flag ships Olympia Explorer, Olympia Voyager, Taxiarchis Sierra, Sealight, SafMarine Douala, Alice, Kent Trader and Flinternoord. Rescues, Recognition The Seafarers-crewed Merlin rescued an officer adrift from a stricken vessel near Malta. MSC praised crew members from several SIU-crewed ships for limiting the damage caused by a fire aboard the USNS Shughart overseas. The Resolve received a U.S. Coast Guard award for rescuing two fishermen. SIU members aboard the Tyco Decisive assisted in the grim task of recovering bodies from a water-taxi tragedy that claimed five lives in Baltimore. Other News The industry welcomed long-awaited news that a tonnage tax had been enacted into law, likely helping provide a more level playing field for companies operating U.S.-flag fleets. The SIU joined with other unions in continuing to push for enactment of the Employee Free Choice Act, which protects workers’ rights to choose union representation. Union families provided a big turnout on Election Day in national, state and local elections. The U.S. Merchant Marine was included in the new National World War II Memorial, which officially opened May 29. Members of the American Merchant Marine Veterans lobbied for legislation that would provide monthly payments to mariners who sailed during World War II. The SIU’s Houston hall was refurbished, and a number of improvements also were made to the Paul Hall Center’s already first-rate simulator building. The SIU conducted elections for 27 union offices. In Memoriam The union mourned the loss of far too many individuals who contributed to its progress, including Manuel “Joe” Sigler, former patrolman, port representative and safety director (age 76); Michael E. Swayne, SIU trustee (69); George McCartney, retired vice president West Coast (72); Paul Warren, retired patrolman (91); Rick Reisman, longtime director of the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (57); Roger Boschetti, retired patrolman and business agent (82); Peter Drews, retired patrolman (76); Major Ken Conklin, founder of the Paul Hall Center’s trainee program (86); Jim Malone, Philadelphia port agent (56); Martha Carr, co-director of the SHBP claims department (51); Victor Hanson, a maritime lawyer who assisted the union on a variety of legal matters (80); Ed Turner, retired executive vice president (82); Ike Williams, retired NMU port agent (71); Steve Edney, retired United Industrial Workers national director (87); and Keith Terpe, retired SIU of Puerto Rico president (80). The Pride of Aloha’s christening marked a milestone for the U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry. Welcoming the occasion aboard the ship in Honolulu are Seafarers along with SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right), SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right), SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (third from left). � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES LT. GEN. HUGHEY, STRONG SUPPORTER OF U.S. MARINERS, BIDS FAREWELL TO MARINE CORPS AND U.S. TRANSCOM LT. GEN. DAIL APPOINTED DEPUTY COMMANDER OF KEY DEFENSE AGENCY TANKER ALASKAN EXPLORER CHRISTENED SIU ELECTION RESULTS WILL BE ANNOUNCED MORE SHIPS ROTATE INTO MSP FLEET REPLACEMENT VESSELS GIVE FRESHER LOOK TO U.S.-FLAG FLEET SEAFARER AND RESERVIST APPROACHED BOTH JOBS WITH PRIDE, PATRIOTISM FLIGHT ATTENDANTS LAUNCH NATIONAL CAMPAIGN AGAINST CORPORATE GREED FILIPINO CREW OF FOC SHIP TO TESTIFY ON SAFETY VIOLATIONS PORTLAND HOSTS 2005 EDITION OF UNION INDUSTRIES SHOW SAN FRANCISCO HALL HOSTS HOLIDAY CELEBRATION RUNAWAY-FLAG VESSEL RUNS AGROUND, BREAKS UP NEAR ALASKA;S ALEUTIAN ISLANDS JOB GROWTH, SEALIFT EFFORTS, GOOD CONTRACTS HIGHLIGHT ANOTHER STRONG YEAR FOR SEAFARERS 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 01/01/2005 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. 1 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/92a975eabebffde14b5552721898c9ac.pdf f6551c1de091d0747affea1717be4098 PDF Text Text 25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 4:11 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 12 December 2004 Beck Notice Page 6 More New Jobs Page 2 �25834_P2.4.qxd 11/24/2004 7:43 AM Page 2 President’s Report A aM With the new Congress just around the corner, Seafarers will have a lot at stake, both from a maritime standpoint and as part of the labor movement. Some of the most important issues we’ll advance during the coming year are the need for a strong U.S.-flag fleet, improving the critical state of health insurance, and recognizing that the freedom to choose union representation is a fundamental human right. As usual following Election Day, we already know there will be dozens of new members of the House and Senate come January, because of election results as well as retirements and career changes. As always, the SIU will make sure that those new legislators are familiar with the U.S. Merchant Marine, our issues and how we help boost America’s national and economic security. Preserving and growing our industry is a never-ending job. As Seafarers know, we’re in one of the most heavily regulated trades in the nation. That was true before the attacks of September 11 and it’s even more true today. And that alone is enough reason why it’s vital for us to remain politically active. We have further incentive, though. The U.S.-flag fleet constantly is under attack from foreign-flag interests on every imaginable level. Whether it’s cabotage laws or cargo preference or crew size or some other key part of our livelihoods that’s governed by federal laws, the confrontations don’t stop. The need to make sure our voices are heard on Capitol Hill doesn’t stop either. On that note, I thank the membership for your continued support of SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. SPAD is essential for the SIU’s survival. Your support is just as important today as it was in the weeks and months leading up to Election Day. As we say in the SIU, “Politics is pork chops,” and “It takes a four-letter word (SPAD) to be heard!” Without question, politics also will play a big part in solving our country’s health care crisis. I’ve written about this subject many times this year, because it’s an issue that threatens every working family across the nation. Health insurance is the number one issue in contracts, and for some other unions it has led to strikes and lockouts from coast to coast. Last month, voters throughout the U.S. identified affordable health care as among their greatest concerns. It’s easy to understand why. The SIU will continue working with the other maritime unions and the rest of the labor movement to help solve this devastating problem. We also will step up to fight for protection of the freedom to choose union representation—one of the most important and hardearned rights in America. Technically, the law gives workers that freedom of choice. Realistically, employers across the country continue to use threats, coercion and intimidation to block workers’ efforts to unionize, often with little or no penalty. Upholding employees’ rights to freely choose whether to form unions is the correct thing to do. In the long run, it’s also obviously important to the continued existence of all unions. These aren’t the only issues we’ll be working on in the next Congress, but they’re good indicators of what’s on the line and why we must always stand up for ourselves. We must protect our livelihoods, because no one’s going to do it for us. H To all Seafarers, retirees and their families, I wish you the safest and happiest holiday season and a great New Year. I especially ask that all of you join me in keeping our brother and sister Seafarers who are sailing in support of our armed forces in your thoughts and prayers. May they all have successful missions and safe return voyages, and the same goes for our troops overseas. Happy holidays and may God bless the SIU! Volume 66, Number 12 December 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 ‘Lewis and Clark’ Ships Signal More New Jobs for CIVMARs Construction recently started on the second ship in the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s T-AKE program—a new class of combat logistics force vessels designated the Lewis and Clark class. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division will fill the unlicensed positions on the new ships. Overall, the U.S. Navy has awarded contracts for six new Lewis and Clark dry cargo/ammunition ships—with options for an additional six vessels. The ships are being built at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. At a mid-September ceremony for the second vessel, Mrs. DeAnne Sutton, wife of U.S. Navy Commander George Sutton of the NAVSEA Program Office, made the first cut on the ship’s first steel plate to signify the start of construction. The vessel will be named the Sacagawea in honor of the Shoshone Indian woman who acted as guide and interpreter for Lewis and Clark on their expedition into the Northwest region of the United States from 1804-1806. The first T-AKE, which has been under construction at NASSCO for a year, will be named the Lewis and Clark. According to the shipyard, the T-AKE is the first new combat logistics force ship designed for the Navy in almost 20 years. The yard further noted that the new class combines lower-cost commercial ship design features with high-performance, proven international marine technologies such as integrated electric-drive propulsion. The T-AKEs will be 689 feet long, with beams of 105 feet and a design draft of 30 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of marine diesel The Lewis and Clark, pictured last month in San Diego, is scheduled for delivery in 2005. fuel. They will have 40-year life expectancies. In addition to the six T-AKEs, NASSCO is building four double-hull oil tankers for BP Shipping Company of Alaska, the first of which was delivered—and crewed by SIU members—in August. Seafarers Continue OIF3 Mobilization As activations continued for the third phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom’s sealift component, 40 SIU-crewed ships had been mobilized by mid-November. That total included 21 ships from the Ready Reserve Force, 17 U.S. Military Sealift Command vessels and two from the U.S.flag commercial fleet. “SIU members have answered the call throughout Operation Iraqi Freedom,” noted SIU President Michael Sacco. “The membership has demonstrated great respect for and support of our troops, and I know they’re proud of our role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. We’ll continue to deliver the goods, wherever and whenever needed.” The following Seafarerscrewed ships are among those sailing in support of OIF3. Vessel operators are listed first: AMSEA’s Cape Jacob; Crowley’s Cape Inscription, Cape Intrepid, Cape Island and Cape Wrath; Interocean Ugland Management’s USNS Chesapeake, USNS Petersburg, Northern Lights, Westward Venture and Independence; Keystone’s Cape Race, Cape Rise, Cape Knox, Cape Orlando and Cape Vincent; and Maersk Line, Limited’s USNS Charlton, USNS Dahl, USNS Pomeroy, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, USNS Soderman, USNS Watkins and USNS Watson. Also underway are Mormac’s Cape Decision, Cape Domingo, Cape Douglas, Cape Ducato, Cape Edmont, Cape Horn and Cape Hudson; Pacific-Gulf Marine’s Cape Farewell; and American Ship Management’s USNS Brittin, USNS Benavidez, USNS Gilliland, USNS Gordon, USNS Fisher, USNS Pillilau, USNS Seay, USNS Yano and Cape Girardeau. The USNS Pomeroy (above) and Cape Intrepid (below) are among 40 Seafarers-crewed ships that had mobilized for OIF3 by mid-November. Referring to both the ongoing war on terrorism and the all-out combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the U.S. Maritime Administration noted, “During Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, the combined strategic sealift operation provided more than 80 percent of all cargo transportation to the theater of operations. Led by the U.S. Transportation Command, this joint effort included the Military Sealift Command, the Military Traffic Management Command, and the Maritime Administration. Forty RRF vessels supported Army and Marine missions during the operations providing up to 20 percent of the total combined surge sealift capacity.” During a U.S. Senate Seapower Subcommittee hearing earlier this year, U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy, the ranking Democrat on the subcommittee, described the RRF as “one of the great successes. We followed that very closely in this (Armed Services) committee. Their ships have done an extraordinary job.” In a prepared statement, Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC); and Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, USA, then the commanding general, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, noted, “The increased readiness standards and maintenance of our RRF have made it more efficient and better able to meet lift requirements than ever before. The RRF today is a wellmaintained, ready force of 31 surge roll-on/roll-off ships and 37 special-purpose sealift ships.” December 2004 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/24/2004 7:38 AM Page 3 Newer Maersk Vessels Join MSP Fleet Seafarers are sailing aboard five containerships operated by Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) that have transferred into the U.S. Maritime Security Program, replacing older tonnage. A sixth MLL vessel was scheduled to enter the fleet in late November or early December. As previously reported, agreements were signed Oct. 1, 2004 between MLL and the U.S. Maritime Administration to transfer the Maritime Security Program contracts on six existing SIU-crewed MSP vessels built in Chief Cook Owens and QEE Howard Hendra check out the galley aboard the Sealand Charger. the 1980s and managed by U.S. Ship Management, Inc. (USSM) to six newer containerships. Seafarers crewed up MLL’s Sealand Charger Oct. 28 in Los Angeles; the Sealand Meteor Nov. 9 in Dubai; the Alva Maersk —since renamed the Maersk Alabama—Nov. 10 in Dubai; and both the Sealand Intrepid and Sealand Comet Nov. 16 in Los Angeles. The Sealand Lightning was due to join the fleet in Southern California after press time for this issue of the LOG. The replacements were approved by the Maritime Administration and the U.S. Transportation Command and represent a significant improvement in the ability of MLL’s U.S.-flag fleet to serve its military and commercial customers. In a recent press release, Maersk noted that MSP age limits require that older vessels be replaced in the current program before reaching 25 years of age. The fate of the six replaced vessels will be determined soon, but they are likely to operate in Maersk’s international fleet. The Maritime Administration describes the Maritime Security Program as “a fundamental element of the U. S. maritime trans- Balloting Continues In SIU Election Voting began last month and will continue through Dec. 31 for the election of officers of the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU. Balloting is taking place at 21 SIU halls throughout the country. Full-book SIU members in good standing are eligible to vote in the election, which will determine union officers for the 2005-2008 term. This, of course, includes eligible members who were in the NMU when that union merged into the AGLIWD in 2001. The ballot also includes two proposed constitutional amendments. Seafarers may obtain their ballots from 9 a.m. until noon, Mondays through Saturdays, except legal holidays, until Dec. 31. The ballot includes the list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, eight vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents (for a total of 27 positions) along with the two proposed constitutional amendments. At the union halls, a member in good standing (upon presenting his or her book) is given a ballot and two envelopes. After his or her selection is marked, the ballot is folded and placed inside an envelope marked “ballot.” That envelope then is sealed inside a postage-paid envelope bearing the mailing address of the bank depository where ballots are kept until submitted to the union tallying committee. The rank-and-file tallying committee, consisting of two members from each of the union’s constitutional ports, will be elected in December. They will convene in early January to tabulate ballots and announce the election results. Article XIII of the union’s constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, the constitutional committee’s report and other related information appears on pages 6-11 of the October 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG. The same information is available on the internet at www.seafarers.org, in the Seafarers LOG section. Additionally, a notice of the election was mailed in October to all members at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. SIU Port Agent Neil Dietz (seated) reviews balloting procedures with Seafarers Chris Hyatt (center) and Eddie Thomas at the union hall in Honolulu. December 2004 portation system, providing an active, privately owned, U.S.flag, and U.S.-crewed liner fleet in international trade which is available to support Department of Defense sustainment in a contingency.” The MSP was established by the Maritime Security Act of 1996 and provides annual funding for up to 47 vessels to partially offset the higher operating costs of keeping these vessels under U.S.-flag registry. MSP payments represent approximately 13 percent of the cost of operating U.S.-flag vessels. Last December, President Bush signed a 10-year extension of the MSP, set to begin next year when the current program expires. The updated MSP increases the number of participants from 47 ships to 60 ships and provides financial assistance to construct five newly built tankers in the United States that are capable of carrying military petroleum products during a war. The MSP helps maintain a pool of well-trained 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. Ready for a lifeboat drill on the Sealand Charger are AB George Barber, AB Nasir Isa, GVA Charlie Powers, AB William Horton, AB Eduardo Malabad, Steward/Baker Roger Linasan and Chief Cook Willy Owens. The ship’s port of registry and IMO numbers are updated in Los Angeles in late October. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Friday, Dec. 31, 2004 to celebrate the New Year’s Day holiday and Monday, Jan. 17, 2005 for the observance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Union Families Again Provide Big Turnout on Election Day Union families had a big impact on Election Day, accounting for one out of four voters, according to a survey by Peter D. Hart Research Associates, Inc. The survey showed that there were 27 million union household voters. AFL-CIO leaders said the unprecedented grassroots participation by working men and women in the “biggest, most unified labor program ever” will generate gains for working families. “We’re going to take that energy, momentum, technology and field operation and start right now building a movement that will keep turning this country around,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. According to the Hart Research polling, union members cited jobs and the economy, the war in Iraq and health care as among their top issues. From a maritime perspective, as was the case four years ago, a solid group of pro-maritime legislators won their respective elections in the House and Senate, according to SIU Political Director Terry Turner. Additionally, President George W. Bush—whose administration has a strong record of supporting the U.S. Merchant Marine—won reelection. “Many people were re-elected who understand the importance of a strong U.S.-flag fleet,” Turner stated. “As always, there also are some new faces in both houses of Congress. The SIU will do everything possible to make sure those legislators know the vital role of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” According to the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions, more than 5,500 full-time staff or union members worked in battleground states—up from 1,500 in 2000. The numbers of full-time staff or union members in only three states in 2004—Ohio (728), Pennsylvania (723) and Florida (514)—exceeded the total number nationwide in 2000. More than 225,000 volunteers participated in the Labor 2004 program. Union members knocked on more than 6 million doors in neighborhood walks that ran daily in many states since Labor Day. Volunteers made more than a hundred million phone calls and passed out more than 32 million leaflets at workplaces and in neighborhoods. Union members reached out at 257 phone banks with 2,322 lines running in 16 states. The AFL-CIO’s program sent out more than 30 million pieces of mail to union households—not including mailings sent by affiliate unions to their members independently. “Through our political program, we have invested in our future,” said AFL-CIO Political Director Karen Ackerman. “More unions than ever participated on a large scale in the AFLCIO’s coordinated program. We have now set the stage to bring working family friendly candidates into office throughout the nation.” Working America, the AFL-CIO’s new national organization for working people, played a key role. Working America has 750,000 members, and is in touch with a total of 1.1 million members of working family households, offering information on where the candidates stand on such key issues as jobs, health care and overtime pay. The AFL-CIO’s non-partisan voting rights project, “My Vote, My Right,” began forming community partnerships over the summer which met with elections officials, educated voters, and recruited and trained poll watchers. Seafarers LOG 3 �25834_P2.4.qxd 11/24/2004 3:45 PM Page 4 New Contracts Take Seafarers into the New Year Seafarers recently approved a number of first-rate contracts to take them into the new year and beyond. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez credited the negotiating committees for outstanding work in presenting the membership with agreements that will enable them to maintain or improve on many of the benefits that are vital to providing a good quality of life both at sea and ashore. On Oct. 6, crew members employed aboard inland vessels operated by Allied Transportation, Inc. ratified a new threeyear agreement. The contract provides for the continuation of topof-the-line health benefits and wage increases over its duration. Additionally, crew members will maintain their pension credits for each day worked. Mate Marty Marevy and Engineer James Woods, who sat on the negotiating committee, were pleased with the proposal they were able to bring to the membership for a vote. Also in October, crew members working aboard inland vessels operated by Cape Fear Towing, Inc. unanimously ratified a new three-year pact. Captains Eddie Green and Douglas McDonald and Mate Roy Honeycutt served on the negotiating committee. They came away with a contract that CIVMAR Notice MSC Proposes New Changes To CMPI 610 The union has received a notice from the Military Sealift Command (MSC) that the agency is ready to begin negotiations over Civil Marine Personnel Instruction Section 610. This section discusses hours of work, work rules, overtime and penalty pay provisions. The union is reviewing the proposal and preparing questions for APMC negotiators. After the responses are reviewed, the union will submit proposals and negotiations will begin. The SIU will keep CIVMARS up-to-date on this process via the LOG, e-mail messages to the vessels and ship visits. Questions regarding this process may be sent to your union representatives or e-mailed to civmarsupport@seafarers.org CIVMAR News New Health Care Options Available for 2005 Officials at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently announced new health-care options that may be of interest to members of the union’s Government Services Division. For next year, the health benefits programs offered to federal employees will include 18 “high-deductible” plans. According to the OPM, “A High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) provides traditional medical coverage and a tax-free way to help you build savings for future medical expenses. The HDHP/HSA or HRA gives you greater flexibility and discretion over how you use your health care benefits.” On its web site, the agency notes that the HDHP “features higher annual deductibles (a minimum of $1,050 for Self and $2,100 for Self and Family coverage) than other traditional health plans. The maximum amount out-of-pocket limits for HDHPs participating in the FEHB Program in 2005 is $5000 for self and $10,000 for Self and Family enrollment. Depending on the HDHP you choose, you may have the choice of using in-network and out-of-network providers. Using in-network providers will save you money. With the exception of preventive care, you must meet the annual deductible before the plan pays benefits. Preventive care services are generally paid as first dollar coverage or after a small deductible, or co-payment. A maximum dollar amount (up to $300, for instance) may apply.” The program’s “open season” began Nov. 8 and ends Dec. 13. The OPM further pointed out, “When you enroll in an HDHP, the health plan determines if you are eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA). If you are Medicare enrolled, you are not eligible for an HSA. Each month, the plan automatically credits a portion of the health plan premium into your HSA or HRA, based on your eligibility as of the first day of the month. You can pay your deductible with funds from your HSA or HRA. If you have an HSA, you can also choose to pay your deductible out-of-pocket, allowing your savings account to grow.” More information is available on line at: http://www.opm.gov/hsa/ 4 Seafarers LOG continues a high level of health coverage and pension credit for eligible crew members and offers across-the-board overtime rate increases. A majority of crew members employed aboard USS Transport vessels ratified a new three-year agreement Oct. 25. In addition to wage and overtime boosts throughout the life of the pact, as well as excellent health and dental benefits, a section was added regarding transportation rates for travel of less than 200 miles. Crew members of the Keystone Barge fleet were presented with a new five-year agreement, which they unanimously ratified Oct. 11. Chief among the provisions were SIU members aboard the Charleston (above) and seven other ships in the USS Transport fleet recently approved a new three-year contract. Other new agreements were ratified by Seafarers working aboard Allied Transportation, Cape Fear Towing and Keystone Barge Services vessels. wage and overtime increases in each year as well as an annual reimbursement for safety shoes for permanent and trip tour personnel. Tribute to Hospital Ship Unveiled At Arlington National Cemetery A quilt commemorating the service of the hospital ship USNS Comfort in Operation Iraqi Freedom was unveiled on Veterans’ Day during a ceremony at the Women in Military Service Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The Comfort is crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division and is one of only two hospital ships in the Navy. It deployed from Baltimore in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom on Jan. 10, 2003, and served in the Persian Gulf from March 5-June 21, 2003. A 1,000-bed hospital facility with 12 fully equipped operating rooms, the Comfort treated nearly 700 patients, including U.S. military forces, Iraqi freedom fighters, wounded civilians and enemy prisoners of war. While deployed to the Middle East, Lt. Paula Godes, MSC, USNR, a Navy physical therapist and one of more than 1,160 medical personnel stationed aboard the Comfort during its activation, wanted to tell the story of Comfort’s mission in OIF and acknowledge the heroism and kindness displayed every day by her fellow shipmates to their patients. An avid quilter whose sewing machine traveled with her to the Middle East, Godes set out to complete a small project commemorating the Comfort and her crew. It grew to be much more than that. As word spread about the quilt, more than 800 people got involved, from other medical personnel aboard the Comfort to quilters all across the country who donated fabric and supplies. More than 60 women in a Northern Virginia quilters’ guild also volunteered their time, stitching the layers of the quilt together after the Comfort returned home. In her address at the ceremony marking the quilt’s dedication, Godes said, “This quilt represents over 2,000 hours of work. It is a story that pays tribute not only to the crew of the Comfort but to those we served and cared for— the Americans, coalition forces and the Iraqis we were sent to liberate.” The Comfort quilt is currently on display at the Women in Military Service Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. The Comfort quilt was the brainchild of Lt. Paula Godes, MSC, USNR, a physical therapist aboard USNS Comfort during its deployment in the Persian Gulf. Godes says she was inspired to tell the story of the Comfort in OIF “in an artistic way that symbolized the very warmth and comfort we provided. And what symbolizes warmth and comfort better than a quilt?” Benefits Conference Dates Announced Officials from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) early next year will begin conducting benefits conferences at SIU halls to update members, pensioners and spouses on the latest happenings with the various Plans. As of press time for this edition of the Seafarers LOG, officials announced the following conference dates and locations. The Piney Point conference is scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m. Each of the others will begin at 10:30 a.m. local time. DATE DAY LOCATION Jan. 3 Jan. 4 Jan. 5 Jan. 7 Jan.13 Jan. 14 Jan. 18 Jan. 26 Jan. 27 Jan. 28 Feb. 3 Feb. 8 Feb. 14 Feb. 15 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Thursday Friday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Thursday Tuesday Monday Tuesday Piney Point, Md. Baltimore Philadelphia New York Houston New Orleans Mobile, Ala. Jacksonville, Fla. Fort Lauderdale, Fla. San Juan Norfolk, Va. Wilmington, Calif. San Francisco Tacoma, Wash. December 2004 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/23/2004 7:03 PM Page 5 U.S. Government Report Cites Need for Tighter Security on Shipping Containers President Bush Signs Homeland Security Appropriations Act Federal inspectors of oceangoing shipping containers need to improve their detection equipment and search procedures to prevent terrorists from sneaking weapons of mass destruction into U.S. ports. This was the finding of a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) report released Oct. 15. According to several sources, the department’s inspector general acknowledged that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has made security changes and has others planned for future implementation. Clark Kent Ervin said he still has recommendations to improve the equipment that detects threatening cargo, such as nuclear material, and make inspection procedures more effective. “Improvements are needed in the inspection process to ensure that weapons of mass destruction or other implements of terror do not gain access to the U.S. through oceangoing cargo containers,” Ervin wrote in the report. U.S. Rep. Jim Turner of Texas, the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, said the government needs to put specialized radiation monitors at all U.S. ports and have enough people to physically inspect cargo containers that set off radiation alarms. While improvements in cargo inspection have been made since Sept. 11, 2001, less than 5 percent of containers are inspected. “We all know that the number one threat faced by the American people is a nuclear weapon in the hands of a terrorist,” Turner said. “It illustrates what a wide gap there is in the rhetoric of protecting the homeland and the reality of what we are actually doing. It is one security gap that has got to be closed.” Turner and U.S. Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.) requested the report after an ABC News team smuggled 15 pounds of depleted uranium into the United States in 2002 and 2003. ABC cited experts who said that shielded depleted uranium had the same signature as shielded weaponsgrade uranium—a finding the agency has rejected. DHS spokesman Dennis Murphy cast doubt on the ABC experiment’s validity, saying depleted uranium is used in everyday items, including elevators and jets. He said it only carries a risk if heated to a point that microscopic pieces can be inhaled. The inspector general said senior scientists from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory concluded that the DHS agency now has tools that can detect both depleted uranium and highly enriched uranium that could be used in a weapon, but the ability to sense them is reduced in certain conditions. Those conditions were not publicly disclosed. Ervin’s report makes recommendations to improve the equipment, but they were not disclosed. The report also urged better training and search procedures to be followed by cargo inspectors. Today, if a container creates an alert, Murphy said, experts at the always-open National Targeting Center work with inspectors at the ports to determine if there is a problem. He said everyday items, including dirt and bananas, are known to set off alarms. Elsewhere, President George W. Bush on Oct. 18 signed the FY 2005 Homeland Security Appropriations Act, which provides $28.9 billion in net discretionary spending for the DHS. This is $1.8 billion more than the FY 2004 enacted level— reflecting a 6.6 percent increase in funding for the DHS over the previous year. Including Project BioShield, mandatory and feefunded programs, a total of $40.7 billion will be available to the department in FY 2005. The Act is intended to allow the DHS to build upon significant investments by improving the nation’s safeguards against terrorism, while sustaining the many other important departmental activities. The Act includes $419.2 million in new funding to enhance border and port security activities, including the expansion of pre-screening cargo containers in high-risk areas and the detection of individuals attempting to illegally enter the United States. Additional funding for the U.S. Coast Guard ($500 million, an 8.6-percent increase) is aimed at upgrading port security efforts and providing additional resources to implement the Maritime Transportation Security Act. Key enhancements funded by the Act include: The Container Security Initiative (CSI) focuses on pre-screening cargo before it reaches our shores. The Act includes an increase of $25 million over the current program funding of $101 million to continue both Phases I and II, as well as to begin the final phase of CSI. The United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US VISIT) program’s first phase was deployed at 115 airports and 14 seaports. US VISIT expedites the arrival and departure Prospects Improve for ANWR Drilling The chances of opening the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) to oil drilling improved following Election Day, according to press reports and a statement from the coalition Arctic Power. The coalition—a non-partisan, nonprofit group founded in 1992—described the likelihood for passage of pro-drilling legislation as “looking better than ever. Opening the 1002 Area of the coastal plain to responsible oil development is part of President Bush’s National Energy Plan. It is also a policy supported by a majority of the members of the House of Representatives. Although in the past the U.S. Senate has consistently supported ANWR proposals, last year the Senate fell short by two votes to pass a comprehensive energy bill including an ANWR provision. It is hoped that with a new wave of freshman senators joining the Senate in January 2005, any ANWR legislation will have an easier time of making it to the president’s desk.” In recent newspaper interviews, U.S. Rep. Richard Pombo (R-Calif.), chairman of the House Resources Committee, said that 2005 brings “probably the best chance we’ve had” to open the coastal plain to drilling. U.S. Senator Pete Domenici (RN.M.), chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, stated, “With oil trading at nearly $50 a barrel, the case for ANWR is more compelling than ever. We have the technology to develop oil without harming the environment and wildlife.” Throughout the fight to open the coastal plain for December 2004 safe exploration, some of the strongest pro-drilling arguments have come from Alaskans themselves. For instance, U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski last year told the MTD executive board that ANWR exploration potentially offers substantial benefits for the entire nation. “If we get ANWR, we will have, in fact, developed more merchant marine jobs than any other time in the last 25 years, ever since we built the pipeline,” stated Young. He added that ANWR exploration would not impact the “pristine area in Alaska. We have 147 million acres now that are still pristine and will always be pristine—and we’re talking about 2,000 acres (for potential exploration, all of it essentially an arctic desert). That will deliver us 1 million barrels of oil for the next hundred years.” Murkowski said ANWR signifies good jobs for U.S. citizens. “That’s what this issue is all about. Jobs for Americans. Jobs here in the United States. Good-paying jobs.” Murkowski continued, “When you really think about it, these are jobs building new ships. These are jobs crewing new ships built in U.S. yards with U.S. crews. We shouldn’t be shy about this because we’re talking about using it to the advantage of the country. ANWR will create good-paying jobs. It will reduce our dependence on foreign imported oil and create revenue for the federal government. Now I ask you, what’s wrong with that kind of formula? It’s a winner all the way.” White House Photo by Tina Hager President George W. Bush signs the FY2005 Homeland Security Appropriations Act into Law. With the president are members of the Department of Homeland Security staff, including Secretary Tom Ridge, right. of legitimate travelers, while making it more difficult for those intending to do us harm to enter our nation. The Act provides $340 million in 2005, an increase of $12 million over the FY 2004 funding, to continue expansion of the US VISIT system. Aerial Surveillance and Sensor Technology increases the effectiveness of the more than 12,000 Border Patrol agents deployed along the borders, and supports other missions such as drug interdiction. The Act includes $64.2 million for CBP to enhance land-based detection and monitoring of movement between the ports. The Act also includes $28 million for CBP to increase the flight hours of P-3 aircraft and $12.5 million for long range radar operations. Radiation Detection Monitors screen passengers and cargo coming into the United States. The Act includes $80 million for the next generation of screening devices for our nation’s ports of entry. CBP Targeting Systems aid in identifying high-risk cargo and passengers. The Act includes an increase of $20.6 million for staffing and tech- nology acquisition to support the National Targeting Center, trend analysis, and the Automated Targeting Systems. The Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) focuses on partnerships to improve security along the entire supply chain, from the factory floor, to foreign vendors, land borders and seaports. The FY 2005 appropriation includes an increase of $15.2 million for this effort. The Act increases the U.S. Coast Guard’s budget by 9 percent—from $5.8 billion in FY 2004 to $6.3 billion in FY 2005. In addition to maintaining its ongoing mission, the budget provides more than $100 million to support the implementation of the Maritime Transportation Security Act, which will increase the Coast Guard’s ability to develop, review and approve vessel and port security plans, improve underwater detection capabilities, and increase the intelligence program. The budget also provides for the Coast Guard’s ongoing Integrated Deepwater System initiative, funding the program at $724 million, an increase of $56 million over the FY 2004 funding level. U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William Schubert on Nov. 15 presented an award in Washington, D.C. to the staff of the manpower office at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md. The award recognizes the staff’s dedication shown throughout Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom—mobilizations that often have meant very long hours for the employees who help with the logistics of crewing up U.S.-flag military support ships. Pictured with the award are (from left) Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, manpower staff members Ginger Bagwell, Carol Johnson, Bonnie Johnson, Terri Gerek, Sylvia Texeira and Giselle Viohl and Manpower Director Bart Rogers. Seafarers LOG 5 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/24/2004 7:39 AM Page 6 USNS Rainier Returns from Deployment with Carrier Strike Group The fast combat support ship USNS Rainier, crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division, recently returned from a five-month deployment to the Western Pacific as a part of the USS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the Stennis strike group participated in three major exercises during this deployment—Exercise Northern Edge, Rim of the Pacific exercise 2004 and a joint air and sea training exercise with the USS Kitty Hawk strike group. During its deployment, the Rainier provided more than 49 million gallons of fuel for the strike group. That amount of fuel would fill 100 Olympic-size swimming pools, MSC noted. The ship also transferred more than 10 million pounds of food, ammunitions, mail and various dry cargos to re-supply other ships. The Rainier’s on-board Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 11 Detachment Two performed vertical replenishments to lift cargo to the other ships in the strike group. Operation of the Supply-class ships by MSC saves the strike groups time since they can receive all the fuel, cargo and ammunition needed from one ship. With a top speed of 29 knots, the Rainier has no difficulty keeping pace with the other ships. The 754-foot vessel is crewed by 160 civil service mariners, a 28-member active duty Navy support department and a 32-member Navy helicopter detachment. The ship was transferred to MSC in August 2003. It was decommissioned as a combatant ship, and civil serBECK NOTICE vice mariners replaced the vessel’s active duty Navy crew. Following a brief voyage repair period, the Rainier was scheduled to deploy again, but with a different carrier strike group. The Seafarers-crewed ship was slated to sail with the USS Abraham Lincoln last month. MSC operates more than 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish Navy ships at sea, chart ocean bottoms, conduct undersea surveillance, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move 95 percent of military equipment and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces. SIU Crews Honored at Yearly AOTOS Event Ebeling, Magee Net Top Awards Crew members and officers from nine Seafarers-crewed vessels were honored by the United Seamen’s Service at the 35th Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) Awards in New York City Nov. 5. Mariners from the Lykes Discoverer, MV Resolve, USNS Shughart, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, MV Cape Ducato, MV Cape Douglas, USNS Guadalupe and MV Merlin were recognized. Representatives from each ship were presented with an AOTOS Mariners’ Plaque for displaying outstanding seamanship, courage and devotion to duty at sea. As previously reported, the main AOTOS Awards went to Raymond P. Ebeling, chairman and president of SIU-contracted American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC), and Robert P. Magee, chairman and CEO of SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). The crews and masters of large, medium-speed, roll-on/ roll-off ships Shughart, Red Cloud and Sisler and Ready Reserve Force ships Cape Ducato and Cape Douglas received an AOTOS Mariners’ Plaque for their combined, unrelenting efforts to save the Shughart from a dangerous fire that sparked while the ship was offloading cargo in Kuwait on March 5, 2004. The crew of Guadalupe, a fleet replenishment oiler, was recognized for the rescue of 13 fishermen aboard a stricken Taiwanese vessel in the Pacific Ocean on June 22, 2004. The fishermen had been adrift for five days with little food or water. The Resolve was honored for saving two fishermen who had abandoned their sinking vessel about 50 miles from shore near Robert P. Magee, chairman and CEO, Totem Ocean Trailer Express Raymond P. Ebeling, chairman and president, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Frying Pan Shoals, N.C. The Resolve was commencing a transatlantic passage on Dec. 13, 2003 when the crew received distress calls from the fishing vessel All Hooked Up. The calls ended before the vessel location was given, but the Resolve proceeded to search for the distressed mariners. Two survivors were found, retrieved and given vital medical attention. The crew of maritime prepositioning ship Merlin was honored for the daring rescue of a man in danger of drowning after his ship, MV Kephi, sank in stormy seas. The rescue took place Jan. 23 in the Mediterranean Sea. The Lykes Discoverer helped rescue the crew of a drifting 45foot fishing vessel, Sea Gypsy, on a voyage from St. John’s, Newfoundland on Dec. 22, 2003. The vessel had been adrift for four days after losing power, had suffered structural damage and wasn’t carrying an Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon (EPIRB). Notice to Employees Covered by Union Agreements Regulated Under the National Labor Relations Act The Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU assists employees by representing them in all aspects of their employment and work aboard vessels which sail deep sea, on the Great Lakes and inland waters throughout the country. For the most part, the union spends a majority of its financial resources on collective bargaining activities and employee representation services. In addition to these expenditures, the union also spends resources on a variety of other efforts such as organizing, publications, political activities, international affairs and community services. All of these services advance the interests of the union and its membership. This annual notice is required by law and is sent to advise employees represented by the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU about their rights and obligations concerning payment of union dues. This notice contains information which will allow you to understand the advantages and benefits of being a union member in good standing. It also will provide you with detailed information as to how to become an agency fee payor. An agency fee payor is an employee who is not a member of the union but who meets his or her financial obligation by making agency fee payments. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision about your status with the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU. 1. Benefits of union membership — While non-members do receive material benefits from a union presence in their workplace, there are significant benefits to retaining full membership in the union. Among the many benefits and opportunities available to a member of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU is the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play a role in the development and formulation of union policies. 2. Cost of union membership — In addition to working dues, to belong to the union as a full book member the cost is $400.00 (four hundred dollars) per year or $100.00 (one hundred dollars) per quarter. Working dues amount to 5 percent of the gross amount an employee receives for vacation benefits and are paid when the member files a vacation application. 3. Agency fee payors — Employees who choose not to become union members may become agency fee payors. As a condition of employment, in states which permit such arrange- 6 Photo courtesy MSC Fueling hoses from the fast combat support ship USNS Rainier cross rough waters to refuel aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis during the biennial Rim of the Pacific exercise earlier this year off the coast of Hawaii. Seafarers LOG ments, individuals are obligated to make payments to the union in the form of an agency fee. The fee these employees pay is to support the core representational services that the union provides. These services are those related to the collective bargaining process, contract administration and grievance adjustments. Examples of these activities include but are not limited to, the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the enforcement and administration of collective bargaining agreements and meetings with employers and employees. Union services also include representation of employees during disciplinary meetings, grievance and arbitration proceedings, National Labor Relations Board hearings and court litigation. Employees who pay agency fees are not required to pay for expenses not germane to the collective bargaining process. Examples of these expenses would be expenses required as a result of community service, legislative activities and political affairs. 4. Amount of agency fee — As noted above, dues objectors may pay a fee which represents the costs of expenses related to those supporting costs germane to the collective bargaining process. After review of all expenses during the 2003 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representation amounts to 70.20 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $280.80 (two hundred eighty dollars and eighty cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2005 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2004 and November 30, 2005 will have this calculation applied to their 2005 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2006, your objection must be received by December 1, 2005. A report which delineates chargeable and non-chargeable expenses is available to you free of charge. You may receive a copy of this report by writing to: Secretary-Treasurer, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2003. Please note that as the chargeable and non-chargeable expenses may change each year, the agency fee amount may also fluctuate each year. Individuals who are entitled to pay agency fees and wish to pay fees rather than dues, must elect this option each year by filing an objection in accordance with the procedure noted below. 5. Filing of objections — If you choose to object to paying dues, an objection must be filed annually. To receive the deduction beginning in January of each year, you must file by the beginning of December in the prior year. An employee may file an objection at any time during the year, however, the reduction will apply only prospectively and only until December 31 of that calendar year. Reductions in dues will not be applied retroactively. As noted above, each year the amount of the dues reduction may change based upon an auditor’s report from a previous year. The objection must be sent in writing to: Agency Fee Payor Objection Administration, Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 6. Filing a challenge — Upon receiving the notice of calculation of the chargeable expenditures related to core representation activities, an objector shall have 45 days to submit a challenge with the Secretary-Treasurer’s office if he or she believes that the calculation of chargeable activities is incorrect. Every person who wishes to object to the calculation of chargeable expenses has a legal right to file such an objection. 7. Appeal procedure — Upon receiving the challenge(s) at the end of the 45-day period, the union will consolidate all appeals and submit them to an independent arbitrator. The presentation to the arbitrator will be either in writing or at a hearing. The method of the arbitration will be determined by the arbitrator. If a hearing is held, any objector who does not wish to attend may submit his/her views in writing by the date of the hearing. If a hearing is not held, the arbitrator will set the dates by which all written submissions will be received. The costs of the arbitration shall be borne by the union. Individuals submitting challenges will be responsible for all the costs associated with presenting their appeal. The union will have the burden of justifying its calculations. The SIU works very hard to ensure that all of its members receive the best representation possible. On behalf of all the SIU officers and employees, I would like to thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 7:06 PM Page 7 Bosuns Credit Union, Paul Hall Center For Opportunities With a mixture of well-earned insightfulness and typical directness, the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns offered plenty of noteworthy comments last month as they graduated from the top curriculum available to deckdepartment Seafarers. Addressing the November membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., the 14 graduates encouraged the unlicensed apprentices enrolled at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. They also described the SIU and the Paul Hall Center as offering great opportunities for those willing to dedicate themselves to their careers. Completing the month-long recertification class were Oliver Balico, Evan Bradley, Manolo Delos Santos, Timothy Girard, Barry Hamm, Weldon Heblich, Michael Keogh, David Martz, William Mulcahy, Edward O’Connor, Clarence Poore, Michael Presser, Kissinfor Taylor and James Walker. The graduation was an historic occasion in more ways than one. Heblich is believed to be the first former NMU member to complete the course, while Keogh and Mulcahy are believed to be the first Great Lakes division Seafarers to finish the class. The course itself includes a mixture of classroom and practical training. Students met with representatives from the union’s various departments and the Seafarers Plans, both in Piney Point and at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. They closely studied information about contracts, training record books (TRBs) and computers. They completed training in health and Manolo Delos Santos Michael Keogh December 2004 Delos Santos joined the union in 1980 and currently sails from the port of Wilmington, Calif. He began his SIU career on the “white ships” (the cruise vessels Independence and Constitution). “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve found with the union,” he said. “I’m grateful for all the Brotherhood help and success, and I thank Walker joined the union in (SIU Wilmington Port Agent) 1982 in Baltimore and currently John Cox along with the staff in sails from the port of Ft. Wilmington and here at Piney Lauderdale, Fla. He cited com- Point. puter training, fire fighting and “To the apprentices, make the first aid and CPR as being among most of the wonderful opportunithe more useful segments of the ties the SIU gives you.” recertification class. Girard signed on with the SIU Addressing in 1991 in New the apprentices, York, from ‘We make a signifihe stated, “This where he still is a brotherhood. ships. You’re part of cant and valuable He said the the brotherhood. course included Our officials have contribution to numerous highworked their lights, such as national defense of [backsides] off reviewing the for us, and impact of the this great country. It you’re our futInternational ure. Work hard is our responsibility Ship and Port and don’t be Facility Security afraid to ask to rise up and take Code, studying questions.” the workings of M u l c a h y pride in our work the Seafarers joined the SIU in Plans, learning because we are engi- about computers 1977 in Detroit and sails from and brushing up the port of Al- neered for dependon safety and gonac, Mich. fire fighting He told the ability.’ training. membership that Girard de—Recertified Bosun his father also scribed the Michael Presser sailed with the union as “a famSIU and that the ily and a real Paul Hall Center instructors are team. Since joining the SIU I “exceptional.” have never lacked for work. The Mulcahy’s advice to the appren- union’s constant growth and tices was straight to the point: record of success are testimony to “Work hard and pay attention.” its leadership, its members and its commitment to being second-tonone!” Turning toward the apprentices, he concluded, “The best thing you can bring to class and each day aboard ship is a good attitude.” Poore joined the Seafarers in 1997 in Norfolk, Va., which remains his home port. Previously, he served in the U.S. military for 32 years. He said the recertification class helped provide him with “more detailed and in-depth knowledge, and more precise Evan Bradley information to pass along to the crew. My experience at Piney Point was a very good one.” He advised the apprentices to “take a good work ethic and the knowledge you gained here when you go aboard ship. There’s no limit to how far you can go.” Keogh joined the union in 1978 in Frankfort, Mich. and now sails from the port of Algonac. He noted that before joining the SIU, he sailed out of Liverpool for 10 years. “I was then lucky enough to join the SIU, and have enjoyed every minute of it.” Oliver Balico Speaking to the apprentices, safety (including fire fighting), government vessels and simulators. Additionally, the bosuns examined various international maritime conventions and helped unlicensed apprentices with hands-on training aboard the vessel Osprey. Barry Hamm and Michael Presser Kissinfor Taylor Edward O’Connor he stated, “You have a great career to look forward to. The union expects you to comport yourselves in a professional manner, learn your trade and upgrade on a regular basis. You have to know your stuff, otherwise the shipowner doesn’t need you. “From your union, you can expect brotherhood and the respect of your peers. You’ll make friends who’ll be lifetime friends. You’ll call them brother and truly mean it.” Taylor joined in 1981 in Tacoma, Wash. He said he enjoys being “part of the team” that is the SIU. Bradley joined the union in 1975 and also comes from a family of Seafarers. He is a frequent upgrader, and pointed out that “after 9/11, we have to know more and work closer together than ever before. That’s one reason upgrading is so important.” He told the apprentices that the Paul Hall Center “gets better every time I come back. It helps keep our family going, at sea and ashore.” Balico signed on with the SIU in 1992 in New York, still his home port. He said the class contained lots of valuable training, including communications skills, safety and vessel security. He described his overall experience at the school as “interesting and fun. I come here every year for vacation with my family.” Balico credited the union “for giving me the opportunity to work and achieve the American dream, which has become reality. I’m grateful to the leadership of the SIU and to you, my brothers and sisters.” He told the apprentices to “make the most of what’s being taught here. There is no substitute for knowledge and training.” Hamm joined the Seafarers in 1989 and currently sails from the port of Tacoma. He said the union “has improved my life, and I’m grateful to those who made it possible. To the apprentices, study hard, work smart, show initiative and you can go far.” Martz completed the trainee program in 1974 and now sails from the port of Baltimore. “I came in here 30 years ago with a seventh-grade education, so this was a great opportunity,” Continued on page 8 James Walker Clarence Poore Weldon Heblich Seafarers LOG 7 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 7:07 PM Page 8 Recertified Bosuns Graduate Continued from page 7 he recalled. “I thank the union and our officials—they keep us working. To the UAs, take advantage of the opportunity. Listen and learn.” O’Connor, who joined the SIU in Philadelphia in 1991 and now sails from New York, said he had looked forward to the recertification course for many years. “My time here at the Paul Hall Center was a fast-paced educational experience,” he said. “My classmates were top-of-the-line, and that made this time even more rewarding.” He urged the apprentices to “absorb all the knowledge and education this school and staff have to offer. Keep a positive attitude and it will pave the way for you professionally and personally. This union is the best, and if you believe that in your hearts, you’ll go places.” Heblich, who began his maritime career with the NMU in the 1980s, sails from the port of Tacoma. “I’m honored to be the first NMU bosun to be recertified,” he said. “Since the merger (in 2001), the SIU has become the dominant union in the industry. I’m glad to be part of history.” With a nod toward the apprentices, he concluded, “Have a good attitude and ask plenty of questions.” Presser, the final speaker, started his SIU career in Hawaii in 1980 before enrolling in the trainee program in Piney Point. Currently sailing from Baltimore, Presser gave an especially passionate speech in which he quoted Franklin D. Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln to reinforce the importance of the labor movement and the U.S. Merchant Marine. “We’re the fourth arm of defense,” he declared. “We go where they (the armed forces) need us.” Presser thanked the union’s headquarters officials along with SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and the staff at the Baltimore hall. He commended the union for maintaining good medical benefits for Seafarers at a time when health care costs are out of control. Sizing up both the SIU and the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole, Presser stated, “We make a significant and valuable contribution to national defense of this great country. It is our responsibility to rise up and take pride in our work because we are engineered for dependability.” Timothy Girard William Mulcahy David Martz Monthly Membership Meetings Keep Seafarers Informed As with most other Paul Hall Center classes, bosun recertification includes lots of hands-on training. One way to keep track of all the news which affects the lives and livelihoods of Seafarers is by attending monthly membership meetings. Held in each SIU hall around the country, the monthly membership meeting is a forum to keep members abreast of any and all issues of importance to them. Below is the schedule of meetings for 2005. Each issue of the Seafarers LOG also lists the dates for the next two meetings scheduled in each port. Membership Meetings in 2005 Monday after first Sunday 3 7 7 4 2 6 5* 8 6* 3 7 5 Tuesday after first Sunday 4 8 8 5 3 7 5 9 6 4 8 6 Wednesday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 4 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 Thursday after first Sunday 6 10 10 7 5 9 7 11 8 6 10 8 Thursday after first Sunday 6 10 10 7 5 9 7 11 8 6 10 8 Thursday after first Sunday 6 10 10 7 5 9 7 11 8 6 10 8 Thursday after first Sunday 6 10 10 7 5 9 7 11 8 6 10 8 Friday after first Sunday 7 11 11 8 6 10 8 12 9 7 14* 9 Friday after first Sunday 7 11 11 8 6 10 8 12 9 7 14* 9 Monday after second Sunday 10 14 14 11 9 13 11 16* 12 10 14 12 Tuesday after second Sunday 11 15 15 12 10 14 12 16 13 11 15 13 Wednesday after second Sunday 12 16 16 13 11 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 Wednesday after second Sunday 12 16 16 13 11 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 Thursday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 12 16 14 18 15 13 17 15 Thursday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 12 16 14 18 15 13 17 15 Thursday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 12 16 14 18 15 13 17 15 Friday after second Sunday 14 18 18 15 13 17 15 19 16 14 18 16 Friday after second Sunday 14 18 18 15 13 17 15 19 16 14 18 16 Monday after third Sunday 18* 22* 21 18 16 20 18 22 19 17 21 19 Thursday after third Sunday 20 24 24 21 19 23 21 25 22 20 25* 22 Friday after third Sunday 21 25 25 22 20 24 22 26 23 21 25 23 *Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King’s brithday and Presidents Day holidays; Houston change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday; Algonac and Boston change created by Veterans’ Day holiday; Guam change created by Thanskgiving Day holiday; Piney Point changes created by Independence Day and Labor Day holidays. 8 Seafarers LOG December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 7:21 PM Page 9 Right: Chief Pumpman Charles Dahlhaus admires the decorated cake given to him at a retirement party aboard the OS Chicago, an Alaska Tanker Co. vessel. A member of the SIU for more than 51 years, Dahlhaus plans to spend his “golden years” in Osaka, Japan with his wife and family. He hopes to have plenty of time to build steam engines in his machine shop and do some traveling. Helping celebrate the welldeserved retirement are OS Rolando Lopez, OS Segundo Soliano, Bosun Jesse Mixon, Chief Mate Nick Karagiannis, 1st Engineer S. Liebling, Chief Engineer Mark Norwak and 2nd Engineer Brian Good. Thanks to AB Jim Elbe for sending the LOG these two photos from the OS Chicago. Left: While anchored outside Valdez, Alaska on the OS Chicago, AB Pablo Borja Jr. (left) caught an 80-pound halibut. Assisting him in weighing the fish are 2nd Pumpman Jason Flesner and Chief Engineer Mark Norwak. Right: Houston Patrolman Michael Russo (right) poses with some of the crew members aboard the Breton Reef who just purchased MDLs when the vessel arrived in the port of Houston. Below: Recertified Bosun Frank Hedge and crew help in the loading of stores aboard the LNG Libra during port time in Japan. Above: In Port Everglades, Fla. aboard the Maritrans vessel Allegiance, Bosun Jerry Borucki works with Antonio Santos in connecting the discharge pipeline while (at left) ABs Mike Edwards and Victor Cooper paint the deck. Captain Mike Murphy presents Wiper Eduardo “Eddie” Pereira, 70, with a gift during his retirement party aboard the USNS Pollux. Pereira, who upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 2000 and 2001, makes his home in Louisiana. Wiper Pereira, seated, receives a retirement cake and lots of good wishes from fellow crew members on the Pollux (from the left) Port Engineer Chris Keefe, Chief Mate Jeff Yegge, MSC Rep. Toya Hayes, Chief Engineer Chris Wallace, Electrician Troy Ancar, Pereira, Bosun Wilfredo “Willie” Rice, SA Armando Evangelista, Capt. Mike Murphy, Steward Farid Zaharan and Wiper Cynthia Harris. December 2004 When the Lykes Navigator was in Houston recently, SIU Rep Michael Russo (second from left) went aboard to meet with some of the crew. Among those in the photo are Bosun George Price, Herman Beasley, Kerry Bush, Althalo Henton, Leonard Johnson and Justino Sanchez. The SIU was represented during October meetings in Seattle, Wash. between Crowley Maritime and their West Coast unions to plan for implementation of the new Quality & Safety Management Program. From the left (seated) are Dennis Conklin, IBU business agent; Marina Secchitano, IBU regional director; Bryan Powell, SIU Tacoma port agent; Robert Grune, VP/general manager, Crowley Marine Services; Bruce Barto, VP/general manager, Petroleum Services; Steve Demeroutis, MM&P vp; (back row) Alan Cote, IBU rep; Jerry Dowd, Crowley VP labor relations; Mitch Oakley, maritime instructor, Paul Hall Center; Alex Sweeney, Crowley VP energy & marine services; Ray Shipway, MM&P rep; Charlie Nalen, Crowley VP environmental, safety, quality assurance; Stephen Wilson, Crowley director of health, safety & environmental affairs; Lee Egland, Crowley director of labor relations; and Mike Murray, MM&P rep. Seafarers LOG 9 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/23/2004 7:38 PM Page 10 Maritime Briefs No-F Fee Passports Available to Mariners The U.S. Department of State has developed written guidance on the issuance of no-fee passports to American seamen serving on U.S.-flag vessels (and to employees of the United Seamen’s Service). According to a recent communication from the government to the SIU, in order for American mariners serving on U.S.-flag vessels to apply for no-fee passports, they must present both “acceptable documentation and citizenship documentation. Additionally, both American seamen and employees of the United Seamen’s Service must present documentation from their employers. An American seaman must submit a letter from the employer certifying that he/she is working on a ship of U.S. registry and must also provide a copy of their U.S. Merchant Mariner’s document….” The letter from the State Department to the union continues, “The no-fee passports will be valid for a five-year period and cannot be extended…. No-fee passports are to be used only for official job-related travel. These passports are not to be used for personal travel.” Anthrax Vaccination Program Paused At press time for this issue of the LOG, the Department of Defense (DoD) was reviewing a preliminary injunction issued Oct. 27 by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia regarding the department’s anthrax vaccination program. The injunction did not question the safety and effectiveness of the anthrax vaccine or the immunization program in the DoD. The injunction centered on FDA procedural issues stating that additional public comment should have been sought before the FDA issued its final rule in December of 2003. The Defense Department’s anthrax vaccination program is an important force protection measure. According to the government, research conducted by several prominent medical experts and a report by the National Academy of Sciences has determined that the anthrax vaccine is safe and effective for all forms of anthrax exposure. As a result of the injunction, the Department of Defense will pause giving anthrax vaccinations until the legal situation is clarified. The recent ruling is similar to a judge’s injunction issued in December 2003. At that time the DoD paused the vaccination program pending clarification of the legal issues. The 2003 injunction was lifted roughly two weeks later. The DoD remains convinced that the anthrax immunization program complies with all the legal requirements and that the anthrax vaccine is safe and effective. A copy of Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld’s memorandum concerning the action is available on line at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Oct2004/d20041027anthrax.pdf Regional Exam Center Changes Hours The hours of operation at the U.S. Coast Guard Regional Exam Center in Baltimore will change effective Dec. 20, according to the facility’s officer in charge. Fridays and weekdays between Christmas and New Year’s Day will be dedicated to the review and evaluation of applications. This means that the facility will be closed to walk-in customers on those days. The facility will continue to accept completed applications at its front security desk and by mail. Staffers will be available to answer questions by phone (410962-5132) during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. According to the Coast Guard, the modification of walk-in hours is designed to improve the turnaround time involved for the issuance of credentials and should allow the center staff to continue providing the level of service that the merchant mariner community expects and deserves. The new hours will be as follows: Monday: 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Closed for walk-in customers Fridays and weekdays between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Closed on all national holidays and the Friday following Thanksgiving. 10 Seafarers LOG SIU’s Peter Drews Dies at 76 what he felt was a worthwhile The SIU has lost a dedicatcause.” ed organizer, patrolman and Brother Drews donned the proud merchant mariner. SIU colors in 1944 in He is Recertified Bosun Charleston, S.C. He worked Peter W. Drews. Brother primarily in the deep sea diviDrews passed away Aug. 25 sion, first going to sea aboard following a lengthy battle Sinclair Oil Corp.’s Robin with diabetes. He was 76. Doncaster. Fellow officials rememAfter sailing for 17 years, bered Drews as a highly he came ashore in 1961, respected and totally dedicatbecoming an organizer in ed individual whose commitDuluth, Minn. and coordinatment to the union was garganRecertified Bosun Peter W. Drews, right, ing many recruiting drives for tuan. “Peter was a dedicated joins the late SIU General Counsel the union. Brother Drews union representative who Howard Schulman during an AFL-CIO later served as a patrolman in New York, Detroit, Puerto always put the best interests convention. Rico, Houston and St. Louis. of the membership first,” said He was an assistant for Paul SIU President Michael Sacco. always went that extra mile on Hall, the union’s second presi“He was a key figure in the early behalf of the membership.” days of the union and was very Michele Bluitt, a close friend dent. Brother Drews went back to active in negotiations. He will be of Brother Drews, in correspondence to the Seafarers LOG sea in 1974 and continued sailmissed.” Retired SIU Vice President remembered Drews as “not only ing until declining health forced Contracts Red Campbell worked a member of the Seafarers, but him ashore for the final time. He with Drews when both were also one of the men who helped last went to sea aboard Crowley union officials back in the early propel the Seafarers into the American Transport’s Ambassadays. “He was an active official organization it is today. Pete dor. Brother Drews began receivwho took part in a number of loved his work at the Seafarers key beefs and negotiations for and talked of it often. He was ing his pension in 1986 and the union,” Campbell said. “He proud to have given his time for made his home in Dunedin, Fla. Seafarers Answer OIF’s Call Aboard Tanker Samuel Cobb As the various stages of the sealift mission for Operation Iraqi Freedom continue, Seafarers are unrelenting in answering their call to duty as members of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. By the hundreds, they are boarding Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels that are either being mobilized or deployed to transport personnel, war fighting materiel (machinery, weapons and ammunition) and other supplies to various overseas destinations. Among the latest SIU-crewed vessels to take to the high seas in support of U.S. troops and the war against terrorism is the Samuel L. Cobb. The Cobb in October was headed for an overseas port when the photos on this page were taken. They were sent to the LOG by Chief Steward Herbert Davis, who wanted to share some of the crew’s experiences during the voyage with fellow Seafarers. Seafarers aboard the Samuel L. Cobb during the voyage included: Bosun Pete Malone; QM Dave Carpenter; ABs Damian Kelly, James Osborne, Carlos Burroughs and Otis Reynolds; Chief Pumpman Brad Saxon; QMEDs Greg Alvarez and David Bodah; Wipers Lloyd Clark and Richard De La Cruz; Chief Steward Davis; Chief Cook Sonia Felix; and Utilities Qais Ahmed and Tawfiq Shaibi. The Cobb is one of five MSC transport tankers that ferries fuel for the Department of Defense during peacetime, war and other contingencies. The vessel entered service in 1985 along with its sister ships, the Gus W. Darnell and the Paul Buck. The Richard G. Matthiesen and Lawrence H. Gianella entered MSC service in 1986. These tankers embark on many unique missions including refueling the National Science Foundation in Antarctica, Thule Air Force Base in Thule, Greenland, and federal government installations in remote sections of Alaska. Known as T5s, the vessels have double hulls and are ice-strengthened for protection against damage in colder climates. Chief Cook Sonia Felix, left, and Stewart Utilities Qais Ahmed and Tawfiq Shaibi, right, pose for a photo in the galley of the Samuel L. Cobb. Chief Pumpman Brad Saxon takes a break from his normal shipboard duties to hone his skills on the M-16. Wiper Lloyd Clark prepares to fire the M-16. Bosun Pete Malone takes his turn firing the M-16 assault rifle. Wiper Richard De La Cruz mans the M-60. Looking on are members of the U.S. Navy Security Force who also were aboard the vessel. Chief Steward Herbert Davis has both hands full as he fires the M60 machine gun. December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 9:16 PM Page 11 Left: The ship’s committee aboard the Adm. Callaghan is composed of (from left) Chief Electrician Jeffery Curry, Chief Steward Denise Smith and Bosun Paul Borg. Below: Seasoning the dinner roast is Christopher Hopkins, chief cook on board the President Truman. Left: Some of the crew members aboard the Keystone State, Gem State and Grand Canyon State pose for a group picture in Alameda, Calif. The three vessels are on ROS status. Wilbert J. Miles Jr., DEU on the Cape Mohican, and Jasper Brown, electrician on the Cape Fear, get together for lunch. Kashmir Dillon, chief electrician on the Cape Mohican, enjoys his lunch of spaghetti and meatballs. Members of the ship’s committee on board the Meteor include (from left) Bosun Kenneth Herqstein, DMAC Joseph McCrosky, Chief Steward Johnny Westberry and DEU John Rosron. Bosun Jouencio Cabab enjoys a hearty lunch aboard the Cape Fear. Right: Cooking up some hotdogs for lunch on the Cape Mohican is Chief Steward Louis Morris. Left: Chief Mate Peter Fileccia Jr. (below) gives directions to Bosun Kenneth Herqstein (above), who is operating the crane to load stores aboard the Meteor. December 2004 Seafarers LOG 11 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 5:09 PM Page 12 PRI Pride of Aloha at a Glance Entered service: August 1999 Reflagged U.S. in June 2004 Length: 853 feet Breadth: 108 feet Draft: 26 feet Speed: 23 knots Tonnage: 77,104 GRT Propulsion: Diesel electric, six diesel generators Auxiliary power: From diesel electric plant Guest capacity: 2,002 double occupancy Guest decks: 12 The efforts of a ship’s culinary staff are vital not only to the enjoyment of passengers but the crew as well, so galley training is emphasized in Piney Point. ABOVE: Rebekah Torkelson and Peter Quenga brush up on their cleaning techniques. LEFT: Sharon Ross is one of hundreds of NCL America crew members who have trained at the Paul Hall Center. They of course hope never to nee these skills, but students practic lifeboat training (left and below) as pa of their NCL America curriculum. BELOW: Tomas Ramirez keeps a close eye on his housekeeping training. LEFT: Yen Dunton gets practical training as a waitress and bartender. BELOW: Hoping not to make a splash behind the bar are Cri David Butler (fifth photo, far right). Crew members such as Roeno Babaan keep NCL America’s vessels clean at all times. 12 Seafarers LOG Lisa Salmans and Matthew Baptist get the hang of bartending. December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 5:09 PM Page 13 IDE NCL America students receive a mix of classroom instruction and practical training both at the Paul Hall Center and at its affiliated school in Hawaii. When NCL America’s SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha entered service this past summer, it marked the rebirth of the deep-sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. Less obvious, but just as important, the vessel also signaled a renewed need for top-notch training for crew members of NCL America’s inaugural ship. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md., along with its sister school in Honolulu are fulfilling that need. Both facilities offer fire fighting and safety training; the Piney Point campus also provides departmental training for non-marine personnel. The curriculums are wide-ranging and include (among other topics) communication and diversity training, effective listening, team building, conflict resolution and stress management. Students also take STCW Basic Safety Training and courses covering shipboard security, environmental responsibility and medical awareness. They also spend approximately one week in department-specific courses. As with most Paul Hall Center classes, the NCL America curriculums blend classroom instruction with hands-on training. The Pride of Aloha is the first of three U.S.-flag cruise ships planned by NCL America. The others are the Pride of America (scheduled to enter service in 2005) and the Pride of Hawaii (scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2006). Significantly, as more and more NCL America crew members have completed training through the Paul Hall Center (both in Piney Point and in Hawaii), customer feedback on the Pride of Aloha steadily has improved. The most recently compiled “comment cards” showed the best scores yet in overall satisfaction, ship appearance and hospitality. Training as bartenders are (from left) Jason Yets, Matthew Baptist, Jill Latza, Patrick Apa, Matthew Nelson, Robert Rivers, Bethany Tarantion, Crisanto Leonor, Lisa Salmans, Katie Rupp and David Butler (instructor). 1st Cook Dennis Neptune looks sharp while training in the galley. It’s cold in there, but someone’s got to move the stores (in this case, Warren Turner). LEFT AND ABOVE: Whether preparing meals or serving them, crew members understand the importance of prompt, polite service. o need ractice as part . BELOW: Fire fighting is part of the crew members’ STCW training. If practice makes perfect, passengers can count on service with a smile from Jill Latza. LEFT: Chris Halk (left) and Warren Turner concentrate on their training. e Crisanto Leonor (four photos directly below) and NCL America Trainer December 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 8:48 PM Page 14 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS MONEY PURCHASE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (Employer Identification No. 52-1994914, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $834,548. These expenses included $290,692 in administrative expenses and $543,856 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 9,780 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $22,415,912 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $16,163,494 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $6,252,418. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $7,086,966, including employer contributions of $4,300,323, employee contributions of $52,401, gains of $106,288 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $2,627,954. Minimum Funding Standards Enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items list- SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN ed below are included in that report: 1 An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.30 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N15l3, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. 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. P lease send me the 2005 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name ________________________________________________________ Mariner’s Social Security Number __________________________________ Street Address __________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ____________________________________________ Telephone Number ______________________________________________ Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 12/04 14 Seafarers LOG Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.00 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Self Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $4,199,920 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $11,397,458 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $7,197,538. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $64,086,634. This income included employer contributions of $63,061,373, realized gains of $53,827 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $882,047. Plan expenses were $71,284,172. These expenses included $5,994,150 in administrative expenses and $65,290,022 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE This application is for: This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5557534, Plan No. 501) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). 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 The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is offering eight scholarships in 2005 to SIU members as well as their spouses and dependent children to offset some of the costs associated with study at the college level. With the rapidly rising costs of tuition —as well as room and board—many students may find it difficult to continue their education without some assistance. The SHBP wants to help. As in past years, three of the scholarships are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The deadline for submitting the application and all the other required paperwork is April 15, 2005. That leaves four months from now in which to send away for the program booklet and start working on collecting the items needed for inclusion with the application (such as transcripts, certificates of graduation. letters of recommendation, a photograph and certified copy of birth certificate). Applicants also should arrange to take either the SAT or ACT no later than February 2005 in order to ensure the results reach the selection committee in time to be evaluated. The program booklet spells out eligibility requirements and procedures for applying. Send away for yours today! December 2004 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/24/2004 7:40 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea January & February 2005 Membership Meetings OCTOBER 16 — NOVEMBER 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 Totals Totals Totals All Departments Algonac ..................Friday: January 7, February 11 3 4 2 4 7 19 41 1 5 14 20 21 5 25 10 14 7 20 22 0 2 1 2 1 17 9 0 2 10 15 2 2 4 2 3 2 19 11 0 0 4 1 6 22 23 2 7 4 22 6 4 0 6 12 1 19 20 5 0 5 5 3 12 23 0 8 8 13 9 3 13 8 10 4 23 16 0 3 2 3 2 7 5 0 0 4 4 5 1 1 0 2 0 10 4 0 0 0 0 0 12 16 0 5 5 7 2 1 1 6 11 1 17 10 3 0 9 3 16 39 56 0 21 34 41 27 2 1 9 32 0 50 30 3 6 3 5 19 31 58 1 10 32 35 29 4 24 12 23 7 41 31 0 3 1 3 4 30 28 0 6 16 33 14 4 6 3 7 4 36 22 Baltimore ................Thursday: January 6, February 10 202 244 104 159 168 53 94 373 374 220 Norfolk ...................Thursday: January 6, February 10 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: January 5, February 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 1 5 11 20 0 3 9 6 7 2 3 4 7 1 11 13 2 0 5 2 5 11 17 0 4 7 12 11 3 3 3 6 2 19 9 2 0 1 0 0 5 9 0 1 3 4 3 0 0 2 0 0 3 3 0 0 3 1 4 10 16 1 4 7 7 7 2 1 1 10 2 10 10 1 0 4 2 2 6 11 0 4 7 5 15 1 0 2 7 3 11 6 2 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 5 6 0 2 4 2 7 0 0 2 4 0 6 4 0 0 5 0 8 16 36 0 6 13 16 10 5 3 4 11 0 16 12 1 0 6 4 9 21 38 0 7 14 26 12 5 5 3 10 2 30 17 0 0 1 1 1 15 16 0 2 9 12 5 1 0 1 1 2 8 10 106 121 36 96 87 18 43 161 210 85 1 0 1 0 14 12 19 0 2 11 18 7 3 3 2 13 1 11 24 0 0 0 2 4 2 15 0 2 5 4 9 1 4 1 5 0 6 7 0 0 1 1 0 3 4 0 0 2 3 4 0 0 2 0 0 6 3 0 0 2 0 9 10 19 0 1 3 13 7 0 3 1 13 1 8 18 0 0 0 2 5 0 13 0 2 3 6 7 2 0 2 2 0 6 11 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 1 0 3 7 7 0 2 1 6 1 0 1 3 6 0 7 9 1 0 5 2 12 25 28 0 8 21 28 14 4 4 3 31 2 31 30 0 0 1 2 6 7 26 0 3 11 11 15 1 6 1 9 2 12 12 0 0 1 1 1 4 7 0 1 3 8 8 1 0 3 3 0 9 8 142 67 29 108 61 11 54 249 125 58 0 0 0 0 6 3 4 1 0 3 4 0 0 0 1 3 0 2 2 0 0 3 2 5 11 14 0 5 5 30 11 0 17 5 10 0 19 9 5 4 1 1 5 12 17 0 3 12 23 9 1 16 1 9 4 25 21 0 0 0 0 2 2 4 0 1 0 5 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 4 3 9 0 5 4 12 8 0 14 1 6 0 15 6 0 3 1 1 3 4 9 0 0 1 2 3 0 16 2 3 2 13 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 5 4 1 0 7 7 0 0 0 2 8 0 11 3 2 3 3 3 11 29 31 1 12 14 64 14 0 14 11 17 1 31 13 11 4 6 0 6 40 42 1 4 26 67 24 4 34 1 20 2 30 30 29 146 169 18 94 72 0 57 274 352 479 578 338 381 410 154 191 840 983 715 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Piney Point .............Monday: January 3, February 7 0 0 3 1 5 25 29 1 9 14 27 15 1 0 3 15 0 28 26 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 Boston.....................Friday: January 7, February 11 Duluth .....................Wednesday: January 12, February 16 Guam ......................Thursday: January 20, February 24 Honolulu .................Friday: January 14, February 18 Houston ..................Monday: January 10, February 14 Jacksonville ............Thursday: January 6, February 10 Joliet .......................Thursday: January 13, February 17 Mobile ....................Wednesday: January 12, February 16 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: January 11, February 15 New York................Tuesday: January 4, February 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: January 13, February 17 San Francisco .........Thursday: January 13, February 17 San Juan..................Thursday: January 6, February 10 St. Louis..................Friday: January 14, February 18 Tacoma ...................Friday: January 21, February 25 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: January 18*, February 22* .................................*(changes created by Martin Luther King holiday .............................................and Presidents Day) ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals RANDY WURR Please contact your father, Duane Wurr, at (360) 697-2491 concerning a matter of great importance. S 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. December 2004 Seafarers LOG 15 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 Seafarers International Union Directory 9:03 PM Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report OCTOBER 16 — NOVEMBER 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 5 6 3 7 15 1 3 2 42 3 1 0 3 2 1 2 4 16 0 6 8 8 2 1 1 2 28 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 4 0 4 0 1 2 4 18 0 5 10 2 2 1 1 2 23 1 3 2 3 1 0 0 0 10 2 37 11 13 37 5 3 12 120 0 7 3 5 8 1 0 6 30 0 29 1 22 0 0 2 0 54 0 1 3 0 1 1 1 1 8 0 9 5 5 16 3 2 14 54 1 1 3 2 2 0 0 3 12 0 18 1 19 0 1 1 2 42 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 0 8 1 9 3 4 13 3 0 3 36 0 5 3 2 11 0 1 2 24 0 19 2 12 0 2 1 1 37 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 6 2 4 4 3 0 3 25 1 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 7 0 4 8 6 0 1 4 2 25 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 11 5 4 12 0 3 3 41 4 10 3 5 1 2 0 1 26 0 3 4 1 1 1 0 0 10 0 0 8 2 0 0 6 2 18 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 2 1 1 1 2 0 3 4 0 1 2 0 3 0 0 1 7 0 1 5 6 1 3 0 2 18 Port 0 5 6 2 7 1 1 4 26 0 2 1 2 4 0 0 2 11 0 3 7 1 1 3 0 1 16 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 78 30 71 93 39 57 26 210 66 133 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photocopied pictures were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Michael L. Molinari of Brooklyn, N.Y. Molinari joined the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served for two years as a gunner in the Armed Guard aboard U.S. merchant ships. His first trip was to Murmansk, Russia aboard the Andrew Carnegie, a voyage during which three other ships in his convoy were lost and he, himself, was wounded. (U.S. and British ships, including the Carnegie, were delivering war materiel to that North Russian port.) His second ship was the Esso Philadelphia (shown at top right), which carried oil from Trinidad to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Just off the coast of Africa, the ship ran into a terrible hurricane, during which time its motor stopped working. Thanks to the work of the first engineer, it managed to limp back to the U.S. Molinari, who is now retired, lives in Brooklyn with his wife Lena. They have seven children and five grandchildren. 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. At left is Michael Molinari when he was in the U.S. Navy’s Armed Guard. At right, Molinari (wearing his Armed Guard logo on his jacket) talks about World War II to students at a local school. December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 2:27 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA PATRICIA BALLANCE, 65, was born in Covington, La. and began her SIU career in 1989. Sister Ballance first shipped aboard the SS Independence in the steward department. She enhanced her skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, Sister Ballance sailed on the LNG Aries. She lives in her native state. BENJAMIN CRUZ, 72, joined the SIU in 1993 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Cruz first went to sea on the SS Independence. He worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cruz most recently worked aboard the Innovator. Born in the Philippines, he now resides in Long Beach, Calif. CHARLES DAHLHAUS, 67, became a member of the SIU in 1961 in New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Dahlhaus first went to sea on the Steel Worker. He was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Dahlhaus, who was born in New York, shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Overseas Chicago. Brother Dahlhaus currently lives in Japan. AMADO ESCOBAL JR., 65, started his SIU career in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Escobal first sailed on the Cosmos Mariner in the steward department. His most recent voyage was aboard the President Kennedy. Brother Escobal was born in the Philippines and continues to live there. ISADORE GREENBERG, 66, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1979 in New Orleans. Brother Greenberg was born in Camden, N.J. and first went to sea on the Cove Sailor. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded his skills on numerous occasions in Piney Point, Md. Brother Greenberg last sailed aboard the USNS Algol. He is a resident of New Orleans, La. LARRY HARRIS, 56, began his seafaring career in 1977 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Harris was born in California and is a veteran of the U.S. Army. His December 2004 first vessel was the Mayaquez. Brother Harris worked in the engine department and upgraded his skills in 1994 at the Paul Hall Center. He calls Concord, Calif. home. PEDRO LABOY, 65, was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Laboy joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of New York, first sailing aboard the Detroit. He worked in the steward department and enhanced his skills on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most rececent trip to sea was aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Laboy is a resident of Ponce, P.R. MARILYN SANTOS, 64, started her seafaring career in 1989 in Honolulu. Sister Santos worked primarily aboard the SS Independence as a member of the steward department. She was born in Waimanalo Oahu, Hawaii and currently lives in Kaneohe, Hawaii. RUDY WATTIMENA, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1994 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., first sailing aboard the SS Independence. Brother Wattimena was born in Indonesia and worked as a member of the steward department. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Wattimena’s most recent voyage was on the USNS Denebola. He is a resident of Dover, N.H. JAMES WEISMORE, 68, started sailing with the SIU in 1990 in Piney Point, Md. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Weismore first sailed aboard the PFC William Baugh. Born in New York, he worked in the engine department. Brother Weismore upgraded his skills on many occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last went to sea on the LNG Virgo and makes his home in Minersville, Pa. IRA WHITE, 64, embarked on his seafaring career in 1965 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother White was born in Florida and first shipped on the Manhattan as a member of the engine department. He lives in his native state. INLAND ROY DENT, 61, hails from Arkansas. Boatman Dent started his seafaring career in 1970 in the port of St. Louis. He shipped as a member of the deck department, last sailing on a Southern Ohio Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Dent makes his home in Lilbourn, Mo. GEORGE ESPONGE, 68, began his SIU career in 1984 in the port of Houston. Boatman Esponge shipped primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing and Transportation. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills a number of times at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Esponge was born in Golden Meadow, La. and currently resides in Galveston, Texas. CLARENCE JENNETTE JR., 61, joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Jennette worked primarily on Maritrans vessels. The U.S. Air Force veteran was born in North Carolina and shipped in the steward department. Boatman Jennette enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point, Md. training school. He calls Beverly Hills, Fla. home. TARLTON LANGELE, 64, launched his seafaring career in 1971 in the port of Mobile. Born in Alabama, the deck department member last sailed aboard the Crescent Mobile. He lives in his native state. DRAGI ODAK, 64, started his career with the SIU in 1984 in Wilmington, Calif. Born in Yugoslavia, the deck department member worked primarily on Crowley Towing and Transportation vessels. Boatman Odak is a resident of San Pedro, Calif. JAMES WHITE JR., 61, embarked on his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in North Carolina, Boatman White shipped in the engine department and upgraded his skills in 1998 and again in 2000 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He calls Tyner, N.C. home. 1987. Brother Best was born in Guyana, South America and shipped in the deck department. Prior to retiring, Brother Best worked on the Cape Domingo. FITZ FLEMMING, 87, joined the NMU in 1940, sailing from the port of Boston. Brother Flemming, who hails from Barbados, was a member of the steward department. His most recent voyage was aboard a Lykes Brothers vessel. RAMON GONZALEZ, 62, launched his career with the NMU in 1965. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Gonzalez first sailed in the engine department aboard the SS Constitution. 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. LEON HARRIS, 58, joined the NMU in 1964. A native of Wilmington, N.C., Brother Harris first sailed aboard the SS Atlantic. The steward department member last went to sea on the Lyra. JAMES ABBINGTON, 65, was born in Oakdale, La. Brother Abbington joined the NMU in 1969, sailing from Port Arthur, Texas. His first ship was the Gulf Pride. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the date indicated. WAVELL BEST, 63, began his seafaring career with the NMU in Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. Certified by the NLRB as collective bargaining agent for nine Cities Service Oil Company tankers, the SIU immediately called upon the company to enter negotiations for a contract covering the company’s unlicensed personnel. The contract will culminate two years of effort by the SIU to obtain union wages, conditions and security for Cities Service seamen. The company began firing crew members by the shipload at the end of each voyage as the election drew near, but the replacements hired recognized the need for union representation and voted for the SIU. The company’s attitude was scored by the NLRB: “… it ill behooves the employer to file objections stemming principally from its own recalcitrance.” With anti-U.S.-flag merchant marine interests stepping up their efforts to weaken and destroy the Jones Act, the SIU has called for vigilance in pre- Name Age EDP Berry, Jack 65 Nov. 1 Boza, Marcus 64 Nov. 1 Hus, Joseph 68 Aug. 1 Reyes, Alonzo 67 Sept. 1 Woolfork, Norman 72 April 1 serving the law that restricts domestic shipping to vessels of American registry. Government agencies and members of Congress are being increasingly peppered with requests from various interests seeking waivers of the Jones Act that would permit them to bring foreign-flag ships into domestic operations. Since the sharpening of the energy crisis over the past few months, requests for Jones Act waivers have been based on the deception that the fuel situation would be eased by permitting foreign-flag fuel carriers to operate between U.S. ports. Seafarers are answering their nation’s call to duty again as they crew vessels headed to the East African nation of Somalia. At the request of the United Nations, U.S. military forces are leading an international effort to bring food and peace to the war-ravaged nation. Two years of civil war as well as many more years of famine and drought have caused an estimated 600,000 people to die. As of Dec. 24, a total of 17 SIU-crewed vessels were involved in the relief effort. Seafarers LOG 17 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 11:43 PM Page 18 Final Departures worked in the deck department. Brother Kane was born in New York and resided in Spring Hill, Fla. The U.S. Army veteran began receiving DEEP SEA CHARLES BAILEY SR. Pensioner Charles Bailey Sr., 93, passed away August 30. Brother Bailey joined the SIU in 1946 in New York. He was born in Barbados and worked in the deck department. Before retiring in 1973, Brother Bailey sailed on the Steel Traveler. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. JOHN BENNIFIELD Brother John Bennifield, 49, died Sept. 17. He was born in Philadelphia and began his seafaring career in 1977 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bennifield’s first ship was the Overseas Alice. The engine department member most recently sailed on the El Yunque. Brother Bennifield called Jacksonville, Fla. home. FELIX BONEFONT Pensioner Felix Bonefont, 97, passed away July 21. Brother Bonefont was a charter member of the union, having joined the SIU in 1939 in New York. He was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the deck department. Brother Bonefont began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1972. He was a resident of New York. CLOYDE DICKEY Pensioner Cloyde Dickey, 82, died Sept. 17. Brother Dickey launched his career with the SIU in 1953 in Houston. Born in Alabama, he shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Dickey lived in Bessemer, Ala. and went on pension in 1981. DWAYNE GORDON Brother Dwayne Gordon, 35, passed away August 25. Born in Florida, he joined the ranks of the SIU in 1991 in Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Cape Edmont. Brother Gordon worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the SeaLand Express. He resided in Jacksonville, Fla. FREDERICK GOSSE Pensioner Frederick Gosse, 84, died August 27. Born in Newfoundland, Canada, Brother Gosse launched his seafaring career in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The deck department member first shipped on the Fair Hope, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Prior to retiring in 1983, Brother Gosse sailed aboard the Sea-Land Long Beach. He called San Francisco, Calif. home. JOHN KANE Pensioner John Kane, 77, passed away Sept. 25. Brother Kane joined the SIU in 1952 in New York. He 18 Seafarers LOG his pension in 1992. WALTER MATTHEWS Pensioner Walter Matthews, 76, died August 8. Brother Matthews embarked on his seafaring career in 1948 in Savannah, Ga. He was born in Perry, Fla. Brother Matthews worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Horizon Producer. He was a resident of his native state and started collecting his pension in 1982. PERICLES RENGEPIS Pensioner Pericles Rengepis, 72, died August 13. Brother Rengepis joined the SIU in 1968 in New York. His initial voyage was on the Amicus, were he worked in the steward department. Brother Rengepis was born in Pennsylvania and last sailed on the Baltimore. He made his home in Greece and began receiving his pension in 1996. JUAN ROSARIO Brother Juan Rosario, 62, passed away June 6. He started sailing with the SIU in 1970 in New York. Brother Rosario’s first ship was the Arizpa; his last was the Horizon Producer. The steward department member was born in Fajardo, P.R. and lived in Santurce P.R. SOU SHEK Brother Lowell Miller, 50, passed away June 1. He began his SIU career in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. Born in New York, Brother Miller’s first vessel was the Monticello; his last was the USNS Stalwart. He worked in the engine department and resided in Fort Myers, Fla. Pensioner Sou Shek, 91, died April 21. Brother Shek was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He joined the SIU in 1951 in New York. Brother Shek worked in the steward department, first sailing aboard the Steel Architect. His last vessel was the Sea-Land Gallaway. Born in China, Brother Shek resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. He went on pension in 1977. OLIVER MYERS FRED UMHOLTZ Pensioner Oliver Myers, 81, died Sept. 26. Brother Myers launched his seafaring career in 1958 in Baltimore. The U.S. Navy veteran initially went to sea aboard the Chilore. Brother Myers, who was born in Lynchburg, Va., made his home in New Haven, Conn. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Myers was a member of the engine department and last went to sea aboard the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. Pensioner Fred Umholtz, 76, passed away May 20. Brother Umholtz became a Seafarer in 1947 in New Orleans. The U.S. Army veteran was a native of Arkansas. Brother Umholtz sailed in the deck department, first aboard the Genevieve Peterkin, a Bloomfield Steamship Co. vessel. His last trip was aboard the Archon. Brother Umholtz called Springdale, Ark. home. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1986. LOWELL MILLER LEONARD NIXON Pensioner Leonard Nixon, 77, passed away August 17. Brother Nixon joined the SIU in 1952 in Houston after serving in the U.S. Army. The engine department member’s first ship was the Cecil N. Bean. Before retiring in 1989, Brother Nixon shipped on the Overseas Marilyn. He was born in Somerville, Texas and resided in League City, Texas. DANILO PEDROSO Brother Danilo Pedroso, 52, died June 20. He began his seafaring career in 1999 in St. Louis. Brother Pedroso first sailed aboard the USNS Able. Born in the Philippines, the deck department last shipped on the Captain Steven L. Bennett. He lived in Illinois. CARROLL QUINNT Pensioner Carroll Quinnt, 83, passed away June 5. Brother Quinnt joined the SIU in 1940 in the port of Baltimore. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Santa Juan. Brother Quinnt went on pension in 1982. Born in Baltimore, he called Reno, Nev. home. VINCENT VANZENELLA Pensioner Vincent Vanzenella, 81, died April 6. Brother Vanzenella launched his seafaring career in 1959 in New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. He sailed in the deck department in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Prior to retiring in 1991, Brother Vanzenella worked aboard the Overseas Vivian. He made his home in Pinole, Calif. DONALD VILLAFLOR Pensioner Donald Villaflor, 86, passed away Sept. 20. Brother Villaflor began his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1956. He shipped primarily on American President Lines vessels during his career, including the President Johnson and the President Pierce. Brother Villaflor was born in Honolulu and lived in Seattle, Wash. WALTER WINSTON Pensioner Walter Winston, 79, died June 6. Brother Winston joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Alabama and first sailed on the Cosmos Mariner. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Winston worked in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the Santa Maria. Brother Winston went on pension in 1990. He made his home in Michigan. INLAND RICHARD RAFFERTY Boatman Richard Rafferty, 59, died Sept. 10. He was born in Darby, Pa. and started his seafaring career in 1962 in Philadelphia. Boatman Rafferty worked in the deck department. He was a resident of Philadelphia. CHARLES SABATIER Pensioner Charles Sabatier, 85, passed away May 18. Boatman Sabatier joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Houston. Born in Galveston, Texas, he was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. Boatman Sabatier retired in 1984 and made his home in Texas. GREAT LAKES THOMAS MacVICAR Pensioner Thomas MacVicar, 84, died Sept. 12. Brother MacVicar started sailing with the SIU in 1970 in the port of Algonac, Mich. after serving in the U.S. Army. Born in Nova Scotia, he initially shipped on the John P. Reiss in the deck department. Brother MacVicar last sailed on the Kinsman Independent. He made his home in New York and began receiving retirement stipends in 1984. MANUEL SIGLER Pensioner Manuel Sigler, 77, passed away April 12. Brother Sigler was born in Indiana and joined the Seafarers in 1952 in New York. A U.S. Navy veteran, he worked in the deck department. He was a resident of Indianapolis, Ind. and started collecting his pension in 1994. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. ROBERT ALONSO Pensioner Robert Alonso, 76, died October 18. Brother Alonso, who was born in Tampa, Fla., joined the NMU in 1946, initially sailing from the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Alexander Ramsey. Prior to retiring in 1976, Brother Alonso worked on the Pure Oil. JOHN CONROY Pensioner John Conroy, 90, passed away Oct. 13. Brother Conroy became a member of the NMU in 1942 in San Pedro, Calif. Born in Uniontown, Pa., he first went to sea on the Carreta as a member of the engine department. Brother Conroy began receiving his pension in 1981. NICK ELLIS JR Pensioner Nick Ellis Jr., 85, died Oct. 12. Brother Ellis embarked on his seafaring career in 1947 in Baltimore, Md. His first vessel was the William E. Pendleton. Born in Scranton, Pa., Brother Ellis was a member of the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Texaco Rhode Island. Brother Ellis started collecting retirement stipends in 1984. FEDERICO GUZMAN Pensioner Federico Guzman, 79, passed away Oct. 11. Brother Guzman starting sailing with the NMU in 1961. He was born in San Juan, P.R. Brother Guzman first sailed aboard the America in the engine department. He last went to sea on the Texaco Montana. Brother Guzman began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1987. DELFIN INACIO Pensioner Delfin Inacio, 77, passed away Aug 17. Born in Portugal, Brother Inacio initially sailed from New York in 1966 aboard the United States. The steward department member last worked aboard the American Resolute. Brother Inacio started receiving retirement compensation in 1989. GEORGE JONES Pensioner George Jones, 83, died Sept. 19. Brother Jones joined the NMU in 1944 in Seattle and worked in the steward department. Born in Baton Rouge, La., Brother Jones last worked aboard the Shirley Lykes. He went on pension in 1974. JAMES MOON Pensioner James Moon, 81, died Oct. 16. Brother Moon launched his NMU career in 1957. His first ship was the Annapolis; his last was the Mariner. Brother Moon, who was born in Houston, went on pension in 1974. JOSE QUINTERO Pensioner Jose Quintero, 83, passed away Sept. 26. Brother Quintero joined the NMU in 1945. He initially went to sea on the Lake Charles Victory in the steward department. Brother Quintero’s last Continued on page 20 December 2004 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/24/2004 1:35 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings (Seabulk Tankers), Sept. 24—Chairman Mario R. Romero, Secretary Luis A. Escobar, Educational Director James L. MacDaniel, Engine Delegate Bryan T. Fletcher, Steward Delegate Robert J. Johnson. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 26 in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary informed crew that contributing to SPAD is the best way to keep our union and maritime interests afloat. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also advised them to start z-card renewal process early. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent meals. Next port: Houston. (USSM), Sept. 17— Chairman Joseph J. Caruso, Secretary Randy A. Stephens, Educational Director Dimarko L. Shoulders, Engine Delegate Charles H. Kennedy, Steward Delegate Carlos E. Suazo. Chairman updated members on status of new washers and dryer for crew laundry on 03 level. He recognized Dayman Amat for completing his months of service on vessel. Secretary reported applications available for unlicensed crew members. Educational director encouraged crew to keep all documents current and to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Members reminded to vote in upcoming union elections and get absentee ballots if at sea during that time period. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked all departments for job well done. Next port: Houston. (USSM), Sept. 16— Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Roger D. Linasan, Educational Director Robert Mayer, Deck Delegate Ricardo M. Ribeiro, Engine Delegate Soo Ahn, Steward Delegate Abdulla N. Jinah. Chairman reminded those getting off ship to make sure room is clean and leave keys for next person. Secretary thanked everyone for excellent trip. Educational director talked about opportunities available at Piney Point for upgrading skills and income and urged crew to take advantage of them. Treasurer reported $382 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked to separate aerosol cans from other trash as safety pre- caution. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. (Maersk Line), Sept. 19— Chairman Frank L. Thompson, Secretary Donna M. DeCesare, Educational Director Michael D. Murphy, Deck Delegate Bart H. Bridges, Engine Delegate Jeffrey E. Roddy, Steward Delegate Daniel L. Wehr. Chairman reported everything running smoothly. Secretary asked crew to return perishable items (such as mayonnaise) to refrigerator after each use. Educational director talked about national elections and asked everyone to vote with their conscience. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Inquiry made about progress of installing ship’s antenna. Crew was advised it was being worked on. Recommendation made to reduce retirement age, increase pension benefit and reduce sea time requirements for full pension. Vote of thanks given to steward department for exceptional food and salad bar. Next port: Charleston, S.C. (USS Transport), Sept. 29—Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Educational Director Earl Olson, Deck Delegate Mark E. Pesola, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Asmasha. Chairman spoke at length about importance of SPAD—“our voice in Congress.” He reminded crew to keep areas clean, respect others’ work and be quiet in passageways. He advised them to keep an eye on their document expiration dates and to upgrade at Piney Point whenever possible. Educational director reported ship’s library needs more shelves for books and movies. President’s report from August Seafarers LOG read and discussed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to Steward Jaime Castillo for his hard work and Steward Amasha for continuing to bake fresh biscuits, muffins, rolls, breads and cookies twice a day. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. (Osprey Ship Mgmt), Sept. 27—Chairman Michael S. Sinclair, Secretary Lolita A. Sanchez, Educational Director Mark W. Dumas, Deck Delegate Bruce E. Howell, Engine Delegate Joseph A. Yamson, Steward Delegate Cecil R. Husted. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done and acknowledged hard work being done in deck and engine departments. Educational director Bosun Chris Kicey (reading the Seafarers LOG), Steward Nancy Heyden and GSU Rene Caballero wait for the start of the union meeting on board the Overseas New York. advised all members to go to Paul Hall Center to enhance skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate reported gangway phones not working. Engine delegate reported elevator out of service and awaiting parts. President’s report read and a vote of thanks given to SIU President Michael Sacco for all he does for the union. Concerns raised regarding new contract. Repairs or replacement suggested for lounge furniture and broken juicers in both galleys. Ship heading to Saudi Arabia and Singapore. (Maersk Line), Sept. 18—Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secretary Billy G. Gigante, Educational Director George W. Rose, Deck Delegate Joshua Mazsa, Steward Delegate Ali S. Hydera. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 19 in Newark, N.J. He thanked crew for safe and enjoyable trip and reminded everyone to keep all documents up to date and to vote in national and union elections. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew informed ship will stop in Italy this voyage, which would add 3 days to trip. (USSM), Sept. 17—Chairman Jimmie L. Scheck, Secretary Charles E. Curley, Educational Director Richard A. King, Steward Delegate Joel A. Molinos. Chairman announced payoff in Algeciras, Spain and thanked crew for nice trip with no problems. Secretary thanked deck department for helping keep house clean. Educational director talked about Piney Point facilities and courses available there and urged everyone to take advantage of the educational benefit. Treasurer stated $240 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to start getting movies. (Seabulk Tankers), Sept. 26—Chairman Bradley L. Seibel, Secretary Steven R. Wagner, Educational Director Candido Molina, Deck Delegate James M. Moore, Engine Delegate Alberto Gutierrez, Steward Delegate Samuel S. Johnson. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 28 in Lake Charles, La. He reported that U.S. Coast Guard inspection will take place while in port and reminded crew that gangway watches must make sure all visitors are signed in. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to lower age requirement for special early normal pension. Discussion held on health care benefits for retirees and spouses. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Lake Charles; Tampa, Fla. (Waterman Steamship), Oct. 10—Chairman Mark S. Downey, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Melvin L. Kerns, Deck Delegate Shane L. Mackey, Steward Delegate Alaa A. Embaby. Chairman announced U.S. Coast Guard inspection Oct. 11; all members should be present. Secretary thanked crew for wonderful trip and smooth sailing. Educational director advised members to continue to upgrade skills at Piney Point and contribute to SPAD for strong and efficient union. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Coaxial cable to be purchased and installed for better TV reception. Bosun praised steward department for wonderful job and good food. Next port: New Orleans, La. (Marine Transport), Oct. 3—Chairman Richard Wilson, Secretary December 2004 Dadang B. Rashidi, Educational Director Robinson A. Valenzuela, Deck Delegate Caesar N. Smith Jr., Steward Delegate Santiago Amaya. Secretary requested TV for crew mess hall and thanked crew members for smooth trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director discussed coordinating upgrading courses with vacation time. (USSM), Oct. 3— Chairman Gerry A. Gianan, Secretary Jesse B. Natividad, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Carlos R. Bonilla, Engine Delegate Wade T. Rudolph, (Ocean Ships), Oct. 3—Chairman Bernardino R. Eda, Secretary James E. Lewis, Educational Director George H. Bixby Sr., Engine Delegate James R. Summers, Steward Delegate Darryl K. Goggins. Secretary reported crew needs new TV as well as receipt of DVS and VHS tapes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made pertaining to overtime and pension plan. Next port: Key West, Fla. (Pronav), Oct. 10— Chairman Jack J. Cooper, Secretary John A. Palughi, Educational Director Endang Crew members give the “thumbs up” sign for a great trip and thank Chris Kicey (third from right) for all he has done as bosun on the Overseas New York. Kicey will be leaving the ship to join the crew of the Tonsina. Steward Delegate Thurman C. Johnson. Chairman announced payoff Oct. 4 upon arrival in Los Angeles, Calif. He thanked crew for keeping plastic items separate from trash and for helping keep ship clean. He asked that departing crew members leave clean linen for next person. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from LOG pertaining to security and training drills. Vote of thanks given to galley gang for excellent job. (Horizon Lines), Oct. 10—Chairman Lance X. Zollner, Secretary Sherman W. Anderson, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Geraldine B. Carter, Engine Delegate George D. Tidwell, Steward Delegate Bienvenida C. Badillo. Chairman announced payoff Oct. 16 in Tacoma, Wash. Crew discussed importance of safety. Treasurer stated $1,402 in ship’s fund, to be used to purchase 3 refrigerators in Tacoma. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from LOG posted on bulletin board. Suggestion made regarding additional vacation pay. (USSM), Oct. 10— Chairman Stephen R. Kastel, Secretary James D. Morgan, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Steward Delegate Mostafa Loumrhari. Chairman announced payoff Oct. 12 in Los Angeles. He thanked riding gang and deck department for keeping ship looking good. Educational director advised Seafarers to check all documents for expiration dates and allow ample time for renewal process. He also encouraged them to upgrade skills whenever possible at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Announcement made that new washer has been installed and that port agent would bring absentee ballot instructions on board for those needing them. Crew wished good luck to those getting off. Abidin. Chairman led discussion on shipping with Pronav. Secretary requested clarification regarding severance pay, crew e-mail, shipping rules and vacation. Treasurer stated $548 in ship’s fund with $500 more due from company for safe third quarter. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to increase pension benefits. (Maersk Line), Oct. 3—Chairman Carlos M. Soto, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Randy D. Clark, Deck Delegate Lenard Ilagan, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidji, Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Chairman reported ship diverted to nearest port (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) during trip for sick crewman. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship safe and clean. Educational director advised members to allow at least six months for renewal of MMDs. Treasurer stated $1,200 in ship’s fund, after purchasing $368 of DVDs for video library. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks were given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Newark, N.J. (Sulphur Carriers), Oct. 3— Chairman Thames H. Solomon, Secretary Nee Tran, Educational Director Antenor O. Linares, Deck Delegate Tibby L. Clotter. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep crew mess and TV lounge neat, with special thanks to chief cook for keeping galley clean and organized. Educational director recommended all members enhance skills in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from September Seafarers LOG read and discussed. Requests made for satellite TV, additional washer in crew laundry room and refrigerators in all rooms. Suggestions made to provide better medical, dental and pension plans. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Tampa, Fla.; Galveston, Texas. Seafarers LOG 19 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 2:03 AM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) M To those who knew Maj. Ken Conklin, on Sept. 21, 2004 my father passed on to his “new duty station.” For those of you who were touched by his life, I hope you remember him like the Marine Corps mascot: the bulldog! A big bark, but once you knew him, no bite and very loyal. Our family mourns at his passing, but we rejoice to all that he touched in a positive way. Thank you and love to all. “Semper Fi.” Kevin Conklin Aboard ship Editor’s note: Kevin Conklin is an active SIU member. Ken Conklin founded the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. His obituary was published in last month’s LOG and also is available at www.seafarers.org in World War II. Our record shows 866 ships lost from enemy action, 31 ships disappeared without a trace, and one of every 29 men killed from enemy action. The Battle of the Atlantic was won with heavy losses by our U.S. Merchant Marine, keeping England and Russia supplied with arms, giving us time to build up our armed forces. In 1942, 400 U.S. merchant ships were sunk on the Eastern seaboard by German submarines. Our life at sea then was we slept with our clothes on and one eye open, holding our lifejackets. If our merchant marine had failed in the Battle of the Atlantic, our congress now would speak German. Our merchant marine H i W Our president proclaimed Maritime Day May 22…. The U.S. Merchant Marine was the only all-volunteer service Continued from page 18 voyage was aboard the Thompson Lykes. He was born in Puerto Rico and began collecting his pension in 1985. JAMES WESTBERRY Pensioner James Westberry, 95, died Oct. 15. Brother Westberry joined the NMU in 1937, first sailing from New York. Born in Georgia, his last voyage was on board the American Resolute. Brother Westberry started receiving his retirement stipends in 1968. Pensioner Everett Williams, 88, passed away Sept. 9. Brother Williams began his seafaring career in 1949, initially shipping aboard the Chiriqui. Born in New Orleans, he began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1970. 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 Peter Salvo Clarion, Pa. O T I would like our union brothers and sisters worldwide to know about turmeric, a curry spice that has killed cancer cells in laboratory tests. I use it regularly and I’m convinced it helped my mother live to 102 years, cancer-free. I retired from the NMU in August 1967 after sailing AB/ bosun. Please let everybody know about the power of turmeric. Brother Marie C. Durand Lydia, La. DHOYEN WOO Final Departures EVERETT WILLIAMS Maj. Ken Conklin never defaulted. We now have only a small group of survivors living in Pennsylvania, but we’re still waiting for our World War II $500 state bonus. Pensioner Dhoyen Woo, 77, died Oct. 7. Brother Dhoyen, who was born in Hawaii, became a member of the NMU in 1947. He originally sailed on the Santa Paula. Prior to retiring in 1993, Brother Dhoyen worked aboard the Leslie Lykes. HAZEL ZUCKERMAN Pensioner Hazel Zuckerman, 94, passed away Oct. 7. Sister Zuckerman joined the ranks of the NMU in New York, first sailing on the Argentina in the steward department. She was one of the first women to work on American freighters. Sister Zuckerman’s final voyage was aboard the Texaco Connecticut. She went on pension in 1976. In addition to the foregoing individuals, a number of other NMU brothers and sisters, all of whom were pensioners, passed away. They will be listed in next month’s Seafarers LOG. 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 12/04 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/23/2004 11:51 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Safety Specialty Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for the first two months of 2005. 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. Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman January 24 February 18 Lifeboatman/Water Survival January 10 January 21 Radar January 31 February 11 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) (Phase III training) February 14 February 25 Date of Course Date Completion Government Vessels (Phase III training) January 24 January 28 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* February 14 February 25 January 24 January 28 (*must have basic fire fighting) 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. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start The January edition of the Seafarers LOG will contain a complete guide of all the upgrading courses available to Seafarers in the year 2005. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most Upgrade . . . recently beginning Nov. 29, 2004. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT January 10 March 4 QMED - Jr. Engineer January 10 April 1 Welding January 17 February 4 . . . at the Paul Hall Center 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 ________________________________________________ December 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. 12/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 12:38 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman— Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Oct. 22 are (in alphabetical order) Michael Copple, Joseph Dupre, Bradley Flowers, Raymond Hotchkiss, Joshua Kirk, Kevin Koch, Tina Lester, Donivan McCants, Michael Merrell, Willie Myrick, George Peters, Steven Richards, Oscar Swangin and Michael Widmark. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 655 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 655 (in alphabetical order) Saif Ali, Richard Avila, ThiaCaron Banks, Audania Bomar, Kevin Craigie, Timothy Cullen, Barney George, Lionel Hall, Mark Keblis, Joshua Lampke, Frank Lewis, Samantha Murphy, Richard Murray II, Robert Oliveto, Hector Ortiz, Javier Ortiz, Miles Partridge, Brian Peters, Jerome Prince, Wayne Reed, Perry Schroff, Steben Torres, Teresa Ward, Evan Werner, Kenneth Williams and William Wilson. Their commandant, Tom Gilliland, is at far right. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given Oct. 22 to (in alphabetical order) Richard Brown, Lester Harris, Valerii Lazarov, William McLaughlin, Richard Schlumm, Elaine Watts and Loren Wolfe. (Note: not all are pictured). Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is third from right. Culinary Training — NCL America training includes working in the galley. Pictured here are cooks (back row, from left) Edgardo Manahan, Jerrick Guerrero, Francisco Valdez, Andy Gutierrez, Jake Palacios, Willy Duenas, (front row) Rommel Valdez, Antonio Archibald, Natalie Grimalde, Julian Perez and Edgar Malaga. Left: Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of several computer programs are (seated from left) Rasaura Carson, Val Custis (standing) Rudy Harjanto, Instructor Rick Prucha and Steven Kuithe. Right: Dante Dizon (seated left) and Ed Cherry display their certificates while their instructor, Rick Prucha, looks on. Left: Instructor Rick Prucha also congratulated steward department members Julio Marcone and Loicy Jones for their accomplishments in the computer lab. Right: Other recent graduates of computer classes are (seated from left) Velicia Williams, Andres Cruz, William Zobel, (standing) Prucha, Bruce Placido, Bruce Zarobell and Ryan Burrows. 22 Seafarers LOG December 2004 �25834_P1.7-9.11-14.16-18.20-23.qxd 11/24/2004 1:03 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Completing this course Oct. 15 are (in no specific order) Kenneth Casteel, Brian Goodman, Sajid Foster, Jamal Ricks, Harry Smith, Ernie Smith, Daniel Gaffney, Annie Waker, Emma Porter, Greg ory LaRiviere, William Brinson, John Tullier, Kyle Pillsworth, Sigfrid Mayer, David Kelch, George Jenkins and Paul Gomez. (Note: not all are pictured.) Their instructor, John Cronan, is at far left. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Oct. 15 from instructor Tony Sevilla (second from left) are (in no particular order) Alexander Matthew, Vasile Daogaru, Steven Kuithe, Robert Cullifer, Brian Robison, Robert Starr, Josh Wilson, John Villarta, Phillip Stephens, Ryan Burrows, Rudy Jarjanto, Val Custis and David Morales. Basic Safety Training Classes Lifeboatman/ Water Survival — With instructor Tony Sevilla (standing right) are graduates (clockwise from left front) Tara Chand, David Lassiter, Nicole Arevalo, David Moore, Christopher Halk, Gde Fedora, Brittany Lewis, Alfredo Benitez, Devon Reed and Becky Cahal. STCW — Oct. 22: Murray Carter, Andreas Daneville, Jeremy Daniuk, Cody Espaniola, Jesse Fowler, Henry Gamponia, Ryan Harris, Bret Marks, Malachi Rayfield, Christopher Sherlock, Stacey Shipman, Donald Simpson, Terence Snell, Jean Stewart, Sarah Tanner, William Turner and Bergan Wieler. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Oct. 22 graduates of the lifeboatman/water survival class include NCL crew members (front row, from left) Katharine Staskauskas, Ashley Shepherd, Susan Mason, (second row) Patrick Kelley, Antonio Dayrit, Johnathan Partridge, Ralph Johns Jr., Natalie Lopez and Armenio Prangan. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Earning their lifeboatman/water survival endorsements Oct. 22 are NCL crew members (standing, from left) Mark Pollak, Benjamin Delrosario, Richard Champion, Lehneer Capenia, (seated) Jonathan Ramirez, Angel Martinez, Delvin Tyree, Tomas Ramirez, Shannon Athow, Sharon Ross, Henry Gamponia, Yen Dunton, Javier Sterling, Dennis Neptune, James Reed, Rebekah Torkelson and Laurencio Roco. Small Arms — Oct. 22 was graduation day for those in the small arms training class. They are (in alphabetical order) Carlo Balajadia, Zsuzsanna Balla, Laura Edwards, Daniel Fields, Paula Gomez, Shantay Joquin, David Kelch, Sigfrid Mayer, Lonnie Myers, Jonathan Nielsen, Jamal Ricks, Douglas Shores and Joshua Wilson. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. December 2004 Tankerman (PIC) Barge — With instructor Herb Walling (far left) are Oct. 8 graduates of the tankerman (PIC) barge course. From the left are Walling, Craig Hammer, James Kasha, Kirk Pegan, Richard Slater, Karl Mayhew, Douglas Carson and Walter Malia. Seafarers LOG 23 �25834_P3.5.6.10.15.19.24.qxd 11/24/2004 5:58 PM Page 24 Volume 66, Number 12 A December 2004 Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan — Page 14 — The ABCs of FOCs i The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF)— through its affiliated seafarers and dockers unions (including the SIU)—for some 50 years has waged a vigorous campaign against shipowners who abandon the flags of their own countries to engage in runaway flag or socalled flag-of-convenience shipping. Those who resort to such practices—flying flags of convenience (FOCs)—often do so purely for economic considerations and have little or no regard for the mariners who work aboard their vessels. An FOC ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of its ownership. FOCs provide a means of avoiding labor regulations in their countries of ownership, and become vehicles for paying low wages and forcing long hours of work and unsafe working conditions. Since FOC ships have no real nationality, they are beyond the reach of any single national seafarers’ trade union. The ITF, however, is unique in this regard because it has a powerful influence on the wages as well as working conditions of seafarers who work on these vessels. The history of flags of convenience dates back centuries, but it was not until after World War II that the desire and need to be competitive in the world shipping markets gave rise to the growth in the use of such flags. The growth in open registry almost doubled over the years following World War II and today accounts for more than 54 percent of world shipping. Therefore, the ITF has taken on the international role that traditionally is exercised by national trade unions: to organize ITF inspectors met in Piney Point, Md. earlier this year to map out strategies advancing the federation’s campaign against runaway-flag shipping. and negotiate on behalf of FOC crews. In defining an FOC, the ITF takes as its most decisive factor whether or not the nationality of the shipowner is the same as the nationality of the flag the vessel flies. In 1974 the ITF stated the following about FOCs: “Where beneficial ownership and control of a vessel is found to lie elsewhere than in the country of the flag the vessel is flying, the vessel is considered as sailing under a flag of convenience.” The ITF campaign against flags of convenience, which formally was launched at the 1948 World Congress in Oslo, Norway, has two elements: A political campaign designed to establish a genuine link between the flag a ship flies and the nationality or residence of its owners, managers and seafarers by international governmental agreement; and An industrial campaign designed to ensure that seafarers who serve on flag of convenience ships, whatever their nationality, are protected from exploitation by ship owners. Although the political campaign to date has not succeeded in preventing growth in ships using FOC registers, the industrial campaign has been successful in enforcing decent minimum wages and conditions on board nearly 5,000 FOC ships. In addition, the ITF has become the standardbearer for exploited and mistreated seafarers throughout the world, regardless of nationality or trade union membership. During the past 50 years, the ITF’s maritime affiliates have ITF Names 28 So-Called Flags of Convenience Cut-rate registration fees, low or no taxes and freedom to employ cheap labor typically are the motivating factors behind a shipowner’s decision to flag out. When declaring a register an FOC, the ITF takes into consideration the degree to which foreignowned vessels are registered and fly the country’s flag. The following additional criteria also are taken into account: The ability and willingness of the flag state to enforce international minimum social standards on its vessels, including respect for basic human and trade union rights, freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining with bona fide trade unions. The social record as determined by the degree of ratification and enforcement of ILO Conventions and Recommendations. The safety and environmental record as revealed by the ratification and enforcement of IMO Conventions and revealed by port state control inspections, deficiencies and detentions. Based on these parameters, the following 28 countries have been declared FOCs by the ITF’s Fair Practices Committee (a joint committee of ITF seafarers’ and dockers’ unions), which runs the ITF campaign against FOCs: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda (UK), Bolivia, Burma, Cambodia, Cayman Islands, Comoros, Cyprus, Equatorial Guinea, Sri Lanka, German International Ship Register (GIS), Gibraltar (UK), Honduras, Jamaica, Lebanon, Liberia, Malta, Marshall Islands (USA), Mauritius, Mongolia, Netherlands Antilles, Panama, Sao Tome and Príncipe, St Vincent, Tonga and Vanuatu. In the ITF’s view, a “genuine link” should exist between a vessel’s real owner and the flag it flies. This position is in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). No such link exists in the case of FOC registries listed above. Some of these registers have poor safety and training standards, and place no restriction on the nationality of the crew. Sometimes, because of language differences, seafarers can’t communicate effectively with each other, putting safety and the efficient operation of the ship at risk. In many cases these flags are not even run from the country concerned. Once a ship is registered under an FOC, many shipowners then recruit the cheapest labor they can find, pay minimal wages and cut costs by lowering standards of living and working conditions for the crew. In a well-publicized incident that reaffirmed the danger of runaway flags, ITF General Secretary David Cockroft bought a first officer’s certificate (above) and sea book issued by the Republic of Panama in 2001. The documentation cost about $4,000 and authorized him to navigate a vessel, despite a complete lack of qualifications to hold such a position. developed a set of policies which seek to establish minimum acceptable standards applicable to mariners serving on FOC vessels. The policies form the basis of an ITF Standard Collective Agreement which sets the wages and working conditions for all crews on FOC vessels irrespective of nationality. It is the only agreement normally available to shipowners who run into industrial action. All FOC vessels covered by an ITF-acceptable agreement are issued an “ITF Blue Certificate” by the ITF Secretariat, which signifies the ITF’s acceptance of the wages and working conditions aboard the FOCs. About a quarter of all FOC vessels currently are covered by ITF agreements, thus providing direct protection to more than 90,000 seafarers. Compliance with ITF-recognized agreements is monitored by a network of more than 100 ITF inspectors in ports throughout the world. ITF inspectors are union officials who either work full or part time directly with the ITF. By inspecting FOC ships, they monitor the payment of wages and other social and employment conditions and, if necessary, take action to enforce ITF policy. In recent years the number of inspectors has doubled. They can now be found in ports in every region of the world. The FOC campaign is the joint responsibility of the Seafarers’ and Dockers’ Sections—SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel is vice chair of the Seafarers’ Section—and it is overseen by the Fair Practices Committee (FPC). These bodies since 1952 have provided the key forum by which both sections’ representatives have come together to review the daily operation and effectiveness of the campaign. The involvement of the dockers’ unions, whether through direct action or cooperation with seafarers’ unions, continues to be vital to the success of the campaign. The goals of the FOC campaign since its inception have been: The elimination of the FOC system and the establishment of a regulatory framework for the shipping industry. To attack sub-standard shipping and seek ITF acceptable standards on all ships irrespective of flag, using all the political, industrial and legal means at the ITF’s disposal. To protect and enhance the conditions of employment of maritime workers and to ensure that all maritime workers, regardless of color, nationality, sex, race or creed, are protected from exploitation by their employers and those acting on their behalf. To individually strengthen affiliated unions, in all aspects, so as to ensure the provision and delivery of a greater degree of solidarity in the campaign. USCG photo by PA3 Donnie Brzuska A U.S. Coast Guard boarding team prepares to board a Bahamianflagged cargo ship in the Caribbean Sea. The Bahamian flag has been identified by the ITF as a runaway flag. � 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 December 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ‘LEWIS AND CLARK’ SHIPS SIGNAL MORE NEW JOBS FOR CIVMARS SEAFARERS CONTINUE OIF3 MOBILIZATION NEWER MAERSK VESSELS JOIN MSP FLEET BALLOTING CONTINUES IN SIU ELECTION UNION FAMILIES AGAIN PROVIDE BIG TURNOUT ON ELECTION DAY NEW CONTRACTS TAKE SEAFARERS INTO THE NEW YEAR TRIBUTE TO HOSPITAL SHIP UNVEILED AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETARY U.S. GOVERNMENT REPORT CITES NEED FOR TIGHTER SECURITY ON SHIPPING CONTAINERS PROSPECTS IMPROVE FOR ANWR DRILLING USNS RAINIER RETURNS FROM DEPLOYMENT WITH CARRIER STRIKE GOUP SIU CREWS HONORED AT YEARLY AOTOS EVENT BOSUNS CREDIT UNION PAUL HALL CENTER FOR OPPORTUNITIES SIU’S PETER DREWS DIES AT 76 SEAFARERS ANSWER OIF’S CALL ABOARD TANKER SAMUEL COBB NCL AMERICA CREWS EAGERLY TAKE VALUABLE TRAINING IN PINEY POINT AND HONOLULU HOW AND WHY THE ITF FIGHTS AGAINST RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIPPING 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 12/01/2004 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. 12 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/a841753ae42d04178fed268b174943d4.pdf 18bc9ba9e238b8fe811bb2b3479be821 PDF Text Text p01_03.qxd 10/29/2004 5:02 AM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 11 November 2004 Construction Starts th On 4 BP Tanker Construction began last month on the fourth double-hull oil tanker being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego. Like its three sister ships—including the Alaskan Frontier, pictured at right—the newest vessel when completed will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. Page 3. Maersk Line, Limited Brings Newer Ships into MSP Fleet Six modern containerships are entering the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet thanks to an agreement between SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited and the U.S. Maritime Administration. The vessels, including the Comet (above) and Meteor (below), are replacement ships for older tonnage. Page 3. Ferry Crews Vote SIU Page 2 Union, School Mourn Major Ken Conklin Shipboard Training: Vital Part of Apprentice Program Page 4 New Tug on Lakes Page 2 Benefits Conferences Begin Early Next Year Page 5 The unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education emphasizes practical training, including a 90-day shipboard phase that gives students experience working in each of the three departments. Above, Unlicensed Apprentices Tim Cullen (left) and Mike Esterheld perform their duties, aboard the Freedom in Baltimore. Pages 12-13. �p01_03.qxd 10/29/2004 5:02 AM Page 2 President’s Report More on OIF3 Although the year is winding down, this remains a busy and productive time for Seafarers. Once again, our members are answering the call of Operation Iraqi Freedom, this time for OIF3. As with the first two phases of the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Seafarers during this current stage are fulfilling their role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. Rock-solid professionalism, performance, patriotism and reliability are nothing new for the SIU. It has been that way since our founding in 1938. It will always be that way. I applaud our members who are sailing in support of our troops. You are an ongoing source of pride for your brothers and sisters throughout the union, for merchant marine veterans and for the soldiers and citizens of our nation. You are a vital part of the U.S. effort in Iraq, in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas. It goes without saying that this is an enormously important mission, one that continues to involve sacrifice and risk. The same is true with Operation Enduring Freedom, the war against terrorism. At the same time, Seafarers also are doing an excellent job meeting our obligations in the commercial sector of the U.S.-flag fleet. That, too, is an important mission. SIU Elections This month marks the start of balloting in the union’s elections, which take place every four years. The current and previous issues of the LOG contain a list of voting locations and other balloting information, including how to vote by absentee ballot. That same information remains available on the SIU’s web site. As I’ve said before, the SIU’s direction begins with the individual Seafarer. You elect the officials to lead the way in improving your union. You hold the power to decide the outcome of proposed constitutional amendments like those on this year’s SIU ballot. That power only works if you vote. Regardless of whom you support in the SIU election, and wherever you stand on the proposed amendments, make the effort to cast your votes. Encourage your brother and sister Seafarers to do the same. Tonnage Tax Last month, President Bush signed into law H.R. 4520, the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. The new law includes a provision that should help provide a more level playing field for companies operating U.S.-flag fleets. Specifically, the law allows American-flag operators engaged in the international trades to pay a yearly tax based on their fleet’s overall tonnage instead of paying an annual corporate income tax. This is good news for our industry, in part because most foreign maritime competitors already operate under a similar tax structure. And once again, the new law reminds all of us that politics in many ways governs our industry. Whether we’re talking about tax structures, training requirements, shipboard and port security procedures, cabotage laws or some other rule or regulation that affects maritime, the bottom line is that we must remain politically active in order to make our voices heard. Thanksgiving On a personal note, I extend warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all Seafarers, SIU pensioners and their families. I especially want to offer best wishes to our brothers and sisters who are at sea for the holiday. It’s never easy being away from home at this time of year, but, as mentioned, your work is helping ensure America’s national and economic security. That’s no exaggeration, and your commitment is noticed and appreciated. Professionally, I believe we in the SIU have much to be thankful for as we look back on the year so far. We have organized new vessels, ratified good contracts, and maintained excellent health care benefits at a time when medical coverage is the top, most difficult issue in virtually every contract across the country. We have helped make numerous improvements at our affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. And of course, we have delivered the goods for U.S. troops overseas. Again, I wish you a safe and happy holiday. Volume 66, Number 11 November 2004 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2004 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Philly Ferry Crews Stick With Seafarers Seafarers once again are sailing aboard the Philadelphiabased passenger ferry Freedom. Hornblower Marine Services became the ferry’s new operator this past summer. In August, with pledge cards in hand from all of the crew members, the union filed for recognition as the mariners’ collective bargaining representative. The company agreed to recognize the union based on the card check. As this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, both parties were awaiting finalization of a first contract for signature. In the interim, the crews are covered by a temporary agreement. “The mariners made it clear that they wanted SIU representation, and the company respected their wish,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “Both sides have bargained in good faith.” The Delaware River Port Authority in the summer of 2003 added the Freedom to its RiverLink service between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. The boat eventually replaced its predecessor. The Freedom has a minimum crew of three and a crew of six when it carries its maximum number of passengers: 600. The ferry is equipped with two decks, a steel canopy, an insulated cabin and dual wheelhouses (one at each end). The SIU has represented RiverLink crews since March 1992. At that time, the ferry service’s rebirth marked the resumption of a route that had stopped 40 years earlier. In 1952, the Haddonfield, also manned by Seafarers, made its final voyage across the Delaware River. The ferry closed because of new bridge construction and the rising operating costs, including insurance and fuel. The SIU-crewed Freedom transports passengers between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. BIDCO Adds New Tugboat Seafarers-contracted Buffalo Industrial Diving Company (BIDCO) has added a new tugboat to its operation. The Ruby is the first in a series of tugs that the company plans to add over the next few years. The boat is used for assistance in marine construction and also helps the SIU-crewed dive-support vessel M/V Pipeline Surveyor. The Ruby is covered under a separate three-year contract— one that provides wage increases in each year of the agreement, top-of-the-line medical benefits and pension benefits. BIDCO mariners earlier this year voted to join the SIU. The original crew members work aboard a 110-foot former survey boat which now tends to diving platforms and also delivers construction material. BIDCO’s parent company is involved in marine construction projects including underwater pipeline installation, harbor dredging, underwater repairs and much more. BIDCO assisted in some of the salvage efforts in New York following the attacks of September 11. Pictured aboard the SIU’s newest contracted tugboat are (from left) Seafarers Tom Schultz, Mark Jones, Tom Maciejczyk and Brendan Murphy. NCL America President Tours School NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch last month toured the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Veitch examined all aspects of the school’s operation, including the fire fighting and safety school (above, left, with Safety Director Jim Hanson) and the manpower office (below, with Bart Rogers, head of the department). NCL America operates the SIU-crewed U.S.-flag cruise ship Pride of Aloha. November 2004 �p01_03.qxd 10/29/2004 5:02 AM Page 3 Construction Starts on 4 BP Tanker th SIU-Contracted Alaska Tanker Co. Earns Safety Milestone, Award Construction began last month on the fourth double-hull oil tanker being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego. Like its three sister ships, the newest vessel when completed will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. (ATC). The first ship in the group— the Alaskan Frontier—was christened at the shipyard in May and was delivered in August. A naming ceremony for the second vessel, which was floated out in July, is slated for early next month. Delivery dates for that ship and the other two range from 20052006. NASSCO describes the four double-hull vessels as among the most environmentally friendly ships ever built, incorporating the latest in tanker design and construction. The design of the four 1.3-million-barrel-capacity tankers in the Alaska Class is intended to allow maximum flexibility for oil deliveries to West Coast ports, including BP refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. Each of the vessels is 941 feet long and has a beam of 164 feet. According to the shipyard, the vessels employ the latest in international marine technologies, including twin-screw, mediumspeed, diesel-electric propulsion that can achieve a speed of more than 15 knots. The ships come fitted with the most modern machinery and cargo control systems and an integrated navigation system. Earlier this year, the SIUcrewed ATC fleet quietly reached another safety milestone: six million man hours without a lost time injury. The company also earned accolades in the form of a “Legacy Award” issued by the Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force. The award is given for oil spill prevention, preparedness and response. In announcing the award, the task force noted, “ATC has conclusively demonstrated that preventing spills and injuries is not only the right thing to do, but is cost effective as well. ATC has saved millions of dollars in injury claims, spill response costs, and insurance premiums. During 2002 and 2003, ATC transported 13 billion gallons of crude oil with just 2.2 total gallons being spilled and completed more than five million man hours without a lost time injury. ATC firmly believes that openly reporting near misses and losses of containment—and using this information as the basis for improvement—is a key factor in instilling the awareness and behaviors that prevent pollution…. “ATC has worked with the Seafarers International Union to establish a dedicated employment pool of individuals who meet specific medical, fitness, training, and performance requirements. ATC has also made a point of hiring Alaskans and maintaining an office in Valdez, thus underscoring its commitment to the Alaskan community. ATC has also partnered with the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council and with the Pacific States/BC Oil Spill Task Force on spill prevention projects such as the Ice Detection Radar System, efforts to promote voluntary spill prevention efforts industry-wide, and efforts to plan for requests for Places of Refuge by ships in distress.” Voting for officers of the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, to be con- Transfers Executed for Six Replacement Vessels; Planning Continues for Transfer of Other Ships November 2004 The Sealand Lightning (above) and SL Charger (below) are two of six modern containerships that will replace older vessels in the MSP fleet. The SIU-crewed ships are managed by Maersk Line, Limited. operating under the U.S. flag with a U.S. crew. The disposition of the six replaced vessels will be determined in the near future, but they are ultimately expected to operate in Maersk’s international fleet. Each of the replacement vessels will be integrated into Maersk’s existing U.S.-flag fleet, streamlining operations and creating efficiencies in MLL’s network of intermodal assets, Last year, seven Seafarerscrewed ATC ships received vessel safety awards at an annual industry gathering in New Orleans. Also last year, the Alaska state legislature formally congratulated the company for its outstanding safety and environmental record. ATC then earned a major Washington State award for excellence in marine safety and environmental stewardship. Union Election Voting Begins Nov. 1 Maersk Line, Limited Replaces Maritime Security Program Ships Agreements were signed Oct. 1, 2004 between Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) and the Maritime Administration to transfer the Maritime Security Program (MSP) contracts on six existing SIU-crewed MSP vessels built in the 1980s and managed by U.S. Ship Management, Inc. (USSM) to six newer containerships. The new replacement vessels are the Sealand Intrepid, Sealand Lightning, Sealand Charger, Sealand Comet, Sealand Meteor and Alva Maersk. The replacements were approved by the Maritime Administration and U.S. Transportation Command and represent a significant improvement in the ability of MLL’s U.S.flag fleet to serve its military and commercial customers. “This is a major milestone in MLL’s plan to enroll newer, faster and larger U.S.-flagged vessels into the maritime security program,” said Ken Gaulden, MLL’s senior vice president for marketing and government relations. “The end result will be a much impoved MSP.” In an Oct. 1 news release, Maersk noted that MSP age limits require that older vessels be replaced in the current program before reaching 25 years of age. The first of the new replacement vessels was expected to enter the U.S- flag fleet late last month. The replaced vessels (the Explorer, Defender, Innovator, Patriot, Liberator and Endurance) will continue to sail under the U.S. flag until their replacements begin The Alaskan Frontier (above) is a sister ship to the one on which construction began last month in San Diego. including terminals, cranes, logistical platforms, computerized management systems, containers and chassis. The transfers will strengthen the MSP for military purposes and enhance the U.S.flag presence in international shipping. Maersk Line, Limited is based in Norfolk, Va. and is one of the Department of Defense’s primary shipping contractors. ducted by secret ballot, begins Nov. 1 and continues through Dec. 31. This election also includes two proposed constitutional amendments. Full-book SIU members in good standing are eligible to vote in the election, which will determine union officers for the 20052008 term. Such members may pick up their ballots at any of 21 SIU halls throughout the country. Ballots may be obtained from 9 a.m. until noon, Mondays through Saturdays, except legal holidays, until Dec. 31. The ballot includes the list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, eight vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents (for a total of 27 positions). It also includes the two proposed constitutional amendments. In accordance with the union’s constitution, a credentials committee composed of six rank-andfile Seafarers, elected by their fellow members, reviewed the nomination applications to ensure each candidate’s eligibility. The committee’s report was prepared Aug. 19 (after the nominations period closed) and approved by the membership at the September meetings. The secret ballots are accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” as well as postage-paid envelopes bearing the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee. Each Seafarer must present his or her book to the port agent or agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the member receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be stamped with the word “Voted” and the date. Members who are working aboard an SIU-contracted vessel during the election period or who have a hospital stay during the first 10 days of November may request an absentee ballot. Such requests should be made in writing, by registered or certified mail, to SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel at SIU headquarters: 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Requests for absentee ballots should be postmarked no later than Nov. 15 See page 17 for a list of the voting locations. Article XIII of the union’s constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, the constitutional committee’s report and other related information appears on pages 6-11 of the October 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG. The same information is available on the internet at www.seafarers.org, in the Seafarers LOG section. Additionally, a notice of the election was mailed in October to all members at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 11, 2004 for the observance of Veterans’ Day; Thursday, Nov 25, 2004 to celebrate Thanksgiving Day; and Friday, Dec. 24, 2004 for the Christmas holiday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Seafarers LOG 3 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 3:07 AM Page 4 Remembering Major Ken Conklin (1918-2004) Trainee Program’s Founder Wanted Others to Have Opportunities Even the most optimistic, resolute person surely would have tipped his cap to Major Ken “K.C.” Conklin, founder of the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Looking back on his service in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, Conklin described the experience as “a break” that helped him turn his life around. Surveying the awesome challenge of building a maritime training center on a largely barren patch of southern Maryland land in 1967, Conklin once remarked —with a sincerity not to be questioned—“I had no doubts about the long-term success of the school.” That type of determination and can-do attitude characterized Conklin, who died Sept. 20 in Dover, Pa. at age 86. Family members and former co-workers remembered the retired Paul Hall Center vice president as tough but generous, indomitable but understanding—the type of man who could view wartime military service as a blessing. Most of all, they recalled his fondness for the Paul Hall Center, a facility that has evolved into a premier maritime school enhanced by academic curriculums including GED and college degree programs. Much of that growth took place during Conklin’s tenure, from 1967 until he retired in 1993. “Right until his absolute dying breath, he was (connected to) Piney Point,” said Conklin’s daughter, Andrea, herself a longtime employee at the school before moving last year to care for her parents. “He remained ever in Piney Point—that was the love of his life.” SIU President Michael Sacco, who served as the school’s vice president from 1968 to 1978, said Conklin “was a hard-working, dedicated guy. He brought that Marine spirit and discipline. He instituted (the trainees) marching to and from class, posting the colors. He was a tough commandant, but someone you could go to if you had a problem.” The school’s current vice pres- ident, Don Nolan, also met Conklin in 1968 during the facility’s earliest days. “He was our very first commandant and one of the most committed and tireless Rogers, who met Conklin in 1980, described him as a father figure with remarkable attention to detail. “His organizational skills were incredible,” Rogers Clockwise, from upper left: Past and present Paul Hall Center VPs Ken Conklin and Don Nolan; Conklin as a high school senior; giving a tour of the Paul Hall Memorial Library; with his wife, Jane. individuals I’ve seen in my entire life,” Nolan recalled. “He’s a person no one will forget. People who haven’t been to the school for 30 years come back and ask about him. He was a true mentor.” Bart Rogers, head of the manpower office at Piney Point, pointed out that despite the school’s commendable growth and virtually mandatory broadening, “The basis of the school is the trainee program, and the foundation for the program is K.C. It’s really that simple. The system and procedures he put in place are still there today.” said. “They’d bring 50 kids in for a class, and the next day he’d be calling each one of them by name.” Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jim Hanson said Conklin “was very dedicated to the kids and the school. It seemed like he was always here and he loved it very much. You could feel it.” Sharon Farr worked for Conklin for more than 10 years. “He had a gruff exterior, but he wasn’t all that gruff, once you got to know him. He had a soft heart and he cared about everybody Tough Commandant Took Pleasure In Helping Trainees Ken Conklin had a strict air befitting a retired U.S. Marine Corps major who served in two wars, but his greatest professional joy was anything but tough. “My father was absolutely committed to giving anybody who may be on the wrong track the break they needed to turn themselves around,” noted his daughter, Andrea. “He and his brother and sister were orphaned very young. As he put it, he and his brother kind of ran wild after they were orphaned. He had influences in his life that he credits with turning him around. “When he went into service to help found Piney Point, the thing that most appealed to him was the opportunity to give people a break, an opportunity.” During a 1992 interview for an article on 4 Seafarers LOG who worked here,” Farr stated. During a shipboard meeting a week after Conklin’s death, the crew of the LNG Libra wrote, “He was a good man and made us the school’s 25th anniversary, Conklin said, “Working with young people is a big part of what attracted me to this job. The truth is there’s nothing wrong with the youth of today. It’s just that we, as adults, don’t have enough time to talk with them. “The reason I’ve stuck with it all these years is, helping people. We’re in the business of giving people an opportunity to better themselves— financially, educationally, every way.” Conklin believed that unyielding effort plays a big part in success. “You’re going to run into a roadblock, and you can either go under, over, around or through,” he said. “But don’t quit. You can do anything you want to do, if you want it badly enough.” understand the steps that we were taking in our lives. Many of us knew the Major from attending the school, either as trainees or upgraders. He taught us about loyalty and the meaning of the U.S. Merchant Marine. He showed us to walk tall and be proud.” Thomas Horton, an accomplished television documentary producer who served under Conklin during World War II, called him “the best Marine officer I ever knew. He was such a straight shooter, never bragged or tried to impress you. It was his job to keep us on the narrow path of doing a good job.” Ken Conklin was born in Clifton, N.J. He served in the Marine Corps from 1941 to 1964, retiring as a major. He was hired by the late SIU President Paul Hall to start the original training program at the Lundeberg School, later renamed for Hall. Conklin is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jane Conklin. He also is survived by daughter Andrea McCranie; two sons, boatman Craig Conklin and QMED Kevin Conklin, both active Seafarers; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a sister, Rita Ryerson. Funeral services were scheduled for Oct. 28 at the Fort Belvoir (Va.) Chapel, followed by burial at the Arlington National Cemetery. The family encourages a donation in his name to a charity of one’s choice. Notice Pre-Signed Certificates of Discharge The union recently fielded questions about the practice employed by some ships’ masters involving the pre-signing of certificates of discharge. According to the union’s legal department, it is not illegal to have mariners sign their respective certificates of discharge at the outset of a voyage and then fill in the actual discharge date at the end of the voyage. Some captains ask for presigned discharges as a matter of convenience. However, such a practice legally cannot be made a condition of employment, and no mariner can lose his job for refusing to sign the certificate prior to the actual date of discharge. A question was raised concerning a potential problem with this practice; specifically, what would happen if someone filled in an incorrect date on the certificate which differed from the actual discharge date. The concern was that this could be problematic for injury or illness claims if the injury or illness occurred after the date of discharge on the certificate. However, SIU members should be assured that, for the purposes of establishing a legal claim, the mariner simply must demonstrate that he was a seaman working on the vessel at the time of the injury. Thus, even though a seaman may have been technically discharged prior to the injury, he nevertheless can establish his status as a mariner by showing that he was performing duties consistent with the operation of the vessel when he was injured (through payroll records or witness accounts, for instance). The date included on the discharge would not be determinative. Mariners are advised if they do pre-sign their certificates that, upon discharge, they should make sure the correct date of discharge appears on the certificate. If any SIU members have any questions about this practice they may direct them to a union official; however, SIU members should note that this practice is not something about which they need to be overly concerned. November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/29/2004 6:29 PM Page 5 Shore Leave Spotlighted on World Maritime Day Maritime unions and shipowners, in a show of solidarity with seafarers on World Maritime Day (Sept. 30) over the denial of shore leave, urged governments not to prevent mariners from enjoying their entitlement to go ashore. In an unusual cooperative venture, members of the Round Table of shipping organizations—BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and International Shipping Federation (ISF), Intercargo and Intertanko—tackled the issue of maritime security and jointly wrote an open letter to U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell expressing the shipping industry’s concerns. The industry also is engaging with U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide as part of a global effort to raise awareness of the shore leave problem. Roundtable members aligned with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) in a further show of unity to further their agenda. “On World Maritime Day we are all joining to back the basic rights of those who work at sea and to remind the U.S. and other governments that enhanced security will be achieved by cooperation, not confrontation,” said ITF General Secretary David Cockroft. ICS/ISF Secretary General Chris Horrocks added: “We are all committed to improving security, as demonstrated by the implementation of the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code), but we want to remind governments— especially the U.S.—that this is best achieved by working together, not by treating visiting seafarers as potential terrorists.” Efthimios Mitropoulos, secretary-general of the IMO, while praising the rapid work done in the maritime community to progress and implement the ISPS Code has called for balance between the need to strictly implement the new security regime and to facilitate global trade. Mitropoulos said that balance also was also necessary between the need to tighten security precautions against terrorists who might pose as seafarers, “the rights of seafarers themselves” and the “traditional and legally enshrined rights of ships to enjoy freedom of navigation on the high seas.” On security matters, Mitropoulos urged unceasing preparedness. “Now that the new international maritime security measures are in force, we must not make the mistake of resting on our laurels and assuming the work has been completed,” the secretary-general said. “The risks are too high to allow for any hint of complacency and we must make sure that high levels of vigilance and awareness are maintained and built upon until they become second nature throughout the shipping and port industries. “Terrorism is not a matter of concern to just one country or a group of countries—it is a global issue that affects us all,” he said. “We should spare no effort to ensure that, together, we build a robust and resilient defense.” The text of the alliance’s letter to Secretary Powell, dated Sept. 30, follows: Seafarers play a significant role in the smooth operation of the world economy, with around 90% of trade in the world’s raw materials, food and products being transported by sea. On the occasion of World Maritime Day, we are therefore writing to draw your attention to a particular problem confronting the global shipping industry and the 1.25 million seafarers working on board merchant ships that service international trade. Due to the special nature of seafarers’ employment—with crew working at sea during voyages of several weeks’ duration—the provision of shore leave in the foreign ports that seafarers visit is vital to ensure their wellbeing and welfare. However, one of the unresolved problems created by post 9/11 security concerns is the tighter restrictions being placed on the movement of seafarers by certain governments, not least the United States. Apart from concerns about welfare, the entry into force of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code has conferred a major new security role on seafarers. Maritime employers and seafarers’ trade Rep. Vitter Salutes Mariners U.S. Rep. David Vitter (R-La.) made the following statement in the House of Representatives on World Maritime Day (Sept. 30). Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize September 30 as World Maritime Day. I urge the members of Congress to join me in saluting the hard-working men and women of the Merchant Marine. Each day, mariners perform a vital service in the global economy by ensuring that international trade proceeds without interruption. They work long hours in all kinds of weather. Whether they sail on the storm-tossed waves of the North Atlantic or the U.S. Rep. David Vitter tropical heat of the South Pacific, these men and (R-La.) women perform their duties without recognition or fanfare. Mariners and many others contribute to homeland security, and we must give them the support they need to effectively keep our ports safe. As we recognize Maritime Day, we cannot overlook the human element. Mariners sail for many weeks without being ashore or hearing a loved one’s voice on a call home. We thank the mariners for their continued commitment to keeping us all secure, and we focus our attention on the challenge in their industry of balancing security needs with mariners’ need for shore leave. I urge members of Congress to join me in working to reach a solution that provides the utmost in security for ports and harbors around the world while allowing for the personal needs of the men and women who sail these great ships. I come to the floor of the House of Representatives to salute and honor the men and women of the Merchant Marine on this World Maritime Day. November 2004 unions therefore believe that unreasonable restrictions on shore leave are counterproductive. They simply generate ill feeling amongst those who have such an important part to play in ensuring the security of ships, port facilities and society at large. The most acute problems have been experienced in the United States, where in addition to the frequent denial of shore leave some companies have been required to hire armed guards to prevent foreign seafarers from leaving their ships. However the problem is widespread, with many other countries no longer adhering to the principle that seafarers should not be required to obtain visas in order to enjoy shore leave, established in international law by the IMO Facilitation Convention, 1965, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 1958. To address concerns about security following the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, but in a manner compatible with providing seafarers with shore leave, ILO has adopted, in June 2003, a new Convention on the Security of Seafarers’ Identity Documents (ILO 185). Crucially, the Convention maintains the principle that port states must afford special treatment to seafarers for the purpose of facilitating shore leave or crew transits, and that seafarers holding the new ID should not normally be required to apply for a visa in advance in their home country. The global shipping industry and seafarers’ trade unions are especially concerned that seafarers must now hold individual visas for entry to the US in order to have any possibility of being granted permission to enjoy shore leave. Apart from the practical difficulties this policy creates, it also gives a negative signal to other governments that are considering whether to ratify the new ILO Convention. As we celebrate World Maritime Day, we respectfully urge the United States to do all that it can to facilitate the movement of seafarers and the provision of shore leave. Yours sincerely, David Cockroft General Secretary International Transport Workers’ Federation Chris Horrocks Secretary General International Chamber of Shipping/International Shipping Federation (On behalf of the Round Table of international shipping associations) Meanwhile, as members of the Round Table were observing World Maritime Day 2004 in London, Pope John Paul II prayed for seafarers worldwide. At a meeting at his summer residence, the Pope said that his thoughts went out to all who worked at sea, and prayed “that they may be able to live with dignity and security.” Elsewhere, World Maritime Day for the first time was commemorated in Port Arthur, Texas. As in other locations around the world, the issue of shore leave took center stage during the Port Arthur observance. Rev. Sinclair Oubre of the Apostleship of the Sea and the Port Arthur International Seafarers ITF Inspector Shwe Aung told those who attended World Maritime Day activities in Port Arthur, Texas how difficult life is for seamen who work aboard flag-of-convenience (FOC) vessels. He also discussed the difficulties he encounters when attempting to gain access on FOCs to perform inspections. Rev. Sinclair Oubre of the Apostleship of the Sea holds a press conference in Port Arthur, Texas on the campus of Lamar State College during the World Maritime Day commemoration. During his remarks to the media, Oubre called for the support of shore leave for mariners coming into U.S. ports. Center, called for ways for foreign seafarers to have shore leave on U.S. soil, The Beaumont Enterprise reported. “With three liquid natural gas facilities in the planning stages for the Port Arthur area, our maritime future is bright and exciting. I pray that as we move into that future that the seafarers who are essential to our community will not be seen as a ‘problem,’ but an opportunity to welcome and serve,” said Oubre, who is an SIU member. Benefits Conferences Will Take Place at SIU Halls in 2005 The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) will conduct conferences at SIU halls beginning early next year to update members, pensioners and spouses on the latest happenings with the various Plans. SHBP Administrator Bill Dennis said the conference dates will be firmed up some time this month; they’ll be published in the December issue of the Seafarers LOG and also will be made available at the halls and on the union’s web site (www.seafarers.org). Information on all of the Seafarers Plans will be available at the conferences. Seafarers, pensioners and family members are encouraged to attend. “I’m very confident that the benefits conferences will be worthwhile for all who attend,” Dennis stated. “Plans representatives will present plenty of information and of course will welcome questions from Seafarers, pensioners and their spouses. If we can’t immediately answer a question, we’ll write it down and get the answer back to the member or spouse.” Two of the more prominent topics at the conferences will be the SHBP’s recent affiliations with First Health Network and (separately) Prescription Solutions. As previously reported, the First Health Network agreement took effect Nov. 1. By utilizing First Health, the SHBP is helping to eliminate applicable out-of-pocket costs for Seafarers. Additionally, one of the biggest expected advantages is that Seafarers using the network no longer will have to worry about doctors’ charges exceeding the “reasonable and customary” coverage limit, since the network and its participating physicians agree to a set fee schedule. More than 4,500 hospitals and some 425,000 physicians and ancillary providers participate in First Health Network. According to the company, 99 percent of hospitals and 96 percent of physicians and ancillary providers normally renew their respective contracts with the network. A quick visit to First Health’s web site (www.firsthealth.com, login ID SHBP) backed up the company’s status as a large network, giving Plan participants plenty of choices. A search for participating clinics and physicians within 20 miles of the SIU’s Algonac, Mich. hall returned 984 matches. A search for providers located within 5 miles of the Baltimore hall yielded 2,674 matches. Large numbers also were the norm for searches within 5 miles of the halls in Boston (8,850 participants), Houston (3,794), Honolulu (560), Jacksonville (1,069), New Orleans (937), New York (4,315), Norfolk (804), San Francisco (2,847), Tacoma (1,056), Wilmington (1,116) and others. At the start of 2004, the SHBP entered into an agreement with Prescription Solutions, a national pharmacy management company, to provide pharmacy benefits to all eligible participants. Under this agreement, the cost of prescribed drugs has been greatly reduced, resulting in a savings to the Plan and to participants. Eligible members and dependents participating at Plan Level G pay only small co-payments for certain prescribed name brand drugs. In addition, maintenance drugs are available without a co-pay when a participant uses the mail-order system. The program provides coverage for new as well as refill prescriptions filled at participating retail pharmacies and through the Prescription Solutions Mail Services Pharmacy. To use the program, members present their Prescription Solutions ID cards to any participating pharmacy. Seafarers LOG 5 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 1:10 AM Page 6 Left: SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz and SEATU Assistant Vice President Elizabeth Brown wave their campaign signs in front of the union hall in support of Rep. Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii). Abercrombie is one of maritime’s strongest allies in Congress and a good friend to the SIU. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU Right: This photo of SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell (left) and Tim Farrell, executive director of the port of Tacoma, was taken at a recent meeting during which discussions were held pertaining to the Jones Act and short sea shipping as well as maritime and port security issues. Kenneth McLamb, bosun aboard the Blue Ridge, sent in this photo of unlicensed apprentice John Niday flying in the bosun’s chair in order to work on block and slushing wire. Since this photo was taken, Niday has returned to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade to AB. Seafarers come to the aid of Teamsters Local 830 in setting up picket lines at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia. At left are SIU members Bill Kelly and Mike Joel. At right is SIU member Andrew Austin with help from his son. Local 830, which is in the process of organizing drivers at Bell Beverage, is trying to raise public awareness of the firm’s substandard wages and benefits. After 36 years with the SIU, Tugboat Captain John Rakyta (front center) is retiring. Helping celebrate the event at the Crowley Maritime office in Oakland, Calif. are Javier Montoya, Bruno Kalmeta, Dragi Odak, Bob Bouton, Craig Perry, Homer Roberson, Ed Brooks, Mike Restivo, George Cox, Jim Penny, Chad Macaulay, Mike Privette, George Esponge, John Ivankovich and Marijan Masnov. Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro (below) is at the control station of the boom aboard the Alaskan Frontier, waiting for a signal from AB Mike Bedney (right). Below right, AB Domingo Cazon stands by during a fuel oil transfer. The Alaskan Frontier is one of several new vessels operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. to transport crude oil from Valdez, Alaska to oil refineries along the U.S. West Coast. These photos were taken in Long Beach, Calif. Working in the galley aboard the Overseas Joyce are Steward/Baker Jack Hart (left) and GSTU Hernan Sanga. These photos were taken when the car carrier recently docked in Long Beach, Calif. Left: SIU member Paul Jernstrom is the captain aboard an American Marine Corp water taxi in Long Beach, Calif., while his brother, Nils, works as a deckhand. 6 Seafarers LOG November 2004 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 4:07 AM Page 7 Women’s Work Is in All Three Departments Once a Rarity, Female Seafarers Are More Common Sight Women in the late 1800s smashed the blockade that once prevented them from working in the male-dominated U.S. maritime industry. At that juncture, women worked primarily as stewardesses, hairdressers and in other similar capacities aboard passenger ships. When those vessels were taken over by the government— after the U.S. entered World War II—many of those women lost their jobs. They were required to relinquish their positions when their vessels returned to U.S. ports after Dec. 7, 1941. One of those women, says the www.usmm.org website, was Betty Jackson. Jackson, in correspondence to President Franklin D. Roosevelt about the plight of women mariners, said: “We are not afraid of the dangers and we are willing to put up with any AB Tina Lester hones her skills during a marlinespike seamanship class. inconvenience as long as we can be reinstated and go back to sea.” Her calls for women to be allowed to return to their professions and serve the country during the war were met by deaf ears. Admiral Emory Scott Land, head of the Maritime Commission and War Shipping Administration, replied to Jackson and said simply that there were no provisions on wartime ships for women crew members. Although Jackson’s request was turned down, official records show that three women were awarded the merchant marine combat bar after their ships were torpedoed, and four women were POWs. Fast forward to the present and it’s evident that the old ideologies regarding women and their supposed “place” in the maritime industry have changed. Some 200 years after women initially broke into the maritime business and more than 50 years following pleas by pioneers like Jackson to allow them to remain there, today’s women merchant mariners—especially those in the SIU—are fast becoming trailblazers. Women mariners prominently are represented in jobs found within each of a vessel’s shipboard departments. While little information exists about the number of women who sailed under the SIU’s banner at its inception in 1938, figures since 1951 paint an unmistakable portrait of significant progress. Overall membership went from 19 in 1951 to its pinnacle in 1993 when 693 women sported the SIU said. “You can be gone for days on end, and being the only woman in a house with 30 guys potentially could be nerve-racking. It really does not bother me, though, because I think of them as my brothers, and they have always been nice and very respectful to me. “I love what I am doing and I can’t begin to thank the SIU for the success I have had,” Nunes concluded. “I know I would not be where I am if it was not for the union. Being in the SIU is like a dream come true for me, because I love my job and I defiFemale students routinely populate the Paul Hall Center, as evidenced nitely plan to stick around for a by this photo from last month showing upgraders and unlicensed lot of years.” apprentices enrolled at the facility in Piney Point, Md. Nunes’ reflections about choosing a maritime career were difference is that women now are colors. In 1951, seven women echoed by Phase III Steward held deck department ratings, two going into work areas that previDepartment Trainee Jamey ously were dominated by men to worked in the engine department Russell. A newcomer to the include management. I think this and 10 served as stewards. union, Russell came aboard this is good news not only for Today’s numbers for the same year in January in women, but also ratings are 72, 10 and 309, Anchorage, respectively, with another 39 sail- for the union and “Being on a ship Alaska. the maritime ing in entry ratings not confined “I was the only industry as a to one department. with the rest of the female in a crew whole because “The number of women in the of 27 on my trainwomen can do SIU definitely is growing now crew is just like ing ship—the any job that men compared to when I joined three being with family.” Sealand years ago,” said Natalie Nunes, a can.” Defender—and I A native of steward department member who really did not – Chief Cook Kim Strate Honolulu, Nunes joined the union in 2001 in the have any major has sailed aboard port of Honolulu. Nunes recently problems working the USNS Charlton and the USNS with the men,” Russell said. upgraded to chief steward at the Watson as well as aboard SIUSeafarers-affiliated Paul Hall “They all treated me as an equal contracted passenger ships. She Center for Maritime Training and and showed me the utmost in returned to the USNS Pomeroy Education in Piney Point, Md. terms of respect, so I really did after completing requirements for not have any problems. “When I first came to school her chief steward certification. here as an apprentice, there were “From my perspective, women “Working at sea is challenging are just as capable as doing every only three women in 200 stubecause you are away from your dents. Now that number is about job on a ship that men do,” she family and for the most part away one in three, so the landscape is Continued on page 20 from civilization as well,” Nunes changing” Nunes said. “Another PL 480 ‘Food for Peace’ Program Celebrates Fiftieth Anniversary When President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Agricultural Trade and Development Act into law five decades ago, he said the purpose of the legislation was to “lay the basis for a permanent expansion of our exports of agricultural products with lasting benefits to ourselves and peoples of other lands.” The measure, now known as the Public Law (PL) 480 “Food for Peace” program, has done that many times over, facilitating the sale of some $30 billion worth of commodities and 107 million tons of food aid. In addition, by generating an important source of cargo for U.S-flag vessels, it has helped preserve a viable American maritime industry and enhanced critical U.S. security interests. In any given year, anywhere from 47 to 106 nations will receive some kind of humanitarian food aid from the United States. Last year, 133 million people across the globe were the recipients of American generosity. One hundred thirty-five nations have received some kind of humanitarian aid since 1954. Some, like Taiwan and South Korea, have gone on to become thriving democracies and economic powerhouses. On average, the United States provides 60 percent of the world’s food aid. As President John F. Kennedy observed early in his presidency, “Food is strength, and food is peace, and food is freedom, and food is a helping hand to people around the world whose good will and friendship we want.” Farmers are not the only group of workers involved in the program. Secretary of State Colin Powell recently noted that the PL 480 program also “is the work of ... businessmen, grain elevator operators, truckers, bargemen, freight forwarders, port operations, NGOs, PVOs and government officials. Together, they form an unbroken chain of humanity stretching from this country’s fertile fields to hungry families half a world away.” It is important to remember that in the same year that Congress passed the Agricultural Trade and Development Act, the elected officials also strengthened existing U.S.flag shipping requirements for government-generated cargo by enacting the Cargo Preference Act of 1954. Both bills came at a pivotal time in the history of the American November 2004 maritime industry. The U.S.-flag merchant marine played an instrumental role in supporting American troops in both World War II and Korea. However, it was hit hard by the Ship Sales Act of 1946, which sold surplus U.S.-flag vessels overseas at bargain-basement prices, and the adoption of the Effective U.S. Control Doctrine in 1947, which effectively gave rise to the “flag-of-convenience” (FOC) system. The effect of these two developments on America’s deep-sea industry had become clear by the early 1950s: the U.S-flag merchant marine, once the largest in the world, was fast losing its preeminence to the notorious fleets of Panama, Honduras and Liberia, disreputable “for rent” registries that allowed ship owners to evade paying taxes and skirt existing health, safety, environmental and labor standards. Concerned about this, Paul Hall, the late SIU president, worked with Sen. Warren Magnuson (D-Wash.) and others on Capitol Hill to alleviate the situation. While the maritime industry continued to wage a campaign against FOC fleets, a quick resolution to that problem wasn’t possible. International oil companies, which had helped engineer the FOC scheme, held too much political power. Strengthening Cargo Preference To compensate for this, Magnuson decided to strengthen existing cargo preference requirements for foreign aid cargoes that were passed in the wake of World War II. The 50 percent requirement was only met twice, in 1946 and 1954. Calling this record “a tragedy,” Sen. John Marshall Butler (D-Md.), another supporter of the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, put the matter into perspective by observing on the Senate floor, “No other nation in the world having a merchant marine of any size would be content to have it carry such a small portion of its own foreign trade. Instead of reaching our stated objective of 50 percent, we seem to be retreating from it. I am confident that Congress did not intend and will not permit this competitive decline in our maritime strength to continue long.” Bags of lentils are one of the many products shipped overseas on U.S.-flag vessels under the PL 480 Food for Peace program. The Cargo Preference Law of 1954 is hardly unique. Most nations impose national-flag requirements on certain types of government-impelled cargoes. They do so because cargo is the lifeline of any merchant fleet. As the MTD executive board observed earlier this year, “In order to remain healthy, American bottoms need a steady supply of cargo. The longstanding U.S. law to require at least 50 percent of government sponsored cargoes and 75 percent of certain agricultural cargoes be carried on U.S.-flag vessels crewed by U.S. citizen mariners has responded to that need.” By marrying humanitarian food aid programs and the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, Congress also scored an important diplomatic coup. If a picture is worth a thousand words, then so is a national flag flying over a vessel laden with humanitarian goods. At a time when the Cold War was at its hottest, this was an important consideration. Fifty years later, when America is in a life-and-death struggle against agents of terror, it still is. And so are the irreplaceable benefits that both the PL 480 program and the Cargo Preference Act of 1954 continue to generate by helping ensure the continuation of a strong U.S. maritime industry. Seafarers LOG 7 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 12:39 AM Page 8 Spotlight on San Francisco PRESIDENT GRANT Ali M. Quraish (right) is the ACU aboard the President Grant (below). MOKIHANA The galley gang aboard Matson’s Mokihana include (clockwise from top left) Chief Cook Richard Walker, Steward/Baker Reynaldo T. Magpale and ACU Eduardo Munizaga. MILLENNIUM STAR Timothy Manes works as a deckhand on the Millennium Star, an SIU-crewed escort vessel operated by Starlight Marine Services, Inc. in the port of San Francisco. APL SINGAPORE When the APL Singapore recently sailed into the port of San Francisco, working in the galley were (clockwise from right) Chief Steward Duane Bergeson, ACU Fadhel Hasan and Chief Cook Dominador Guerrero. KAUAI — Working as a team aboard Matson’s Kauai are (from left) Room Steward Mosa Mohamad, Steward Carol Grycko and ACU Ahmed Mohamed. Safety instructor Mitch Oakley from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. was in San Francisco recently to conduct a general security awareness course for SIU members. From left (kneeling) are Oakley, Gene Aruta, Willie Alataua, (second row) John Stein, Rey Dimacale, Louella Sproul, Greg Blasquez, Steve Biles, Kevin Cooper, (last row) John Blasquez, John Schoenstein, George Pino and Jason Schoenstein. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2004 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 2:12 PM Page 9 The Horizon Spirit transports containerized cargo to and from the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii as well as providing transpacific service to the Pacific islands of Guam, Saipan and Tinian. The photos of crew members appearing on this page were sent to the LOG by Jevon C. Vontoure, the electrician aboard ship during an August voyage. Left: ABs prepare for docking operations in port. Right: James “Jimi” Spranza, the 12-4 oiler, grabs a bite to eat. Working Aboard the Horizon Spirit Chipping is one of the shipboard tasks being carried out by Recertified Bosun Ralph Gibbs. Standing the 12-4 watch is AB Joseph Loyal. Working on deck is Leopoldo Viernes Jr., the 4-8 AB aboard the Horizon Spirit. Electrician Jevon Vontoure, who sent the Seafarers LOG the photos of crew members appearing on this page, checks the vessel’s electrical system. AB Shawn Strand helps secure the lines for docking. November 2004 Chief Cook Wilfred Scales and Wiper Luis Aguirre find a place in the freezer for this neatly packaged fish. Abdul Rahman presses a button to blow the tubes. Rahman is the 4-8 oiler on the Horizon Spirit. Seafarers LOG 9 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 3:45 AM Page 10 Initial Mobilization For OIF3 Includes 9 SIU-Crewed Ships The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) last month accelerated its pace for mobilizing and deploying civiliancrewed vessels for the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom 3 (OIF3). As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, no fewer than nine vessels—all crewed by members of the SIU, including the union’s Government Services Division—recently had been mobilized for OIF3. These included (MSC vessels) the USNS Arctic, 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, Sgt. William R. Button, USNS Charlton, and U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) Cape Rise, Cape Race, Cape Douglas, Cape Knox and Cape Wrath. The MSC fast combat support ship USNS Arctic on Oct. 13 deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group for a six-month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism. Crewed by 160 civil service mariners and 60 embarked ships, the 1st Lt. Baldomero Sailors, the 754-foot Arctic is Lopez, Sgt. William R. Button one of more than 30 civilian- and USNS Charlton from Oct. 3crewed MSC ships that provide 13 took turns pulling into the at-sea logistic support to deployed U.S. Navy ships. Ships like the Arctic enable Navy combatant ships to remain at sea, on station and combat ready for extended periods of time. The Arctic will provide food, fuel, supplies and ammunition to the carrier strike group throughout its deployment. With a top speed of 25 knots, the Arctic is ideal for resupplying Navy ships at sea. Additionally, two on-board Navy MH-60 helicopters will provide vertical replenishment. The 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez is underway Three other MSC supporting U.S. troops. Apply Now for 2005 Scholarship There’s no escaping the fact that college costs are continuing to rise. The cost of higher education has been increasing significantly faster than the rate of inflation or the growth in family incomes for decades. According to recently released reports from the College Board, most students and their families can expect to pay, on average, from $231 to $1,114 more than last year for this year’s tuition and fees, depending on the type of college. The bad news is that this crisis in America’s higher education system threatens to push the dream of college out of reach for millions of students and families. The good news, however, is that help is available. One example is the Union Plus Scholarship Program (see article on this page). Another one— solely for Seafarers and their eligible dependents—is offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. This year, the Plan is funding eight scholarships to SIU members, their spouses and dependent children to help offset the rising rates for a college education. Three of the scholarships for 2005 are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The deadline for submitting the application and other required paperwork is April 15, 2005. That leaves five months from now in which to send away for the program booklet and start working P lease send me the 2005 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________ Mariner’s Social Security Number ____________________ Street Address __________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________ Telephone Number________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/04 10 Seafarers LOG on collecting the items needed for inclusion with the application (such as transcripts, certificates of graduation, letters of recommendation, a photograph and certified copy of birth certificate). Applicants also should arrange to take either the SAT or ACT no later than February 2005 in order to ensure the results reach the selection committee in time to be evaluated. Anyone who truly wants to continue his or her education beyond the high school level should be able to do so—and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan is trying to help. Take advantage of this unique benefit. Fill out the form below and start the process. The SIU-crewed Cape Race loads materiel in Norfolk, Va. port of Philadelphia. The vessels loaded more than 400,000 square feet of combat gear destined for deployed U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The SIU-crewed, noncombatant cargo ships were loaded with five-ton trucks, trailers, generators, helicopters and ambulances for use by the U.S. Army National Guard’s 42nd Infantry Division, also known as the Rainbow Division, based out of Troy, N.Y. MarAd vessels to deploy included the Cape Rise, Cape Race, Cape Douglas, Cape Knox Brother Butts Given Burial at Sea On Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2004, Brother Herman Burnell Butts Jr. made his final voyage as his ashes were scattered upon the waters by members of the SIUcrewed Sealand Florida. The burial service, conducted by Capt. Robert C. Sargeant at Latitude 26-18 North, Longitude 088-12 West, included prayers and a poem. Born in Mobile, Ala. in 1956, Butts, who died July 15, 2004, was a 1973 graduate of the trainee program at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. He shipped from the port of Houston, sailing in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Herman B. Butts Sr.; daughter Mandy Butts of Dripping Springs, Texas; sisters Rhonda Faye Davis of Houston and Lisa Eileen Walker of Columbia, Miss.; brother Steven Butts of Rio Medina, Texas; and grandchildren Logan M. Park and Madison M. Albarado. Seafarers aboard the ship during the ceremony included Bosun Frank Thompson, ABs Miguel Guity, Robert Arneel, Bartow Bridges, James Rush and Curtis Williams; Electrician Eric Bain, QMED Jeffery Roddy, DEU Joaquin Martinez, Steward/Baker Donna DeCesare, Chief Cook Daniel Wehr and SA Younis Saleh. Union Plus Provides Funding For Higher Education Goals Applications for the 2005 Union Plus Scholarship Program —which offers $150,000 in scholarships annually to eligible applicants—now are available. Those eligible to apply for this offering include SIU members, their spouses and dependent children who are beginning or continuing their secondary education. Awards are based on academic achievement, character, leadership, social awareness, career goals and financial need. To download an application, go to www.unionplus.org/scholarships or send a postcard with your name, return address, telephone number and international union affiliation to: Union Plus and the Cape Wrath. Part of MarAd’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF), these vessels—each laden with huge caches of military supplies and equipment— last month departed ports in Norfolk, Va., Charleston, S.C., New Orleans, and Baltimore for several destinations in the Middle East. They are part of a fleet of 68 ships owned and maintained by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. The ships are crewed by Seafarers who volunteered for this potentially hazardous duty. Education Foundation, c/o Union Privilege, P.O. Box 34800, Washington, DC 20043-4800. The application deadline is Jan. 31, 2005. In 2004, 106 students, representing 38 AFL-CIO unions, were selected to receive $150,000 in scholarships. Funding for the Union Plus Scholarship program is provided through the Union Plus Education Foundation. Since 1992, the Union Plus Scholarship program has provided more than $2 million to help fulfill the educational dreams of students who represent more than 13 million working families across the nation. Union Plus Scholarship awards are presented annually. Winners of 2005 scholarships will be announced on May 31, 2005. However, due to the high volume of applications, only winners will be notified. The Union Plus Education Service features college planning help, union scholarships and education and consolidation loans. Visit www.unionplus.org/education or call 1-877-881-1022 to speak to a financial aid counselor. Union Privilege, founded by the AFL-CIO in 1986, develops and manages the Union Plus consumer benefit programs. These programs are designed to help the families of the 13 million members of the AFL-CIO affiliated unions save time and money. For more information about all the Union Plus programs, visit www.unionplus.org. November 2004 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 2:08 AM Page 11 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS PENSION TRUST This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Pension Trust, (Employer Identification No. 13-6100329, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $37,032,955. These expenses included $6,473,794 in administrative expenses and $30,559,161 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 16,726 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $638,855,090 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $584,834,167 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $54,020,923. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $91,053,878, including employer contributions of $4,306,990, gains of $7,777,428 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $78,967,208. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.95 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 516097856, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $715,588. These expenses included $204,240 in administrative expenses and $511,348 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,001 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $8,844,324 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $8,507,070 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $337,254. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $1,052,842, including gains of $335,449 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $717,393. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREAT LAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-1953878, Plan No. 003) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). are included in that report: 1 An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3 Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. Basic Financial Statement To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: William J. Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $1,437,588. These expenses included $234,898 in administrative expenses and $1,202,690 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 255 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $24,672,779 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $22,634,736 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,038,043. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $3,475,631, including employer contributions of $135,641, gains of $792,149 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $2,547,841. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below November 2004 The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.05 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. 3. 4. 5. service providers; Assets held for investment; Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 6. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $5.40 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS VACATION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Vacation Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5602047, Plan No. 503) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $15,257,627 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $15,571,521 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $313,894. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $49,029,365. This income included employer contributions of $47,627,023, realized losses of $64,502 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $1,466,844. Plan expenses were $49,343,259. These expenses included $5,883,481 in administrative expenses and $43,459,778 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1 An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 or the Plan Administrator The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.60 for the full report, or $0.15 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Seafarers LOG 11 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 6:39 AM Page 12 2 Shipboard Training Is Key PHASE Of Unlicensed Apprentice Unlicensed Apprentice Ryan White helps bring stores aboard ship (top photo) and selects the correct bolt in the tool room (below). Practical training is an important part of the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Through all three phases of the curriculum, students utilize hands-on schooling, along with classroom instruction in the program’s first and third segments. When it comes to gaining practical experience, however, nothing tops Phase II of the apprentice program. During this period, students spend at least 90 days aboard a vessel, alternately working in each of the three shipboard departments. Since the school revamped the trainee program in the mid-1990s, Phase II has proven beneficial to all concerned. It helps turn out more qualified mariners from the program. It also has increased the retention rate and puts mariners on a quicker track toward career advancement. “By and large, most of them come out of here never having seen a large ship,” noted J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the Paul Hall Center. “The experience they gain during Phase II helps them make an informed choice as to which department they want to work in long-term.” Students earn sea time credit for Phase II. For more information on the unlicensed apprentice program or the school, visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org or call tollfree 1-877-235-3275. The photos accompanying this story were taken last month in Baltimore aboard the Freedom, an SIU-crewed vessel operated by American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier. Crew memb ABOVE: Unlicensed apprentices spend 30 days in each shipboard department. Here, UAs Tim Cullen (left) and Ryan White examine equipment in the engine room. ABOVE: The shipboard fare apparently agrees with (from left) UAs Esterheld and Ryan White, SA Fabian Aguilar and UA Tim Cullen. LEFT: UA Mike Esterheld unloads a pallet aboard the Freedom. RIGHT: Chief Steward Frank Starling and UA Mike Esterheld load stores. Chief Cook C 12 Seafarers LOG November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 6:39 AM Page 13 Unlicensed Apprentices Eager to Uphold Legacy Key Component ce Program ABOVE: UA Mike Esterheld works with valve controls. LEFT: UA Tim Cullen washes dishes in the galley. Students in the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program come from all over the country and, not surprisingly, typically have diverse backgrounds. One thing they normally share, however, is an eagerness to tackle new challenges while helping uphold the U.S. Merchant Marine’s traditional role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense. That spirit was reflected in a Phase III graduation speech given last month by Carlo Balajadia, bosun of Class 646. Some of his comments follow. Our Biggest Assessment “It wasn’t about tying knots or putting out a fire. It wasn’t about giving davit commands or BELOW: UAs Ryan White (kneeling) and Mike Esterheld are on duty in the engine room. Carlo Balajadia, bosun of Class 646 in the unlicensed apprentice program, takes the wheel. embers watch as cargo is loaded into the Freedom’s hold. ok Cecil Scieio provides service with a smile. The apprentices find a way to relax during some off-time. November 2004 knowing the different parts of the MSDS. “All of the assessments we took during our classes were definitely important, but the biggest and most important one was the fourand-a-half months we spent in the dorms during Phase I and Phase III…. The rules that we lived by provided the structured environment that it takes to make a quality person. How do we know if we passed that assessment? We know we passed because we are here today…. “The U.S. Merchant Marine has played a vital role supporting our troops overseas. Through two world wars and many conflicts thereafter, including our continued fight in the war on terrorism, the merchant marine continues to be called upon and continues to face sealift challenges undaunted. It is a legacy that is being handed down to us and, in time, it will be our legacy to hand down to future generations of Seafarers. “Today, I am proud to present to the SIU 31 of the most qualified individuals for the quality, in-demand jobs that are out there. These jobs are unconventional and often times dangerous, but we have answered the call of the sea and we are ready to sail.” Seafarers LOG 13 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 2:11 AM Page 14 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR WELFARE FUND OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6700827, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Insurance Information The plan has contracts with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company to pay dental claims incurred under the terms of the plan. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2003 were $309,225. Because they are so called “experience-rated” contracts, the premium costs are affected by, among other things, the number and size of claims. Of the total insurance premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2003, the premiums paid under such “experience-rated” contracts were $309,225 and the total of all benefit claims paid under these experience-rated contracts during the plan year was $153,342. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $10,996,837 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $13,512,967 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $2,516,130. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $6,903,149 including employer contributions of $6,262,300, realized losses of $219,307 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $860,153 and other income of $3. Plan expenses were $9,419,279. These expenses included $1,522,131 in administrative expenses and $7,897,148 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. assets held for investment; 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 5. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.40 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU VACATION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the NMU Vacation Plan, EIN 136700828, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $1,937,315 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $2,103,859 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $166,544. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $8,063,067 including employer contributions of $8,019,888 and earnings from investments of $43,179. Plan expenses were $8,229,611. These expenses included $719,071 in administrative expenses and $7,510,540 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. assets held for investment; and 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.10 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and, accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. NMU SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $35,789,474. These expenses included $2,417,720 in administrative expenses and $33,371,754 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 10,023 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $324,293,997 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $322,332,229 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $1,961,768. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $37,751,242 including employer contributions of $917,551, realized gains of $5,659,439 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $30,758,729 and other income of $415,523. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. assets held for investment; 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and 6. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 3374900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $8.40 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Plan and Annuity Plan 401K Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 002, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through insurance and through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $185,135. These expenses included $185,135 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 936 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,941,892 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $2,331,419 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $610,473. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $795,608 including employee contributions of $413,399 and earnings from investments of $382,209. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant’s report; 2. financial information; HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. Seafarers LOG This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Trust of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU PENSION PLAN AND ANNUITY PLAN 401K PLAN IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE 14 FOR NMU PENSION TRUST OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN 3. assets held for investment; 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.80 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 November 2004 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 4:18 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 2004 & January 2005 Membership Meetings SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 1 5 4 10 22 29 0 11 16 21 4 2 13 7 13 3 30 11 1 4 1 1 3 18 16 1 2 6 8 12 2 1 1 6 0 19 10 1 0 5 0 4 24 21 0 5 13 19 8 2 1 3 15 0 24 16 0 3 3 2 4 16 13 0 8 11 11 12 0 8 7 6 2 22 14 1 1 1 1 1 8 6 1 2 2 4 5 1 0 0 1 0 7 7 0 1 1 0 1 8 5 0 1 5 11 3 1 0 3 12 0 21 8 3 0 10 3 18 45 59 1 22 29 46 21 7 1 13 35 2 53 26 5 4 7 7 18 26 53 1 17 28 32 17 4 15 12 24 5 51 34 0 5 2 4 5 30 31 0 5 18 33 18 4 3 2 5 2 36 20 Baltimore ................Thursday: December 9, January 6 193 204 112 161 142 49 81 394 360 223 Norfolk ...................Thursday: December 9, January 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington 0 0 3 0 5 9 22 1 5 8 9 6 1 1 2 8 1 9 8 0 1 2 2 3 13 22 0 4 8 9 12 3 1 2 10 3 14 10 0 0 0 1 1 8 8 0 3 5 3 2 0 0 0 3 1 9 9 0 0 2 0 4 7 13 0 4 6 4 4 0 1 4 6 1 9 4 0 1 1 0 4 3 13 1 0 5 5 10 4 0 3 5 1 11 9 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 3 1 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 4 4 1 0 1 0 0 3 6 0 1 6 0 2 1 1 2 8 1 3 4 0 0 8 1 10 20 35 1 8 13 19 14 5 1 2 18 2 19 10 1 0 5 3 6 22 37 0 8 18 21 20 3 3 1 13 3 26 16 1 0 2 1 1 16 10 0 3 8 13 6 1 1 0 3 2 13 13 Totals 98 119 53 69 76 24 40 186 206 94 0 0 4 0 1 10 17 0 5 8 11 9 1 3 0 19 3 16 18 0 0 0 3 4 4 14 0 3 7 8 12 0 2 2 5 2 7 12 0 0 1 2 1 2 5 0 0 0 4 6 1 0 1 1 0 1 5 0 0 2 0 7 11 11 0 1 7 8 7 0 2 0 19 1 13 10 0 1 1 1 2 4 6 0 2 3 4 7 1 1 2 3 0 3 4 1 0 0 2 0 4 2 0 1 1 2 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 4 0 0 3 4 1 1 0 1 13 0 8 4 1 0 6 2 9 26 33 0 7 15 28 18 1 6 2 36 2 32 29 0 0 1 3 8 7 30 0 6 10 17 18 3 2 2 9 2 13 18 0 0 1 0 1 5 8 0 1 2 7 7 1 0 0 4 0 7 10 125 85 30 99 45 18 45 253 149 54 0 0 0 0 6 5 2 0 0 3 5 0 0 0 3 4 0 6 0 2 3 3 0 4 9 21 2 7 12 32 10 0 4 4 11 0 18 5 5 3 3 1 3 26 24 1 1 7 22 14 2 25 2 6 0 20 12 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 4 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 5 10 9 1 0 5 13 10 0 12 0 10 0 8 3 0 1 0 0 1 6 3 0 0 5 10 8 0 11 0 2 0 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 6 5 0 1 4 9 0 0 0 3 6 0 10 3 4 4 4 4 11 24 33 1 15 17 55 13 0 13 8 17 1 45 11 8 6 6 1 8 45 48 1 3 21 64 22 4 39 2 19 0 27 28 34 147 177 16 88 61 0 52 280 352 450 555 372 345 351 152 166 885 995 723 Port Totals Totals Totals All Departments Boston.....................Friday: December 10, January 7 Duluth .....................Wednesday: December 15, January 12 Guam ......................Thursday: December 23, January 20 Honolulu .................Friday: December 17, January 14 Houston ..................Monday: December 13, January 10 Jacksonville ............Thursday: December 9, January 6 Joliet .......................Thursday: December 16, January 13 Mobile ....................Wednesday: December 15, January 12 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: December 14, January 11 New York................Tuesday: December 7, January 4 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: December 8, January 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: December 16, January 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 16, January 13 San Juan..................Thursday: December 9, January 6 St. Louis..................Friday: December 17, January 14 Tacoma ...................Monday: December 27* ................................Friday: January 21 ................................*(change created by Christmas holiday) Wilmington ...............Monday: December 20 .................................Tuesday: January 18* .................................*(change created by Martin Luther King holiday) ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Algonac ..................Friday: December 10, January 7 1 0 6 0 10 23 29 1 14 14 18 9 2 0 6 18 0 27 15 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Piney Point .............Monday: December 6, January 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. November 2004 Procedure for Absentee Ballots In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004 voting period, absentee ballots are available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: „ Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. „ Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. „ Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. „ The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2004 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2004. „ The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designed in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2004. „ Upon receiving the ballot and envelopes, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. „ Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. „ Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. „ The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight Dec. 31, 2004 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2005. Seafarers LOG 15 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 12:24 AM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 0 15 4 2 9 1 1 4 36 0 2 5 3 5 0 0 3 18 0 6 3 5 6 1 1 1 23 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 1 3 0 5 0 0 3 12 0 4 3 0 6 1 1 1 16 3 6 3 0 14 1 1 1 29 0 40 13 12 32 4 2 16 119 0 10 3 6 7 1 0 8 35 0 32 0 17 0 0 2 0 51 1 2 0 2 2 0 1 0 8 0 9 6 7 12 2 2 14 52 0 1 3 4 2 0 0 3 13 0 17 1 15 0 0 1 2 36 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 9 8 6 19 2 0 5 49 0 5 1 3 13 0 1 3 26 0 21 2 9 0 2 1 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 3 1 7 2 0 3 18 0 1 3 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 4 1 5 0 0 1 1 12 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 20 2 4 17 4 1 3 51 0 4 2 1 4 1 0 0 12 0 0 4 1 2 0 0 0 7 0 4 1 0 0 0 1 0 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 2 3 3 2 1 0 12 0 3 0 0 5 0 0 0 8 0 4 3 3 1 1 0 0 12 Port 0 2 5 2 5 1 1 2 18 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 66 33 47 81 21 26 40 220 74 123 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Paul L. Painter of Laurinburg, N.C. It was taken in 1948 aboard the SS Walter Colton, which had just returned from a trip to the Far East. Brother Painter is second from left in the photo. He does not remember the other crew members by name, but would love to hear from them and any other seamen he may have sailed with. Now 75, Brother Painter started his career with the SIU in 1946 in the port of New Orleans. Born in North Carolina, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. During his career, Brother Painter was active in organizing drives and beefs. He retired in 1997. Those wishing to get in touch with Paul Painter may write him at P.O. Box 325, Laurinburg, NC 28353. November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 2:32 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA RALPH MOORE, 57, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1968, first sailing on the Galicia Defender. Brother Moore was born in the District of Columbia and worked in the deck department. He completed bosun recertification training in 1979 at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Moore, who most recently sailed on the Sea-Land De- veloper, makes his home in Houston. ROBERT TIMS, 65, joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Tims initially went to sea on Delta Steamship Lines’ Del Mundo. The engine department member, who upgraded his skills in 1978 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., last sailed on the Liberty Belle. Brother Tims was born in Louisiana and currently lives in Temple Terrace, Fla. INLAND CHARLES BOWLING, 65, was born in Kentucky and began his SIU career in 1988 in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Bowling is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded his skills on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. Boatman Bowling is a resident of Beverly Hills, Fla. HARRY TRIMBLE, 62, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1962 in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Trimble worked in the deck department primarily on Moran Towing of Texas vessels. He was born in Port Arthur, where he continues to live. NOTICE OF 2004 ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2005-2008 OFFICERS Balloting Begins SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU this month for EDDIE WILLIAMS, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1977. Boatman Williams was born in Huntington, N.Y. He enhanced his skills on two occasions at the union’s affiliated school and last sailed on a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. Boatman Williams calls Green Cove Springs, Fla. home. union officers. GREAT LAKES Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2004 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2004. VOTING LOCATIONS BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 BOSTON 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 DETROIT 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 DULUTH 324 West Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802 FT. LAUDERDALE 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 See page 3 for additional voting information. LONNEE AAKEBERG, 55, joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Aakeberg was born in Wisconsin and shipped in the deck department, primarily aboard Great Lakes Towing vessels. He enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training in Piney Point, Md. in 1993. The U.S. Army veteran lives in Minnesota. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. GUAM 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E, Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 JOLIET 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 PHILADELPHIA 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 PINEY POINT Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Piney Point, MD 20674 PUERTO RICO 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave, Santurce, PR 00907 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 TACOMA 3411 South Union St., Tacoma, WA 98409 WILMINGTON 510 North Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 1947 To culminate more than two years of organizing and a strike to gain seamen’s demands, the Seafarers International Union finally forced the Isthmian Steamship Company to agree to sign a full contract granting each and every Union demand…. On June 12, the SIU was certified as Isthmian seamen’s collective bargaining agent after the results of a National Labor Relations Board election. The company refused to agree on Union hiring hall provisions, however, and the membership went on strike, tying up 31 Isthmian ships in ports throughout the United States. The company finally surrendered and agreed to the seamen’s demands by signing a full SIU contract. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the date indicated. Last, First Age EDP Cordero, Miguel 71 April 1 Tyler, Donald 63 May 1 McField, Charles 68 Aug. 1 Miller, Frank 65 Oct. 1 Ponder, George 61 Sept. 1 Lobo, Jack 59 Oct. 1 Leite, Raymond 62 Oct. 1 Langford, Clifton 69 Oct. 1 Lugo, German 72 Sept. 1 Lake, Richard 82 Sept. 1 1976 As the year ends, the union’s deep sea contracted fleet continues to expand since the U.S. Maritime Administration has given the SIU-contracted Waterman Steamship Co. final okay to build four more LASH-container vessels under provisions of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. MARAD set the construction subsidy rate at a formal ceremony last month…. In another plus for the SIU-contracted company, the Maritime Administration awarded Waterman a 20-year operating contract for Trade Routes 12 and 22– the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf to Far East. This Month In SIU History 1965 November 2004 NORMAN GUILD JR., 50, became an SIU member in 1972 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Guild initially went to sea aboard the P. Teitjen. The deck department member upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Guild was born in Michigan. His last trip was on the Paul H. Townsend. Brother Guild resides in his native state. SIU President Paul Hall called on Congress to amend the U.S. labor laws in order to give the NLRB jurisdiction over crews of foreign-flag vessels substantially engaged in American commerce. The SIU president declared that this action would prevent disasters such as the sinking of the Yarmouth Castle, the American-owned, Panamanianflagged cruise ship which sank in the Caribbean with a loss of 89 lives, after being destroyed by fire. 1993 Seafarers aboard the LNG Leo battled nightfall and 15- to 20-foot seas to save the life of an Indonesian seaman who, like 27 others aboard an Indonesian-flagged freighter, was forced to abandon ship on November 27 off the coast of China. The Dasa Tujuh was en route from Yeew, Malaysia to Kaohsiung, China with a cargo of logs when it sank. The crew abandoned the vessel when it began to list in rough seas. In all, 18 crew members were rescued by various ships on the scene. The body of one deceased crew member also was recovered; eight others were unaccounted for. Seafarers LOG 17 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 2:18 PM Page 18 Final Departures Deep Sea AURELIO ASUNCION Pensioner Aurellio Asuncion, 99, passed away July 10. Brother Asuncion embarked on his seafaring career in 1959 in the port of Seattle. He initially sailed aboard the Ames Victory. Brother Asuncion was a member of the steward department and was born in the Philippines. Prior to retiring in 1976, he went to sea on the Portland. Brother Asuncion made his home in Seattle. ANTHONY BECK Pensioner Anthony Beck, 95, died May 31. Brother Beck joined the SIU in 1948 in New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. Born in California, he worked in the engine department. Brother Beck first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel and last worked on the Fairland. He went on pension in 1975 and lived in Sonoma, Calif. DONALD CALDER CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT Pensioner Christopher Elliott, 75, passed away May 31. Brother Elliott commenced his career with the SIU in 1964 in New York, initially sailing on the Northern Lights. Born in England, the engine department member last worked on the San Juan. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. and began receiving his pension in 1993. THOMAS FLEMING Pensioner Thomas Fleming, 79, died June 30. Brother Fleming joined the SIU in 1974 in New York. The deck department member was born in Ireland. Brother Fleming first shipped aboard the Houston. He last sailed on the Falcon Champion. The Cape Coral, Fla. resident went on pension in 1989. IRA GRIGGERS Pensioner Ira Griggers, 76, passed away August 21. Brother Griggers joined the SIU in 1955 in New York. He was a member of the deck department. Born in Alabama, Brother Griggers went on pension in 1973. He called Uriah, Ala. home. Pensioner Donald Calder, 76, passed away June 15. Brother Calder started sailing with the SIU in 1967 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in the United Kingdom, the steward department member first sailed on the Tucson Victory. Brother Calder last went to sea aboard the SS Independence and began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1993. He called North Cambridge, Mass. home. HENRI HILLION DENNIS CAPLES Pensioner Raymond Lavoine, 82, passed away May 28. A U.S. Navy veteran, Brother Lavoine began his career with the SIU in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was an ISCO vessel; his last was the Montpelier Victory. Brother Lavoine worked in the deck department. Born in Massachusetts, he began collecting his retirement in 1979. Brother Lavoine resided in Baltimore. Brother Dennis Caples, 42, died June 11. He began his seafaring career in 1996 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Caples first sailed aboard the USNS Kane. The U.S. Navy veteran was born in Maryland and made his home in Guam. Brother Caples shipped in the steward department, last sailing on the Paul Buck. MACK CHAPMAN Pensioner Mack “Big Red” Chapman, 76, passed away July 13. Brother Chapman began his career with the Seafarers in 1945 in Wilmington, Calif. Born in Lancaster, Texas, he was a member of the deck department. Prior to retiring in 1989, Brother Chapman shipped on the Adonis. He called Rusk, Texas home. ALTON CLEMENT Pensioner Alton Clement, 83, died Aug. 27. Born in Louisiana, Brother Clement joined the SIU in 1941 in New Orleans. The engine department member first sailed aboard an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Clement last worked with the Waterman shoregang. He started receiving his retire- 18 Seafarers LOG vessel. He last went to sea on the Sea-Land Endurance. Brother Mar lived in Dale City, Calif. and went on pension in 1981. ment compensation in 1983 and resided in Harvey, La. Pensioner Henri Hillion, 89, died May 31. Brother Hillion was born in France and began his seafaring career in 1944 in New York. He initially worked in the engine department aboard the Steel Admiral. Prior to retiring in 1976, Brother Hillion sailed on Sea-Land Pittsburgh. He made his home in North Carolina. RAYMOND LAVOINE NILS LINDSJO Pensioner Nils Lindsjo, 90, died June 18. Brother Lindsjo joined the SIU in 1942 in Baltimore, initially sailing aboard the Robin Kettering. A native of Sweden, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Lindsjo, who lived in Pennsylvania, last worked on the Merrimac. He started receiving his pension in 1976. JACK MAR Pensioner Jack Mar, 84, died June 19. Brother Mar joined the ranks of the Seafarers in 1951 in New Orleans. He was born in China and shipped in the steward department. Brother Mar’s initial voyage was aboard a Sprogue Steamship Co. American Samoa and worked in the steward department. Brother Timo’s last trip to sea was on the President Harding. He began receiving retirement compensation in 1994 and called San Bruno, Calif. home. worked in the engine department. His first ship was the Santa Paula; his last was the Austral Rainbow. Brother Boyd started receiving his pension in 1998. INLAND Pensioner Johnny Ellis, 80, died Sept. 6. Brother Ellis began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1943 in Savannah, Ga. He first sailed on the John B. Gordon. Born in Georgia, Brother Ellis shipped in the engine department. He most recently worked aboard the American Challenger. Brother Ellis went on pension in 1983. FREDERICK BORENTZ LUIS MARTINEZ Pensioner Luis Martinez, 89, passed away April 26. Born in Honduras, Brother Martinez embarked on his seafaring career in 1960 in New Orleans. The engine department member was a resident of Harvey, La. Brother Martinez started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1979. WILLIAM MIMS Pensioner William Mims, 80, died April 10. Brother Mims launched his seafaring career in 1951 in New Orleans. His first vessel was the Alcoa Partner. Brother Mims, who was born in Mississippi, made his home in Bagalusa, La. He went on pension in 1989. Brother Mims was a member of the deck department and last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Venture. SEISHO NAKASONE Pensioner Seisho Nakasone, 88, passed away June 5. Brother Nakasone launched his profession with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1966 in San Francisco. Born in Hawaii, the steward department member began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1979. He made his home in Honolulu. IB PEDERSEN Pensioner Ib Pedersen, 76, passed away June 18. Brother Pedersen began his career with the SIU in 1969 in the port of Houston. He worked in the engine department and began receiving his pension in 1986. Brother Pedersen was born in Denmark and made his home in Livingston, Texas. BARTOLOME REGINO Pensioner Bartolome Regino, 82, died April 2. Brother Regino joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. He was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. Brother Regino went on pension in 1978. He called San Francisco home. GASIO TIMO Pensioner Gasio Timo, 69, passed away Sept. 11. Brother Timo embarked on his seafaring career with the MC&S in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Pensioner Frederick Borentz, 86, died May 8. Boatman Borentz became an SIU member in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in New York, he was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Boatman Borentz sailed in the deck department primarily on McAllister Towing Co. vessels. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985. Boatman Borentz resided in New York. FRANK BOROWICK Pensioner Frank Borowick, 76, passed away August 4. Born in Maryland, Boatman Borowick began his seafaring career in 1971 in Baltimore after serving in the U.S. Army. The deck department member last shipped on a vessel owned by Moran Towing of Maryland. Boatman Borowick began receiving retirement stipends in 1990. He made his home in Baltimore, Md. DENNIS DAIGLE Pensioner Dennis Daigle, 87, died August 8. Boatman Daigle started his career with the SIU in 1964 in Port Arthur, Texas. He sailed in the deck department, most recently as captain. Boatman Daigle began receiving his pension in 1984. He was born in Port Arthur and resided in Nederland, Texas. GEORGE MILBURN Pensioner George Milburn, 80, passed away June 9. Boatman Milburn joined the SIU in 1967 in Norfolk, Va. He shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Milburn was born in Piney Point, Md. His last trip to sea was on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Boatman Milburn went on pension in 1981 and lived in his native state. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. JOHNNY ELLIS JOHN HARRIS Pensioner John Harris, 70, passed away May 30. Brother Harris started sailing with the NMU in 1953. Born in Wisconsin, he first sailed on the Consumers Power in the engine department. Brother Harris last went to sea aboard the Ashley Lykes. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. BENJAMIN JOHNSON Pensioner Benjamin Johnson, 68, died June 19. Born in Portsmouth, Va., Brother Johnson first sailed from the port of Wilmington, N.C. His initial voyage was on the Alaskan and his last was aboard the Tallahassee Bay. Brother Johnson began receiving his pension in 1999. HECTOR QUIROS Pensioner Hector Quiros, 86, passed away Sept. 2. Brother Quiros launched his NMU career in 1937, first sailing from the port of New York aboard the Roosevelt. The steward department member was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Quiros last went to sea on the Independence. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1964. MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Luis Bellaflores, 87, died September 20. Born in Mayaguez, P.R., Brother Bellaflores first sailed from the port of New York in 1948. He was a member of the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1986, Brother Bellaflores sailed on the American Legion. Pensioner Miguel Rodriguez, 93, died July 14. Brother Rodriguez embarked on his seafaring career in 1943 in New York. His first vessel was the Mariposa. Born in Cuba, Brother Rodriguez was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 1967, he worked aboard the Constitution. JAMES BOYD JACK STANCIL LUIS BELLAFLORES Pensioner James Boyd, 73, passed away August 31. He joined the NMU in 1975 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Tennessee, Brother Boyd Pensioner Jack Stancil, 77, passed away August 30. Brother Stancil, who was born in North Carolina, became a mem- Continued on page 20 November 2004 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 5:08 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. ALLEGIANCE (Maritrans), Aug. 28—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary Walter R. Seals, Educational Director Charles L. Jensen, Deck Delegate Michael M. Edwards, Steward Delegate Sherman Harper. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 31 in Port Arthur, Texas. He reminded everyone to be active in this year’s elections—register to vote and then vote or request an absentee ballot. Secretary encouraged crew to support SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members thanked for teamwork during trip. Next ports: Port Arthur; Tampa and Port Canaveral, Fla. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), Aug. 29—Chairman Kelvin S. Cherington, Secretary Grant L. Bazile, Educational Director Kevin K. Jones. Chairman spoke about safety meeting and reminded crew to wait for relief before leaving ship. Secretary encouraged Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. and reported new pay scale being sent to vessel. Educational director suggested everyone check z-cards to be sure they are not about to expire. No beefs or disputed OT reported. EL MORRO (IUM), Aug. 29— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr., Deck Delegate Victor M. Pacheco, Engine Delegate Milton L. Israel II, Steward Delegate Christopher M. Green. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in San Juan, P.R. He asked that vessel be secured for storm. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point school and check expiration dates on shipping documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension benefits. Crew was reminded to support those candidates who support the maritime industry by registering and voting. EL YUNQUE (IUM), Aug. 29— Chairman Angelo S. Wilcox Sr., Secretary Robert E. Wilcox Jr., Educational Director John J. Walsh, Deck Delegate Douglas A. Hodges, Engine Delegate Jimmie R. Graydon, Steward Delegate Nelson F. Morales. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 2 in Ready to Upgrade Michael Maskalenko is a GUDE aboard the Seabulk Challenger, his first ship after graduating from the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center. In photo above, he fills out an upgrading application in anticipation of returning to the school. November 2004 Jacksonville, Fla. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and other common areas clean. Educational director urged members to take advantage of opportunities available at union’s school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made concerning seniority and medical benefits. GREEN LAKE (Central Gulf Lines), Aug. 22—Chairman Frank P. Hedge, Secretary Jaime A. Castillo. Chairman thanked crew for professionalism shown during voyage and reminded departing crew members to clean rooms before leaving ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for refrigerators for each crew member’s room, new toaster and microwave for crew mess as well as spare ice maker. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next port: Toyohashi, Japan. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 2—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Laura L. Cates, Educational Director Edmund H. Hawkins Jr., Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate Charles E. Johnson, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia Jr. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 4 in Tacoma, Wash. He informed crew members they would need to carry z-cards in order to enter Maersk terminals in Tacoma and Oakland, Calif. due to heightened security. Secretary stated captain will conduct sanitary inspection of cabins and boxes Sept. 1. She also informed crew that steward department would be waxing and polishing passageways and ladder wells before arriving in port and for everyone to use alternate routes until then. Educational director discussed SIU scholarship program as well as courses available at Paul Hall Center. He advised crew to check expiration dates on all documents and renew early, if necessary, and to contribute to SPAD. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in engine department. Request made for new washing machine for crew laundry room and repair of water fountain in crew lounge. List of cabins without fans to be given to chief engineer. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job sougeeing and to chief cook for great meals. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland; Honolulu; Guam. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), Aug. 22—Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Michael Kozak, Engine Delegate Daniel A. Beshears, Steward Delegate Carlos A. Sierra. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 27 in New Orleans. Educational director advised crew to check expiration dates on all documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on stores and relief policies. Request made to purchase new mattresses, water cooler and full-size dryer. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), Aug. 29—Chairman Gregory R. Jenkins, Secretary James Tucker, Deck Delegate Kenneth R. Lacour, Engine Delegate Chromer W. Jefferson, Steward Delegate Mariano F. Norales. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 5 in New Orleans. He asked crew to clean rooms and take out trash before leaving ship. President’s report from July Seafarers LOG read and discussed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for great meals and service this trip. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line), Aug. 22—Chairman James J. Keevan, Secretary Roberto Valentine Jr. Educational Director Trinity A. Ippolito, Deck Delegate Selina R. Sobers, Engine Delegate Rahul Bagchi, Steward Delegate Mohamed A. Ahmed. Chairman stressed importance of fireboat drills and congratulated crew for quick performance in surprise drill and working well together as a team. Beef reported by steward delegate; disputed OT noted by engine delegate. Suggestion made regarding standard agreement. Request made for larger ice machine. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Management), Aug. 30— Chairman Thomas R. Temple, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John E. Trent, Engine Delegate William P. Stone, Steward Delegate Stephen E. Johnson. Chairman asked crew not to burn incense or candles in rooms. He also reminded them to turn cell phones off when leaving ship in Tampa, Fla. and to apply early when renewing z-cards. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to be mindful of others (who may be sleeping) when going in and out on deck. No smoking in messhall or passageways; smoking allowed only in individual rooms and crew lounge. Next ports: Corpus Christi, Texas and Tampa. PETERSBURG (IUM), Aug. 19 —Chairman Dirk W. Adams, Secretary Oscar R. Angeles, Educational Director Jeffery P. Stuart, Deck Delegate Michael R. Merrell Sr., Engine Delegate Ryan Smith. Chairman thanked deck department for job well done. Educational director talked about opportunities available at Piney Point for upgrading skills and urged crew members to take advantage of them. Treasurer stated $350 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Repair needed for dishwasher. Suggestion made to increase pension plan benefits. Next port: Guam. SEABULK TRADER (Seabulk Tankers), Aug. 26—Chairman Robert J. Coleman, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Educational Director Eron G. Hill Jr., Engine Delegate Victor M. Quioto, Steward Delegate James E. Harris. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival Aug. 28 in Lake Charles, La. and spoke about article in July Seafarers LOG pertaining to NCL America cruise ships. Secretary advised everyone to check documents for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for information on new contract. Recommendation made regarding death benefits for spouses and revamping of prescription drug program. CPL LOUIS J. HAUGE JR. (Maersk Lines), Sept. 2— Chairman Paul C. Johnson, Secretary George J. Borromeo, Educational Director Ramon L. Borrero Ramos, Deck Delegate Richard L. Hindson, Steward Delegate William H. Kane. Chairman stated there were no injures, lost time or safety issues on trip. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point school and reminded them about need to renew MMDs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new remote control in crew lounge. Next ports: Guam; Saipan. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Sept. 5— Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Allan Lane, Engine Delegate Eric L. Campbell, Steward Delegate Thomas E. Kleine. Chairman announced Sept. 8 payoff in Oakland, Calif. Everyone should have books ready for boarding patrolman. Secretary asked crew members to clean rooms before leaving ship. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility whenever possible and make sure all documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Assistance requested for reminded relief crew to be considerate and get to ship early. Bosun read front of union book reminding crew members that they are all family at sea and it is everyone’s responsibility to look out for and help each other. He then thanked crew for their hard work. Secretary told crew about her experience renewing her z-card and all the documentation that was needed. She thanked GSU Rene Caballero and DEU Bakr Elbana for keeping house clean. She spoke about security policies in place in Cherry Point and Anacortes, Wash. Those members on watch in port were asked to turn off cell phone and alarm clock ringers. Educational Tanker Pays Off in Texas Dwight Ross, chief steward aboard the Seabulk Challenger, prepares lunch in the galley. The tanker recently paid off in Texas City, Texas, where this photo was snapped. electrician while unplugging reefer cargo boxes. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good service. Next ports: Oakland; Los Angeles; Honolulu. INTEGRITY (USSM), Sept. 5— Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker. Chairman thanked all departments for pleasant voyage and announced payoff Sept. 11 in Charleston, S.C. Secretary reported new Prescriptions Solutions benefits working well. Educational director asked crew members to notify electrician if any bulbs are out in working areas as well as other items in need of repair. Safety first! No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on whether transportation monies are included in wages (and therefore taxed). Recommendation made to increase dental, pension and health care benefits. Next ports: Charleston; Houston; Norfolk, Va. MIDNIGHT SUN (IUM), Sept. 26 —Chairman Fadel N. Saleh, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Joseph J. Egan. Chairman noted this is the time of year for heavy seas. He requested crew secure everything from cargo on deck to TV sets in rooms when “Deck Secured” is posted. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and lounge clean. He asked that trays, plates and glasses not be left unattended in serving line. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and encouraged crew members to read political pamphlets sent by state and local representatives to see if they have the union’s best interests in mind. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Vote of thanks also given to staff at Tacoma, Wash. hall for all their help and hard work. Next ports: Tacoma; Anchorage, Alaska. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (ATC), Sept. 12—Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Edward H. Self. Chairman director encouraged everyone to support the union and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. When weather starts to turn, shower decks will be painted. Those wishing their decks be painted should give name to chief cook, who is keeping the list. Request made for better dental coverage. “Two thumbs up” given to steward department for great food. Next ports: Cherry Point and Port Angeles, Wash. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (ATC), Sept. 16—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Robert M. Mensching, Educational Director Clyde D. Smith, Deck Delegate Doug Gattenheimeiz, Engine Delegate Orlando B. Guzman, Steward Delegate Virginia P. Panonpillo. Chairman informed members of various forms he has available (vacation, medical, grievance, etc.). He also discussed bonus vacation day and form needed for clean-room signoff. Educational director recommended crew make sure Coast Guard documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding contract, including suggestion pertaining to meal hours and break times for steward. Chairman spoke of advantages of Union Plus program. Special thanks given to Captain Dave Artz for getting De La Hoya fight on pay-per view TV. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. QUALITY (USSM), Sept. 2— Chairman Ronnie Hamilton, Secretary Edward P. Dunn, Educational Director Paul P. Pagano, Deck Delegate Jose J. Calix, Engine Delegate Ronnie Hamilton, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 4 in Algeciras, Spain. Secretary thanked crew for smooth, safe trip. Educational director suggested crew members upgrade skills at Piney Point and encouraged them not to wait until last minute to renew z-cards. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding possible improvements in dental and pension plans. Seafarers LOG 19 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 5:14 AM Page 20 Female Mariners Are No Longer a Rarity a male-dominated industry, but when I joined the SIU I welcontinued. “When you get right comed the challenge of proving down to it, we’re all equal. We all that I could do the same jobs that do the same work and we expect men do,” she continued. the same pay.” “Although I don’t feel that there A native Alaskan, Russell should be any differences in the hails from Soldotna. She saw the jobs open and available to SIU as an avenue through which women versus men, that’s simply she could honor her mother’s the way it used to be. wishes. “My mother told me that “I’m sure that there probably if something ever happened to are some people around who still her, it would be my responsibility feel that way,” Walker continued, to take care of my two younger “but things are changing for sisters,” she shared. “I certainly women. I have seen it since I wanted to be able to honor my came in. Our numbers are mom’s wishes and thanks to the increasing and we’re branching SIU, now I can. out in all departments.” “My family members are very Walker said she chose the proud of me and all that I have maritime industry for a career accomplished,” she continued. because she was in the market for “They are encouraging me to a job that was secure as well as continue sailing and take advanchallenging. “The SIU has given tage of every opportunity the SIU me the best of both worlds,” she affords me to improve myself.” said. “That’s why I love the Houston-born Annie Walker union so much. It affords you the sees the maritime industry as opportunity to succeed and go as being easily accessible to women. far as your heart and your skills “Shipping is an industry that’s take you.” very attainable for women, and Walker’s training voyage was the SIU provides a perfect avenue aboard the Horizon Hawaii; she to achieve it,” said the engine has worked one tour aboard the department member, who became Sulphur Enterprise. “Some a Seafarer in 2003. women feel that they have to do “I understand that shipping is more than their male counterparts while at sea in order to prove themselves, but I don’t feel that’s the case,” Walker shared. “In my experience at sea, I was treated fairly by fellow crew members and they never asked more of me than they did of themselves. They were always respectful and very helpful when I needed it.” Chief Cook Kim Engine Room Seafarers Emma Porter and Strate holds a bacheAnnie Walker and Phase III Unlicensed lor’s degree in educaApprentice Paula Gomez test a part during tion. A resident of Atlanta Beach, Fla., an engine utility class. Straight learned about the opportunities available in the SIU through friends who sail. Final Departures “After talking to them, I Continued from page 18 decided that it was time for me to make a career change,” said the ber of the NMU in 1945 in Norfolk, mother of two who was a florist Va. He initially shipped on the by trade prior to joining the Bartholomew Gosnold as a member union. “I tried teaching for a of the engine department. Before while but soon discovered that it retiring in 1969, he sailed on the was not for me. I wanted a new Perryville. challenge and it turned out that the SIU was just what I had been JAMES WADDELL looking for.” Pensioner Since coming aboard in 2002, James Waddell, Straight has sailed on three ves76, died Sept. sels: USNS Sisler, USNS 7. Brother Charlton and the USNS Watkins. Waddell was She plans to return to an SIUborn in contracted military support vessel Baltimore, Md. Continued from page 7 He joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Waddell first sailed aboard the Antietam. The engine department member last worked on the Delaware Bay. Brother Waddell began collecting retirement stipends in 1988. JAMES WILLIAMS Pensioner James Williams, 85, passed away July 5. Brother Williams joined the ranks of the NMU in 1945 in the port of New York. Born in Newton, Ga., his first ship was the Henry Durant. Brother Williams last sailed aboard the Pioneer Commander. He went on pension in 1970. 20 Seafarers LOG In addition to the foregoing individuals, the folloiwng NMU brothers, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME Benitez, Ramon Brown, Wilson Carrigan, James Cherry, Billy Coleman, Chancy Coleman, William Colon, Angel Daglis, Steve Demery, Leroy Ebanks, Hale Ebanks, Royal Fonseca, Antonio Forbes, Thomas Furtado, Richard Gonzalez, Mario Grant, Richard AGE DOD 92 85 75 77 77 78 87 76 80 71 95 78 63 82 83 74 June 30 June 8 June 27 April 25 Aug. 22 Aug. 20 Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 8 Sept. 14 Sept. 11 Sept. 13 Sept. 10 Aug. 6 July 17 July 15 Chief Cook Kim Strate measures up the batter for her latest dessert creation. following upgrader training at Piney Point. “I don’t have any problems being in the minority on ships or working with crews that are mostly men,” Straight said. “My life’s experiences have taught me how to present myself and deal with any adverse situation should it arise. So far that has not happened, and I attribute it directly to the professionalism and tremendous training that our crews have. The people at Piney Point should be commended for the fine job they do in this area. “Being on a ship with the rest of the crew is just like being with family,” she continued. “I feel like a sister as well as a mom to a lot of the crew because many of them are so young.” On the topic of specific jobs for women versus men, Straight sees the entire issue as a matter of attitude. “I don’t see any difference between women working specific jobs and men doing them,” she said. “I have worked with crews that had women in both the engine and deck departments and they handled themselves very well. The key is flexibility—being able to relax and change with the demands of your job. “It’s all about the manner in which you present yourself,” Straight pointed out. “There definitely are some old school guys around who feel that women have their place, but that’s only their opinion. There is no middle ground here—you either learn to deal with these attitudes or allow them to get under your skin. It’s been my experience that women handle themselves very well on all of the jobs, and as long as they continue to do that, things will take care of themselves.” Green, Gordon Johnson, Lonnie Jones, George King, Willie Kitagawa, Henley Larkin, James Lindbloom, Bernard Mahoney, Robert May, Tommy Pagan, Juan Raines, Herbert Riley, James Ringley, John Sanbula, Policarpo Santana, Guadalupe Smith, James Soignier, Felix Summers, Purcell Thompson, Levin Vega, Paul Woodward, Donald 79 76 83 76 87 74 76 92 76 78 82 70 65 82 Aug. 15 July 29 Sept. 19 Aug. 11 July 22 July 18 June 16 Aug. 27 Aug. 24 May 18 Aug. 30 Sept. 17 Sept. 7 Sept. 5 76 74 80 87 80 78 76 Sept. 18 Aug. 16 Sept. 4 June 1 June 5 Aug. 16 Aug. 28 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 2:24 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 2004. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* November 8 November 19 (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 8 December 3 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) *(must have radar unlimited) November 15 November 19 GMDSS (Simulator) November 1 November 12 in an upcoming issue Navigation Fundamentals November 29 December 10 of the Seafarers LOG. Radar November 1 November 12 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) November 29 December 10 Look for the 2005 Upgrading Course Schedule Upgrade . . . Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most recently beginning Oct. 18, 2004. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation November 15 December 10 Welding November 1 November 19 . . . at the Paul Hall Center � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ November 2004 SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 11/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 3:56 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman — Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 654 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 654 (in alphabetical order) John Barrett, Brandon Bohanon, Carinda Bohus, Kurtis Boyd, Michael Bucher, Anthony Clark, Israel Edmunds, David Eller, Matthew Faber, John Frey, Ernesto Girau, John Ivey III, Keith Jacoway, Cheryl Lynch, Sean Mitchell, Stefon Otey, William Price, Jeffrey Raum, Jervona Vorise, Ronald Williams Jr., Shawn Willis and Jamey Russell. Medical Care Provider — The three ARPA — Earning their ARPA certificates Sept. 17 are (in alphabetical order) Eric Harris, William Holloway, Randy Isenhart, Lawrence Richardson Jr., Ovidio Santos, Anthony Willis and Peter Wojcikowski. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Seafarers completing the medical care provider course Sept. 17 are (from the left) Douglas Carson, Jermaine Williams and Lawrence Soulier. Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Unlicensed trainees completing this course Sept. 10 are (in no specific order) Jim Carey, Joshua Wilson, Kyle Rayborn, Michelle Garon, John Tullier, Robert Starr, Chris Dickens, John Villarta, Kyle Pillsworth, Harry Smith, Perry Martin, Mark Kane, Gregory LaRiviere, Ernie Smith, Douglas Shores, Kenneth Houseley, Lonnie Myers Jr. and Jonathan Nielsen. Their instructor, Herb Walling, is at far left. Under the instruction of Mike Smith (far left) are Seafarers who completed the radar course Sept. 18. They are (in alphabetical order) Eric Harris, William Holloway, Lawrence Richardson Jr., Raymond Ryan, Anthony Willis and Peter Wojcikowski. A second tanker assistant class graduated Sept. 10, this one under the instruction of Jim Shaffer (far right). The students are (in no specific order) Ernest Cannon, Keith Rost, Daniel Fields, Jason Brown, Sigfrid Mayer, Kenneth Casteel, Laura Edwards, David Kelch, Jovita Carino, Vasile Daogaru, Zsuzsanna Balla, Carlo Balajadia, Paula Gomez, Shantay Joquin, Jamal Ricks and Daniel Gaffney. Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes at the Paul Hall Center are (in left photo, from the left) Bryan Perley, Rick Prucha (instructor) Moises Ortiz, Peter Albano, Julie Dvoroznak, Ashley Nelson and Brian Goodman. In the photo at right are (standing, from left) Tawrence Abrams, Laurance Richardson, Rick Prucha (instructor), Paa Kwakye and (seated) Julie Dvoroznak. Seafarers LOG Radar — Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Computer Lab Classes 22 Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Sept. 10 are (in alphabetical order) Sam Baffoe, Darrol Bates, William Boardman, Erik Bradley, Raul Colon, Kerri Curtin, Dorian Edwards, Philip Hatcher, David Hays, Jimmy Sawhon, Lance McFarland, Anthony Mohler, Moises Ortiz, Edwin Pelingon, Donavan Peterson, James Robinson and Zerek Selby. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. November 2004 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 4:26 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — With instructor Jim Shaffer (far right) is one group of trainees and upgraders who completed this course Oct. 8. In no specific order, they are Kurtis Boyd, Gregory Baker, Carinda Bohus, Ronald Davis, Christopher Jackson, Ronald Williams Jr., Alexandr Koroteyev, Paa Kwakye, Daniel McFarland, Moises Ortiz, Steben Torres, Chad Eller, Richard Avila, Robert Oliveto Jr., Lionel Hall, Kevin Craigie, Miles Partridge, Joshua Lampke and Barney George. Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — A second group completing the tanker familiarization course Oct. 8, this one under the guidance of Herb Walling (far left) are (in no specific order) Matt Faber, Nicholas Serritella, Frank Lyle, Boyd Spivey, William Holloway, Tavid Lewis, Richard Lewis, Jeffrey Raum Jr., Virgilio Hoffmann, Manolito Garcia, Dante Dizon, Edward Cherry, Jeremy Martinez, Stefon Otey, Jervona Vorise, David Quade II, Ernest Cannon, Jamey Russell, Carlos Llanos, Vincent Deguzman, Scott Paxton and James Crate. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Sept. 17: Mohamed Algalham, Darrol Bates, Patrick Fitzgerald, Sajid Foster, Ismail Hariri, Jimmy Lawhon, James Robinson, Steven Roquemore and John Alberti. Their instructor, Tom Cessna, is at far left. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given Sept. 10 to (in alphabetical order) Peter Albano, Jeffrey Hawkins, Jerrol Jones, Filiberto Moreira, Ashley Nelson, Bryan Perley and Tomas Torruellas. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Earning their lifeboatman/water survival endorsements Sept. 24 are (in alphabetical order) Sam Baffoe, Michael Copple, Dante Dizon, Kirk Fisher, Carlos Gibbons, Rudy Harjanto, Kosar Iqbal, Steven Kuithe, Tina Lester, Omar Madrid, Donivan McCants and Willie Myrick. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. Fast Rescue Boat — Graduating from this course Oct. 8 are (in alphabetical order) Charlie Carlson, Robert Carrasco, William Davis Jr., Sean DeBruler, Larry Jamieson, Paul Sullivan and Leo Venegas. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far left. GMDSS — Completing their GMDSS training Oct. 8 are (in alphabetical order) Robert Boudreaux, Douglas Crawford, Ghassan Khalek, Cliff Lattish and Lawrence Richardson. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far left. Advanced Fire Fighting — Graduates of the advanced fire fighting course that ended Oct. 1 are (in alphabetical order) Juan Castillo, Deronja Clark, Ronel Guerzon, Craig Hammer, Eric Harris, Stephen Johnson, Marc Marcus, Timothy Martin, Chad Stieteler, Justin Vonsprecken, Elaine Watts and Loren Wolfe. November 2004 Specially Trained OS — Proudly displaying the Alaskan flag are Alaskan fishermen who completed the STOS course Sept. 17 under the guidance of Stacey Harris (center). They are (in alphabetical order) Joseph Demmert III, Vincent Hamm, Justin Huggins, Rod McLeod, Charles Melendrez, Timothy O’Hara, Kirk Opheim, Leroy Peterson and Clark Thomas. Seafarers LOG 23 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/29/2004 6:39 PM Page 24 A November 2004 Volume 66, Number 11 p 1 &D S P P p a R P P S T M G L S V P 1 N P T o t N a W P W F o t P a W P N V a N P P a P 4 P T The Green Dale loads thousands of cars in Baltimore, Bayonne, Jacksonville, Houston and Charleston for ports in the Middle East and Japan. The Green Dale had a total of 28 time changes on its trip around the world, advancing the clocks one hour a night on the average of 4 times a week, and turning the clocks back twice. Also, one full day was repeated after crossing the international dateline. Bosun Fred Collins Temperatures were from 100 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. AB Thami Boulabat Chief Cook Said Abdullah At the time of payoff in Newark, N.J., the Green Dale had sailed 31,591 miles on its recent voyage and used roughly 22,580 barrels of fuel. The distance around the world at the equator is roughly 24,900 miles. AB Romeo Escalera Automobiles were off-loaded in San Juan, P.R. AB Jesse Osborne Jr. he SIU-crewed Green Dale, a Waterman Steamship Corp. car carrier, has the difficult, yet fascinating job of circling the globe every voyage in anywhere from 90 to 100 days—twice a year. With 21 officers and crew, the vessel sails through good weather and bad carrying its cargo of vehicular machines of all types, including automobiles and sometimes parts. Brandon Maeda, recertified steward aboard the Green Dale, sent in this account of the vessel’s most recent voyage as well as the accompanying photos. “We signed foreign articles on May 19 in the port of Baltimore. There we began the process of on-loading vehicles for overseas transport and continued to do so in the subsequent ports of Bayonne, N.J.; Jacksonville; Houston; and Charleston, S.C. While in Jacksonville, the U.S. Coast Guard boarded the vessel for their first-ever ‘Homeland Security Audit’ on a visiting ship in that port—and the mighty Green Dale passed with flying colors. “We then sailed the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, stopping in Port Said, Egypt to transit the Suez Canal. The captain held several safety meetings to discuss the very real threats of terrorism, hostage-taking and beheadings in that part of the world, and the ship remained on a high security alert as we transited the Red Sea and proceeded to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. “We off-loaded U.S. vehicles and military equipment in the Arabian ports of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Ad Damman and On its return home, the car carrier had Kuwait. The weather in to transit the Panama Canal. the Persian Gulf ranged from 100 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade, and the locals say it can get up to 144 degrees in the summer. It was hot! “Empty now, we made sail for the Indian Ocean and Japan, but first had to contend with the Strait of Malacca. The vessel posted a ‘pirate watch’ because incidents of piracy are on the increase in this heavily trafficked area. We managed to survive the strait without incident and sailed north to Japan. We arrived in the port of Kobe and, once again, began cargo operations, this time loading Japanese vehicles for the U.S. and Mexico. “While in Kobe, a general audit of the ship was held, and the Green Dale passed the test. Not only that, but our U.S.-flagged vessel received the highest score yet posted by any car carrier in the fleet. “The subsequent, very hot-weathered Japanese ports were: Mizushima, Nakanoseki, Kawasaki and Yokohama. After loading more than 3,000 vehicles of all types and sizes, the Green Dale departed Yokohama and made sail for Paradise—the sunny islands of Hawaii and the port of Honolulu. “Hawaii was great, as always, and so was our next port of Mazatlan, Mexico. We had a full day in Balboa, Panama (on the Pacific side) and then transited the canal and headed for Puerto Rico on the Atlantic side. We spent a day off-loading vehicles in San Juan and sailed back to Jacksonville on the U.S. mainland. “The rest of the off-loading occurred in Baltimore, Davisville, R.I. and Boston, with the final payoff in Newark in midAugust.” In addition to Brother Maeda, the SIU crew members aboard the Green Dale on that voyage included Bosun Fred Collins, Mazatlan, Mexico was one Chief Cook Said Abdullah, ABs Romeo Escalera, Bill Winnett, Jesse Osborne Jr. of the final stops before returning to the U.S. and Thami Boulabat, and OMUs Aaron Anderson and Alfredo Mendoza. AB Bill Winnett OMU Alfredo Mendoza OMU Aaron Anderson � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PHILLY FERRY CREWS STICK WITH SEAFARERS BIDCO ADDS NEW TUGBOAT NCL AMERICA PRESIDENT TOURS SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 4TH BP TANKER SIU-CONTRACTED ALASKA TANKER CO. EARNS SAFETY MILESTONE, AWARD UNION ELECTION VOTING BEGINS NOV. 1 MAERSK LINE, LIMITED REPLACES MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM SHIPS REMEMBERING MAJOR KEN CONKLIN SHORE LEAVE SPOTLIGHTED ON WORLD MARITIME DAY WOMEN’S WORK IS IN ALL THREE DEPARTMENTS ONCE A RARITY, FEMALE SEAFARERS ARE MORE COMMON SIGHT PL 480 ‘FOOD FOR PEACE’ PROGRAM CELEBRATES FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY INITIAL MOBILIZATION FOR OIF3 INCLUDES 9 SIU-CREWED SHIPS APPLY NOW FOR 2005 SCHOLARSHIP BROTHER BUTTS GIVEN BURIAL AT SEA SHIPBOARD TRAINING IS KEY COMPONENT OF UNLICENSED APPRENTICE PROGRAM CIRCLING THE GLOBE ON THE GREEN DALE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/2004 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 66, No. 11 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/54b0be48032cbb22f4716e3983b532ba.pdf 4d48be514bdff1b0242db11fd327449b PDF Text Text 24753_P1,3,24 cx.qxd 9/27/2004 6:53 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 10 October 2004 USNS Bob Hope USNS Shughart USNS Fisher Bob Hope-Class LMSRs Go SIU! USNS Yano Seafarers to Crew Up 11 Military Support Ships Seafarers recently welcomed the news that SIU-contracted companies have been awarded new operating agreements for the 11 LMSRs pictured on this page. Early last month, the government announced SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation as the new operator of nine LMSRs, including the seven Bob Hope-class ships and two converted vessels. Additionally, SIU-contracted 3PSC, LLC will operate two other converted LMSRs. Among those happy to receive the news were Seafarers (going up a gangway, left to right) AB Hennie Haylock, SA Jermaine Robinson, OS Leroyal Hester and AB Jonathan Brown. The vessels’ current operator (Patriot) is protesting the award. Page 3. USNS Gilliland USNS Seay USNS Pililaau USNS Gordon USNS Brittin USNS Mendonca USNS Benavidez �24753_p02,3,17,21.qxd 9/24/2004 9:31 AM Page 2 President’s Report More Progress for the SIU Heading into the final months of 2004, our union remains incredibly active and productive. September brought two major gains for Seafarers: the award of operating contracts for 11 LMSRs to SIU-contracted companies, and the signing of an agreement between a highly regarded national health care network and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The LMSRs represent a substantial number of new jobs in the deck and engine departments. They also signify the continuation of our union’s consistent demonstrated ability to deliver for the membership. In 2004 alone, through outright new vessels and replacement tonnage, we have added new jobs aboard military support ships, tankers, containerships, car carriers, Great Lakes vessels and passenger ferries. You’ve heard me say it before: It’s all about jobs, jobs, jobs! On that score, the SIU takes a back seat to no one. The agreement with First Health Network also is a key development. At a time when health insurance costs are climbing beyond the reach of tens of millions of Americans, SIU members who are covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan not only are maintaining good benefits but also are gaining access to a national network of health care providers for which there are currently no out-of-pocket costs. I’d call that a remarkable accomplishment, especially in light of the latest news concerning health care costs. You may have read media reports last month stating that health insurance premiums paid by U.S. employers have risen 11 percent this year alone. Most workers are bearing at least some of that cost, paying more to carry their coverage and, in many cases, also paying higher deductibles and co-payments. This is a national crisis and one of the biggest challenges faced by working families. It’s not just that costs are increasing every year—they are rising at rates so far beyond average wage increases that they’re flat unaffordable for far too many people. Out-of-pocket costs for the average worker have gone up 60 percent in the last four years. Also, the most recent figures show an all-time high of 45 million Americans without any health insurance. Until we as a nation find real solutions, those numbers only will get worse. In that context, Seafarers have it better than most, thanks largely to efforts by the Plan and the union. We will continue to aggressively protect our benefits, but this is a serious, difficult fight. Elsewhere, Seafarers continue making progress aboard our newly contracted cruise ship, NCL America’s Pride of Aloha. There’s no question the Pride of Aloha is working through some growing pains, but that’s to be expected. Overall, the operation is headed in the right direction and bound for total success. On that note, I thank the SIU crew members who have helped the Pride of Aloha through these early stages. The work hasn’t been easy, and the hours usually are long, but our members consistently have been praised for maintaining great attitudes and doing whatever it takes to help ensure the smoothest possible experience for all concerned. That type of dedication and sacrifice doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. Lastly, I again encourage all Seafarers to participate in the upcoming elections—both our union elections and the national, state and local contests. Make sure you are eligible to vote, and support the candidates who will support a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Volume 66, Number 10 October 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 SIU Safety Directors Examine New U.S. Maritime Regulations SIU safety directors last month scrutinized a host of significant issues that affect not only Seafarers individually, but also the maritime community and the entire shipping industry during their annual conference at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The five-day gathering, which ran Sept. 13-17, marked the sixth yearly meeting of the union’s safety directors. The conference’s agenda, jam-packed from the opening day, included a series of informational briefings from heads of several of the union’s administrative departments, and presentations by instructors from the Paul Hall Center. The lion’s share of the safety director’s agenda however involved in-depth discussions on small arms awareness, mariner identification documents, and maritime security awareness. Cdr. Capt. John Lawrence of Alaska Tanker Co. provides operational insights about his company to the safety directors. Cyndi Stowe, U.S. Coast Guard, briefed the directors on the Participants in the SIU’s Sept. 13-17 safety directors’ conference pose for a photo shortly after their graduation. From left to right are Mitch Oakley, Frank Vincenzo, Archie Ware, Christian Westbrook, Samuel Spain, Frank Iverson, Kevin Marchand, Amancio Crespo, and Randy Senatore. Small Arms Awareness Training was a highlight of the safety conference. Following many hours of instruction and training in the classroom, conference attendees took to the firing range to practice and hone their newly acquired skills. Cdr. Cyndi Stowe, U.S. Coast Guard, briefs the safety directors on provisions of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2004. Maritime Security Act of 2004 while Capt. John Lawrence presented a seminar on behalf of SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. “The entire conference was very well-organized, flawlessly structured and highly informative,” said Kevin Marchand from the port of Houston. “Everyone involved in putting together the conference did a masterful job, and we all gained a great deal of insight from the union officials who participated in the various workshops with us. “This was my first time participating in the conference,” Marchand continued, “but the veterans in the group all said that this year’s event was the best that they have ever attended. I’m sure I’m speaking for the entire group (fellow safety directors) when I say that we all walked away better equipped to handle the everyday situations which we encounter in our respective ports.” In addition to Marchand, others who participated in the sixth safety conference and their respective ports were: Amancio Crespo, port of San Juan; Frank Iverson, Honolulu; Mitch Oakley, Piney Point; Randy Senatore, New York; Samuel Spain, Norfolk; Frank Vincenzo, Tacoma; Archie Ware, San Francisco; and Christian Westbrook, New Orleans. Paul Hall Center Hosts ITF Inspectors Graham Young (standing in photo below) from the office of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Secretariat, conducts a wrap-up briefing for inspectors who participated in the ITF’s Sept. 12-17 All Americas Inspectorate Training Seminar at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Piney Point, Md. More than 40 inspectors from North, South and Central America converged on the southern Maryland campus to get acquainted, exchange ideas, discuss trends in their respective countries and coordinate strategies for future flag-of-convenience campaigns. Young (right in photo at right) also addressed the inspectors during the seminar’s workshops. Pictured with Young (from the left) are Steve Trowsdale, office of the ITF Secretariat and Stephen Cotton, head of the ITF’s Special Seafarers’ Department. The U.S. Coast Guard conducted a Port Access and Security workshop for the inspectors during which they discussed the ramifications of the United Nations’ new International Ship and Port Facility Security Code and the U.S. Maritime Security Act of 2004. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, also participated in the seminar. “I think it’s good for ITF inspectors to meet from time to time to exchange ideas and hone their skills by becoming acquainted with the various techniques and approaches employed by their counterparts from other countries when dealing with similar situations,” Heindel stated. October 2004 �24753_P1,3,24 cx.qxd 9/27/2004 6:54 PM Page 3 SIU Gains Jobs on 11 LMSRs Seafarers to Crew Up U.S. Military Support Ships The SIU last month welcomed the news that two of its contracted companies have been awarded operating agreements for 11 large, medium-speed, roll-on/ roll-off vessels (LMSRs). Seafarers-contracted American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA) will be the new operator of nine LMSRs, including the seven Bob Hope-class ships and two converted vessels. SIU-contracted 3PSC, LLC will operate two other converted LMSRs. The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) announced the bid awards in early September. Seafarers originally were scheduled to begin crewing most of the ships starting this month and next month. However, Patriot Contract Services (the current operator) has protested the MSC award, thereby delaying the turnover. A memo from the SIU was sent last month to the member- ship detailing the protest. Among other things, the memo points out that Patriot’s objection wasn’t unexpected. “The company is facing a loss of approximately 30 percent of their business,” the memo notes, “and not to protest would be commercially irresponsible…. This is standard operating procedure in this type of situation. The SIU will continue to monitor the situation and fully expect to man these ships when the General Accounting Office upholds the award to AMSEA.” The operating agreements in effect are four years apiece; officially they are four one-year agreements renewable each year. The SIU will fill all unlicensed positions aboard the 11 ships. Seafarers called the announcement of the award a major win for the SIU. “I’m very happy about it,” said OMU Thomas Haskins, who joined the union 10 years ago. Health Network Agreement Offers Many Advantages Saving money while maintaining quality health insurance coverage levels is an unlikely feat, but the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has pulled it off, thanks to a new affiliation with First Health Network. “This is an effective way of reducing costs without sacrificing quality and without placing any additional burden on our participants,” said SHBP Administrator Bill Dennis. “First Health is a very large, highly regarded network that matches up well with our participants’ home zip codes. I think it’s a win-win situation.” The Plan’s Board of Trustees sent a letter and network membership card to each participant confirming the agreement with First Health Network as this issue of the LOG went to press. That letter notes that the agreement—effective Nov. 1, 2004—should help eliminate applicable out-of-pocket costs for Seafarers. Another expected plus is that Seafarers using the network no longer will have to worry about doctors’ charges exceeding the “reasonable and customary” coverage limit, since the network and its participating physicians agree to a set fee schedule. Another recent communication from the SHBP board points out that “out of network claims [will] continue to be processed and paid in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the Plan and may result in a balance bill to the participant.” In other words, while treatment outside the network is an option, members would continue to be responsible for applicable co-payments as well as fees beyond the “reasonable and customary” amount. As reported last month, the health benefits plan of an SIU-affiliated union earlier this year joined the First Health Network, and the results have been clearly favorable for that plan, its participating members and eligible dependents. “Using the network makes sense for members because they save money and they don’t have to deal with paperwork, since the network doctors and hospitals file the claims for them,” Dennis added. More than 4,500 hospitals and some 425,000 physicians and ancillary providers participate in First Health Network. According to the company, 99 percent of hospitals and 96 percent of physicians and ancillary providers normally renew their respective contracts with the network. First Health requires pre-certification (pre-approval) prior to a scheduled hospital admission or surgery. In the case of an emergency hospitalization or surgery, the network must be notified within 48 hours after admission. Each SIU hall will keep a list of the First Health Network participants. Individuals also may call the network at 800 839-1980 to check whether or not their doctor participates, or visit the web site www.firsthealth.com (use login ID SHBP) for an electronic directory. According to recent studies, health insurance premiums paid by U.S. employers increased 11.2 percent this year. A study by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Health Research and Educational Trust showed that it costs about $10,000 per year to insure the average family. As part of that expense, workers pay approximately $500 per year for single coverage or roughly $2,600 for family coverage. This marks the fourth straight year that premiums increased by 10 percent or more. In 2003, the jump was 13.9 percent. Those aren’t the only figures on the rise. According to the Kaiser study, workers’ out-of-pocket costs have increased by 60 percent during the past four years. Also, the U.S. Census Bureau recently noted that the number of uninsured Americans increased to 45 million last year. October 2004 “It’s reassuring that things are still going in the right direction.” “I think it’s excellent,” stated AB Mike Penkwitz, a Seafarer since 1988. “It creates a lot of jobs for our members. Those are going to be good ships, and the more ships we have, the better our security.” Bosun’s Mate George Pino, a 30-year member of the SIU, declared that the awards are good news for MSC, too. “SIU members are highly trained, and we have access to one of the best maritime schools in the world,” he observed. “That comes through our union leadership. “The announcement of more jobs for us is definitely a plus.” Recertified Bosun George Khan, who joined the SIU in 1978, said the news of new jobs “most definitely is well-received, especially since we’re going with the good (health benefits) package. That’s big with me, the benefits. It’s more important than anything else.” The Bop Hope ships are the USNS Benavidez, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Brittin, USNS Fisher, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pililaau and USNS Seay. AMSEA also will operate the USNS Shughart and USNS Yano, while 3PSC, LLC will operate the USNS Gordon and USNS Gilliland. SIU President Michael Sacco said the awards are “great news for the membership and a big win for the entire union. When you gain The USNS Seay (above) and the rest of the Military Sealift Command’s fleet of LMSRs have been active throughout Operation Iraqi Freedom. new jobs on 11 ships, there’s every reason to feel good about it.” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez said the awards “reflect in part the excellent work done by our rank-and-file membership throughout the years and in particular throughout Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. These 11 LMSRs will be in good hands with SIU crews.” The Bob Hope ships were built at Avondale in New Orleans, with delivery dates ranging from 1998 to 2003. The Shughart and Yano were converted at NASSCO in San Diego, while the Gordon and Gilliland were converted at Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding. The converted vessels formerly were containerships; all were delivered to MSC by late 1997. MSC cites two key missions— prepositioning and surge sealift— for its LMSRs, including eight Seafarers-crewed Watson-class vessels. The ships vary in length from about 900 feet to approximately 950 feet. The USNS Benavidez was the last of the Bob Hope-class ships built at Avondale in New Orleans. SBX Joins SIU Fleet Seafarers are crewing up a semi-submersible craft that 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 includes a seabased component. As shown in this illustration provided by the agency, the ship essentially is a mobile platform for an advanced radar system. It is 400 feet long and 237 feet wide, selfpropelled and features a twin-hull design. For now, it is being called the SBX—an abbreviation for sea-based X-Band radar. As reported last month, the SBX will be forward-deployed in the Pacific Rim. Seafarers LOG 3 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/24/2004 8:06 PM Page 4 Transportation Secretary Credits SIU Crews For Helping Fight Fire on USNS Shughart Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta, in a pair of recent letters to Marine Transport Lines, Inc., formally thanked the SIU crews from two Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels for their roles in assisting a third vessel which caught fire while offloading military cargo in Kuwait. Specifically, Secretary Mineta expressed his gratitude to the masters and crews of the Cape Douglas and Cape Ducato for assisting the USNS Shughart during an engine room fire which occurred March 5 while it was berthed at the port of Ash Shuaiba in Kuwait. The Shughart was offloading military trucks and equipment for the U.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom when the incident occurred. U.S. Coast Guard investigators say it appears that the fire originated in the auxiliary machinery room on the starboard side of the 950-foot large, medium speed, roll-on/rolloff ship midway between the water line and the main deck. Three crew members apparently suffered smoke inhalation, and the ship’s electrical system was heavily damaged, but all cargo was offloaded and undamaged. In part, the transportation secretary’s correspondence said: “This letter is to thank the crew(s) of the Cape Douglas (and Cape Ducato) in assisting the USNS Shughart during its engine room fire in early March of this year while in the Kuwaiti port of Ash Shuaiba. “I understand that your vessel(s), the Ready Reserve Force ship Cape Douglas (and Cape Ducato) was (were) docked nearby when the engine room fire was reported on board the USNS Shughart. The crews of three Military Sealift Command ships and two Maritime Administration ships worked in unison with shore-side support to put out this fire. As serious as this fire was, the result would have been much worse without your combined gallant efforts. “The response of the Cape Douglas (and Cape Ducato) crew(s) in fighting the fire aboard the USNS Shughart is but a small part of your overall service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. This service is greatly appreciated during this time of sealift support for Operation Iraqi Freedom II.” According to reports released by MSC, the Shughart was about 75 percent offloaded when crew working in the area of the auxiliary machinery room smelled smoke. Upon investigation, they found thick black smoke coming from the auxiliary machinery room and used extinguishers and water hoses to tamp down what they thought was a fire and to cool the area. After about 90 minutes and with smoke still billowing, it was clear the technique was not working. The crew secured the engine room ventilation system and all Notice MSC Notification to Coast Guard Legislation recently was signed into law requiring the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) to notify the U.S. Coast Guard of a positive drug test result within two weeks of the date that MSC receives the result from the medical review officer. Previously, drug test results were not reported to the Coast Guard until CIVMARS were afforded the opportunity to file a grievance against the result and continue through the disciplinary process should they choose to do so. The union is negotiating with MSC to try to reduce the negative impact of this change. MSC has advised the union that once it reports the results to the Coast Guard, Coast Guard officials will be obligated to contact CIVMARS to confiscate their MMD and begin the administrative process against the mariner. CIVMARS who have questions regarding this practice should contact their government services representative. U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta other systems they could reach, and left the space to muster for a head count. Once all crew members were accounted for, the ship’s carbon dioxide fire fighting system was activated in the affected spaces. The system floods the area with carbon dioxide which depletes the oxygen in the space and extinguishes the fire. Council’s Tribute Puts Late SIU VP on Road to Jersey Memorial In many ways, Ed Pulver gave his heart to the people of Jersey City, N.J. Now, the city has dedicated part of its landscape in memory of the late Seafarers vice president. “Edward Pulver Way,” a portion of Washington Boulevard in Jersey City, officially was named on Sept. 9 at a well-attended ceremony in the municipality. Street signs bearing Pulver’s name adorn the road from Dudley Street to the Morris Canal. Identical signs were presented to Pulver’s daughters. The Jersey City Municipal Council last year unanimously approved a city ordinance creating Edward Pulver Way. Pulver passed away May 26, 2002 at age 78. A Jersey City native, he was a tireless philanthropist and dedicated trade unionist. SIU President Michael Sacco called the street dedication “a well-deserved tribute. Ed was a A large contingent of Seafarers on Sept. 6 joined several thousand of their brothers and sisters from other labor unions to participate in the annual Labor Day Parade in Los Angeles/Long Beach, Calif. Some of the parade’s floats and participants are shown in the photo at left. 4 Seafarers LOG sprang into action. Flames were now visible from the starboard side of the ship, the first time actual flames were seen. Smoke had been the culprit during the first battle. Fire fighters decided that the auxiliary machinery room was the likely epicenter of the fire, and getting foam into that space was crucial to extinguishing the fire. The crew immediately went to work cutting holes through the deck above the room, and the Kuwaiti fire trucks pumped foam into the machinery room. It worked. Twenty-four hours after discovery, the fire was finally out, but the ship was seriously damaged. Electrical systems were most affected. An auxiliary diesel generator and an adjacent power pack room were destroyed. The auxiliary switchboard was damaged, and electrical cabling in the fire area needed replacement. Street-Smart Official Ed Pulver Remembered as Caring Leader Seafarers Participate in Labor Day Parade Seafarers, including officials as well as members from the port of Wilmington, photo at right, proudly displayed the SIU banner during the parade. Among those who participated in the parade were Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, Patrolman Jesse Solis and Dispatcher Nick Rios. SIU members who participated included Rudy Bacalla, Jesse Solis Jr., Michael Johnson, John Raquipiso, Al Sanchez, James Boss, Mo Yahya, Abdull Nasser and Hassan Mohamed. In addition to the help rendered by crews from the Cape Douglas and Cape Ducato, fire fighting assistance was requested from SIU-crewed MSC sister ships USNS Red Cloud and USNS Sisler, which also were offloading in the port. Fire trucks from the Kuwait port offices were driven aboard the Shughart and began fighting the smoke and cooling the area. Alongside, tugs sprayed water on the ship’s hull in an attempt to cool the metal. About six hours from the time smoke was discovered, the fire was declared to be out, and the spaces were left to cool. Stevedores worked quickly to finish offloading the remaining cargo. Without warning about 12 hours later, fire flashed again. It appears that the re-flash may have come from fire in the electrical cables that penetrate the decks, according to the report. Again, crew members and fire fighters Participating in the dedication of Edward Pulver Way are (from left) the late SIU VP’s daughters Linda, Marianne, Jean, Jersey City Mayor L. Harvey Smith, Pulver’s daughter Carol and Councilman E. Junior Maldonado. true labor leader and someone who always fought for the underdog. He dedicated his life to helping others.” Jersey City Mayor L. Harvey Smith, Councilman E. Junior Maldonado (who sponsored the ordinance) and SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi were among the featured speakers at last month’s ceremony. All remembered Pulver as a genuine, humanitarian advocate. “The people who knew Ed the best, without exception, described him in superlative terms,” Soresi noted. “I had the pleasure of knowing Ed Pulver and working with him, and I can say without hesitation that he’s truly deserving of this recognition from his native city. It’s a great way to remember a man who did so much to help others. “Professionally, Ed was very well-respected, both politically and within the labor movement,” Soresi continued. “Personally, he was a great guy who would do anything for you. The dedication of Edward Pulver Way is an exclamation point at the end of Eddie’s overwhelming record of generosity.” Among other activities, Pulver founded several organizations which helped immigrants adjust to U.S. society without sacrificing their heritage. He belonged to numerous community and civic groups including the National Executive Board of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, and the Hudson County Economic Development Corporation. He served as executive vice president of the Filipino and Americans As One organization and as president of the Hudson County SPCA. Additionally, he served on the board of directors for the Hudson County School of Technology as well as for Saint Francis Hospital and Christ Hospital. Pulver’s association with the Seafarers dated back more than 50 years. He headed the SIU’s office in Jersey City. He was the president and a founding member of the Hudson County Central Labor Council, and served on the state AFL-CIO executive board. October 2004 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/20/2004 12:10 PM Page 5 Homeland Security Dept. Announces $49 Million in Port Security Grants Agencies Move Toward Large-Scale Adoption of ‘Smart Cards’ As part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) continuing commitment to enhance security at the nation’s key ports and facilities, DHS Secretary Tom Ridge on Sept. 13 announced more than $49 million in the fourth round of port security grants. The Port Security Grant Program provides resources for projects to improve dockside and perimeter security that is vital to securing our critical national seaports. According to the department, these awards will contribute to important security upgrades such as surveillance equipment, access controls to restricted areas, communications equipment, and the construction of new command and control facilities. The grant program represents one layer of the department’s system of defenses for our nation’s ports that includes monitoring the people, cargo and vessels entering U.S. ports from the time they leave a foreign port to the time they arrive in the U.S. “The Department of Homeland Security is committed to further securing our nation’s maritime system, which is vital to our nation’s economic wellbeing as the avenue for international trade and commerce,” said Secretary Ridge. “These projects are critical to the mission of securing our ports.” “Each year, millions of people, vessels and pieces of cargo pass through our nation’s ports,” said C. Suzanne Mencer, executive director DHS’ Office for Domestic Preparedness. “These grants help protect our ports of entry and ensure the uninterrupted flow of global commerce.” The Office for Domestic Preparedness, Transportation Security Administration, Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration evaluated this round of port security grant applications and selected 154 award recipients across the nation. Previously, the DHS awarded $92 million in June 2002, $168 million in July 2003, and $179 million in December 2003 as part of the Port Security Grant Program, and $75 million from the Urban Area Security Initiative for port security in August 2003. Elsewhere, federal agencies appear to be moving toward the large-scale adoption of smart cards for identification, according to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) survey titled “Federal Agencies Continue to Invest in Smart Card Technology.” This work follows up on a similar GAO survey released in January 2003 and is based on a GAO study conducted on the number and scope of smart card programs currently being done by federal agencies. Prepared for Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.), chairman of the Government Reform Committee, the report said that 18 agencies have initiated 62 smart card projects among them. Sources say most of them were small-scale demonstrations until the past two years. Since then, however, some agencies have launched much larger implementations. “We’re seeing a trend toward larger, agency-wide smart card projects,” said John de Ferrari, GAO’s assistant director of information management issues. “Since we reported in 2003, about half of [the ongoing projects] have been terminated. Many of them were pilot projects or they were specific projects in small agencies, offices or divisions.” Between December 2004 and December 2008, according to published accounts, officials at five agencies—the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of Homeland Security, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Interior Department and the Department of Veterans Affairs—are planning to make an aggregated purchase of up to 40 million cards through a General Services Administration (GSA) contract. The DOD alone has ordered 800,000 Common Access Cards from an Amsterdam, Netherlands-based firm, its prime smart card contractor. DOD uses the U.S. Major General Dunwoody Assumes Command at CASCOM A U.S. Army general who is a staunch advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s importance in national security has assumed duties as the commanding general of a major U.S. Army Command. Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody on Sept. 2 during a formal ceremony at Fort Lee, Va.’s Sgt. Sealy Field assumed command of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee (CASCOM). SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez joined hundreds of military officers, soldiers and civilians who attended the ceremony. Dunwoody replaced Maj. Gen. Terry Juskowiak as commander of CASCOM and in the process became the first woman ever to hold the job. Juskowiak retired from the Army following 31 years of distinguished service. Dunwoody and Juskowiak stood side by side throughout most of the one-hour change-of-command ceremony, according to a report in the The Progress Index, but it was Dunwoody who led the pass in review march of several hundred soldiers who filed past Juskowiak and his wife while they were situated in the reviewing stand. The outgoing commander re- October 2004 ferred to his replacement as “a great combat tested warrior” during his going-away address, the report said. Dunwoody said, “What a great day this is to be an American soldier…There is not a day that I don’t think of our soldiers deployed abroad.” Dunwoody’s new command provides the Army with test and evaluation of combat and training concepts; participates in the force structuring process; determines materiel requirements and influences the development, acquisition and fielding processes for combat service support functions. Prior to assuming CASCOM’s lead position, the general served as commander of the U.S. Army’s Military Traffic Management Command (a component of TRANSCOM), which supports the Department of Defense and the mobilization community worldwide during peace and war with responsive planning, crisis response actions, traffic management, terminal operations, information management and “deployability” engineering. Previously, Dunwoody was commanding general of the 1st Corps Support Command (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C. Her unit provided support to Army units deployed in Afghanistan. The general received a direct cards to provide identity verification for access to buildings and for log-on access to computers and networks. Another large agency-wide effort is being launched as part of the DHS’ identification and credentialing project. DHS officials plan to issue 250,000 cards to employees and contractors for “three-factor” authentication, sources report. Smart cards are credit cardsize plastic devices that contain a computer chip capable of exchanging data with other systems and processing information. Unlike debit and credit cards, smart cards do not use strips, which can be deleted or changed. And smart cards have so-called three-factor authentication, a system requiring users to present a smart card, enter a password and verify a biometric scan. “While the technology offers benefits, launching smart card projects—whether large or small—has proved challenging to federal agencies,” the GAO report states. The GSA is responsible for promoting smart card use and guiding agencies, the report notes, adding that GSA’s effectiveness has been “mixed.” Meanwhile, the White House, on the third anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States, released a fact sheet on what it considers its accomplishments on the war against terrorism. In the area of port and cargo security, according to the fact sheet: The president has significantly increased funding for the Coast Guard, including dramatic increases for port security and acquisition of new resources. The Coast Guard is creating more than a dozen 100-person Maritime Safety and Security Teams, to provide point defense for critical infrastructure and shipping; employing armed helicopters to provide waterside security; and reviewing thousands of new vessel, facility and port security plans. Funding for Coast Guard port security efforts has increased over 500 percent from the beginning of the current administration through 2004. The Coast Guard’s deepwater fleet modernization project has received a total of $1.5 billion over the last three years, and the president has requested $678 million in his FY 2005 budget. DHS has strengthened measures to protect the nation from smuggled radioactive materials and nuclear devices, by equipping CBP inspectors, Coast Guard boarding personnel and Border Patrol agents with portable radiation detectors and installing radiation detection portals at sea, land, rail and air ports of entry, including mail processing facilities. The first radiation portals were installed in March 2003. DHS established the National Targeting Center (NTC), which uses computer-assisted analytical protocols to determine which cargo and passengers destined for the United States present the greatest threat, focusing examinations and inspections on them. The NTC screens data on 100 percent of inbound seaborne shipping containers (6 million per year) to identify those posing a “high risk,” CBP personnel conduct examinations of 100 percent of high-risk containers. DHS established the Container Security Initiative (CSI), deploying CBP officials to 25 major international seaports to pre-screen shipping containers for illicit or dangerous materials before they are loaded on vessels bound for the United States. CSI includes the ports that ship roughly two-thirds of inbound containers to the United States. Additional ports are being added over the next two years. Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, Commander, CASCOM Coast Guard Especially Concerned About Port Security in 17 Countries commission as a second lieutenant after graduating from the State University of New York at Cortland in 1975. She has graduate degrees in national resource strategy and logistics management. Her past assignments include tours of duty with the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.; 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.; and the Defense Logistics Agency, Fort Belvoir, Va. During Operation Desert Storm, Dunwoody deployed to Saudi Arabia as the division parachute officer of the 82nd Airborne Division. She served overseas from September 1990 to March 1991. The U.S. Coast Guard on Sept. 10 alerted the maritime community that it has concerns about the security of ports in 17 foreign countries because they have failed to report compliance with new international port security requirements. Countries making the list are: Albania, Equatorial Guinea, Kiribati, Madagascar, Nigeria, Soloman Islands, Benin, Guinea, Lebanon, Mozambique, Serbia and Montenegro, Suriname, Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nauru and Sierra Leone. The Coast said it will target vessels for increased boardings when arriving in U.S. ports if they have visited one of those countries during their last five port calls. “Shipping is a global industry,” said Adm. Thomas Collins, commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. “In order for us to protect our ports, we must be concerned about the security of the entire shipping chain, including ports overseas.” Countries were required to provide the International Maritime Organization information about their ports’ compliance with new international security requirements by July 1. The Coast Guard has a range of concerns about the information reported from these 17 countries, including reports that they are not in full compliance, incomplete reports, or no reports at all. Seafarers LOG 5 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/24/2004 8:14 PM Page 6 Information for the 2004 Election of Officers SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Balloting Begins Nov. 1 for Union Officers Voting starts Nov. 1 for the election of officers for the Seafarers International Union Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU. SIU members will be able to cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Dec. 31, 2004. Seafarers eligible to vote in this election to determine union officers for the 2005-2008 term are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is spelled out in the union’s governing document, the constitution. The ballot will list the names of all qualified candidates as determined by the credentials committee, a group made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers who reviewed the nominating petitions of all SIU members seeking office in this districtwide election. A sample of this ballot appears on page 8. The credentials committee report, which was prepared Aug. 19, and submitted to the member- ship at the September monthly meetings, indicated 29 candidates had qualified to run for 27 positions. (The committee’s report was published in the September 2004 Seafarers LOG.) The 27 posts for which Seafarers will cast their ballots are president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, eight vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents. 21 Polling Places The election will be conducted by mail ballot as provided by the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postage-paid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 21 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) Notice on Unopposed Candidates One part of the article of the SIU constitution covering rules for elections concerns the election of candidates who are unopposed for the office in question. The section states that those candidates who are unopposed for any office or job shall be considered elected to that office or job and that the tallying committee shall not have to count the votes for any such candidate. The entire section, contained in Article XIII, Section 5 of the SIU constitution, reads as follows: “A candidate unopposed for any office or job shall be deemed elected to such office or job notwithstanding that his name may appear on the ballot. The Union Tallying Committee shall not be required to tally completely the results of the voting for such unopposed candidate but shall certify in their report that such unopposed candidate has been elected to such office or job. The Election Report Meeting shall accept the above certification of the Union Tallying Committee.” Procedures for Voting All Seafarers eligible to vote in the union’s 2004 election of officers and job holders for the term 2005-2008 may vote by secret ballot from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004. Secret ballots, together with self-addressed, stamped envelopes for mailing, will be available at union halls to all eligible voters. Seafarers are eligible to vote in the union’s election if they are fullbook members in good standing. Details of the election procedure are spelled out in Article XIII of the SIU constitution, which is printed verbatim on pages 9 and 10 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG. In summary, here is the procedure for voting: Eligible Seafarers may pick up ballot and mailing envelopes from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon (local time), Monday through Saturday, excluding legal holidays, from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004 at designated union halls (see list on this page). When a full-book member arrives to vote, he or she should present his or her book to the port agent or his duly designated representative. The member will be asked to sign a roster sheet indicating the date, the number of the ballot given the member and his or her book number. The member will have his book stamped with the word “Voted” and the date. At the same time, the member will receive a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope. The mailing envelope has the address of the depository printed on it, making it self-addressed. It also has the postage pre-paid. The top part of the ballot above the perforated line will be retained by the port agent or his duly designated representative. In cases where a member does not produce his or her book, or if there is a question about the member’s good standing or other eligibility matters, the member will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenge.” His or her book also will be stamped “Voted Challenge” and the date. After a member has voted, he or she puts the ballot in the mailing envelope which is addressed to the bank depository and stamped. The mailing envelope should then be put in the mail. 6 Seafarers LOG Eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots and envelopes marked “Ballot” and mailing envelopes at these halls between 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, Monday through Saturday, except legal holidays, from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be stamped with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenge.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. For members who believe they will be at sea during this time, the SIU constitution provides for absentee voting procedures. Fullbook members in good standing who need to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters—5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. NOTICE OF 2004 ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2005-2008 OFFICERS SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2004 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2004. VOTING LOCATIONS BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 BOSTON 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 DETROIT 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 DULUTH 324 West Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802 FT. LAUDERDALE 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 GUAM 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E, Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 JOLIET 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 PHILADELPHIA 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 PINEY POINT Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 PUERTO RICO 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave, Santurce, PR 00907 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 TACOMA 3411 South Union St., Tacoma, WA 98409 WILMINGTON 510 North Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 Secret Ballots Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot for the candidates of his or her choice and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and placed in the mailing envelope and then dispatched in the mail. These steps ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rank-and-file tallying committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected in December. They will convene as the tallying committee in early Jan. 2005. ELECTION INFORMATION CONTINUES ON THE NEXT 5 PAGES. Procedure for Absentee Ballots In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004 voting period, absentee ballots are available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2004 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2004. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designed in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2004. Upon receiving the ballot and envelopes, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight Dec. 31, 2004 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2005. October 2004 �9/24/04 10:35 PM Page 7 ELECTION NOTICE OF 2004 ELECTION Section 401 (e) of the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (Landrum-Griffin Act) requires the mailing of an election notice to each member entitled to vote at his last known address. This notice is being sent to you in compliance therewith and, in addition, contains information of interest to all candidates and members. SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR VOTING LOCATIONS AND PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL REVISIONS G TIN VO RS BER ICE EM F C F DE 8O 00 UGH 2 – O 05 20 THR F O 004 N 2 TIO 1st, C E ER L E R MB FO OVE N D IO R PE A David W. Heindel, H-1443 VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT 5 Augustin Tellez, T-764 Rene Lioeanjie, L-15000 12 Charles Stewart, S-15000 Joseph T. Soresi, S-2658 15 VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST (Vote for One) 16 Nicholas J. Marrone, M-2308 17 18 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 Joseph Mieluchowski, M-2933 BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Vote for One L 22 Georg Kenny, K-1041 23 Michael D. Murphy, M-2483 MOBILE PORT AGENT (Vote for One) 24 NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT (Vote for One) 25 26 NOTE: Because of the appeals deadline, the final version of the ballot may be different than this sample ballot. If so, the updated ballot will be printed in the November 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG. E Anthony M. McQuay, M-2735 SAN FRANCISCO PORT AGENT (Vote for One) 27 Vincent Francis Coss, C-8138 ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT (Vote for One) James P. McGee, M-5945 See Reverse Side for Voting Locations and Proposed Constitutional Revisions Stephen W. Judd, J-5336 HOUSTON PORT AGENT (Vote for One) Don Anderson, A-5244 Chester Wheeler, W-25058 Edward Kelly, Jr., K-5043 28 Rebecca J. Sleeper, S-2497 DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT (Vote for One) 29 Donald A. Thornton, T-5501 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 21 ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES (Vote for One) Thomas Orzechowski, Jr., O-601 Robert Selzer, S-1258 PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT (Vote for One) ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS (Vote for One) VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS (Vote for One) 9 Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-1795 ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST (Vote for One) VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST (Vote for One) 8 Nicholas A. Celona, C-1578 ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST (Vote for One) Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 20 George Tricker, T-919 ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST (Vote for One) 14 7 P Edward "Edd" W. Morris, M-1358 NEW YORK PORT AGENT (Vote for One) ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT (Vote for Two) VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST (Vote for One) 6 19 Kermett T. Mangram, M-2394 11 13 Vote for One Carl Sands, S-2296 PINEY POINT PORT AGENT (Vote for One) VICE-PRESIDENT AT LARGE (Vote for Two) John Fay, F-363 4 MARK YOUR BALLOT WITH INK OR INDELIBLE PENCIL 10 SECRETARY-TREASURER (Vote for One) 3 VOTING PERIOD NOVEMBER 1st, 2004 THROUGH DECEMBER 31st, 2004 INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS—In order to vote for a candidate, mark a cross (X) in voting square to the left of name. If you vote for more candidates for office than specified herein, your vote for such office will be invalid. M Michael J. Sacco, S-1288 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT (Vote for One) 2 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICAAtlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES (Vote for One) PRESIDENT (Vote for One) 1 04 20 , t s 31 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 S No. 00000 OFFICIAL BALLOT For Election of 2005–2008 Officers and Constitutional Amendments OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2005 - 2008 24753_P07-8 �9/24/04 10:37 PM Page 8 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 FOR ELECTION OF 2005-2008 OFFICERS AND CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS Election will be conducted by secret mail ballot. OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 A.M. to 12 Noon, Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence on November 1st, 2004 and shall continue through December 31st, 2004. VOTING LOCATIONS NEW ORLEANS NEW YORK NORFOLK PHILADELPHIA PINEY POINT 3911 LaPalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 635 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232 115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 2604 South Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 PUERTO RICO 1057 Fernandez Juncos Avenue, Santurce, PR 00907 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont Street, San Francisco, CA 94105 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63116 TACOMA 3411 South Union Street, Tacoma, WA 98409 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 WILMINGTON 510 North Broad Avenue, Wilmington, CA 90744 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 520 St. Clair River Drive, Algonac, MI 48001 2315 Essex Street, Baltimore, MD 21224 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 705 Medical Arts Building, Duluth, MN 55802 1221 South Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 125 Sunny Plaza, Tun Jesus Crisostoma St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 606 Kalihi Street, Honolulu, HI 96819 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 1221 Pierce Street, Houston, TX 77002 3315 Liberty Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 1640 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 ELECTION NOTICE OF 2004 ELECTION ALGONAC BALTIMORE BOSTON DULUTH FT. LAUDERDALE GUAM HONOLULU JOLIET HOUSTON JACKSONVILLE MOBILE OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 WHEREAS, the Executive Board of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU met on June 7, 2004 to discuss the current needs and conditions of the Union, its membership and the maritime industry in this country; and WHEREAS, among their discussions and deliberations was the subject of proposed revisions in the Union's Constitution which would enable the Union to function more efficiently and to continue to fulfill its obligations to the membership; and WHEREAS, a Constitutional Committee was elected on August 2, 2004, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. They studied the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolution and unanimously concurred on all proposed constitutional revisions; and WHEREAS, the report of the Constitutional Committee was approved by the membership at the regular membership meetings in September 2004. NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED THE FOLLOWING CONSTITUTIONALLY ADOPTED PROPOSITIONS, TO BE VOTED UPON, IF ADOPTED, WOULD AMEND THE CONSTITUTION AS FOLLOWS: PROPOSITION #1 Are you in favor of amending Article XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant Vice Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs, Section 1 (e) to read as follows: OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 PLACE "X" IN BOX OF YOUR CHOICE YES ❏ NO ❏ PROPOSITION #2 Are you in favor of amending the first sentence of Article XIII, Section 2. Credentials Committee, sub-section (a) to read as follows: “(a) A Credentials Committee shall be elected at either the regular meeting in August of the election year or at special meeting convened in August of the election year at the Port where Headquarters is located.” PLACE "X" IN BOX OF YOUR CHOICE NO ❏ YES ❏ OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 These amendments, if approved, shall become effective upon the date of certification of the Union Tallying Committee. OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 “(e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s pension fund, if any, 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 OFFICIALcommenced BALLOT 2004 - 2008 2004 - 2008 receiving a pension benefit from any such fundOFFICIAL by virtue of BALLOT having reached 1 the age of 70 /2.” OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2004 - 2008 24753_P07-8 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/24/2004 8:49 AM Page 9 Information for the 2004 Election of Officers SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU SIU Constitution Spells Out Rules On 2004 Elections The section of the union’s constitution outlining voting procedures in the SIU’s elections, which are held every four years, appears here and on page 10 in its entirety. Article XIII Elections for Officers, Assistant 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 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 October 2004 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. Section 2. Credentials Committee. (a) A Credentials Committee shall be elected at the regular meeting in August of the election year at the Port where Headquarters is located. It shall consist of six (6) full book members in attendance at the meeting with two (2) members to be elected from each of the Deck, Engine and Steward departments. No officer, Assistant VicePresident, Headquarters Representative or Port Agent, or candidate for office of the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative or Port Agent, shall be eligible for election to this Committee except as provided for in Article X, Section 4. In the event any Committee member is unable to serve, the Committee shall suspend until the President or Executive Vice-President or the Secretary-Treasurer, in that order, calls a special meeting at the Port where Headquarters is located in order to elect a replacement. The Committee’s results shall be by majority vote with any tie vote being resolved by a majority of the membership at a special meeting called for that purpose at that Port. (b) After its election, the Committee shall immediately go into session. It shall determine whether the person has submitted his application correctly and possesses the necessary qualifications. The Committee shall prepare a report listing each applicant and his book number under the office or job he is seeking. Each applicant shall be marked “qualified” or “disqualified” according to the findings of the Committee. Where an applicant has been marked “disqualified,” the reasons therefore must be stated in the report. Where a tie vote has been resolved by a special meeting of the membership, that fact shall also be noted with sufficient detail. The report shall be signed by all of the Committee members and be completed and submitted to the Ports in time for the next regular meeting after their election. At this meeting, it shall be read and incorporated in the minutes and then posted on the bulletin board in each Port. On the last day of nominations, one member of the Committee shall stand by in Headquarters to accept delivery of credentials. All credentials must be in Headquarters by midnight of closing day. (c) When an applicant has been disqualified by the Committee, he shall be notified immediately by telegram at the addresses listed by him pursuant to Section 1 of this Article. He shall also be sent a letter containing their reasons for such disqualification by air mail, special delivery, registered or certified, to the mailing address designated pursuant to Section 1 (b) of this Article. A disqualified applicant shall have the right to take an appeal to the membership from the decision of the Committee. He shall forward copies of such appeal to each Port where the appeal shall be presented and voted upon at a regular meeting no later than the second meeting after the Committee’s election. It is the responsibility of the applicant to insure timely delivery of his appeal. In any event, without prejudice to his written appeal, the applicant may appear in person before the Committee within two days after the day on which the telegram is sent to correct his application or argue for his qualification. The committee’s report shall be prepared early enough to allow the applicant to appear before it within the time set forth in this Constitution and still reach the Ports in time for the first regular meeting after its election. (d) A majority vote of the membership shall, in the case of such appeals, be sufficient to overrule any disqualification by the Credentials Committee in which even the one so previously classified shall then be deemed qualified. (e) The Credentials Committee, in passing upon the qualifications of candidates, shall have the right to conclusively presume that anyone nominated and qualified in previous elections for candidacy for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative or Port Agent, has met all the requirements of Section 1 (a) of Article XII. Section 3. Balloting Procedures. (a) Balloting in the manner hereafter provided shall commence on Nov. 1 of the election year and shall continue through Dec. 31, exclusive of Sundays and (for each individual Port) holidays legally recognized in the City of which the Port affected is located. If Nov. 1 or Dec. 31 falls on a holiday legally recognized in a Port in the City in which that Port is located, the balloting period in such Port shall commence or terminate, as the case may be, on the next succeeding business day. Subject to the foregoing, for the purpose of full book members securing their ballots, the Ports shall be open from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. (b) Balloting shall be by mail. The Secretary-Treasurer shall insure the proper and timely preparation of ballots without partiality as to candidates or Ports. The ballots may contain general information and instructive comments not inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution. All qualified candidates shall be listed thereon alphabetically within each category with book number and job seniority classification status. The listing of the Ports shall first set forth Headquarters and then shall follow a geographical pattern commencing with the most northerly Port of the Atlantic Coast, following the Atlantic Coast down to the most southerly Port on that coast, then westerly along the Gulf of Mexico and so on, until the list of Ports is exhausted. Any Port outside the Continental United States shall then be added. There shall be no write-in voting and no provisions for the same shall appear on the ballot. Each ballot shall be so prepared as to have the number thereon placed at the top thereof and shall be so perforated as to enable that potion containing the said number to be easily removed to insure secrecy of the ballot. On this removable portion shall also be placed a short statement indicating the nature of the ballot and the voting date thereof. (c) The ballots so prepared at the direction of the SecretaryTreasurer shall be the only official ballots. No others may be used. Each ballot shall be numbered as indicated in the preceding paragraphs and shall be numbered consecutively, commencing with number 1. A sufficient amount shall be printed and distributed to each Port. A record of the ballots, both by serial numbers and amount, sent thereto, shall be maintained by the Secretary-Treasurer, who shall also send each Port Agent a verification list indicating the amount and serial numbers of the ballots sent. The Secretary-Treasurer shall also send to each Port Agent a sufficient amount of blank opaque envelopes containing the word “Ballot” on the face of the envelope, as well as a sufficient amount of opaque mailing envelopes, first class postage prepaid and printed on the face thereon as the addressee shall be the name and address of the depository for the receipt of such ballots as designated by the President in the manner provided by Article X, Section 1, of this Constitution. In the upper left-hand corner of such mailing envelope, there shall be printed thereon, as a top line, provision for the voter’s signature and on another line immediately thereunder, provision for the printing of the voter’s name and book number. In addition, the Secretary-Treasurer shall also send a sufficient amount of mailing envelopes identical with the mailing envelopes mentioned above, except that they shall be of different color, and shall contain on the face of such envelope, in bold letters, the word “Challenge.” The Secretary-Treasurer shall further furnish a sufficient amount of “Roster Sheets” which shall have printed thereon, at the top thereof, the year of the election, and immediately thereunder, five (5) vertical columns designated date, ballot number, signature full book member’s name, book number and comments, and such roster sheets shall contain horizontal lines immediately under the captions of each of the above five columns. The SecretaryTreasurer shall also send a sufficient amount of envelopes with the printed name and address of the depository on the face thereof, and in the upper left-hand corner, the name of the Port and address, and on the face of such envelope should be printed the words “Roster Sheets and Ballot Stubs.” Each Port Agent shall maintain separate records of the ballots sent him and shall inspect and count the ballots when received to insure that the amount sent, as well as the number thereon, conform to the amount and numbers listed by the SecretaryTreasurer as having been sent to that Port. The Port Agent shall immediately execute and return to the Secretary-Treasurer a receipt acknowledging the correctness of the amount and the numbers of the ballots sent, or shall notify the Secretary-Treasurer of any discrepancy. Discrepancies shall be corrected as soon as possible prior to the voting period. In any event, receipts shall be forwarded for all the aforementioned election material actually received. The Secretary-Treasurer shall prepare a file in which shall be kept memoranda and correspondence dealing with the election. This file shall at all times be available to any member asking for inspection of the same at the office of the SecretaryTreasurer and shall be turned over to the Union Tallying Committee. (d) Balloting shall be secret. Only full book members in good standing may vote. Each full book member may secure his ballot at Port offices from the Port Agent or his duly designated representative at such Port. Each Port Agent shall designate an area at the Port office over which should be posted the legend “Voting Ballots Secured Here.” When a full book member appears to vote, he shall present his book to the Port Agent or his aforementioned duly designated representative. The Port Agent or his duly designated representative shall insert on the roster sheet under the appropriate column the date, the number of the ballot given to such member and his full book number, and the member shall then sign his name on such roster sheet under the appropriate column. Such member shall have his book stamped with the word “Voted” and the date, and shall be given a ballot, and simultaneously the perforation on the top of the ballot shall be removed at the same time the member shall be given the envelope marked “Ballot” together with the pre-paid postage mailing envelope addressed to the depository. The member shall take such ballot and envelopes and in secret thereafter, mark his ballot, fold the same, insert it in the blank envelope marked “Ballot,” seal the same, then insert such “Ballot” envelope into the mailing envelope, seal such mailing envelope, sign his name on the upper left-hand corner on the first line of such mailing envelope and on the second line in the upper left-hand corner print his name and book number, after which he shall mail or cause the same to be mailed. In the event a full book member appears to vote and is not in good standing or does not have his membership book with him or it appears for other valid reasons he is not eligible to vote, the same procedure as provided above shall apply to him, except that on the roster sheet under the column “Comments,” notation should be made that the member voted a challenged ballot and the reason for his challenge. Such member’s membership book shall be stamped “voted challenge,” and the date, and such member instead of the above-mentioned mailing envelope, shall be given the mailing envelope of a different color marked on the face thereof with the word “Challenge.” At the end of each day, the Port Agent or his duly designated representative shall enclose in the envelope addressed to the depository and marked “Roster Sheets and Ballot Stubs,” the roster sheet or sheets executed by the members that day together with the numbered perforated slips Continued on page 10 Seafarers LOG 9 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/24/2004 8:54 AM Page 10 Information for the 2004 Election of Officers SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Article XIII Constitutional Rules Continued from page 9 removed from the ballots which had been given to the members, and then mail the same to such depository. To insure that an adequate supply of all balloting material is maintained in all Ports at all times, the Port Agent or his duly designated representative, simultaneously with mailing of the roster sheets and ballot stubs to the depository at the end of each day, shall also make a copy of the roster sheet for that day and mail the same to the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters. The Port Agent shall be responsible for the proper safeguarding of all election material and shall not release any of it until duly called for and shall insure that no one tampers with the material placed in his custody. (e) Full book members may request and vote an absentee ballot under the following circumstances: while such member is employed on a Union-contracted vessel and which vessel’s schedule does not provide for it to be at a Port in which a ballot can be secured during the time and period provided for in Section 3 (a) of this article or is in an accredited hospital any time during the first ten (10) days of the month of November of the election year. The member shall make a request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail or the equivalent mailing device at the location from which such request is made, if such be the case. Such request shall contain a designation as to the address to which such member wishes his absentee ballot returned. The request shall be postmarked no later than 12:00 p.m. on the 15th day of November of the election year, shall be directed to the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters and must be delivered no later than the 25th of such November. The SecretaryTreasurer shall determine whether such member is eligible to vote such absentee ballot. The Secretary-Treasurer, if he determines that such member is so eligible, shall by the 30th of such November, send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address so designated by such member, a “Ballot,” after removing the perforated numbered stub, together with the hereinbefore mentioned “Ballot” envelope, and mailing envelope addressed to the depository, except that printed on the face of such mailing envelope shall be the words “Absentee Ballot,” and appropriate voting instructions shall accompany such mailing to the member. If the Secretary-Treasurer determines that such member is ineligible to receive such absentee ballot, he shall nevertheless send such member the aforementioned ballot with accompanying material except that the mailing envelope addressed to the depository shall have printed on the face thereof the words “Challenged Absentee Ballot.” The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep records of all of the foregoing, including the reasons for determining such member’s ineligibility, which records shall be open for inspection by full book members and upon the convening of the Union Tallying Committee, presented to them. The SecretaryTreasurer shall send to all Ports the names and book numbers of the 10 Seafarers LOG members to whom absentee ballots were sent. (f) All ballots to be counted must be received by the depository no later than the Jan. 5 immediately subsequent to the election year and must be postmarked no later than 12 midnight Dec. 31 of the election year. Section 4. (a) At the close of the last day of the period for securing ballots, the Port Agent in each Port, in addition to his duties set forth above, shall deliver or mail to Headquarters by registered or certified mail, attention Union Tallying Committee, all unused ballots and shall specifically set forth by serial number and amount the unused ballots so forwarded. (b) The Union Tallying Committee shall consist of 20 full book members. Two shall be selected from each of the 10 Ports of New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Mobile, New Orleans, Houston, Detroit-Algonac, San Francisco, St. Louis and Piney Point. The election shall be held at the regular meeting in December of the election year or, if the Executive Board otherwise determines prior thereto, at a special meeting held in the aforesaid Ports on the first business day of the last week of said month. No officer, Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative, Port Agent, or candidate for office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, Headquarters Representative, or Port Agent shall be eligible for election to this Committee except as provided for in Article X, Section 4. In addition to its duties herein set forth, the Union Tallying Committee shall be charged with the tallying of all the ballots and the preparation of a closing report setting forth, in complete detail, the results of the election, including a complete accounting of all ballots and stubs, and reconciliation of the same with the rosters and receipts of the Port Agents, all with detailed reference to serial numbers and amounts and with each total broken down into Port totals. The Union Tallying Committee shall have access to all election records and files for their inspection, examination and verification. The report shall clearly detail all discrepancies discovered and shall contain recommendations for the treatment of these discrepancies. All members of the Committee shall sign the report, without prejudice, however, to the right of any member thereof to submit a dissenting report as to the accuracy of the count and the validity of the ballots, with pertinent details.In connection with the tally of ballots, there shall be no counting of ballots until all mailing envelopes containing valid ballots have first been opened, the ballot envelopes removed intact and then all of such ballot envelopes mixed together, after which such ballot envelopes shall be opened and counted in such multiples as the Committee may deem expedient and manageable. The Committee shall resolve all issues on challenged ballots and then tally those found valid utilizing the same procedure as provided in the preceding sentence either jointly or separately. (c) The members of the Union Tallying Committee shall, after their election, proceed to the Port in which Headquarters is located, to arrive at that Port no later than Jan. 5 of the year immediately after the election year. Each member of the Committee not elected from the Port in which Headquarters is located shall be reimbursed for transportation, meals and lodging expenses occasioned by their traveling to and returning from that Port. Committee members elected from the Port in which Headquarters is located shall be similarly reimbursed, except for transportation. All members of the Committee shall also be paid at the prevailing standby rate of pay from the day subsequent to their election to the day they return, in normal course, to the Port from which they were elected. The Union Tallying Committee shall elect a chairman from among themselves and, subject to the express terms of this Constitution, adopt its own procedures. All decisions of such Committee and the contents of their report shall be valid if made by a majority vote, provided there be a quorum in attendance, which quorum is hereby fixed at ten (10). The Committee, but not less than a quorum thereof, shall have the sole right and duty to obtain all mailed ballots and the other mailed election material from the depository and to insure their safe custody during the course of the Committee’s proceedings. The proceedings of the Committee, except for their organizational meeting and their actual preparation of the closing report and dissents therefrom, if any, shall be open to any member provided he observes decorum. Any candidate may act as an observer and/or designate another member to act as his observer at the counting of the ballots. In no event shall issuance of the above referred to closing report of the Committee be delayed beyond Jan. 31 immediately subsequent to the close of the election year. In the discharge of its duties, the Committee may call upon and utilize the services of clerical employees of the Union. The Committee shall be discharged upon the completion of the issuance and dispatch of its report as required in this Article. In the event a recheck and recount is ordered pursuant to this Article, the Committee shall be reconstituted, except that if any member thereof is not available, a substitute therefor shall be elected from the appropriate Port at a special meeting held for that purpose as soon as possible. (d) The report of the Committee shall be made up in sufficient copies to comply with the following requirements: two copies shall be mailed by the Committee to each Port Agent and the Secretary-Treasurer no later than Jan. 31 immediately subsequent to the close of the election year. As soon as these copies are received, each Port Agent shall post one copy of the report on the bulletin board in a conspicuous manner and notify the Secretary-Treasurer, in writing, as to the date of such posting. This copy shall be kept posted until after the Election Report Meeting which shall be the March regular membership meeting immediately following the close of the election year. At the Election Report Meeting, the other copy of the report shall be read verbatim. (e) Any full book member claiming a violation of the election and balloting procedure or the conduct of the same, shall within 72 hours of the occurrence of the claimed violation notify the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, in writing by certified mail, of the same, setting forth his name, book number and the details so that appropriate corrective action, if warranted, may be taken. The Secretary-Treasurer shall expeditiously investigate the facts concerning the claimed violation, take such action as may be necessary, if any, and make a report and recommendation, if necessary, a copy of which shall be sent to the member and the original shall be filed for the Union Tallying Committee for their appropriate action, report and recommendation, if any. The foregoing shall not be applicable to matters involving the Credentials Committee’s action or report, the provisions of Article XIII, Sections 1 and 2 being the pertinent provisions applicable to such matters. All protests as to any and all aspects of the election and balloting procedures or the conduct of the same not passed upon by the Union Tallying Committee in its report, excluding therefrom matters involving the Credentials Committee’s action or report as provided in the last sentence of the immediately preceding paragraph, but including the procedure and report of the Union Tallying Committee, shall be filed in writing by certified mail with the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters to be received no later than the Feb. 25 immediately subsequent to the close of the election year. It shall be the responsibility of the member to insure that his written protest is received by the Secretary-Treasurer no later than such Feb. 25. The SecretaryTreasurer shall forward copies of such written protest to all Ports in sufficient time to be read at the Election Report Meeting. The written protest shall contain the full book member’s name, book number, and all details constituting the protest. (f) At the Election Report Meeting, the report and recommendation of the Union Tallying Committee, including but not limited to discrepancies, protests passed upon by them, as well as protests filed with the Secretary-Treasurer as provided for in Section (e) immediately above shall be acted upon by the meeting. A majority vote of the membership shall decide what action, if any, in accordance with the Constitution, shall be taken thereon, which action, however, shall not include the ordering of a special vote, unless reported discrepancies or protested procedure or conduct found to have occurred and to be violative of the Constitution affected the results of the vote for any office or job, in which event the special vote shall be restricted to such office, offices and/or job or jobs, as the case may be. A majority of the membership at the Election Report Meetings may order a recheck and recount when a dissent to the closing report has been issued by three (3) or more members of the Union Tallying Committee. Except for the contingencies provided for in this Section 4 (f), the closing report shall be accepted as final. There shall be no further protest or appeal from the action of the majority of the membership at the Election Report Meetings. (g) Any special vote ordered pursuant to Section 4 (f) shall be commenced within ninety (90) days after the first day of the month immediately subsequent to the Election Report Meetings mentioned above. The depository shall be the same as designated for the election from which the special vote is ordered. And the procedures shall be the same as provided for in Section 3, except where specific dates are provided for, the days shall be the dates applicable which provide for the identical time and days originally provided for in Section 3. The Election Report Meeting for the aforesaid special vote shall be that meeting immediately subsequent to the report of the Union Tallying Committee separated by one calendar month. Section 5. Elected Officers and Jobholders. A candidate unopposed for any office or job shall be deemed elected to such office or job notwithstanding that his name may appear on the ballot. The Union Tallying Committee shall not be required to tally completely the results of the voting for such unopposed candidate but shall certify in their report that such unopposed candidate has been elected to such office or job. The Election Report Meeting shall accept the above certification of the Union Tallying Committee without change. Section 6. Installation into Office and the Job of Assistant VicePresident, Headquarters Representative or Port Agent. (a) The person elected shall be that person having the largest number of votes cast for the particular office or job involved. Where more than one person is to be elected for a particular office or job, the proper number of candidates receiving the successively highest number of votes shall be declared elected. These determinations shall be made only from the results deemed final and accepted as provided in this Article. It shall be the duty of the President to notify each individual elected. (b) The duly elected officers and other job holders shall take over their respective offices and jobs and assume the duties thereof at midnight of the night of the Election Report Meeting, or the next regular meeting, depending upon which meeting the results as to each of the foregoing are deemed final and accepted, as provided in this Article. The term of their predecessors shall continue up to, and expire at that time, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in Article XI, Section 1. This shall not apply where the successful candidate cannot assume his office because he is at sea. In such event, a majority vote of the membership may grant additional time for the assumption of the office or job. In the event of the failure of the newly-elected President to assume office, the provisions of Article X, Section 12 shall apply until the expiration of the term. All other cases of failure to assume office shall be dealt with as decided by a majority vote of the membership. Section 7. The Secretary-Treasurer is specifically charged with the preservation and retention of all election records, including the ballots, as required by law, and is directed and authorized to issue such other and further directives as to the election procedures as are required by law, which directives shall be part of the election procedures of this Union. October 2004 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/20/2004 12:11 PM Page 11 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, 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 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 Procedure for Absentee Ballots All Seafarers who believe they will be at sea during the voting period— Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004—should request an absentee ballot. Here’s how to be sure your vote counts. 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 October 2004 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 self-addressed and stamped. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight Dec. 31, 2004 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2005. Seafarers LOG 11 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/24/2004 10:46 PM Page 12 U.S.-Flag SIU Members Deliver For U.S. Troops AB Mickey Earhart points to newly refinished name board. AB Fadhel Mohamed moves cargo with a forklift. Participating in a safety drill are SA Hamid Shahbain (left) and AB Mickey Earhart. Sealift remains an important part of Operation Iraqi Freedom—and SIU members still deliver the goods for United States troops involved in the mission. Thousands of Seafarers this year have sailed in support of OIF’s sealift component, transporting vital materiel to U.S. armed forces in the Middle East. As previously reported, based on government projections of troop deployment in Iraq, it seems likely that a considerable number of American-flag military support ships will stay involved for the foreseeable future. The cargo delivered by U.S. mariners aboard those vessels is nothing short of essential for our troops. Citing just one of many examples, the U.S. Transportation Command last month noted that the U.S. Army’s 1st Armored Division utilized materiel delivered by Seafarers-crewed LMSRs and fast sealift ships to secure “some of Baghdad’s toughest neighborhoods, and put down an uprising by radical militias in a number of cities in southern Iraq.” That gear included M1-A1 Abrams heavy battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, Bradley fighting vehicles, heavy trucks, Humvees, fuel trucks and containers loaded with various supplies. More recently, the SIU-crewed Cape Island, operated by Crowley, transported materiel from Olympia, Wash. to Kuwait. Third Mate Ed McDonnell took photos during the voyage and sent them to the Seafarers LOG; those images accompany this article. The Cape Island carried U.S. Army equipment, stopping for fuel in Pusan, South Korea and then sailing past Bali to avoid a typhoon before docking in Ash Shuayba, Kuwait. After discharging its cargo, the vessel loaded up more Army equipment and headed for Beaumont, Texas. Many more SIU-crewed ships are participating in the ongoing mission. U.S. military leaders consistently have praised the U.S. Merchant Marine’s performance throughout OIF. Shortly after the conclusion of the all-out combat phase, Air Force General John W. Handy, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, commended members of the nation’s fourth arm of defense for “the incredible job you’ve done in support of this nation. You make all the difference in the world, and I salute your dedication, patriotism and excellence. Victory was made possible by America’s dedicated merchant mariners.” Vice Admiral David L. Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command, said of U.S. mariners, “We have prevailed because you answered your nation’s call. You built a steel bridge of democracy from the U.S.A. to the Coast of Kuwait.” Such commitment from the U.S. Merchant Marine is nothing new. Mariners have been an important part of our nation’s economic and national security since the country’s earliest days. U.S. mariners have played key support roles in every major conflict in American history, most notably including the heroic sealift effort of World War II, during which some 8,000 mariners lost their lives. Today, SIU members and the rest of the U.S. Merchant Marine are equally ready to deliver the goods—any time, anywhere. AB Abdullatif Ahmed (left) gua the stern ramp while 2nd Cook S Kassem helps man the galley. AB Peter Bean assists with shipboard security. 2nd Cook Sam Kassem helps keep the crew well-fed. Chief Cook Dana Henry tends to a Memorial Day barbecue at sea. GVA Eric Viera mans a hose during a fire drill. 12 Seafarers LOG Pictured from left to right aboard the Cape Island are Electrician Robert Rush, AB Peter Bean and AB Fadhel Mohamed. AB Desta Gebrai reports to a fire station during a drill. October 2004 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/24/2004 9:24 PM Page 13 Remains Vital to National Defense ) guards ook Sam lley. sts ty. helps The photos on these two pages were taken during a recent voyage aboard the SIU-crewed Cape Island. The vessel is one of many Seafarers-crewed ships participating in the ongoing sealift mission of Operation Iraqi Freedom. orts to drill. October 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/24/2004 8:54 AM Page 14 SIU-Crewed Pomeroy Completes Fifth Trip In Support of OIF AB Adrian Jones (left) and AB Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi make up the vessel’s 4x8 watch team. Ready for lunch are (from left) QMED Kurt Benjamin, AB Adrian Jones and Wiper Eugene Johnson. The SIU crew aboard the USNS Pomeroy is doing an excellent job, according to Capt. Michael F. Finnigan, himself a former member of the Seafarers International Union. According to Finnigan, the vessel has made five trips for the U.S military in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. “The SIU crew has done an outstanding job aboard and they are all looking forward to making the next trip. . . . Chief Steward Javier Delosreyes and the galley gang have been working hard, feeding and looking after all the security teams during the voyage.” He also noted that more and more Seafarers are signing up for advanced training through the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Finnigan, a hawsepiper who started sailing with the SIU in 1987, worked his way up the ladder by attending classes at Piney Point. The chief mate aboard the vessel is Mike Ryan, also a former SIU member, who graduated from the school’s trainee program in class 317. Additionally, Mike Mayo, the third mate, completed the trainee program in 1979 as a member of class 283. All of them urge the current unlicensed apprentices to upgrade as often as possible. “If you’re going to be out here sailing,” they said, “just keep advancing your career.” The USNS Pomeroy is the seventh large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessel (LMSR) built at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego through a government-initiated directive known as the Strategic Sealift Program. The 950-foot long vessel was named in memory 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 Oct 1952. Capt. Finnigan was aboard the vessel when it was delivered to the U.S. Military Sealift Command in August 2001, and he was joined by his father, John Finnigan, who was in Korea the same year that Ralph Pomeroy served there. The photographs accompanying this article were taken by Capt. Finnigan. Left: The vessel’s deck gang includes (from left) Bosun Clayton Almas, OS Joe LeGree, AB Mark Adams, OS Mike Macisso, OS Nestor Garcia and AB Ted Lahti. Brother Hayes Memorialized Brother John Hayes, 63, passed away Jan. 20. In keeping with his wishes to be forever at sea, the late mariner’s ashes were cast upon the waters Aug. 15 by his brother, FOWT Jerry Hayes, from aboard the SIU-crewed Green Cove. Conducted by Master P. Stalkus, the burial services were held on the Atlantic Ocean at Latitude 39 degrees 41 minutes North, Longitude 24 degrees 29 minutes West. The Green Cove at the time was headed out for a voyage from the East Coast to the Middle East and around the world. The vessel’s crew participated in the event and the ship’s whistle sounded three blasts in tribute to the deceased mariner who was making his final passage. Seafarers aboard the ship during the ceremony included Chief Cook Pedro Edar, Steward Baker Julio Rolon and GSTU Gary Bell. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Hayes joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of New York. The deck department member sailed primarily in the deep sea division, first going to sea aboard Waterman’s Madaket. Brother Hayes last worked aboard the Horizon Discovery and made his home in San Juan, P.R. FOWT Jerry Hayes looks over the stern of the Green Cove shortly after scattering the ashes of his late brother, SIU member John Hayes, at sea. The burial-at-sea ceremony was conducted Aug. 15 in the Atlantic Ocean. 14 Seafarers LOG The USNS Pomeroy enters the calm waters of Souda Bay, Greece, on its way to the Middle East. Above: In the port of Ash Shuaybah, Kuwait, longshoremen from the host nation play a major role in unloading the ship’s cargo. At left: 2nd Mate Curt Laskowski gives OS Mike Macisso a haircut on the deck of the Pomeroy. The name of the shipboard barber shop: Curt’s Kombat Kuts. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. October 2004 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/24/2004 8:11 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea November & December 2004 Membership Meetings AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 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 Totals 1 3 3 4 2 17 17 1 4 9 20 8 2 3 0 1 3 11 12 2 0 7 1 4 22 35 0 6 12 19 10 4 2 9 14 2 33 24 0 2 4 4 9 13 23 0 9 20 9 20 3 11 5 8 3 21 9 1 3 3 0 0 8 10 0 0 5 5 5 0 1 0 2 1 8 4 0 0 1 0 2 8 14 0 2 4 10 1 0 0 1 7 0 21 9 2 0 11 3 17 46 63 0 14 26 50 20 7 2 12 31 2 53 24 5 10 7 7 13 25 48 1 15 24 32 26 2 12 12 17 4 47 42 0 4 2 4 3 32 27 2 6 18 45 14 2 3 2 2 4 31 23 Baltimore ................Friday: November 12* ................................Thursday: December 9 ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) 256 235 121 206 173 56 80 383 349 224 Joliet .......................Thursday: Nov. 18, December 16 0 0 6 0 5 8 19 0 5 10 10 10 6 2 2 12 1 11 1 0 0 4 1 4 7 25 1 3 8 13 11 4 2 1 7 2 18 14 0 0 1 0 0 9 4 0 2 2 7 4 1 1 0 0 2 2 3 1 0 4 0 4 12 17 0 7 9 6 8 2 1 4 8 0 8 9 0 1 2 0 1 9 22 0 4 9 1 14 2 1 0 3 2 14 6 0 0 0 0 0 5 3 0 1 2 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 1 6 5 0 1 2 3 6 3 0 2 4 0 5 4 0 0 8 1 9 17 25 0 10 11 19 12 4 1 5 19 3 18 7 2 0 7 1 8 12 37 2 4 14 23 18 4 3 2 11 1 31 16 2 0 2 0 2 12 5 0 2 4 17 4 1 0 0 2 2 9 11 108 125 38 100 91 20 43 169 196 75 ENGINE DEPARTMENT STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 3 3 9 15 14 0 4 10 18 10 2 4 2 25 1 18 17 0 1 2 1 6 4 12 0 2 5 9 9 3 1 3 4 0 11 10 2 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 3 2 0 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 0 0 1 6 13 14 0 4 4 15 5 4 0 0 22 1 10 5 2 0 2 0 1 1 5 0 3 4 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 6 7 1 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 4 1 0 0 4 5 4 1 0 3 8 1 4 10 1 0 6 2 19 24 26 0 2 17 30 18 1 7 2 36 0 33 31 0 1 1 3 9 10 26 0 7 7 16 14 4 1 3 12 0 11 13 2 0 0 0 1 7 11 0 2 3 6 3 0 1 0 4 0 8 10 156 83 21 104 43 12 48 255 138 58 1 0 0 0 3 3 2 0 1 2 5 0 0 0 1 3 0 7 3 2 0 5 4 9 15 17 0 6 6 28 13 0 21 3 8 1 20 5 2 2 5 0 1 21 21 0 2 11 34 14 1 25 0 11 0 14 9 0 0 0 0 3 4 4 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 5 3 0 0 4 0 5 2 14 0 4 4 14 5 0 4 4 12 0 8 5 0 0 2 0 1 5 11 0 0 5 2 5 0 6 0 1 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 3 3 0 1 2 10 0 0 0 3 8 0 8 4 4 2 2 4 16 29 33 0 8 13 51 14 0 22 4 19 1 40 12 4 7 5 1 11 39 36 0 3 21 80 21 3 37 1 20 2 34 27 31 163 173 26 85 45 0 48 274 352 551 606 353 436 392 133 193 855 957 709 Boston.....................Friday: November 12, December 10 Duluth .....................Wednesday: Nov. 17, December 15 Guam ......................Friday: November 26* ................................Thursday: December 23 ................................*(change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday) Honolulu .................Friday: November 19, December 17 Houston ..................Monday: November 15, December 13 Jacksonville ............Friday: November 12* ................................Thursday: December 9 ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Mobile ....................Wednesday: Nov. 17, December 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: November 16, December 14 New York................Tuesday: November 9, December 7 Norfolk ...................Friday: November 12* ................................Thursday: December 9 ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) Philadelphia ............Wednesday: Nov. 10, December 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: Nov. 18, December 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: Nov. 18, December 16 San Juan..................Friday: November 12* ................................Thursday: December 9 ................................*(change created by Veterans’ Day holiday) St. Louis..................Friday: November 19, December 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: November 26, ................................Monday, December 27* ................................*(change created by Christmas holiday) Wilmington ...............Monday: November 22, December 20 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 ..................................................................................... . a.m. Personals BILL DICKEY Please contact Bill Sharp at wsharpj@aol.com and leave your phone number. REX O’CONNOR Please contact Dolores Marcell at 2362 Crotona Ave., Bronx, NY 10458; or telephone (718) 367-3435. ENTRY DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals All Departments Algonac ..................Friday: November 12, December 10 2 5 7 5 8 13 30 0 11 20 18 21 1 14 8 11 4 34 23 Port Totals Piney Point .............Monday: November 8, December 6 3 0 6 4 10 32 43 0 8 17 27 15 4 3 5 23 2 35 19 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 Attention Seafarers: *“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. October 2004 Seafarers LOG 15 �24753_P5-7,9-14,16,24.qxd 9/21/2004 10:33 AM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 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 12 5 6 11 2 0 13 49 0 3 0 2 4 0 0 3 12 0 12 7 7 1 1 0 5 33 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 3 0 4 7 2 1 1 0 5 20 0 6 1 2 5 0 0 0 14 0 41 11 13 37 7 1 19 129 0 8 2 4 5 0 0 9 28 0 35 0 16 0 0 2 0 53 1 2 1 0 5 1 0 0 10 0 10 4 8 10 1 4 13 50 0 1 4 1 4 0 0 2 13 0 16 1 11 0 0 1 1 30 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 5 0 10 8 5 22 1 1 8 55 0 2 1 3 11 0 1 3 21 0 21 0 6 0 2 1 1 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 4 4 3 5 0 0 8 24 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 6 4 4 1 1 0 4 20 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 8 4 9 15 0 0 8 44 0 7 4 0 12 0 0 6 29 0 2 2 1 1 0 0 3 9 0 1 4 2 1 1 0 3 12 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 2 1 6 2 0 5 19 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 1 5 0 9 2 1 0 0 0 4 16 Port 0 4 1 2 2 3 0 3 15 0 1 0 0 7 0 0 0 8 0 4 2 1 0 0 0 4 11 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 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 92 21 69 88 20 43 35 234 61 114 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Pensioner James Anthony Slay of Mobile, Ala. It was taken at the Aquarium Restaurant in New York City in 1946. In that year, Brother Slay (who is pictured at the front right-hand side of the table) was a wiper aboard the Ransom A. Moore, one of the Liberty ships that carried cargo to our armed forces during World War II. He had signed on in July 1946 in Mobile and received his certificate of discharge in December of that year in New York. Brother Slay, now 76, joined the union in 1955 in the port of Houston. A native of Mobile, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. 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. October 2004 �24753_p02,3,17,21.qxd 9/24/2004 8:37 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA BERT ABELLA, 64, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1979 in Seattle. Born in the Philippines, the deck department member enhanced his skills in 1982 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training in Piney Point, Md. Brother Abella currently lives in Seattle. RITA BALLARD, 64, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. Sister Ballard’s first voyage was aboard the Santa Magdelena. She was born in Switzerland and worked in the steward department. Prior to retiring, Sister Ballard shipped on the SS Independence. She makes her home in Santa Rosa, Calif. JOHN COSTA, 67, was born in Cape Verde, Cayman Islands. Brother Costa embarked on his seafaring career in 1992 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His initial trip the sea was aboard the USNS Relentless. Brother Costa upgraded his skills in 2000 at the Seafarers’ affiliated school in Piney Point. He worked in the steward department and last went to sea on the USNS Bowditch. With Seafarers on Matson’s Maunawili Chief Cook Barry Alviso, Recertified Steward Hans Schmuck Harry Chromiak SIU members from Aug. 8-18 helped ready the new Matson containership Maunawili at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard so that the Seafarerscontracted vessel could sail on time. SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Mieluchowski, who sent these photos to the LOG, described the shipboard work as “very demanding, but the SIU men were up to the task.” Pictured from left to right in photo directly above are Seafarers Glen Ambrosius, Lenny Tyson and Bill Kelly. Brother Costa calls New Bedford, Mass. home. LUIS CUEVAS, 69, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1980 in the port of New York. Brother Cuevas first set sail on the Manhattan. The steward department member was born in Puerto Rico. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Crusader. Brother Cuevas resides in Bridgeport, Conn. WALTER HANSEN, 64, hails from Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Hansen started his career with the SIU in 1986 in Piney Point, Md. after serving in the U.S. Navy. He enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Hansen was a member of the steward department and initially went to sea on the USNS Triumph. His most recent voyage was aboard the El Morro. Brother Hansen is a resident of Canon City, Colo. CARLOS PINEDA, 65, joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Houston. Brother Pineda originally sailed aboard an Ocean Clipper vessel. The deck department member was a frequent upgrader at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point. In 1987, he completed his bosun recertification training and in 1997, his LNG recertification. Prior to retiring, Brother Pineda worked aboard the LNG Virgo. He was born in Honduras and currently lives in Houston. GREAT LAKES WAYNE CLARMONT, 65, was born in Wisconsin. He began his seafaring career in 1962 in Frankfort, Mich., sailing primarily aboard Michigan Interstate Railway’s Ann Arbor as a member of the engine department. Brother Clarmont now resides in Frankfort, Mich. INLAND SHIRLEY KEGEL, 64, began her seafaring career in 1993 in St. Louis. Sister Kegel was born in Kentucky and shipped in the steward department. She worked primarily aboard Orgulf Transport vessels. Sister Kegel is a resident of Paducah, Ky. CHARLES McCLELLAND, 61, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1983 in the port New York. Boatman McClelland was born in Mecklenburg, N.C. He shipped as a member of the engine department, primarily on New York Cross Harbor vessels. Boatman McClelland makes his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. JOHN RAKYTA, 63, became a Seafarer in 1968 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Rakyta’s first voyage was aboard a Gulf Atlantic Corporation vessel. Born Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1940 The SIU demanded and won from its contracted operators an increase in the bonus on Far East runs from the previous rate of 25 percent to the flat rate of $1 per day, calculated from the day the ship leaves Honolulu until it returns to that port. In addition, the bonus rate on the African run was increased from 33-1/3 percent to the same $1 per day rate. For the entry ratings, this meant an increase of almost 100 percent and for the higher ratings it meant an increase of no less than 25 percent. October 2004 Hazel Johnson SAMUEL STANLEY, 61, joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Mobile. Boatman Stanley was born in Florida and shipped primarily aboard National Marine Service vessels. The engine department member currently resides in Greenville, Ala. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the date indicated. Name Age EDP Darby, William 65 June 1 Power, George 71 July 1 Sims, Charles 66 July 1 Thompson, Vincent 65 June 1 Zandani, Ali 57 Aug. 1 Melton, Irving 65 Sept. 1 Mentore, John 65 Sept. 1 Smith, Clyde 65 July 1 McAnern, George 66 Aug. 1 Johnson, James 64 Sept. 1 Tomjack, Reed 72 Sept. 1 Allua, Bradford 55 Sept. 1 month for ordinary seamen to $23.73 monthly for chief electricians. The SIU pay hike upset the so-called West Coast formula which the operators hoped to make industry-wide…. Shortly after news of the SIU’s wage gain was made public, the CIO National Maritime Union signed a similar agreement with its contracted operators. This Month In SIU History 1950 Mike Kirby in Illinois, he enhanced his skills a number of times at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Rakyta sailed as a captain, most recently aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington tugs. He calls Prescott Valley, Ariz. home. The SIU once again set a wage pattern for Cities Service seamen with the signing of an agreement early this week establishing a 6.38 percent increase in base pay and other benefits for all ratings. The pay raises, effective as of October 15, ranged from $12.82 per 1960 Firm action by the SIU at payoff time has won more than 1,700 hours of overtime pay for crewmen of the Orion Planet, who were obliged to work on a refueling-at-sea operation involving the Planet and a Navy tanker. As a result of the action by SIU headquarters and the Norfolk hall, the crewmembers received some $3,500 in extra cash for performing an operation which is fairly new in the civilian merchant marine and not yet covered by the standard SIU tanker or dry cargo agreements. The SIU maintained, however, that the work should properly be classed as OT. Seafarers LOG 17 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/23/2004 9:35 AM Page 18 Final Departures Deep Sea DANIEL BALERIO ing in 1994, he sailed aboard the Mariner. Brother Eells called Pittsburg, Calif. home. Pensioner Daniel Balerio, 75, died July 16. Brother Balerio became a Seafarer in 1960, joining in the port of Houston. Born in Wharton, Texas, he first went to sea aboard the San Marino. Brother Balerio was a member of the deck department. His final voyage was on the Venture. Brother Balerio went on pension in 1993. He resided in Houston. PETER FRANCISCO ARTHUR BECK VERNER FREDERIKSEN Pensioner Arthur Beck, 75, passed away August 1. Brother Beck embarked on his seafaring career in the port of New York in 1951. The U.S. Army veteran initially sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Noonday. Brother Beck was born in New York and worked in the deck department. He retired in 1990. Brother Beck made his home in Keyes, Calif. Pensioner Verner Frederiksen, 85, passed away June 9. Brother Frederiksen launched his seafaring career in 1942 in the port of New York. He first sailed on the Del Valle, a vessel owned and operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Frederiksen, who was a member of the engine department, last sailed aboard the Mill. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1975. Brother Frederiksen was born in Denmark and made his home in Wisconsin. LEONCIO CALDERON Pensioner Leoncio Calderon, 90, died July 24. Brother Calderon was born in Puerto Rico and began his seafaring career as a charter member in 1939 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Catherine. The steward department member last went to sea on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Calderon began receiving retirement stipends in 1971. He called Brooklyn, N.Y. home. JAMES CHESTER Pensioner James Chester, 81, passed away July 21. Brother Chester started his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. He was born in Tennessee and resided in El Macero, Calif. Brother Chester went on pension in 1969. BERTRAM ECHERT Pensioner Bertram Echert, 86, died July 14. Brother Echert joined the SIU in 1953 in New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Army. He first shipped aboard the Del Monte as a member of the engine department. Brother Echert’s final voyage was on the Zapata Courier. He began receiving retirement compensation in 1981. Brother Echert was born in Fosteria, Ohio and made Panama City, Fla. his home. BURR EELLS Pensioner Burr Eells, 75, passed away June 12. Brother Eells started his seafaring career in 1967 in Cleveland, Ohio after serving in the U.S. Army. He first went to sea aboard the Western Comet. Born in Wyoming, Brother Eells worked in the engine department. Prior to retir- 18 Seafarers LOG Brother Peter Francisco, 58, died July 16. Born in New York, he joined the ranks of the SIU in 1991 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Francisco sailed in the inland and Great Lakes divisions, but he primarily shipped in the deep sea division. The U.S. Navy veteran was a member of the steward department. Brother Francisco’s first voyage was on the USNS Tenacious; his last trip was aboard the Northerly Island. Brother Francisco lived in Virginia Beach, Va. HARRY GRANGER Pensioner Harry Granger, 83, died April 19. Brother Granger was born in Louisiana and joined the SIU in 1951 in Lake Charles, La. He first went to sea aboard the Abigua, working in the engine department. Brother Granger’s last trip was on the Overseas Alaska. He lived in his native state and went on pension in 1987. KENNETH HART Pensioner Kenneth Hart, 63, passed away July 29. Brother Hart joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the USNS Antares. Brother Hart, who called Lakeland, Fla. home, began receiving his pension in 1997. JUAN LAGUANA Pensioner Juan Laguana, 74, died July 4. Brother Laguana began his career with the MC&S in 1969 in San Francisco. After serving in the U.S. Navy, he went to sea on a States Steamship vessel. Brother Laguana was born in Guam and worked in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1991, he sailed aboard American Ship Management’s Comet. Brother Laguana made his home in Calif. RUSSELL MANCINI Pensioner Russell Mancini, 76, passed away August 8. Brother Mancini first donned the SIU colors in 1967 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Maine, he first sailed aboard the Steel King. Brother Mancini shipped in the engine department, last working on the Bay Ridge. He resided in Westminster, Calif. and started receiving retirement compensation in 1993. HARRY MESSICK Pensioner Harry Messick, 72, died July 8. Brother Messick joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. His first vessel was the Edith. Brother Messick, who was born in Camden, N.J,. worked in the engine department. His final voyage was on the Ambassador. Brother Messick called Clearwater, Fla. home. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 1995. SYLVESTER MONARDO Pensioner Sylvester Monardo, 79, passed away July 24. Brother Monardo started sailing with the SIU in 1943 in New York after serving in the U.S. Army. He was born in Braddock, Pa. and worked in the deck department. Brother Monardo first went to sea aboard the Del Mar; his last ship was the LNG Libra. Brother Monardo started receiving his pension in 1987. He made his home in Slidell, La. PHILIP NAVITSKY Pensioner Philip Navitsky, 81, died July 26. Brother Navitsky began his career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in Shenandoah, Pa., the deck department member first sailed aboard the Marymar. Brother Navitsky went on pension in 1977. He lived in Schuylkill, Pa. Brother Joseph Packnett, 36, died April 23. He joined the SIU in 1991 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Packnett first sailed on the USNS Bartlett. Born in New Orleans, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Packnett last went to sea aboard the PFC William Baugh. He resided in Lexington Park, Md. HAROLD UNGLERT Pensioner Harold Unglert, 78, passed away June 19. Brother Unglert joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Born in New Jersey, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Unglert was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Before retiring in 1991, he worked on the Overseas New York. Brother Unglert made his home in Old Bridge, N.J. BENEDICT VEINER Pensioner Benedict Veiner, 79, died July 1. Brother Veiner was born in New Brunswick, N.J. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Veiner initially went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Florida; his last voyage was on the North Platte Victory. The deck department member began receiving his pension in 1996. Brother Veiner called Palatka, Fla. home. CARL WOODWARD Brother Arnold Neff, 64, passed away June 22. He started his seafaring career in 1991 in the port of Houston. Brother Neff initially shipped aboard the Cape Clear. The U.S. Navy veteran worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Sulphur Enterprise. He was born in Fayette, Ky. and called Freeport, Texas home. Pensioner Carl Woodward, 77, passed away July 20. Brother Woodward began his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. after serving in the U.S. Army. He was born in Lamar, Mo. and worked in the steward department. Brother Woodward first sailed aboard the Manulani. He most recently worked on the Overseas Alaska. Brother Woodward started receiving his retirement stipends in 1992. He resided in his native state. SHELL NG GREAT LAKES ARNOLD NEFF Pensioner Shell Ng, 79, died July 9. Brother Ng was born in China and embarked on his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in San Francisco. Brother Ng began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1973. He made his home in San Francisco. ISIDORE OSTROFF Pensioner Isidore Ostroff, 83, passed away June 20. Brother Ostroff launched his seafaring career in 1952 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Bradford Island. Born in New York, Brother Ostroff worked in the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Philadelphia. Brother Ostroff, who lived in Las Vegas, began receiving his pension in 1981. the Steel T. Crapo. His last vessel was the Richard J. Reiss. Brother Ostwald made his home in Burt Township, Mich. He went on pension in 2000. JOSEPH PACKNETT GIL BOILORE Pensioner Gil Boilore, 56, died April 5. Brother Boilore joined the ranks of the SIU in 1972 in Alpena, Mich. He worked primarily aboard vessels owned by American Steamship Company. Born in Michigan, Brother Boilore was a member of the deck department. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2002. Brother Boilore lived in Michigan. JOHN OSTWALD Pensioner John Ostwald, 69, passed away August 15. Brother Ostwald started sailing with the SIU in 1974 in the port of Duluth. The Michiganborn mariner worked in the engine department, initially sailing aboard 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. GERONIMO BISHOP Pensioner Geronimo Bishop, 101, passed away August 7. Brother Bishop started his seafaring career with the NMU in 1943, initially shipping from the port of San Francisco. He worked in the steward department primarily aboard vessels operated by Marine Transport. Brother Bishop began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1969. W.H. DENNIS Pensioner W.H. Dennis, 77, died August 13. Brother Dennis was born in Grafton, W.Va. and joined the NMU in 1945. His first voyage was from the port of New York aboard the Gulf Maracaibo. Brother Dennis worked in the engine department. He last shipped on the Massachusetts and went on pension in 1968. EARL PATTERSON Pensioner Earl Patterson, 64, passed away August 19. Brother Patterson first sailed with the NMU in 1966 aboard the Winchester. He worked in the deck department, last sailing on the USNS Roy Wheat. Brother Patterson started collecting compensation for his retirement in 2002. MARKO SIGALAS Pensioner Marko Sigalas, 85, died July 31. After joining the NMU in 1953 in New York, he sailed aboard the Thomas F. Baker. Brother Sigalas last went to sea on the Pasadena. He was born in Greece and shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Sigalas began receiving his pension in 1975. PAUL VEGA Pensioner Paul Vega, 78, passed away August 16. Brother Vega started his career with the NMU in 1945 in the port of Houston. He worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the George Lykes. Brother Vega started receiving his retirement income in 1968. Continued on page 20 October 2004 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/23/2004 8:34 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. NORTHERN LIGHTS (IUM), July 11—Chairman Mark T. Trapp, Secretary Ronald D. Jones. Chairman reported smooth voyage and announced ship layup in Mobile, Ala. July 17. Secretary advised crew members to check expiration dates on all documents and reminded them to consider donating to SPAD when applying for vacation. Everyone asked to clean rooms before layup. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification of procedures requested pertaining to lack of air conditioning or fans. Vote of thanks given to steward department for hard work. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (ATC), July 19—Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Michael F. Meany, Educational Director Charles J. Walker Jr. Chairman announced arrival in Cherry Point, Wash. He asked everyone to check with union hall and obey shipping rules. Secretary reported smooth-running ship and encouraged all departments to keep up good work. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on pre-employment physicals. PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND (ATC), July 25—Chairman Albert L. Caulder, Secretary Jeffery L. Smith, Educational Director Thomas E. Woerner. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Long Beach, Calif. Educational director encouraged crew members to read Seafarers LOG and stay abreast of important union issues. He also recommended they get to know their contract and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $4,000 in ship’s fund to purchase treadmill for crew use and small refrigerators for individual rooms. Disputed OT and beefs reported in deck department. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent job. RICHARD MATTHIESEN (OSI), July 18—Chairman Cleveland N. West, Secretary Crista L. Ali, Educational Director David W. Bodah, Deck Delegate Troy R. Ingersoll. Chairman reminded crew to sepa- Home from Kuwait AB Mike Garland works on deck aboard the USNS Harry Martin when the RO/RO-containership arrived home in Guam. October 2004 rate plastic items from regular trash. Educational director advised that crew allow plenty of time when renewing z-cards. He urged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility. Treasurer stated $140 in ship’s fund and $735 in safety fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to raise number of vacation days and call reliefs early so they can meet ship upon arrival. Request made to fix or replace toaster in crew mess hall and purchase an iron. Chief cook should be made aware that watchstanders should be served first. Thanks given to all three departments for jobs well done. 1ST LT. BALDOMERO LOPEZ (American Overseas Marine), Aug. 8—Chairman Larry E. Childress, Secretary Gary Dottino, Deck Delegate Basil R. D’Souza, Engine Delegate Joseph U. Quitugua, Steward Delegate Francisco Roy. Chairman reminded crew about dress code in mess hall (no tank tops, flip-flops or hats). Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about Coast Guard’s new physical requirements. Captain will connect cable TV to ship in near future. Next port: Newport News, Va. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), Aug. 3—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary William E. Bragg, Educational Director Michael S. Reuter, Deck Delegate Jose Lopez, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Couture, Steward Delegate Gregory N. Williams. Chairman reviewed highlights of Guam port agent’s visit aboard ship. He spoke about opportunities on NCL America’s new cruise ships around Hawaii and thanked crew for donations to assist fellow crew member during family crisis. Secretary read communications from union pertaining to benefit changes. He explained payment schedule and reminded crew of need to obtain pre-authorization for health care benefits. Educational director recommended crew not miss out on upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point facility. Treasurer stated $419 remain in ship’s fund after the purchase of two blenders. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for steward to draft petition for implementing launch schedule in Saipan/Guam that would permit steward department pesonnel to go ashore and return in time for scheduled work hours. Next port: Guam. ATLANTIC FOREST (Waterman Steamship Corp.), Aug. 10 —Chairman Wilton F. Perry, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Robert A. Ott, Steward Delegate Alaa A. Embaby. Chairman announced Aug. 13 arrival in New Orleans with payoff the next day. Secretary reported smooth voyage. Educational director emphasized importance of upgrading. He also reminded crew that SIU scholarship program is available to them, their spouses and children. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted by deck and engine delegates. Recommendation made to raise pension benefits. Suggestion made to purchase new freezer to store ice cream and install new TV system. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. Next port: New Orleans. BLUE RIDGE (Intrepid), Aug. 3—Chairman Inocencio M. Desaville, Secretary Jimmie B. Riddick, Deck Delegate Stephen R. Harrington, Engine Delegate Jimmie B. Reddick, Steward Delegate Gery R. Byrd. Chairman announced Aug. 9 payoff in Long Beach, Calif. and advised everyone to keep dues paid up. Secretary informed crew of Coast Guard fireboat drills on next trip to Tampa, Fla. and thanked crew members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated money in ship’s fund used to pay for cable. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked for good job and encouraged to keep up good work. DEVELOPER (USSM), Aug. 8—Chairman Joseph J. Caruso, Secretary Randy A. Stephens, Educational Director Dimarko L. Shoulders, Deck Delegate David D. Freeman, Steward Delegate Carlos E. Suazo. Chairman reminded crew members to abide by all security and safety regulations on vessel. Secretary informed everyone that applications (medical, vacation, etc.) are available on board ship. Just ask him. Educational director advised crew to check documents for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crew members to vote during union’s elections this year. Request made to replace dryer in laundry room. Chairman thanked all departments for jobs well done. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Miami; Houston. EL YUNQUE (IUM), Aug. 1— Chairman Luis Ramirez, Secretary Francis E. Ostendarp Jr., Educational Director John J. Walsh, Deck Delegate John W. Cooper, Engine Delegate Carlton A. Hendley. Chairman announced Aug. 2 payoff in San Juan, P.R. and encouraged crew to keep all necessary shipping documents current. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to change prescription policy in order to obtain enough medication for four months while on ship and to change pension eligibility. EXPLORER (USSM), Aug. 12 —Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary William R. Burdette, Deck Delegate Jose Garcia, Engine Delegate Carlos M. Noriega, Steward Delegate Majed Alsunbahi. Chairman thanked deck department for good performance during trip. He announced Aug. 12 payoff in Los Angeles after ship has cleared customs and requested crew keep rooms as clean as possible and turn in keys before leaving ship. Treasurer reported $400 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. EXPRESS (USSM), Aug. 8— Chairman George H. Perry Jr., Secretary Richard E. Hicks, Educational Director Mohamad Y. Abdullah. Chairman spoke with captain about contract agreement and e-mailed outcome to contracts department at headquarters. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD and upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase number of vacation days earned. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), Aug. 2— Chairman Guy L. Wilson, Secretary Mark V. Cabasag, Educational Director Benny A. Orosco, Engine Delegate Gregory L. Howard, Steward LIBERATOR (USSM), Aug. 12 —Chairman Daniel J. Teichman, Secretary Guillermo F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate Jerry Gonzaga, Engine Delegate Si I. Hughes. Chairman thanked crew for good voyage. Educational director talked about opportunities available at Piney Point for upgrading skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to purchase video games for XBox in lounge. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line), Aug. 1—Chairman Abdul Gharama, Secretary John G. Reid, Educational Director Kevin Supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom Bosun Mike Sinclair (right) poses with some of the National Guardsmen who sailed aboard the USNS Harry Martin on its run to Kuwait. Delegate Henry O. Wright Jr. Secretary announced next payoff Aug. 5 in Long Beach, Calif. Educational director emphasized importance of donating to SPAD for job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck and engine departments expressed appreciation to steward department for excellent job. Suggestions made to improve pension and health benefits plans. Next ports: Long Beach; Honolulu; Oakland, Calif. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 1— Chairman Dominic L. Brunamonti, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Brandy G. Carter, Engine Delegate Rhonda Koski, Steward Delegate Kenneth K. Lee. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 7 in Tacoma, Wash. He thanked everyone for generous donations to two fellow crew members who both lost their mothers recently and expressed his deepest regrets. Educational director encouraged crew to enhance skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $1,485 in ship’s fund. Recommendation made to steward regarding future stores. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for fine meals prepared this trip. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), Aug. 19—Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Engine Delegate James B. Spranza. Chairman announced Aug. 21 payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He thanked everyone for following safety procedures (using tunnel, wearing hard hats), especially during cargo operation. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills (and even bring the family for vacation) at union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He stressed need to check that all documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for good food. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Edward H. Majesky Jr., Engine Delegate Valerii H. Lazarov, Steward Delegate Ali S. Salim. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 4 in Charleston, S.C. He thanked crew for safe trip and asked those departing vessel to make sure rooms are clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. Educational director advised everyone to count vacation days and compare that number with discharges as well as check if any bonuses are due. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to reduce seatime needed for pension benefits. Thanks given to steward department for great cookout. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J. MAERSK CONSTELLATION (Maersk), Aug. 6—Chairman Horace B. Rains, Secretary James J. Battista, Educational Director Juanito D. Dansalan. Chairman stated air conditioning on ship not working properly. Educational director encouraged everyone to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for ice machine, salad bar and grill for galley. Steward department given vote of thanks for great service, preparation and quality of food. OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG), Aug. 1—Chairman Roger C. Tupas, Secretary Jack A. Hart Jr. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 6 in Portland, Ore. and thanked crew for good, safe trip. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep house clean and for good seamanship. Educational director advised crew members to check expiration dates on MMDs and other documents and encouraged them to upgrade skills at Piney Point whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made regarding increase in pension plan. Requests made for better TV and radio. Seafarers LOG 19 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/23/2004 12:16 PM Page 20 Burial at Sea Conducted For Brother Anthony Beck Pensioner Anthony Beck, 95, passed away May 31. In complying with his request to be forever at sea, his ashes were scattered July 14 from the SIUcontracted Horizon Navigator. Officiated by Captain John Jablonski, the last rites for Brother Beck were conducted while the Navigator was steaming across the Pacific Ocean and situated at Latitude 26 degrees 32 minutes North and Longitude 144 degrees 40 minutes West. During his ceremonial remarks, Captain Jablonski said, “Today we gather to honor the memory of SIU Brother Captain John Jablonski (above, right) conducts burial at sea services aboard the Horizon Navigator for deceased SIU Pensioner Anthony Beck as members of his crew look on. Left: Captain Jablonski deposits the ashes of Brother Beck into the sea. The burial at sea ceremony took place July 14 in the Pacific Ocean. Anthony Beck… All who make their living on the sea know the pain of being separated from their loved ones and with that thought in mind we pray for the Beck family in their loss.” Following the reading of the 23rd Psalm, Captain Jablonski continued, “Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. Come to his assistance ye Saints of God. Meet him, ye Angels of the Lord, receive his soul and present it to the Most High. May Christ who called thee; and his Angels lead thee into the Bosom of Abraham. Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.” With that, Captain Jablonski scattered Brother Beck’s ashes into the sea Seafarers aboard the vessel at the time of the services included Bosun Guy Wilson, AB Abdulhameed Mohamed, AB Lauro Clark, GUDE Edibowie Mariano, Engine Utilities Asher Liss and Benny Orosco and SA Kasem Ahmead. Brother Beck launched his career with the SIU in 1948 in the port of New York. Born in California, he shipped in the deep sea division as a member of the engine department. Brother Beck initially went to sea aboard a Waterman Steamship Co vessel. He last shipped on the Fairland. The U.S. Navy veteran resided in Sonoma, Calif. 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. Final Departures Continued from page 18 In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. Name Anderson, Armando Anderson, Walter Aponte, Luis Boone, Edward Branch Jr., Arthur 20 Age 70 76 78 81 80 Seafarers LOG DOD July 24 July 24 July 27 July 31 Aug. 25 Brathwaite, Pelham Coleman, William Diaz, Brigido Dix, Robert Freeman, Walter Godwin, Otis Gordon, Joseph Hall, Joseph Jeter, Ruddie Kelly, Franklin King, Willie Lam, Hong Marcelo, Melchor Martin, Josh 78 78 72 84 79 80 89 60 79 82 76 83 91 71 Aug. 3 Aug. 20 July 28 June 22 July 30 July 15 July 24 July 29 Aug. 1 Aug. 14 Aug. 11 Aug. 2 June 26 July 29 Matovich, Sam Melchior, James Mitchell, Charles Moye, James Noche, Alberto Orchard, John Overby, Edward Perez, Manuel Reilly, Thomas Schulte, James Thomas, Ruben Vaugh, Alvin Whitfield, Leroy Wusstig, Frank 69 80 79 79 92 82 81 75 79 71 77 85 67 66 April 20 Aug. 15 Aug. 6 July 2 Aug. 2 Aug. 7 Aug. 3 Aug. 22 June 27 July 24 July 30 Aug. 19 July 26 Aug. 19 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. October 2004 �24753_p02,3,17,21.qxd 9/24/2004 8:29 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 2004. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation November 15 December 10 FOWT October 25 December 17 Welding October 4 November 1 October 22 November 19 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* November 8 November 19 October 4 October 8 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 8 December 3 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) November 15 November 19 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as *(must have radar unlimited) needed. In addition, basic vocational support program GMDSS (Simulator) November 1 November 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival October 25 November 5 the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Navigation Fundamentals November 29 December 10 Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduc- Radar November 1 November 12 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) October 4 November 29 October 15 December 10 courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to tion 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 Sept. 20, 2004. Recertification Bosun October 11 November 8 . . . at the Paul Hall Center � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ October 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. 10/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/24/2004 8:12 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 653 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 653 (in alphabetical order) Anthony Bartley, Vincent Deguzman, Latonia Furty Jr., Todd Gallagher, Jonathan Ives, Andrew Jackson, Christopher Jackson, Samuel Lambert Jr., Cleveland Lewis, Carlos Lianos Jr., Jeremy Martinez, Daniel McFarland Jr., Samuel Miller, Adrian Mills, Clifford Nicely, Thomas Nicely, James Nickerson and Martin Simmons Jr. (Note: not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Tom Gilliland, is at far right. Government Vessels — With instructor Greg Thompson (far left) are Aug. 6 graduates of the government vessels course. They are (in no specific order) Mario Torrey, Christopher Wheeler, Jon Carrico, Jovita Carino, Stacy Murphy, Aaron Barnes, Jonathon Hardiman, Nelton Rodriguez, Yamil Sanchez, Orlando Caro, Forrest Cornelison, Russell Wall, Benjamin Anderson and Gregory Ralston. Fast Rescue Boat — Sept. 3 was graduation day for those in the fast rescue boat course. They are (in alphabetical order) Albert Bharrat, David Bracken, Stephen Gardner III, Robert George, Karen Laycock, Steven Medina, Loren Wolfe and Stella Zebrowski. Their instructor, Stan Beck, stands in the back. Certified Chief Cook — Oil Spill Containment — Boatmen from Penn Maritime who completed the oil spill containment course Aug. 6 are James Graham, Brian Bascom, Paul Hendrix, Lindsey Sikora, Kim Duplantis Jr. and Charles Gale. Their instructor, Stan Beck, stands at left. GMDSS — Completing their GMDSS Advanced Fire Fighting — Under the guidance of instructor Anthony Hammett (far right) are Sept. 3 graduates of the advanced fire fighting course. They are (in alphabetical order) Timothy Casey, Scott Lucero, Niko Mansales, James Raney, Trent Sterling, Clive Steward and Jermaine Williams. training Sept. 3 are (from left) Brad Wheeler (instructor), Sheila Petri and James Shaffer. Working toward their certified chief cook endorsements are (from left) Gerald Toledo, Shirley Pellamy, John Dobson (instructor), Alphonzo Berry and Juan Vallejo. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — Upgrading Seafarers Roy Brooks and Jorge Bodden joined with unlicensed apprentices in completing the basic auxiliary plant operations course Aug. 20. They are (in no specific order) Jonathan Miller, Travis Zeller, Cody Stasch, Brian Leach, Lon Maduro, Christopher Burke, Dameon Cooler, Terry Chance, Connie Clemons, DeShanna Sherrod, Shawn Sayers, Djaun Wright, Alexander Rhodes, Matthew Wright and Chris Oding. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Computer Lab Classes Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of several computer classes at the Paul Hall Center are (from left) instructor Rick Prucha and Suzanne Santora; (back row) Brian Delatte, Mohamed Abdelwahab, instructor Rick Prucha, Arthur Quinney III, Nicholas Smithling, (kneeling) Jerry Sobieraj and Rubin Gonzalez; Niko Monsales, instructor Rick Prucha and Paa Kwakye; (seated) John Faith and Jerald Martinez and (standing) instructor Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG October 2004 �24753_P1,4,15,18-20,22,23.qxd 9/23/2004 8:34 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Upgrading Seafarers who completed this course Aug. 13 are (in no specific order) Bruce Milburn, Paa Kwakye, Philip Hatcher, Edwin Pelingon, Lino Remorin, Harry Hernandez, William Madden III, Jose Norales, Moises Ortiz, James Robinson, Darrol Bates, Manuel Daguio, Vasile Dadgaru, Jimmy Lawhon, Shirley Ballamy and Niko Monsales. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is third from left. Small Arms — Aug. 27 was graduation day for those in the small arms training class. They are (in alphabetical order) Christopher Burke, Jovita Carino, Brian Leach, Jonathan Miller, Stacy Murphy, Jose Nunez, Gilberto Quinones, Alexander Rhodes, Yamil Sanchez, Shawn Sayers, Russell Wall, Djuan Wright and Matthew Wright. Their instructor, Robby Springer, is at far left. Basic Safety Training Classes Lifeboatman/Water Survival — STCW — Aug. 6: Greg Blasquez, William Britton, Allen Cole, Kai Gullilksen, Mark Jones, Fernando Lopes, John Macari, Albert Moore, Karen Petterson, Michael Peck, Joseph Reynolds, Anthony Rosa and Francisco Ocado. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far left. STCW — Aug. 27: (Alaska fishermen) Joseph Demmert, Vincent Hamm, Justin Huggins, Roderick McLeod, Charles Melendrez, Timothy O’Hara, Kirk Opheim, Leroy Peterson and Clark Thomas. Earning their lifeboatman/water survival endorsements Sept. 3 are Alaska fishermen (in alphabetical order) Joseph Demmert, Vincent Hamm, Justin Huggins, Roderick McLeod, Charles Melendrez, Timothy O’Hara, Kirk Opheim, Leroy Peterson and Clark Thomas. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, sits aft. FOWT — FOWT — Completing the FOWT course Sept. 3 are (in no specific order) Blas Robert, Justin Violanti, Ryan Strick, Antonio Watson, Robert Walter, Clarence Pearson, Tawrence Abrams, Gregory Davis, Carl Williams, Doug Lowry, Scott Martin, Michael Mazyck, Forrest McGee, Rigoberto Beata and John Faith. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is at far left. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Aug. 20 from instructor Stacey Harris (center) are Benjamin Anderson, Aaron Barnes, Orlando Caro, Jovita Carino, Jon Carrico, Forrest Cornelison, Jonathon Hardiman, Regis Makowski, Stacy Murphy, Gregory Ralston, Nelton Rodriguez, Yamil Sanchez, Mario Torrey, Russell Wall and Christopher Wheeler. October 2004 Graduating from this course Sept. 3 are (in no specific order) Philippe Leger, Nathaniel Barker, Geoffery Coulton, Vernel Page, Tristum Beeks, Timothy Sextor, Joseph Thomas, Heriburto Alvarado, James Barker, Joseph Schoonover and Nicholas Bacon. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far right. Specially Trained OS — Another STOS class that graduated Aug. 20, but under the instruction of Tony Sevilla (sixth from left) are Justin Perry, Carlos Gibbons, Omar Madrid, Carl Wonderly, Jerald Martinez, Wilber Pantin, Chris Malbas, Hector Regalado and Michael Smorowski. Also in the photo is Capt. Jack Russell (second from right). Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Seafarers LOG 23 �24753_P1,3,24 cx.qxd 9/24/2004 8:03 PM Page 24 Volume 66, Number 10 October 2004 2=E D ... ... ... President Bush last month issued the following statement: President Bush understands the maritime industry has long played a vital role in our nation’s commerce and defense. Safe, reliable and efficient marine transportation of goods and passengers is essential to sustaining growth in the U.S. economy and to our international trade. In time of war or national emergency, the U.S. military depends on shipping and seafarers drawn from the U.S.-flag commercial fleet to deploy our military overseas and, once deployed, to transport the supplies necessary for them to fight, and win anywhere in the world. A strong maritime industry, however, requires more than just a U.S.-flag merchant marine capable of transporting the country’s waterborne commerce and of maintaining a U.S.-flag presence in international trade. It requires a base of trained and experienced seafarers to man those ships. It requires a shipbuilding and repair industry capable of building and repairing the vessels necessary to sustain that commerce. And it requires a national maritime infrastructure—ports, waterways and inter-modal connections—capable of handling that commerce. To compete in the global economy of the 21st century, President Bush believes the United States needs a maritime policy tailored to 21st century needs. Programs that have contributed to the growth of our domestic fleet, such as the Jones Act, and those that guarantee inter-modal cargo lift and management services when needed in times of crisis or conflict, such as the Maritime Security Program, should be maintained. Additionally, President Bush will vigorously pursue negotiations aimed at ending international practices that disadvantage our industry. In his second term, President Bush will seek to provide the conditions under which the American maritime industry can compete and grow in the 21st century. He will support a revitalized industry that creates jobs and is a competitive transportation option in both foreign and domestic markets. � 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 October 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU SAFETY DIRECTORS EXAMINE NEW U.S. MARITIME REGULATIONS SEAFARERS TO CREW UP U.S. MILITARY SUPPORT SHIPS HEALTH NETWORK AGREEMENT OFFERS MANY ADVANTAGES TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY CREDITS SIU CREWS FOR HELPING FIGHT FIRE ON USNS SHUGHART STREET-SMART OFFICIAL ED PULVER REMEMBERED AS CARING LEADER HOMELAND SECURITY DEPT. ANNOUNCES $49 MILLION IN PORT SECURITY GRANTS U.S. MAJOR GENERAL DUNWOODY ASSUMES COMMAND AT CASCOM SEALIFT SIU MEMBERS DELIVER FOR U.S. TROOPS SIU-CREWED POMEROY COMPLETES FIFTH TRIP IN SUPPORT OF OIF BURIAL AT SEA CONDUCTED FOR BROTHER ANTHONY BECK PRESIDENT BUSH LAST MONTH ISSUED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: 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 10/01/2004 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. 10 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/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 https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/9e7e08260de544904e81110bceecf94d.pdf 9f7cb70d54bcb814e5e492ce8649020c PDF Text Text Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/23/2004 5:51 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 8 August 2004 SIU-Crewed Cruise Ship Christened in Honolulu Seafarers and SIU officials last month welcomed the christening of NCL America’s Pride of Aloha in Honolulu. Mrs. Margaret Inouye (above, left) with U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii), served as the vessel’s godmother. In the other photo directly above, Seafarers and union officials including SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from left) are pictured at the event. Among those also pictured are SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, VP Contracts Augie Tellez and Executive VP John Fay. Seafarers from the steward department are shown in photo at top right. Pages 3, 12 and 13. NCL America’s Pride of Aloha Signals Rebirth Of U.S.-Flag Deep Sea Passenger Ship Industry USNS Bridge Joins SIU CI VMAR Fleet New Matson Ship Christened Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company’s new containership Maunawili (above) was christened July 17 at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. The vessel was slated for sea trials in late July and is expected to enter Matson’s Hawaii service in the fall. Page 3. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division have new shipboard jobs on the horizon as the result of the recent transfer of the USS Bridge (left) from commissioned service in the U.S Navy’s combat fleet into its Military Sealift Command. Now known as the USNS Bridge, the vessel will have a crew of 160 civilian mariners. They will be joined aboard the Bridge by a military department of 28 sailors who will perform communication support and supply coordination. Page 2. Alaskan Explorer Hull Launched Page 3 SIU Boatmen Ratify Inland Contracts Page 8 Seafarers Honored For Operation Haiti Page 24 �Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/22/2004 6:08 PM Page 2 President’s Report Excellent Inland Contracts During this exceptionally active time for the SIU, my first message this month is a heartfelt congratulations to the union’s negotiating teams in the Gulf who recently completed work on four separate contracts covering boatmen at E.N. Bisso, Crescent, Moran and Seabulk. It’s a tribute to our members and officials— and our contracted companies—that all four agreements feature top-of-the-line medical coverage for Seafarers and their families. The contracts also call for wage increases and other gains. Michael Sacco But in particular, the health benefits that are included in the contracts are a remarkable achievement, considering what’s happening with health insurance across the nation. Make no mistake: America is suffering through a major health care crisis that is seriously hurting the nation’s working families. Throughout the country, businesses are shifting an unfair share of high health care costs onto their workers. And whether those workers pay a bigger percentage of their premiums or they pay more in deductibles and co-payments, the effect is disturbing. Perhaps the only thing that’s worse in this crisis is the fact that there are the 44 million Americans who lack medical coverage altogether. In union contract negotiations today, health coverage is almost always the top issue. And it almost always leads to some bitter fights at the bargaining table. While the SIU’s recent negotiations in the Gulf were tough, they also were respectful and productive. Dean Corgey, vice president of our Gulf Coast Region who headed up all four bargaining committees, said the most significant factor in our success was the unprecedented solidarity among the boatmen—not only within each company, but from location to location. “It’s an honor and privilege to represent folks like that,” Corgey told me. “The guys looked out for each other, and not just at their own companies. They understood we’re all in this together and they really gave each other a great level of support. It’s invigorating.” The result is four agreements that include full medical coverage for SIU boatmen and their families. That’s something our entire SIU family should feel proud about. Aloha! Progress and “Pride” for our union also were evident last month as the new U.S.-flag cruise ship Pride of Aloha was christened in Honolulu. The Pride of Aloha is a first-rate ship. The Seafarers aboard her are a first-rate crew. The vessel’s reflagging in June to the Stars and Stripes, followed by the christening on Independence Day, marked the start of what I believe will turn out as one of the greatest success stories in SIU history. As mentioned last month, any project of this size is bound to bring at least a few challenges. But this is a fantastic victory for the SIU, and we’re up to the task. The U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry is reborn. The SIU will do our part to help ensure that it succeeds. Register and Vote Since our union’s founding in 1938, SIU members always have understood that political action is a must for our survival. We work in a very heavily regulated industry. We have to stay involved politically, at every level, in order to protect our interests. With that in mind, I encourage all Seafarers, pensioners and their families to be active during this election season. Make sure you are registered, and if you’re not, please register. Stay familiar with the issues and support the candidates who’ll support the U.S. Merchant Marine. If your port agent asks you to assist in getting out the vote, please donate your time and effort. I thank you for your continued participation. Voting, writing letters, calling, talking with your elected representatives, donating to SPAD…. All of those activities help us advance the SIU’s message. Let’s make sure our message continues to be heard. Volume 66, Number 8 August 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 USNS Bridge Joins SIU CIVMAR Fleet New shipboard jobs are on the horizon for members of the SIU’s Government Services Division, the result of the June 29 transfer of the USS Bridge (AOE 10) from commissioned service in the U.S Navy’s combat fleet into its Military Sealift Command (MSC). Now known as the USNS Bridge, the vessel has a crew of 160 civilian mariners. The federal civil service mariners (CIVMARS) will be joined aboard the Bridge by a small military department of 28 sailors who will perform communication support and supply coordination. An additional 30 or more sailors will augment the crew when necessary to support helicopter operations. As a Navy ship, the Bridge was crewed by a complement of 544 active-duty sailors. “The transfer of the Bridge from the Navy’s combat fleet to the Military Sealift Command marked another great day for the SIU,” noted SIU Government Services Division Representative Chet Wheeler. “It means more welcomed jobs for our mariners and stands as a great example of our tremendous working partnership with the Navy. The other point is that everyone benefits from the move. “The Bridge is the fourth vessel that has been transferred to MSC from commissioned service in the Navy fleet,” Wheeler continued. “Each transition went very smoothly, and all parties concerned deserve a great deal of credit for the ease with which it occurred.” In its new role, the Bridge will be joining more than 30 civiliancrewed ships providing combat logistics services to Navy fleets worldwide. A formal ceremony marking the vessel’s decommissioning and transfer took place June 24 at the The USNS Bridge signals new jobs for members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. U.S. Naval Base in Bremerton, Wash. The Bridge became the last of four U.S. Navy Supply-class fast combat support ships to leave commissioned service for what the Navy termed “an even more active role with MSC.” Navy sources say the transfer of the Bridge and its sister ships, the USNS Rainier, USNS Arctic and USNS Supply, are part of the Navy’s continuing transformation into a more efficient and cost effective fighting force for the 21st century. According to a May 1998 Center for Naval Analysis study, the Navy will save a projected $76 million annually with the change. The transfers also free up more than 100 active-duty Navy officers and nearly 2,000 enlisted sailors to return to the war-fighting roles for which they were trained. With a top speed in excess of 25 knots, the 754-foot fast combat support ships are ideally suited to travel with U.S. Navy strike groups to provide underway replenishment of fuel, ammunition, spare parts and stores at sea, eliminating the need for the combatants to constantly return to port. The MSC has awarded a contract for modifications on the USNS Bridge. Work was scheduled to begin late last month and conclude in early October. USNS Bridge Quick Facts Keel Laid: 1993 Commissioned: August 1998 Decommissioned: June 2004 MSC ‘in service’: June 24, 2004 Builder: National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (San Diego) Propulsion System: 4 General Electric LM 2500 gas turbine engines Propellers: 2 Length: 754.6 feet Beam: 107 feet Draft: 39 feet Displacement: 48,800 tons Speed: 26 knots Aircraft: 2 CH-46 Helicopters Armament: None SIU Hosts International Working Group The SIU last month hosted a meeting of a high-level international maritime tripartite working group, pictured at right with SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (10th from right), at union headquarters, located in Camp Springs, Md. Representatives from labor, management and government took part in the sessions July 6-8. They included delegates from the International Labor Organization; International Transport Workers’ Federation; U.S. Department of Transportation, including the U.S. Maritime Administration; the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education; the Chamber of Shipping of America; the International Shipping Federation; and the respective governments of the Bahamas, Norway, France, China, Japan, Namibia and Denmark. The representatives covered numerous topics important to all segments of the maritime industry. August 2004 �23844_P3,6,8.qxd 7/22/2004 2:56 PM Page 3 SIU-Crewed Pride of Aloha Christened The latest milestone in the U.S.-flag cruise ship industry’s rebirth took place on Independence Day in Honolulu, as dignitaries, crew members and guests celebrated the christening of NCL America’s Seafarers-crewed Pride of Aloha. SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker for the event. Also delivering remarks were U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii), U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William Schubert, Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle, Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri KT Lim, and NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch. Mrs. Margaret Inouye served as the vessel’s godmother. The Pride of Aloha is the first of three U.S.-flag cruise ships planned by NCL America. The others are the Pride of America and the Pride of Hawaii, with the latter scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2006. “The Pride of Aloha represents a partnership between NCL America, the shipboard workers and their unions. We’re all in this together, and I’m 100 percent confident we’re going to succeed,” Sacco stated. “Today, thanks to an unprecedented level of cooperation between labor, management and government, the U.S. Merchant Marine is on the rise. New ships are entering the U.S.-flag fleet—not only in the cruise indus- SIU President Michael Sacco expressed strong confidence that the new cruise ship will succeed. The SIU-crewed Pride of Aloha means new jobs for Seafarers. It’s the first of three U.S.-flag ships planned by NCL America. try, but also cargo ships, military support vessels, passenger ferries, modern tugboats and barges, Great Lakes ships and more. That type of progress doesn’t happen without teamwork by all concerned. And that same type of cooperation and commitment will lift NCL America to great heights.” See pages 12-13 for more photos of the christening. Senator Inouye, a driving force behind the industry’s revival and a longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, noted, “I am pleased to have sponsored legislation that led to the return of the U.S. flag to passenger cruise ship operations in the United States, and especially in Hawaii. The Pride of Aloha will be a welcome addition to Hawaii waters, and the visitor industry and all of Hawaii will benefit from its activities.” Another fervent backer of the U.S. fleet, Abercrombie said the recently reflagged ship’s arrival “is a tremendous boon to our state’s economy. Having a U.S.flag ship operating among our Islands will have vital long-term economic benefits including the creation of thousands of new jobs.” Schubert described the revival of oceangoing U.S.-flag cruising as “great news for the U.S. Merchant Marine. NCL America’s planned U.S.-flag expansion, starting with Pride of Aloha, helps grow our U.S.-flag fleet and create thousands of jobs for American seafarers, which is vital to our economic well-being and national security.” Tan Sri KT Lim offered passionate remarks about the industry’s revival. He touched on the “concept of Ohana, the extended family, and the benefits and obligations that being part of the Ohana brings.... I have personally committed our own extended family to making sure that this venture succeeds. We will commit the necessary assets and management resources to make sure it does well, and we will draw on our resources to the full extent necessary to beat back any attempts to undermine it. An assault on U.S.flag shipping is an assault on our family. Attempts to dismantle laws that preserve coastwise trade for domestic vessels and domestic seafarers is an attack on our family.” “On this day when Americans celebrate our independence, NCL America is proud to inaugurate a whole new cruise experience— one that represents all that NASSCO Floats Out Second BP Tanker In November of last year, when National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) floated out Hull 484 (the Alaskan Frontier), keel-laying ceremonies also were being held for Hull 485 (the Alaskan Explorer). The two vessels represent the first and second of four Alaska Class double-hull oil tankers being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. Both will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. (ATC). Early last month, eight months after that first vessel was launched, the Alaskan Explorer was floated out from the construction dock. It will be finished dockside in preparation for delivery in November 2004. Meanwhile, the Alaskan Frontier is undergoing sea trials and is expected to go into service later this month. The other two new builds are scheduled for delivery in 2005 and 2006. Each of the four oil tankers is 941 feet long and is designed for maximum flexibility in the transport of crude oil from Valdez, Alaska to oil refineries located along the U.S. West Coast, including BP refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. With a beam of 164 feet and a capacity of 1.3 million barrels, the vessels are expected to last a minimum of 35 years. BP reported that each of the tankers will be filled with state-of-the art machinery and cargo control systems as well as an integrated navigation system. To help eliminate accidental oil leaks, the propeller August 2004 The second of four double-hull oil tankers being built for BP Oil Shpping Company, USA, the Alaskan Explorer is launched from the NASSCO construction dock and will join the Alaskan Frontier and two other tankers in the transport of crude oil from Valdez, Alaska to refineries on the West Coast. shafts will be cooled and lubricated with seawater instead of lubricating oil. Cargo piping will be installed in the cargo tanks, instead of on deck, to reduce the risk of small spills. Additionally, each ship will have redundant propulsion and steering systems that include twin diesel-electric power systems in segregated engine rooms, twin propellers and twin rudders. Use of diesel-electric propulsion system will reduce air emissions at sea and in port while reducing maintenance “down time.” America and Hawaii have to offer,” said Veitch. “This is truly a proud day for NCL.” “The state is proud to welcome the Pride of Aloha to Hawaii,” said Lingle. “This beautiful new NCL America ship will bring more visitors to Hawaii, increase business for our merchants on the different islands and provide more job opportunities for our residents.” The ship is sailing seven-day, round-trip Hawaii itineraries, visiting all four main islands and giving passengers up to 96 hours in port. The 77,000-ton Pride of Aloha is a 2,000-passenger ship and is projected to annually generate more than $275 million in expenditures, $199 million in direct and indirect wages and salaries, $42 million in federal tax revenues, and nearly 7,000 jobs, according to the company. Once NCL America’s plans are fully implemented, its U.S.flagged ships are expected to generate more than $828 million in U.S. economic activity and 20,400 jobs, according to a recent study by one of the nation’s leading economic consultancies. Mrs. Margaret Inouye, wife of U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii), does the honors at the christening, with an assist from NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch. Matson’s Maunawili Christened Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company’s new containership Maunawili was christened July 17 at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. by Ms. Maryanna G. Shaw, great granddaughter of Samuel T. Alexander, one of the founders of Matson’s parent company, Alexander and Baldwin, Inc. (A&B). SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez represented the union at the ceremony. In his keynote speech, Lt. General Gary Hughey, deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), reinforced the important role of the Jones Act. “I have no doubt that as long as America maintains the Jones Act as the foundation of our maritime policy, U.S.-flag vessel operations will meet the needs of waterborne commerce. And it will sustain the maritime infrastructure—the builders, the owners, the mariners —whose labors always have and always will ensure our security,” he stated. Hughey added, “USTRANSCOM, Military Sealift Command, the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, and the Maritime Administration support the maintenance of a viable U.S.flagged fleet and U.S. mariner pool. We can’t do business without either.” Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command The Maunawili is the second new Matson ship of the 21st century. The first, the Manukai, was delivered to Matson by Kvaerner Philadelphia in September 2003. Each ship is 712 feet long and can carry 2,600 containers. The newer vessel was slated for sea trials in late July and is expected to enter Matson’s Hawaii service in the fall. James Andrasick, president and CEO, Matson, noted, “Investing $220 million in two new U.S.built containerships was a significant step for Matson and represents a significant commitment to the Hawaii market that we have served for more than 120 years. This new ship will help ensure that Matson continues to provide Hawaii with efficient, dependable ocean transportation services of superior quality and value.” Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, August 16, 2004 for the observance of Paul Hall’s birthday and Monday, September 6, 2004 for the observance of Labor Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Seafarers LOG 3 �Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/22/2004 4:33 PM Page 4 Union Mourns Port Agent Malone Philly-Based Official’s ‘Heart Was as Big as the Rest of Him’ Jim Malone, the SIU’s port agent in Philadelphia, died June 22 in Newark, N.J. of a heart attack. He was 56. Fellow officials remembered Malone as a dedicated, respected and well-liked individual whose commitment to the union easily exceeded his considerable size. “He really cared about the membership,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was a good union rep, very conscientious, and he was also a loving father. He’ll sorely be missed.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who worked closely with Malone when they were based in Philadelphia during the early and mid- 1990s, stated, “Jim was a dedicated and loyal official. He had a heart of gold and always looked out for the members’ interests.” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez said Malone’s “heart was as big as the rest of him.” SIU Representative Joe Mieluchowski lived in Philadelphia when he went to the SIU hall to inquire about joining in 1991. “Jim was the one who handed me my application,” Mieluchowski recalled. “If you knew him, you liked him. He was extremely loyal to the union and he was very dedicated to his family. All of that is fact.” A Philadelphia native, Malone sailed NMU PENSION & WELFARE PLAN NMU VACATION PLAN Trustee, Administration and Summary of Material Modifications for the Year 2003 THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES – Co-Chairmen NMU Pension & Welfare Plan and NMU Vacation Plan EMPLOYER TRUSTEES Thomas Murphy, President Marine Personnel & Provisioning, Inc. 1083 N. Collier Blvd, PMB #387 Marco Island, FL 34145 (941) 393-0435 UNION TRUSTEES René Lioeanjie, Vice Presidentat-Large Seafarers International Union of N.A., AGLIWD/NMU 1150 17th Street, N.W., Suite 700 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 466-7060 AMENDMENTS & OTHER ITEMS NMU Pension Plan, Annuity Plan and 401(k) Plan: During 2003, the Board of Trustees adopted several amendments of significant importance to the membership and the Plans. Generally the amendments: 1. Provided for a suspension of benefits during months in which a Pensioner is receiving vacation benefits from the NMU Vacation Plan. 2. Authorization of the thirteenth check distributed to Retirees or Beneficiaries who were eligible to receive a pension benefit after December 2002. 3. Clarification that a Participant who attains Normal Retirement Age before a Permanent Break in Service shall be eligible for a Vested Pension. 4. Changed the definition of the Union Name to the Seafarers International Union – Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters/NMU, AFL-CIO. 5. Provided for payment of benefits at Normal Retirement Age and Required Beginning Date. 6. Provided for a 2 percent increases at December 31, 2003 for Participants active in 2004. 7. Amendment regarding compliance with IRS Regulations. NMU Welfare Plan: During 2003, the Board of Trustees adopted several amendments of significant importance to the membership and the Plans. Generally the amendments: 1. Amended the ISOV payment arrangement to exclude reimbursable illness/injury claims such as those that may be reimbursed by MARAD. 2. Established a cap of $100,000 per incident/per person in ISOV cases 3. Changed the definition of the Union Name to the Seafarers International Union – Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters/NMU, AFL-CIO. 4. Extended the Viagra exclusion to July 31, 2004. 5. Provided an exclusion of medical coverage for ADD/Autism. 6. Extended the age for dependent students from age 23 to age 25. 7. Provided well baby coverage including physical examinations and immunizations. 8. New eligibility requirements as of January 1, 2004. 9. Provides for eligibility for new employees. 10. Deleted the provisions of Section 11. NMU Vacation Plan: During 2003, the Board of Trustees adopted an amendment to the Declaration of Trust Changed the definition of the Union Name to the Seafarers International Union – Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters/NMU, AFL-CIO. ADMINISTRATOR William J. Dennis NMU Benefit Plans 360 West 31st Street, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001-2727 4 Seafarers LOG in the SIU’s inland division, beginning in 1982. He sailed as a deckhand with Moran, McAllister and Taylor & Anderson in Philadelphia, most recently in 1988. That same year, he came ashore to work for the union. Malone became the union’s port agent in Philadelphia in 1997. He later assumed the same post for the SIU in Norfolk, Va. before returning as port agent in Philadelphia. Survivors include Malone’s wife, Patricia; three daughters and a son; and nine grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A funeral mass took place June 26 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Philadelphia. A heart attack claimed Philadelphia Port Agent Jim Malone, who loved his family and his union. Boston, Charleston Clinics Open Doors for Seafarer Testing The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has recently contracted with two clinics—one in Boston and the other in Charleston, S.C.—to assist Seafarers in getting the medical testing necessary for them to sail. These services include pre-employment physical exams and benzene clearances as well as drug screens and physicals mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard. When the New Bedford, Mass. union hall recently relocated to Boston, a clinic—Health Resources at 185 Devonshire Street—was found just 1½ miles from the hiring hall (or a ALGONAC, MI Munson Medical Center 550 Munson Avenue Traverse City, MI 49684 (231) 935-8590 St. Josephs/Chesterfield Health Center 30795 23 Mile Road Chesterfield, MI 48047 (586) 421-3065 ANCHORAGE, AK U.S. Healthworks/Primary Care Associates 4100 Lake Otis Pkwy, Suite 322 Anchorage, AK 99508 (907) 562-1234 or (907) 646-2506 Tongass Substance Screening 120 Carlanna Lake Road Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 247-1431 BALTIMORE, MD Johns Hopkins Community Physicians Int. Med. Wyman Park Med. Ctr., 2nd Floor 3100 Wyman Park Drive Baltimore, MD 21211 (410) 338-3357 BOSTON, MA Health Resources 185 Devonshire Street Boston, MA 02110 (617) 357-4140 DULUTH, MN Duluth Clinic Occup. Medicine 400 East 3rd Street Duluth, MN 55805 (218) 786-3392 GUAM Harmon Doctors Clinic 2214 Rte. 16 Dededo, Guam 96929 (671) 637-1777 HONOLULU, HI Dr. William B. Meinke 35 Luna Lilo Street, Unit 102 Wailuku, HI 96793 (808) 249-2285 Straub Occupational Health 839 S. Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 522-4441 three-minute walk from South Station). Health Resources opened its doors to Seafarers this year around the beginning of June. As of June 14, Seafarers on the southeast coast of the U.S., anywhere from Jacksonville, Fla. to Charleston, can utilize the services of the Carolina Center for Occupational Health, the newly contracted Charleston clinic, at 5290 Rivers Avenue. To date, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has 28 designated clinics (see boxed list) to service the SIU membership. SHBP-C Contracted Clinics HOUSTON, TX Methodist Hospital Institute for Preventive Medicine 6565 Fannin, SM583 Houston, TX 77030 (713) 394-6065 or 6079 Tower Medical Center of Nederland 2100 Highway 365 Nederland, TX 77627 (409) 724-2321 JACKSONVILLE, FL Industrial Medicine Group 3604 University Blvd S. Suite 1 Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 739-4629 Industrial Medicine Group 1205 Monument Road Suite 203 Jacksonville, FL 32225 (904) 727-5120 Carolina Center for Occupational Health 5290 Rivers Avenue, Suite 101 N. Charleston, SC 29406 (843) 554-1029 JOLIET, IL The Joliet Medical Group 2100 Glenwood Avenue Joliet, IL 60435 (815) 725-2121 MOBILE, AL Mobile Family Physicians 1924K Dauphin Island Pkwy Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 476-6330 NEW ORLEANS, LA Occupational Medical Center of West Jefferson 4475 Westbank Expressway Marrero, LA 70072 (504) 347-8471 NEW YORK, NY Bay Park Medical Occupational Health Services 794 Union Street Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718) 783-6578 NORFOLK, VA Internal Medicine Specialists 142 W. York Street, Suite 518 Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 627-7283 PHILADELPHIA, PA Healthmark, Inc. 2301 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 952-9900 PINEY POINT, MD Calvert Internal Medicine Group 14090 Solomons Island Rd. S. Suite 2500 Solomons, MD 20688 (410) 326-0305 PORT EVERGLADES, FL AMO Medical Center 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (954) 927-5213 SAN FRANCISCO, CA Mercy Doctors Med. Group, Inc. 1 Shrader Street, Suite 640 San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 752-0100 SAN JUAN, PR Luis Marquez-Gonzales, MD Ashford Medical Center #29 Washington Street Suite 502 San Juan, PR 00907 (787) 723-6110 ST. LOUIS, MO Concentra Medical Centers (Soulard) 1617 S. Third Street St. Louis, MO 63126 (314) 421-2557 TACOMA, WA Franciscan Occup. Health-Port Clinic 1930 Port of Tacoma Road Tacoma, WA 98421 (253) 272-6677 WILMINGTON, CA P.V. Family & Immediate Medical Care Center 26516 Crenshaw Boulevard Palos Verdes, CA 90274 (310) 541-7911 August 2004 �Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/22/2004 6:20 PM Page 5 ‘Team Effort’ with Maritime Industry Helps USCG Tackle New Security Rules Some 30 days after the new United Nations International Ship and Port Facility Security code (ISPS) and related U.S. Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) went into force, the U.S. Coast Guard continues to take proactive measures to keep America’s ports safe and secure. The two new sets of regulations, designed to thwart seaborne terrorist attacks, became effective July 1. “Things have been running smoothly with very little disruption to trade and travel,” said Adm. Thomas H. Collins, commandant of the Coast Guard. “This has truly been a team effort, and everyone—from the maritime industry to local governments and private citizens to the international community—has played an important role in ensuring that U.S. ports and waterways run efficiently and effectively while we implement the new security regime.” Vice Adm. James D. Hull, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area in Portsmouth, Va., also acknowledged the key roles played by governmental and civilian agencies in the implementation of the new regulations. In a letter to the Norfolk, Va.-based Virginian-Pilot, Admiral Hull said in part: “Despite many who questioned the industry’s ability to comply with the stringent requirements on a short timeline, thousands of foreign vessels have since come and gone, 98 percent of our facilities remained open for business and store shelves remained stocked. This remarkable accomplishment is attributed to the unheralded cooperation of government at all levels and civilian port authorities, whose livelihood depends on our ports remaining safe, secure and open for business. “Today our nation faces the very real threat of a terrorist attack, and our goal is to deter and/or prevent that from happening in the maritime arena,” he continued. “With 361 ports accepting 95 percent of our country’s imports, the task seems daunting. While we cannot guarantee that a terrorist attack will not happen, the MTSA and ISPS code, and our nation’s overwhelming effort to comply with those laws and regulations, have certainly made our ports safer than ever before…. “In this critical effort, the mar- itime community of the United States and their partners in foreign trade should be applauded for quickly complying with the new security regulations.” According to the latest statistics (released July 21), three weeks after ISPS/MTSA enforcement began, 5,002 foreign vessels had arrived at U.S. ports. Of these, 3,494 had been inspected and approved before the July 1 deadline. The U.S. Coast Guard had inspected 1,209 foreign vessels in port and another 40 at sea. Fortytwo foreign vessels had been denied entry into U.S. ports and another 50 had been detained in port since July 1. Thirty-two U.S.-flag ships were under restricted operation orders, and 18 shore facilities had been closed for non-compliance with the MTSA. During the initial days of inspections, the Coast Guard said that non-compliance with ISPS was concentrated among vessels of smaller than 500 tons. The agency estimated that about 8.5 percent of vessel exams have resulted in enforcement actions, including denial of entry, expulsion and detention. SIU Officials to Serve On Security Committees A pair of SIU officials recently became members of maritime security committees in their respective geographical regions. They are Victor Nuñez, port agent in the port of Santurce, P.R. and Steve Judd, port agent in the port of New Orleans. Nuñez received an invitation to serve on the Puerto Rico Area Maritime Security Committee (AMSC) from U.S. Coast Guard Capt. W.J. Uberti, Federal Maritime Security Coordinator (FMSC) for Puerto Rico while Judd received similar correspondence for membership in the New Orleans Area Maritime Subcommittee from U.S. Coast Guard Capt. R.W. Branch, FMSC for the New Orleans area. Both SIU officials completed required acceptance forms to verify their approval to the posts and now are full-fledged members. Earlier this year, the following SIU officials also accepted AMSC appointments: Gulf Coast Vice President Dean Corgey, Atlantic Coast Vice President Joseph Soresi, Hawaii Port Agent Neil Dietz, Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and Boston Port Agent Gerard Dhooge. The AMSC positions are voluntary. “It’s a real honor for me to be a part of this committee,” said Nuñez, who has been in his position as port agent since 1999. “I’ve been looking forward to this opportunity because a lot of decisions are made (by the agency) that directly affect SIU members and the vessels they crew. This is a chance to provide more input and further voice our concerns prior to final decisions.” Nuñez served as a patrolman in Santurce from 1997 to 1999. He sailed as an AB for eight years before coming ashore. Judd’s affiliation with the SIU dates back to the late 1970s when he worked as a deckhand aboard inland boats. In addition to holding a master’s license, Judd also has served as a safety director and union representative. He has held office in the local port council of the Maritime Trades Department and the New Orleans AFL-CIO. Judd became port agent in 1997. “I look forward to serving on SIU Santurce Port Agent Victor Nuñez (second from right, with Seafarers on the Horizon Discovery), will serve on the Puerto Rico Area Maritime Security Committee. August 2004 SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd takes notes during an MTD meeting which included detailed discussions on shipboard and port security. the committee,” said Judd, “because homeland security matters have a direct bearing on quality-of-life issues for our membership. My main goal will be to foster a happy balance between decisions affecting homeland security and issues relating to the interests of Seafarers. Such things as shore leave and entering and exiting ports affect our membership as a whole and our concerns need to be heard.” AMSCs were instituted as a result of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. They are intended to provide a framework for communicating, identifying risks and coordinating resources to reduce threats and help ensure efficient responses. Chaired by the Coast Guard Captains of the Ports (COTP), the committees bring together a diverse group of port stakeholders to discuss maritime domain awareness and transportation security issues. Committee members are appointed by COTPs. Those appointed must have at least five years of experience dealing with maritime or port security operations. Panamanian-flagged vessels fared the worst with nearly 25 percent of the non-compliant vessels flying that country’s flag. As the world’s largest ship registry, Panamanian-flagged vessels typically make up 25-27 percent of the foreign vessels that call on the U.S., according to the Coast Guard. Other flags that the Coast Guard closely is tracking include Cyprus, Antigua and Barbuda, Bolivia, Honduras and Malta. In a related development, Lloyds List on July 20 reported that the Panamanian flag is bracing itself for a series of defections following earlier criticism of the way ISPS Code certificates have been processed, which saw many ships fail to meet the July 1 deadline. Most notably, according to the report, Japanese owners, who account for 40 percent of the world’s largest register, are considering moving away. A representative in Singapore for the Panamanian flag, Capt. Sam Say, admitted, “The Japanese are thinking of reflagging. Some owners might reconsider the situation and reflag to other flags.” Captain Say works as a consultant for Panahon Marine, the Panamanian flag agency. The Panamanian registry’s London office refused to comment, the report said, but Capt. Say continued, “From the feedback of owners we have got, they do express dissatisfaction with Panamanian authorities in implementing the ISPS Code. The Panamanian authorities were slow in issuing [International Ship Security Certificates] and they required owners to pick them personally.” Say said that in Singapore the problems were minimized and agents were employed to help deliver the certificates to the owners. However, he re-emphasized: “Owners are very disappointed with the actions leading up to ISPS implementation.” Elsewhere, the U.S. Coast Guard on July 13 urged ship operators to ensure that they adhere strictly to its notification of arrival requirements, stressing that failure to do so could result in delays, or denial of entry to their destination port. In a statement formally reiterating declarations made by officials during the opening week of compliance, the agency said operators must have valid International Ship Security Certificates and provide other information as part of their notice-of-arrival requirements to enter U.S. ports. Coast Guard Port Security Director Rear Admiral Larry Hereth said, “We have experienced problems with vessel operators failing to obtain the required certificates and in some cases filing incomplete or inaccurate information. This has led to delays or entry denials.” Coast Guard spokeswoman Jolie Shifflet added, “The message we would like to get out is for those who have ISSCs to please report it.” She added that the agency is strictly enforcing its notice-ofarrival requirements. “It is one of our primary tools for making determinations about ships coming in.” The requirements charge ship operators with submitting accurate vessel, crew, passenger and cargo information to the Coast Guard at least 96 hours prior to arrival in a U.S. port. Failure to submit the notice will result in denial of entry while incomplete or inaccurate information could result in significant delay. In a related development, the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s (ITF) port workers unions on July 14 pledged to assure port security, and warned that the ISPS code must be rigidly upheld—not undermined by using it as a backdoor way of introducing casual labor and self-handling. Meeting in Singapore, the ITF Dockers’ Section Conference moved to support the new legislation but flagged up areas of concern. These included: possible use of casual labor who do not meet security standards and the potential use of ISPS to exclude ITF inspectors and even dockers from ships. The conference also reiterated the ITF’s opinion that empty containers are a security risk unless they are inspected. SIU VP Soresi Elected to State AFL-CIO SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (second from left) recently was elected to serve as a vice president of the New Jersey State AFLCIO. Additionally, the New York Port Maritime Council of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO became an affiliate of New Jersey’s state labor federation. Presenting the certificate of affiliation to Soresi (who also serves as president of the port council) during the federation’s meeting June 16 in Atlantic City, N.J. are (from left) Pete Busacca, president of the Hudson County Central Labor Council; Charles Wowkanech, president of the state federation; and Laurel Brennan, secretary-treasurer of the state federation. Seafarers LOG 5 �23844_P3,6,8.qxd 7/22/2004 2:56 PM Page 6 U.S. Labor Department Updating Confidential Maritime Database Agency Seeks Volunteers for ‘O*NET’ Project The U.S. Department of Labor is asking SIU members who have been in the industry for at least five years to consider voluntarily participating in a program known as the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). The program is sponsored by the Department of Labor. It is intended to gather occupational information for a national database that is used by millions of employers, workers, educators and students across the country. Individual data will be kept strictly confidential. Names are not used in the database, and no identifying information about anyone will be published or released in any form to anyone outside the research team. The database’s maritime component provides information about the knowledge, skills, abilities and activities for the occupations of masters, mates, pilots, engineers, deckhands and oilers. “We want to make sure that the right information is presented for these positions,” noted Dr. Jon Blades, who helps head up the project. “It’s important that the information is accurate and up to date, because millions of Claims Dept. Co-Director Martha Carr Dies at 51 Martha C. Carr, a longtime medical claims employee who rose to the post of co-director in the Seafarers Health and Benefit Plan’s Piney Point, Md.-based claims department, passed away June 25 at her home in Piney Point. She was 51. “Martha was a solid citizen here in Piney Point,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “Her dedication to the job was unbelievable. No problem Martha Carr, left, talks with then was too small for Martha when it SIU Plans Administrator Lou came to the membership. She will Delma in a 2001 meeting at the sorrowfully be missed, and we will SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center. never forget her wonderful smile.” John Spadaro, national director of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers, also speaking of Carr’s commitment to the union noted, “Martha was one of the most dedicated people I have ever worked with. She was extremely compassionate and certainly very helpful on a day-to-day basis. Martha went about the business of doing her job like the true professional that she was, but she always added that personal, caring touch to whatever she was involved in. There is no doubt that she will be missed a great deal by everyone who knew her.” Seafarers Plans Administrator Bill Dennis said Carr “was truly special. During her illness she always maintained a very positive attitude. It seemed that she was trying to make us feel better. She touched all of us in a very special way.” “Martha and I worked very well together as a team over the years,” said Pat Benoit of her deceased colleague and close personal friend. Benoit is co-director of the claims department. “Jointly, we supervised 45 employees,” Benoit continued. “The one thing I remember and treasure most about Martha was her unselfishness, her willingness to go that extra mile for the membership. Regardless of how simple or complicated a particular situation was, she time and again made herself available to members, port officials and anyone else who required her assistance. Even when her illness started to get the best of her, she still put the needs of others ahead of her own personal welfare; this is a rare quality indeed. “I’m certain that I speak for all of her co-workers and those who had the good fortune of knowing her when I say that she was greatly loved and highly respected,” Benoit concluded. “Martha will be missed by all of us.” A native of Washington, D.C., Carr joined the UIW in 1985 while working at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. She initially worked as a claims processor. Carr advanced to the position of claims coordinator in 1990 and to claims section manager in 1991. In January 1998, she became co-director of the claims department. She held this position until her demise. Carr was preceded in death by her parents, Edward J. and Margaret V. Holt; two sisters, Margaret J. Kendall and Dorothy Jones; and two brothers, William and Richard Gray. Survivors include her husband, Steven; one son, Gary Hartman; two daughters, Susan Owen and Sandy Carr; five grandchildren; a host of other relatives, friends and her SIU “family.” Minette Clarke, left, and Carr A viewing was held June 29 at are all smiles during a claims the Brinsfield Echols Funeral department outing in Southern Home in Charlotte Hall, Md. Maryland. 6 Seafarers LOG employers, workers, educators and students use O*NET to help them make informed decisions about education, training and careers.” He added that the agency seeks volunteers with at least five years of experience to “serve as experts and [to] complete questionnaires about their work. Responses will be strictly confidential and will be combined with all other responses to define the skills, knowledge, and other aspects of work in the maritime field. Each person who completes the questionnaires will receive $40 and a certificate of appre- ciation from the U.S. Department of Labor.” Seafarers who are interested in participating may contact Dr. Jon Blades at the National Center for O*NET Development, P.O. Box 27625, Raleigh, NC 27611; telephone (919) 733-2790; fax (919) 7150778; email jon.blades@ncmail.net. Please provide your name, telephone number and a mailing address. More information about O*NET is available on line at http://www.onetcenter.org/. Alaska Tanker Co. Wins Prestigious Safety Award SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) has won a prestigious safety award issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. U.S. Coast Guard Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety and Environmental Protection, Rear Adm. Thomas H. Gilmour, recently announced that ATC earned the 2004 William M. Benkert Environmental Award. ATC won “gold level” recognition in the “large business vessel” category. The award was presented in late June in San Diego. “This award has been earned by the men and women of ATC,” stated Alaska Tanker Company President Anil Mathur. “I am proud to lead this team that harmoniously brings together helping provide energy for Americans and caring for our environment.” According to the agency, the William M. Benkert Award “is the premier national award that recognizes excellence in marine environmental protection. The evaluation process is competitive; standards are rigorous and demanding. This award was created to recognize vessel and facilities operators who have implemented outstanding marine environmental protection programs— programs that far exceed mere compliance with industrial and regulatory standards.” The award is named in honor of Rear Adm. William M. Benkert (1923-1989), a distinguished Coast Guard officer widely known for his leadership and vision in marine environmental protection. ATC, based in Beaverton, Ore., operates a fleet of eight SIU-crewed tankers. The Coast Guard, in announcing the award, credited the company with maintaining “well-defined environmental policies and objectives with outstanding measurement tools. The company established performance contracts between owners, management, senior officers anrd the ship’s crew. These performance contracts identified clear and specific goals, measured trends and/or areas for improvement that allowed ATC to SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company has earned several highlevel safety awards in recent years. Among other vessels, the ATC fleet includes (from top) the Overseas Chicago, the Denali and the Prince William Sound. identify mitigation strategies to produce positive results. Each year, the specific goals and objectives of these contracts are set at a higher standard than the year before. During 2002 and 2003 ATC transported approximately 311 million barrels of crude oil with less than 2.2 gallons of oil being spilled in the environment.” SIU-contracted Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. (OSI) received honorable mention. The company operates five U.S.-flag tankers for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The Coast Guard noted that Ocean Shipholdings’ vessels “operate worldwide, including the sensitive environmental regions of Antarctica and Greenland. OSI’s environmental polices are clear and concise covering the avoidance of damage to the environment with particular consideration to the marine environment. To meet the objectives of their mission and policy statements, risks are continually identified and evaluated to help reduce any impact on the environment. OSI also developed specific Marine Regulations to address the risks to vessels and the environment while operating in a harsh environment such as Antarctica.” August 2004 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:24 PM Page 7 Congressman Hunter Honored By Shipbuilding Association House Armed Services Committee Chairman U.S. Representative Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), a strong advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine, is the recipient of the American Shipbuilding Association’s (ASA) 2004 Herbert H. Bateman Award. Congressman Hunter on June 23 received the award during the ASA’s Salute to the 108th Congress reception in the foyer of the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington. D.C. Established by ASA in 2000, the award is described by the association as the shipbuilding industry’s uppermost acknowledgment of an individual in the executive branch, legislative branch, or industry who has demonstrated years of consistent, outstanding, and inspirational leadership in fighting for a stronger shipbuilding industry. Congressman Herb Bateman of Virginia, the award’s namesake, was credited with demonstrating these qualities throughout his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1981-2000. The late nine-term congressman passed away in September 2000 following a lengthy battle with cancer. “Duncan Hunter, throughout his nearly 24 years on the Armed Services Committee, has been a tireless advocate of a stronger defense shipbuilding industrial base,” noted Cynthia Brown, ASA president, in presenting the congressman with the award. “He has consistently worked for larger defense procurement budgets to fund the required number of naval ships. “His long and impressive record in support of a larger naval fleet and supporting manufacturing industry has made him a deserving recipient of the Herbert H. Bateman Award,” she concluded. Previous recipients of the honor include: U.S. Representative Herbert H. Bateman (RVa.); U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe (R-Maine); U.S. Representative Gene Taylor (D-Miss.); and U.S. Senator Ted Stevens (RAlaska). Congressman Hunter represents California’s 52nd Congressional District consisting of eastern and northern San Diego County. He is a Vietnam veteran, who served in the 173rd Airborne and 75th Army Rangers. In 1973, Representative Hunter attended Western State University Law School in San Diego on the G.I. Bill, while also working at farming and construction. Prior to his current position as chairman of the full committee, Congressman Hunter served as Chairman of the House Military Research & Development Subcommittee from 2001-2002. The congressman also served as chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Procurement from 19952000. ASA is a national trade association representing American shipbuilders—the designers and producers of the safest and most technologically advanced ships in the world. ASA’s mission is to educate policymakers and the American public on the need for a strong shipbuilding industrial base to build the ships that help keep America secure and economically prosperous. To this end, ASA supports a strong American Navy and Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and merchant fleet of American-built ships. Collectively, ASA member shipyards employ more than 90 U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) percent of all the workers engaged in ship construction in the United States. Many of them are the largest private-sector employers in the states in which they operate. The association also represents 54 partner companies engaged in the design and manufacture of ship systems, components, technologies, equipment and in providing technical support services. Secretary Mineta Underscores Need For U.S.-Flag Fleet Tribute to Merchant Mariners U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta recently reiterated his strong support for the U.S.-flag maritime industry. He did so while addressing an audience June 21 at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. “Rarely in our history has the importance of our maritime operations been so clear, or the opportunities for mariners so great,” Mineta stated. “For the first time in recent memory, we are adding demonstrably to the number of ships sailing under the American flag. In the past two years, our efforts have attracted three modern and militarily useful vessels to the U.S.-flag fleet. Additionally, thousands of new sea-going jobs will be created when three new U.S.-flagged cruise ships are placed in service. “The Maritime Security Act, signed by President Bush last November, is another measure of our commitment,” he continued. “The $1.7 billion reauthorization of the Maritime Security Program will expand the fleet from 47 to 60 ships. And there is more to come.” The secretary commended U.S. mariners for their quick response on September 11, 2001 and also for their highly regarded performance in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “From the earliest days of our founding, America has always been a maritime nation,” he added. “And so we remain today. Indeed, rarely in our nation has the importance of our maritime operations been so clear or the opportunities for mariners so great. Today, we recognize our sea lanes as the logistical lifeline to the troops defending our freedoms abroad. And for the world’s leading trading nation, those sea lanes serve as the primary arteries through which almost 95 percent of U.S. overseas cargo flows. August 2004 Included in Denali Memorial We dedicate this quiet place to the remembrance of the veterans of Alaska who have served their country at home and throughout the world. We honor their heroism and dedication. U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta “With the American economy surging forward—creating nearly one million new jobs in the last 100 days—the stage is set for a renaissance for the maritime industries and a growing role for the merchant mariners who link us to our trading partners around the world,” Mineta continued. “We have made a strong commitment to building a robust maritime system…. “And there is more to come. At the Department of Transportation, we are working to develop the most comprehensive maritime review that the nation has ever seen. This initiative, known as SEA 21, encompasses the entire marine transportation system—from ports to shipbuilding to mariner training. SEA 21 has the potential to modernize and enhance our maritime capacity, making it more secure and efficient while developing new areas of opportunity, such as short sea shipping.” Mineta noted that he took part in the dedication of the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. and that the U.S. Merchant Marine “is included, prominently…. We know those mariners today as members of the ‘Greatest Generation.’” At mile 147 of the Parks Highway at Denali State Park— centrally located between Anchorage and Fairbanks—is a plaque with those words. AB Robert Franxman of Florence, Ky. was on a fishing trip in the area not long ago, when he came upon the beautifully designed memorial, and sent the photos appearing with this article to the Seafarers LOG. The Alaska Veterans Memorial, the first to honor the state’s veterans, was erected in 1983 and dedicated the following year. The main part of the site consists of five, 20-foot tall concrete panels, one each to represent the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard. They are arranged in a semi-circle to form an alcove in a natural grove of trees. On top of each panel is a large star and below the star is a At the entrance to the state memorial is a statue representing the Alaska Territorial Guard (right) and a plaque in memory of all veterans. In 1999, a plaque was erected at the Alaska Veterans Memorial in honor of U.S. merchant mariners who served during World War II. short history of that branch’s contribution to Alaska. At the entrance of the alcove is a statue of two figures representing the Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG), carved by Canadian sculptor George Pratt. The binoculars of one of the ATG members is trained on Denali (Mt. McKinley), which is only 35 miles away at that point. A large plaque beside the statue explains the work of the ATG. In 1998, World War II merchant mariners were granted “active duty” veterans status, so another large plaque was added the following year to one of the walls forming the entrance to the alcove where the main panels are set. It honors members of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served in World War II and was dedicated by Governor Tony Knowles, an Army Vietnam veteran. Also in 1999, two flagpoles were erected by a group of volunteers so that an Alaskan flag now flies to the right of an American flag, and to its left flies a POW/MIA or other flag for special events. The Alaska Veterans Memorial was made possible by legislation introduced by the late State Senator Charles Parr in 1981 and passed that year. Parr, a World War II Army veteran from Fairbanks, recognized that Alaska was one of the few states in the nation without a memorial to its veterans. For travelers, the memorial provides both a refreshing stop along the highway as well as an important insight into Alaska’s history. Adjacent to the memorial is a visitor’s center, where several interpretive signs describe the historical role of the military in the Bering Sea during the Civil War and World War II and throughout the Cold War. Seafarers LOG 7 �23844_P3,6,8.qxd 7/22/2004 2:57 PM Page 8 The SIU’s negotiating team for the Bisso contract included (seated) Engineer Delegate Robert Jordan, (standing, from left) Deckhand Delegate David Abney, SIU New Orleans Safety Director Chris Westbrook and SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd. Top Health Care Benefits Highlight Inland Contracts Bisso, Moran, Seabulk Boatmen Approve Pacts Gulf-area Seafarers recently approved three new contracts that call for wage increases and maintain top-of-the-line medical benefits. Each of the respective agreements is for five years. Boatmen at E.N. Bisso in New Orleans unanimously approved their new contract, while Seafarers at Seabulk and at Moran of Texas, respectively, ratified their pacts by overwhelming margins. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Bisso boatmen unanimously approved their new five-year contract. Among those happy with the pact are (from left) Deckhand Michael Tomlin, Engineer Christopher Lambert, Engineer Delegate Robert Jordan, Deckhand Delegate David Abney, Engineer Frank Arnona and Deckhand Eric Burlette. Dean Corgey led the SIU negotiating teams for all three contracts. He stated that maintaining Plan G medical coverage for the boatmen and their families while also securing wage gains “is a great credit to all concerned and a major accomplishment. The struggle to maintain good, affordable health care benefits is the main issue in practically every union contract negotiation—for all unions— across the country. The fact that we kept the top coverage for members and their dependents and still got wage increases is a great achievement.” Corgey, SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee and SIU Representative Kevin Marchand were joined on the Seabulk bargaining committee by Captain Chuck Taylor, Chief Engineer Kenneth Beach, Deckhand Gus Leday and Quartermaster Chris Union Secures Substantial Settlement for CIVMARS in Health & Safety Grievance After many months of investigation and advocacy, the SIU has secured a substantial settlement award for employees who sailed aboard the USNS Kilauea during parts of the year 2003. Approximately 86 mariners, including those not covered by union contracts, will be eligible for this settlement payment. The problem arose after the Kilauea left Port Haddock, Wash. en route to Guam. Mariners noted a problem with the water quality, color and odor aboard the vessel. Some crew members also experienced a stinging and burning sensation on their skin, lips and throat when they came into contact with the water. The crew notified SIU Government Services Division Representative Chester Wheeler and a grievance was filed. A detailed investigation into the cause of the problem took place with Naval Environmental Medicine as well as Industrial Hygiene Department personnel visiting the vessel. Air and water samples were taken. While the investigation continued, the union advocated for the delivery of bottled water to the vessel and other modifications to ensure the ship was as safe as possible. The crew and contractors worked on the tanks as the ship continued sailing to various Pacific ports. Wheeler closely followed the situation for months. To settle the grievance, the union requested monetary compensation and medical monitoring specifically targeted to this exposure for each mariner. MSC, however, would not agree to the amount requested by the SIU. The union filed for arbitration, and the parties were in the process of selecting an arbitrator when MSC representatives agreed to the union’s demand of $10 per day for the period between March 6, 2003 and June 22, 2003. SIU Government Services Division members who believe they are eligible for this settlement payment but haven’t received it are asked to contact the union. While MSC maintains that there were no exposures to unhealthy substances, the SIU is encouraging all mariners who were exposed to this unpotable water to mention the situation at their next MSC physical examination. Direct the medical examiner to note this exposure on your medical records and get a copy of your record. You should have the medical examiner order blood screens that may detect any problems which may be developing. You should also have the same thing done at your private physician’s office when you go for your next examination. Thibodeaux. “Everything’s cool,” Taylor said when asked for his thoughts on the contract. “Everything went okay—Dean and Jimbo and Kevin did a darn good job. The medical benefits are really valuable.” The Moran negotiating committee consisted of Corgey, McGee, Marchand, Capt. Clint Campbell, Chief En- Serving on the Seabulk negotiating team gineer Jimmy Brous- were (from left, kneeling) Captain Chuck sard, Quartermaster Taylor, Deckhand Gus Leday, (standing) SIU Andy Ashworth and Representative Kevin Marchand, Chief AB Paul Paszkiewicz. Engineer Kenneth Beach, SIU VP Gulf Coast “What we ended up Dean Corgey, Quartermaster Chris Thiwith is very good,” bodeaux and SIU Assistant VP Jim McGee. Campbell said. “We got wage increases and kept our med- communication between the negoical benefits. I think everything tiating teams.” Jordan agreed, characterizing looked good.” The Moran contract has one the negotiations as “much better unresolved issue that is scheduled than last time. The cooperation, for arbitration, as agreed to by the the good faith of sitting down without the lawyers—I liked it. union and the company. The Bisso bargaining commit- Dean and those guys can negotiate tee included Corgey, SIU New with the best, so I wasn’t worried Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, about that, but it was all very Safety Director Chris Westbrook, smooth.” Commenting about the conEngineer Delegate Robert Jordan and Deckhand Delegate tract itself, Jordan added, “We got some money out of it and the most David Abney. Judd pointed out that this was important part was we continue to the first time the company “com- have our (health) insurance. That’s municated directly with the union one of the big things the guys reps and members without using wanted.” Altogether, more than 150 SIU attorneys. Negotiations were hardfought, but they had a better tone boatmen are covered by the new this time. They were constructive agreements—approximately 75 at and respectful with good, direct Bisso, more than 50 at Seabulk and more than 30 at Moran. Moran boatmen and SIU officials quickly pose for a group photo after discussing key elements of the new five-year contract. ARC Clinical Director Bill Eckles Retires The longtime clinical director of the Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Piney Point, Md. is retiring, but Bill Eckles plans to remain a familiar and readily available face both at the facility and at its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. “It’s a lot to walk away from, but I’m part of the family,” said Eckles, 61. “Between going to sea and working down here, you’re talking about almost 40 years of my life. I’ll come down for the (membership) meetings, and the door will always be open.” Eckles joined the SIU in 1965 in his native Philadelphia. He completed the bosun recertification program and later earned a second mate’s license before coming ashore in 1985 as a counselor at the ARC. Three years later he became the clinical director. Eckles said his decision to retire proved difficult, but he looks forward to spending time with his family, including both parents and five grandchildren. He lives in Silver Spring, Md. “His job wasn’t the easiest in the world, but he saved many, 8 Seafarers LOG many lives,” stated Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center. “He certainly was a dedicated employee, and he cares about other people. He was the hands-on, day-to-day person who ran the ARC and he was there every single day.” Coworkers also praised Eckles as committed and effective. John Gallagher, director of the ARC, noted, “For the past 18 years, Bill has been both advocate and representative of the alcohol and drug recovery movement within the maritime industry. As clinical director of the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center, his professional contribution and personal involvement in the treatment of every patient has been instrumental in assisting their recovery process. “Concern, caring and commitment to his seafaring brothers and sisters are the primary components of Bill’s legacy to the ARC,” Gallagher added. Counselor Frank Torres described Eckles as “undeniably the heart and soul of the ARC. His wisdom and knowledge will be sorely missed.” Celebrating his well-earned retirement with Bill Eckles (second from left) are his daughter, Erin, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan and Eckles’ wife, Elda. Counselor Jerry Foley expressed pride in a 27-year friendship with Eckles. “At times over the years when I felt like giving up, he always had faith in me. For that, I have to say I love the big guy! God bless him and God bless the SIU.” Kerrie Thompson, ARC secretary, said Eckles “had an impact on everyone who came through this facility, and I personally have learned a lot from him. We’re all glad that we aren’t saying goodbye to Bill, but instead, see you later.” House Manager Joe Zook stat- ed, “Bill Eckles has always been the biggest inspiration in my life and recovery and also the best friend I have in the industry. I’ll be forever in his debt for all that he has done for me. May God keep him in His hands.” Eckles said he got started as a counselor because he had gone through the ARC when it opened (in 1975) and he “had a desire to put something back into it.” He has been a leading advocate of relapse prevention—his presentation at the 1992 International Transport Workers’ Federation convention helped convince maritime unions worldwide about its importance. Eckles said the most rewarding part of his work at the ARC was “working with the guys, the members who needed help.” In a 1992 article commemorating the Paul Hall Center’s 25th anniversary, Eckles wrote, “I wouldn’t have worked in this field if it wasn’t with merchant mariners. I wasn’t looking for another profession, but going through the ARC program had turned my life around, and I felt I could contribute.” August 2004 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:24 PM Page 9 SIU Bosun Named ‘Outstanding Mariner’ SIU-contracted American Steamship Company (ASC) announced June 25 that Seafarer Charles B. Neigebauer has been named recipient of ASC’s 2004 Outstanding Mariner Award. Neigebauer is a bosun on the M/V St. Clair. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski described Neigebauer as “a longtime member who takes great pride in his work. Charlie also instills a strong work ethic into younger mariners. He’s very deserving of this recognition.” “ASC presents the Outstanding Mariner Award annually to an employee, nominated by his or her peers, whose performance exemplifies the spirit of dedication, commitment to excellence and results-oriented drive that are the foundation of the American Steamship Company,” the company said in a news release. Jerome K. Welsch, president and CEO of ASC, said, “Through the Outstanding Mariner program, ASC recognizes shipboard and office personnel who have distinguished themselves through meritorious service. Charles’ 24 years of service to ASC are deeply appreciated and I am pleased to present him with this recognition from his company and his peers.” In nominating Neigebauer, 62, his shipmates noted that he “is always willing and able to work with all crew members. He is a leader with a positive attitude, and his focus on the safety and wellbeing of the crew and vessel is evident at all times.” Neigebauer has sailed with ASC since 1980 and aboard the St. Clair since 1986. His wife, Sondra, also is an SIU member. Charles Neigebauer began sailing in 1969, first working as a deckhand. “I would have to say that I like working out on the deck the most,” he noted. “The work is hard but the rewards are great. When you finish a job—from cargo handling to routine maintenance—and think back on how well everyone worked, it makes you feel proud.” Transportation Dept. Backs Bill Compensating WWII Mariners The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) formally has endorsed the enactment of the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2004. DOT’s position on the bill, H.R. 3729—“To amend title 46, United States Code, to provide a monthly monetary benefit to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II”— recently was outlined in official correspondence to U.S. Representative Christopher Smith (RN.J.), chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. In part, the correspondence read as follows: “H.R. 3729 would provide a $1,000 monthly monetary veterans’ benefit to certain members of the United States Merchant Marine who served in World War II. This benefit would also be available to a deceased Merchant Mariner’s surviving spouse or disabled child. Merchant Mariners seeking the monthly benefit would be required to apply to the Secretary of Transportation for a certificate of honorable service, to be determined by applying the same standards used to grant an honorable military discharge. “The Department supports H.R. 3729, which provides Merchant Mariners with long-overdue recognition of their service during World War II. Carrying the troops and supplies integral to the war effort, Merchant Mariners faced the enemy alongside members of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, putting their lives at risk for the freedom of a nation. Their sacrifice was great indeed, as the U.S. Merchant Marine suffered a higher casualty rate than any branch of the armed forces in World War II except the Marine Corps: almost 1 in 30 Mariners lost their lives. “Despite their extraordinary contributions during the war, Merchant Mariners were not included in the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, the first G.I. Bill which granted benefits to World War II veterans. This Act provided unemployment pay, loan guarantees, tuition assistance and other benefits to members of the armed forces to help them transition into civilian life. Lacking the benefits conferred on their military counterparts, some Merchant Mariners were faced with severe economic and social disadvantages in the aftermath of the war. It was not until 1988 that members of the U.S. Merchant Marine were granted veterans status, more than forty years after many of them had risked their lives in service to their country during World War II. “The Department of Transportation believes that the economic benefit contained in H.R. 3729 is an appropriate means through which to address the discrepancy in the treatment of World War II Merchant Mariners that has existed for decades. We believe this benefit, to be conferred at a time when those eligible for it average over 80 years in age, is modest when compared to the years of assistance provided to other World War II veterans. In fact, it is impossible to quantify the economic compensation that other veterans received as a result of benefits such as access to higher education, and the increased earnings associated with it. Additionally, due to the advanced age of merchant mariners (or their surviving spouses) we believe that the economic impact on the Federal government will be small. “At the dedication of the National World War II Memorial on May 29, 2004, President Bush recognized Merchant Mariners as integral members of America’s fighting forces, noting “In all, more than 16 million Americans would put on the uniform of the soldier, the sailor, the airman, the Marine, the Coast Guardsman or the Merchant Mariner.” The Department encourages enactment of this bill.” Copies of the foregoing correspondence also were transmitted Bosun Charles Neigebauer found a home in the deck department in 1969 and has sailed ever since. to U.S. Rep. Lane Evans (D-Ill.), ranking member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs; U.S. Rep. Bill Thomas (R-Calif.), chairman, House Committee on Ways and Means; and U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.), ranking member, House Committee on Ways and Means. As was reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the American Merchant Marine Veterans, which includes thousands of retired Seafarers, also is urging passage of H.R. 3729. The legislation on Jan. 27 was introduced in the House by U.S. Rep. Bob Filner (D-Calif.). During his presentation on the House floor, Congressman Filner observed, “While it is impossible to make up for over 40 years of unpaid benefits, I propose a bill that will acknowledge the service of the veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine and offer compensation for years and years of lost benefits….” The bill on April 13 was referred to the House Subcommittee on Benefits. As of press time for the LOG, the legislation had 84 co-sponsors. U.S. Health Care Costs Continue Upward Spiral Seafarers, Dependents Can Help Union Reduce Fees to Plan and Participants The high cost of health care in America continues to be a major concern for U.S. workers and their families. Retaining affordable, quality health care is a top priority for workers in a wide range of industries as they head to the bargaining table. This was never more evident than in the five-month strike by Southern California grocery workers—the longest grocery strike and lockout in U.S. history— that ended earlier this year. The dispute began in October 2003 when UFCW members refused to give in to demands to slash their health care benefits. Following 20 weeks without paychecks, the union workers finally won their fight to protect affordable health care as well as their pensions and job security. They were, perhaps, the lucky ones. In today’s weakened economy, many firms are successful in passing on high health care costs to their employees. Some workers are paying more for their insurance, while others are paying an increasing percentage of the premiums or seeing increases in deductibles and co-payments. The sad fact is that the United States spends more on health care than any other country in the world, yet nearly 44 million Americans lack medical coverage. Low-income families with at least one full-time worker are only half as likely to have job-based coverage as higher-income working families. And nearly 54 percent of workers in small business have no health coverage at all. Children and spouses are typically the first victims of decreases in health coverage. Minimizing prescription costs is one component of affordable health care. The Seafarers Health and August 2004 Benefits Plan’s agreement with Prescription Solutions, which took effect Jan. 1, 2004, is one way the union is trying to reduce the cost of prescribed drugs. With more than 55,000 participating pharmacies in their network, Prescription Solutions is proving to be a popular benefit for Seafarers and is resulting in a savings both to the Plan and to the participants. In addition to the work the Plan officials are undertaking, there are ways that individual members can help reduce the costs of their medical care. Staying fit, eating nutritious food and wearing seat belts are some of the obvious ones. Other suggestions include asking your doctor to prescribe (or your pharmacists to fill) a generic version, whenever possible, of a prescribed drug. In some cases, the difference in price is significant. 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 that is equal to 25 percent of the amount he or she saved the Plan—up to a maximum of $500. Of particular importance, especially during this election year, is to keep informed of national and local health care issues. In several states, union activists are fighting for legislation to bring health care coverage to low- and moderate-income workers and their families. Seafarers LOG 9 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:37 PM Page 10 Seen in San Francisco . . . It was all smiles for these members of the ITB Baltimore’s crew. From the left are ABs Oscar Lacayo, Thomas Roberts and Sajid Ali. Crew members aboard the IUM vessel Great Land pose for a group shot. Happy to be in the port of San Francisco aboard the Cape Orlando are (from left) Bosun Barry Patin, Capt. Pete Grealy and AB William “Buzz” Brown. The Cape Orlando is an American Overseas Marine vessel that sails on the West Coast. Galley gang members aboard the Cape Girardeau, an American Ship Management vessel, include Chief Steward Donna Moore (left) and Chief Cook Brian Cushing. Below (top photo): SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (right) greets Mike Mason, maritime security instructor, who went to the San Francisco hall (as well as other SIU halls across the country) to instruct SIU members about shipboard security. At the conclusion of Mason’s presentations, students were awarded certificates of completion. In the bottom photo, Douglas Sweet asks Mason a specific safety question. Left: Following a 90-day trip to Iraq and the Middle East, crew members aboard the Cape Orlando returned to the port of San Francisco and were awarded Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals and certificates of appreciation from the Maritime Administration. Right (top photo): SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (left) presents SS Jeremiah O’Brien Capt. Patrick Moloney with a contribution from the union for shipyard repair work for the old Liberty ship. At right: During Martime Day ceremonies aboard the Jeremiah O’Brien, a wreath was presented in memeory of the late SIU VP West Coast George McCartney, who died in March. Captain Moloney poses with McCartney’s wife, Helga (right) and daughter, Heidi. 10 Seafarers LOG August 2004 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:37 PM Page 11 When the Cape Knox arrived in New Orleans from operations in the Middle East, crew members were welcomed home and presented by the Maritime Administration with Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals and certificates for their service aboard the U.S.-flag ship in support of operations involving American and allied military forces. OS Ismael Manley and OS Erigardo “Junior” Guity appear as small specks as they work aloft on the Overseas Philadelphia. The photo was taken aboard the tanker by Bosun Tim Olvany. . . . And Across the U.S. Left: AB Tom Gavagan (left) and Bosun Chad Cuningham catch a blue marlin from aboard the Tallahassee Bay (Keystone Shipping Service). It weighed approximately 300 pounds. This snapshot was taken of the trio fairly quickly, since the fish was released, unharmed, back to its home in the sea. Above: Seated around the table on the Dodge Island (Great Lakes Dredge & Dock) are (from left) AB Larry Parker, AB/Dragtender Tommy Davis, 3rd Engineer Brett Sollee, 3rd Engineer Armando Evangelista and Cook Mario Fernandez. A picture of the USNS Watson was presented to Mobile SIU Port Agent Ed Kelly by Herman “Dusty” Rhodes. Rhodes, who is the chief elecrician aboard the Maersk Lines, Ltd. vessel, also made the ornate frame. The picture will hang prominently in the Mobile hall. Gathering in the galley of the SIU-contracted El Toro are (from left) SA Toni Grant, Chief Cook Theodore Quammie, UA Richard McKain, Cadet Tim Boorman, UA Shantay Joquin and Steward/Baker Michael Amador. The El Toro makes runs from the port of Jacksonville, Fla., to Puerto Rico. August 2004 AB Jay Thomas (left) and DEU Cecil Edwards pose for a quick photo on board the El Toro after helping tie up the vessel in the port of Jacksonville. Bob Grubbs is the bosun on the El Toro. In the photo above, he is operating the ship’s crane to unload cargo. Seafarers LOG 11 �Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/23/2004 7:39 PM Page 12 U.S.-Flag Deep Sea Cruise Ship I Snapshots Of SIU-Cre The Seafarers-c christened July rebirth of the U.S article covering t these pages are U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William Schubert U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii) Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri KT Lim The 853-foot Pride of A personnel and can carr Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch SIU President Michael Sacco Sena At H The SIU honored U month during a cerem safety training center SIU President Mic ardent backer of the U ing him for his unwav “Senator Dan Inou thy of an entire book introduction,” Sacco The Reverend David ing and safety trainin 12 Seafarers LOG August 2004 �Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/23/2004 3:27 AM Page 13 Industry Is ots from Christening Crewed Pride of Aloha rs-crewed Pride of Aloha was uly 4 in Honolulu, marking the U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. An ng the event is on page 3. On are photos from the day. e of Aloha reflagged U.S. in June. It employs nearly 800 shipboard carry 2,000 passengers. SIU officials and crew members were a big part of the christening ceremonies. Pictured directly above with two Seafarers are SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right), Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (far right), VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (third from left). nator Inouye Honored Hawaii School Blessing ored U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii) last ceremony at the union’s affiliated fire fighting and enter in Honolulu, which opened last year. t Michael Sacco presented the senator—a longtime, the U.S. Merchant Marine—with a porthole thankunwavering support. n Inouye’s record of service to our country is worbook, so there’s no way to do it justice in a brief acco remarked at the July 2 event. “But I want everyone here today to know that without Senator Inouye, this school would not have been possible. He is the driving force behind the school’s success. He is committed to American seafarers. He is ensuring that people have opportunities for proper training and good careers aboard American-flag ships. In short, he’s doing what’s right for the people of Hawaii and for other citizens from around the country who want to answer the call of the sea.” The SIU president described Inouye as “an exceptional friend to the American mariner, standing together with us on laws like the U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (second from left) congratulates Seafarer Michael Zagala on completing STCW Basic Safety Training in Honolulu. Also taking part in the presentation are (from left) SIU President Michael Sacco, NCL Senior VP Robert Kritzman and Joe Curtis, an instructor at the school. avid Kaupu blesses the union’s affiliated fire fightaining school last month in Honolulu. August 2004 SIU President Michael Sacco (left) presented U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye with a porthole inscribed with a message conveying the union’s thanks for the senator’s powerful support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and many other important issues.” Inouye later send a letter to Sacco describing the establishment of the Honolulu school as “a true partnership that has resulted in a win-win for Hawaii, as residents are trained and certified as mariners…. I thank you for your support and friendship.” He also wrote that the “launching of the Pride of Aloha is indeed a victory and a reason for celebration…. To walk through the beautiful ship, to see the lines of people checking in all so very excited about their cruise, and most important, to watch the hundreds of employees—of seafarers marching proudly through the audience full of optimism about their future makes it all worthwhile.” Seafarers LOG 13 �23844_P4,14_17,19.qxd 7/22/2004 4:49 PM Page 14 Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers 800 E. Diamond Blvd., Suite 3-227 Anchorage, AK 99515 Phone: (907) 271-6736 2760 Sherwood Lane, Suite 2A Juneau, AK 99801-8545 Phone: (907) 463-2458 40 South Gay Street Baltimore, MD 21202-4022 Phone: (410) 962-5132 1001 S. Seaside Avenue, Bldg. 20 San Pedro, CA 90731-0208 Phone: (310) 732-2080 455 Commercial Street Boston, MA 02109-1045 Phone: (617) 223-3040 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 1302 Memphis, TN 38103 Phone: (901) 544-3297 196 Tradd Street Charleston, SC 29401-1899 Phone: (843) 720-3250 Claude Pepper Federal Building 51 S.W. 1st Ave., 6th Floor Miami, FL 33130-1608 Phone: (305) 536-6548/6874 433 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96813-4909 Phone: (808) 522-8264 8876 Gulf Freeway, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77017-6595 Phone: (713) 948-3350 6767 N. Basin Avenue Portland, OR 97217-3992 Phone: (503) 240-9346 915 Second Ave., Room 194 Seattle, WA 98174-1067 Phone: (206) 217-6115 Oakland Federal Bldg., North Tower 1301 Clay Street, Room 180N Oakland, CA 94612-5200 Phone: (510) 637-1124 Fax: (510) 637-1126 E-mail: recsfbay@d11.uscg.mil 9820 Lake Forest Blvd., Suite P New Orleans, LA 70127-3077 Phone: (504) 240-7300 1222 Spruce Street, Suite 8.104E St. Louis, MO 63103-2835 Phone: (314) 539-3091 Battery Park Building 1 South Street New York, NY 10004-1466 Phone: (212) 668-7492 420 Madison Ave., Suite 700 Toledo, OH 43604 Phone: (419) 418-6010 Don’t let your documents expire! Allow plenty of time for renewal. NOTICE FROM SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN In March 2004, the Trustees of the Plan decided that the Plan would not cover the costs of weight loss surgery, which is often referred to as “bariatric surgery,” “gastric stapling” or “gastric bypass.” This decision was made because of the many risks associated with these procedures, and the complications that frequently result from such surgeries. In the past, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would only pay for such surgery in rare occasions, in extremely limited circumstances. 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. 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 ‘Union Plus’ Offers Consumer Benefits Union Plus gives Seafarers and their families access to a number of cost-saving benefits programs. Union Plus (formerly Union Privilege) is a non-profit entity created in 1986 by the AFL-CIO to provide union members and their families with valuable consumer benefits. Basically, the organization secures good rates for union members who are enrolled in the various programs, based on the potential collective purchasing power of all members of participating unions. In short, it’s a case of strength in numbers. The following is a list of Union Plus programs in which the SIU participates. For more information about a particular program, call the appropriate Union Plus telephone number or visit www.unionplus.org Credit Card This union-endorsed credit card may save you money. Features of the card include a competitive rate, no annual fees and a unique, valuable member advocacy program. Apply online at www.unionpluscard.com or call 1800-522-4000. Secured Credit Card This is a special credit card that is designed to help you establish or reestablish your credit. Features include no application fees, a credit line equal to 100 percent of deposit and a 25-day grace period. Call 1-800-622-2580. Mortgage and Real Estate Buying, selling or refinancing a home can be made easier and more affordable through this offering. Program features include strike, layoff and disability assistance and an easy over-the-phone application process. The program also is open to your parents and children. Call 1-800-848-6466. 14 Seafarers LOG Life Insurance Members may purchase term insurance at low group rates and premium waver during layoffs. Call 1-800-8992782. Health Savings This program makes it possible for members to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses on a variety of health care services such as prescriptions, vision care and more. Participants receive quarterly savings statements. Call 1-800-228-3523 for more details. Auto Insurance Program Under this program, low rates and many discounts are available for members who have good driving records and safety devices installed on their vehicles. Customer service is available 24 hours a day. For comparison quotes, go to www.unionplus.org or call 1-800-294-9496 to apply. Education Services Information about loans, scholarships, how to select a school, prepare for college entry tests, and much more is provided in this program. Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-877-881-1022. National Labor College Scholarship This offering is designed especially for working adults who want to pursue a bachelor of arts degree while continuing their trade union work. For more details, call 1-301-431-5404. Loan Program Competitive-rate personal and home equity loans are available under this program. It can be ideal for debt consolidation. Apply online at www.unionplusloan.com or call 1-888-235-2759. Accidental Death Insurance Members can receive $10,000 worth of workplace accidental death insurance at no cost. They also may purchase “all-cause” accidental death coverage up to $200,000. Call 1-800-899-2782 or enroll online at www.unionplus.org. Family Savers Hotel Royal Plaza Special leisure rates are available at the Hotel Royal Plaza in the Walt Disney World Resort. Call 1-800-2487890. Car Rentals Union members can receive discounted rates on rentals. To find out more, visit www.unionplus.org; call Avis at 1-800-6985685, ID# B723700 or Budget at 1800-455-2848, ID# V816100. Union-M Made Checks Union-printed checks and return address labels that feature your union logo are offered under this program. Call 1-888-864-6625. Flower Service As an SIU member, you can save 15 percent when you send floral arrangements, wreaths or gift baskets. Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-888-667-7779 to place an order. North American Van Lines Members can realize savings on interstate moves. Call 1-800-524-5533. Your Credit Score For $11, you can get your credit score, credit report, and suggestions for improving your score. Visit www.unionplus.org. Vacation Tours Discount travel packages are available to worldwide destinations. This program is open to union members, retirees and their families. Call 1-800-590-1104 for more information. August 2004 �23844_P4,14_17,19.qxd 7/22/2004 3:21 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September & October 2004 Membership Meetings JUNE 16 — JULY 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 1 0 14 5 10 28 38 0 10 16 23 10 3 1 9 18 1 27 20 234 2 6 4 5 7 24 37 1 13 15 17 20 2 2 9 8 4 25 22 223 0 1 2 0 3 16 15 2 3 10 18 5 0 2 1 3 2 13 10 106 0 0 4 4 7 16 28 0 12 13 14 10 5 0 4 12 0 18 15 162 1 1 5 3 4 8 13 1 10 12 8 9 2 16 4 8 4 19 18 146 0 0 3 0 1 10 8 1 3 8 6 2 0 1 1 5 0 11 6 66 0 4 1 7 11 21 0 9 9 9 7 1 2 4 12 0 12 9 118 2 7 2 4 7 25 1 4 8 10 16 6 1 0 6 2 20 11 132 0 0 1 1 5 3 0 0 3 5 1 0 0 0 2 2 4 10 37 0 1 1 6 4 12 0 2 12 8 3 1 2 4 11 3 6 7 83 1 4 3 5 5 12 0 2 4 6 9 3 0 2 6 2 11 10 85 1 0 1 2 4 10 22 0 8 15 3 4 2 3 6 15 3 14 11 124 2 0 14 3 13 50 70 0 23 26 47 19 7 2 15 43 2 58 39 433 2 5 5 6 12 31 60 0 16 18 30 30 5 17 13 12 5 39 38 344 2 1 2 2 7 35 31 2 8 19 31 13 2 4 1 10 4 26 24 224 0 0 1 0 1 4 0 3 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 6 23 0 7 1 12 20 36 0 17 10 16 13 5 2 4 16 0 22 12 193 2 8 1 3 13 45 1 10 19 15 21 5 2 2 9 1 27 13 197 2 0 0 1 15 11 0 1 7 13 5 1 0 0 2 2 6 10 76 0 0 0 3 6 14 0 2 4 6 2 1 0 0 5 1 10 4 58 0 6 0 21 24 22 0 10 13 37 13 5 6 6 40 1 27 33 264 2 0 1 11 6 19 0 8 9 12 12 2 2 2 11 2 8 12 119 2 0 0 1 4 13 0 1 1 4 7 1 2 0 3 0 8 9 56 0 0 2 4 3 9 0 2 4 5 3 0 0 3 10 0 10 7 62 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 4 0 14 14 11 0 2 7 20 6 3 3 2 20 2 11 16 136 0 1 2 6 3 11 0 5 2 7 5 1 0 2 8 2 6 5 66 1 0 0 1 3 8 0 0 1 4 5 1 2 0 1 0 2 6 35 Port 1 1 1 6 11 16 0 1 5 5 4 2 2 0 10 2 11 9 87 0 1 3 1 3 7 0 3 2 4 4 0 3 1 3 0 3 4 42 Piney Point .............Tuesday: September 7* ................................Monday: October 4 ............................................*(change created by Labor Day holiday) ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 3 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 14 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 8 1 2 0 0 3 7 0 0 0 3 2 0 6 1 33 1 2 3 1 9 12 18 0 2 5 23 7 0 2 5 17 0 14 10 131 0 2 3 2 8 20 22 0 2 12 32 14 1 28 0 5 3 18 12 184 0 0 0 0 5 4 4 0 1 2 7 0 0 0 1 5 0 1 0 30 0 1 1 1 8 5 9 0 3 1 13 6 0 9 4 7 2 14 5 89 0 0 2 2 3 10 7 0 1 2 6 6 0 5 1 6 1 8 2 62 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 3 7 0 15 5 57 3 1 3 4 21 24 36 1 5 11 49 14 2 15 7 27 1 29 14 267 3 2 5 2 14 40 38 0 3 20 72 19 2 54 0 10 3 44 35 366 Totals All Departments 521 552 362 362 362 165 244 947 927 722 Algonac ..................Friday: September 10, October 8 Baltimore ................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Boston.....................Friday: September 10, October 8 Duluth .....................Wednesday: September 15, October 13 Guam ......................Thursday: September 23, October 21 Honolulu .................Friday: September 17, October 15 Houston ..................Monday: September 13, October 11 Jacksonville ............Thursday: September 9, October 7 Joliet .......................Thursday: September 16, October 14 Mobile ....................Wednesday: September 15, October 13 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: September 14, October 12 New York................Tuesday: September 7, October 5 Norfolk ...................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: September 8, October 6 Port Everglades.......Thursday: September 16, October 14 San Francisco .........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 ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JERRY TACKETT & JOHN J. JONES Robert E. Allen, an old shipmate, is trying to get in touch with you. Please call him at (757) 851-6190. CLYDE E. JONES Please contact Anthony Allen at (228) 435-4740. JAMES MATTHEW PERRODIN Your nephew, Russell Zaunbrecher, would like to hear from you. Please call him at (337) 788-1610, or write him at 206 W. Northern, Crowley, LA 70526. LYN O. SEARS Please contact your brothers, Jack and Victor. HENRY SIMMONS Please get in touch with an old friend, Mary Ross, at 353 W. 23rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. Remembering Paul Hall August 20, 1914 – June 22, 1980 *“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. August 2004 Seafarers LOG 15 �23844_P4,14_17,19.qxd 7/22/2004 3:23 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JUNE 16 — JULY 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 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 0 7 7 7 18 5 0 3 47 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 5 0 6 4 2 2 0 3 7 24 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 13 7 2 19 1 0 7 49 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 5 0 5 4 0 2 0 3 7 21 1 4 2 1 7 0 1 2 18 0 30 11 14 33 7 1 18 114 0 5 3 4 3 0 0 7 22 0 31 6 10 0 0 0 0 47 3 1 4 2 4 1 0 4 19 0 14 11 3 10 2 4 15 59 0 5 3 2 3 0 0 3 16 0 22 5 7 0 0 0 0 34 0 1 4 0 1 2 0 1 9 0 8 6 6 13 1 2 9 45 0 4 0 2 15 0 2 6 29 0 20 3 9 0 1 0 1 34 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 5 1 4 1 0 7 20 0 0 3 1 1 0 1 3 9 0 5 8 1 2 1 1 2 20 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 4 3 3 7 1 0 9 27 0 1 4 0 0 0 2 2 9 0 1 7 1 2 1 1 2 15 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 4 5 7 1 1 3 23 0 2 1 0 4 0 0 4 11 0 1 6 2 1 4 0 9 23 Port 0 4 3 4 6 1 1 5 24 0 1 1 1 6 0 0 3 12 0 1 6 0 1 3 0 8 19 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 1 0 2 1 0 1 5 0 0 0 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 90 25 67 100 26 55 51 218 67 115 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Pensioner John M. Clarke of Houston. It is of the ship’s committee on board the Steel Architect, taken at payoff in New York, probably in September 1969. Clarke was the steward delegate on board the vessel. The others pictured are Lester Moore, engine delegate; Jake Longfellow, ship’s secretary; Jimmy Toone, deck delegate; and Elmer Barnhill, ship’s chairman. Brother Clarke, 73, joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York following service in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. He retired in 1994. If anyone has a vintage unionrelated 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. August 2004 �23844_P4,14_17,19.qxd 7/22/2004 3:23 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 CLINTON ANDERSON, 64, joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Anderson’s first voyage was aboard the Westward Venture. Born in Jamaica, he shipped in the engine department. Brother Anderson upgraded his skills on a number of occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. and last went to sea aboard the Overseas Boston. He makes his home in Seattle. JOSEFINE BALANAY, 64, hails from the Philippines. Brother Balanay began his career with the SIU in 1989 in Honolulu. He shipped primarily aboard American Hawaii Cruises’ Independence in the engine department and enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Balanay is a resident of Honolulu. WILLIAM CHRISTOPHER III, 59, started his career with the SIU in 1966 in the port of Mobile, Ala. after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Christopher first went to sea aboard a Platte Transport vessel. He worked in the deck department and in 1996 enhanced his skills at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Christopher makes his home in LaPorte, Texas. JIM HASSAN, 57, launched his seafaring career in 1977 in the port of New York. Brother Hassan, who was born in Egypt, first sailed on the Charleston. The deck department member was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. In 1988 he completed his bosun recertification training there. Brother Hassan last sailed on the Missouri, a Maersk Lines vessel. He currently resides in Elmont, N.Y. JAMES LARATTA, 64, was born in Glen Ridge, N.J. Brother Laratta joined the SIU in 1987 in the port of Norfolk, Va. and initially sailed aboard the USNS Capella. A U.S. Navy veteran, Brother Laratta shipped in the engine department. He enhanced his skills on a number of occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Laratta currently lives in Merritt Island, Fla. August 2004 ABEL MACK, 64, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of New York. Brother Mack’s first voyage was on the USNS Potomac. In 1978 the deck department member upgraded his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated training school. Brother Mack now calls Chesapeake, Va. home. OLE J. MORTENSEN, 64, began his seafaring career in 1967 in Piney Point, Md. His first voyage was aboard the Kenmar, a Calmar Steamship Co. vessel. Born in Denmark, he worked in the engine department. Brother Mortensen was a frequent upgrader at the union’s affiliated school. He makes his home in Tacoma, Wash. HUGH S. WOODS, 64, hails from Barbados. Brother Woods began his seafaring career in 1971 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Steel Chemist. He worked in the engine department and on two occasions enhanced his skills in Piney Point, Md. at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Woods most recently worked aboard Maersk Lines’ USNS Prevail. He is a resident of Norfolk, Va. GREAT LAKES YAHYA N. ALI, 64, launched his career with the SIU in 1968 in Detroit. Brother Ali shipped in the engine department and last worked on American Steamship’s Charles E. Wilson. He was born in Arabia and currently lives in Yemen. INLAND CHARLES BAKER, 62, embarked on his seafaring career in 1972 in Piney Point, Md. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Baker first sailed aboard a Steuart Transportation Co. vessel. He worked in the engine department and upgraded his skills on two occasions at the union’s affiliated school. Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., Boatman Baker calls Ocala, Fla. home. JIMMY DEE McNUTT, 68, launched his seafaring career in 1980. Boatman McNutt upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated training school. He worked in the deck department as a captain, primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels. Boatman McNutt was born in Alabama, and now makes his home in Gulfport, Miss. ALICE NACCARATO, 64, joined the SIU in 1984 in the port of Houston. Sister Naccarato was born in Kentucky. She shipped as a member of the steward department, working primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamship vessels. Sister Naccarato currently resides in Princeton, Ky. CHARLES PEAVY, 62, was born in Alabama. Boatman Peavy joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Mobile. He shipped in the deck department and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Co. Boatman Peavy lives in his native state. NILES PETERSON, 63, began his seafaring career in 1986. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Peterson is a U.S. Navy veteran. He worked in the deck department, primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamship vessels. Boatman Peterson makes his home in New Orleans. PAUL TULLIS, 64, hails from Georgia. Boatman Tullis joined the SIU in 1977 in New Orleans. He first worked aboard a Crowley Towing & Transport vessel. Boatman Tullis shipped in the deck department, most recently as a captain. He last sailed on the Sugar Island. Boatman Tullis lives in his native state. WILLIAM M. WILLIFORD, 62, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Philadelphia after serving in the U.S. Army. Boatman Williford sailed in the deck department and was employed primarily aboard vessels operated by Maritrans. He enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1981. Boatman Williford was born in Pittsburgh and now resides in Coatesville, Pa. 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. STEWARD McDANIEL, 65, was born in Port Arthur, Texas. Brother McDaniel started his seafaring career with the NMU in 1964. His first voyage was on the Green Harbor, where he worked in the engine department. Brother McDaniel last went to sea on the Texaco Rhode Island. LINCOLN RICH, 66, joined the NMU in 1972 in Providence, R.I. Brother Rich was born in Honduras. The steward department member’s last voyage was on the Moore McCormack. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The Atlantic and Gulf District of the SIU smashed through with a precedent-making pattern for the maritime industry August 6, when a twoyear contract with the Mississippi Shipping Company for the highest wages ever set in the history of maritime was signed in New Orleans. The contract will run until September 30, 1950 and guarantees a wage increase of $12.50 across the board for every rating except bosun, for whom a $25 raise was secured. The signing of the two-year contract was made doubly important by the securing of a clause which contained guarantees that the present manning scale on all Mississippi ships could not be reduced during the full life of the pact, unless both parties agreed to such reduction. Substantive gains were made in almost every area of Union concern, making this by far the most significant contract ever negotiated. DARIO RODRIGUEZ, 68, began his career with the NMU in 1964. Born in Isabela, P.R., his first voyage was on the United States. Brother Rodriguez worked in the steward department, most recently aboard the American Legion. JAMES SCHULTE, 71, was born in St. Louis. Brother Schulte began his NMU career in 1967 in the port of Seattle, where his first vessel was the Kings Point. The deck department member last sailed on the Fredericksburg. WILLIAM SEPULVEDA, 69, joined the NMU in 1963. Brother Sepulveda initially shipped from New Orleans aboard the Cristobal in the steward department. Born in Puerto Rico, his last voyage was on the American Challenger. MANUEL SURILLO, 59, started sailing with the NMU in 1966 from the port of New York. Brother Surillo sailed in the steward department aboard the Atlantic. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner last went to sea on the American Legion. pital, death, disability, maternity, dependent, optical and out-patient 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. This Month In SIU History 1968 As of August 31 of this year, 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 hos- 1982 The officers and SIU crew of the USNS Southern Cross were honored in Washington, D.C. recently by the American Institute of Merchant Shipping for their “humanitarian assistance to Vietnamese refugees adrift in the South China Sea during late September 1981.” The USNS Southern Cross, part of the SIU Government Services Division fleet operated by the Military Sealift Command, Pacific, picked up 58 desperate “boat people” from a small 35-foot boat on July 15, 1981 while en route from Subic Bay, the Philippines, to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. At the time, their actions were lauded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Singapore…. On the small boat were 18 men, 13 women and 27 children. Seafarers LOG 17 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/23/2004 6:19 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA LONALE ANDREWS Brother Lonale Andrews, 42, passed away May 21. He started his career with the SIU in 1987 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginiaborn mariner first went to sea aboard the USNS Prevail. Brother Andrews worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Sea-Land Developer. He resided in his native state. PERRY BOSARGE Brother Perry Bosarge, 63, died April 1. He joined the SIU in 1990 in the port of Mobile, Ala. and sailed on the Cape Florida. Born in Alabama, the deck department member last shipped aboard the Atlantic Forest, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Brother Bosarge lived in Mobile. PATRICIO CECILIO Pensioner Patricio Cecilio, 88, died April 30. Brother Cecilio embarked on his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Born in Culebra, P.R., he worked in the steward department. Brother Cecilio lived in Aguadilla, P.R. and started receiving his pension in 1973. DOMENIC CITO Pensioner Domenic Cito, 95, passed away May 7. Born in Lerici, Italy, Brother Cito began his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. The steward department member resided in Lynnwood, Wash. and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1972. PEDRO FIGUEROA Pensioner Pedro Figueroa, 84, passed away April 11. Brother Figueroa was born in Puerto Rico and began his seafaring career in 1956. His first ship was the Beauregard. Brother Figueroa worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Nuevo San Juan. He began receiving his pension in 1991. THOMAS GAGNON Brother Thomas Gagnon, 64, died April 27. Brother Gagnon started his career with the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Fall River, Mass., he shipped in the deck department. Brother Gagnon’s last voyage was on Ocean Ships’ Richard Matthiesen. He lived in Talofofo, Guam. SIDNEY GARNER Pensioner Sidney Garner, 77, passed away Feb. 4. Brother Garner commenced his seafaring career in 1953 18 Seafarers LOG in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Navy. He was born in North Carolina and worked in the steward department. Brother Garner last shipped aboard a Puerto Rico Marine Management vessel. The Baltimore resident went on pension in 1990. STANLEY GONDZAR Pensioner Stanley Gondzar, 82, passed away April 18. Born in Maryland, Brother Gondzar joined the SIU in 1943 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The engine department member first went to sea aboard an A.H. Bull Steamship Co. vessel. He last shipped aboard the Sea-Land Leader. Brother Gondzar began receiving pension in 1986. He resided in Berlin, Md. JUDITH HARRINGTON Sister Judith Harrington, 53, died in April 2003. She launched her SIU career in 1991 in the port of Philadelphia. Her first ship was the Lt. Calvin P Titus. Born in Merced, Calif., she worked in the deck department, most recently as a bosun. Sister Harrington last shipped aboard American Overseas Marine’s USNS Capella. She made her home in St. George Island, Fla. EDDIE JACKSON JR. Pensioner Eddie Jackson Jr., 68, passed away April 19. Brother Jackson joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Born in Mobile, Ala., he worked in the steward department. Brother Jackson last sailed on the Sea-Land Independence and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1991. He lived in Seattle. WILLIAM JEMISON SR. Pensioner William Jemison Sr., 66, died April 22. Brother Jemison launched his seafaring career in the port of Mobile, Ala. in 1960 after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first voyage was aboard the Mermaid. The Alabama-born mariner worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard Ocean Chemical Transport’s Chemical Trader. He resided in his native state and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1999. WILLIAM JORDAN Pensioner William Jordan, 84, passed away Sept. 18. Brother Jordan joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. Born in Missouri, the engine department member last sailed on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Thomas Lynch. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1986 and called Albany, La. home. EVERETTE LAMBE Pensioner Everette Lambe, 84, died May 3. Brother Lambe started his career with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Cabarrus, N.C., he worked in the steward department, last sailing on the OMI Charger. Brother Lambe went on pension in 1986 and lived in his native state. MANUEL LANDRON Pensioner Manuel Landron, 91, passed away May 5. Brother Landron was born in Puerto Rico and was a charter member of the SIU, having joined the union in 1939. His first voyage was aboard the Bradford Island. Brother Landron shipped in the deck department and last worked aboard the Mayaquez. He resided in Tampa, Fla. and began receiving his pension in 1978. LOURICE MARTIN Pensioner Lourice Martin, 79, died July 2, 2003. Brother Martin joined the ranks of the SIU in 1959 in Portland, Ore. Born in Louisiana, he worked in the steward department initially aboard Delta Steamship’s Del Oro. Brother Martin last sailed on the Sea-Land Patriot. He lived in Covington, Wash. and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1992. Oct. 20. Brother Pickett commenced his career with the SIU in 1952 in New Orleans. Born in Mobile, Ala., he was a member of the engine department. Brother Pickett first went to sea on Delta Steamship’s Del Oro. His final voyage was aboard the Inger. Brother Pickett started receiving his pension in 1988. He resided in Mission, Texas. WILLIAM ROGERS Pensioner William Rogers, 81, died May 4. Brother Rogers embarked on his seafaring career in 1944 in the port of New York. He first went to sea aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Maine, Brother Rogers shipped in the deck department. He last worked on the Patriot and resided in Waterbury, Conn. Brother Rogers went on pension in 1987. FRANK RUIZ Pensioner Frank Ruiz, 84, passed away April 10. Brother Ruiz started his career with MC&S in San Francisco. Born in Washington, the steward department member began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1969. Brother Ruiz resided in Las Vegas. ARTHUR SHAW Brother Arthur Shaw, 53, passed away March 6. Born in Seattle, Wash., Brother Shaw joined the SIU in 1967 in San Francisco. The engine department member first sailed on Delta Steamship’s Southwestern Victory. Brother Shaw last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Explorer. He called Oakland, Calif. home. MAYO MUNDINE WILLIAM STEVENS Pensioner Mayo Mundine, 88, passed away Dec. 22. Brother Mundine joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of New York. Born in Texas, he worked as a member of the steward department, last sailing on the Cove Leader. Brother Mundine went on pension in 1987 and called Columbus, Texas home. Pensioner William Stevens, 63, died Feb. 1. Brother Stevens launched his SIU career in 1957 in the port of Houston. He initially worked on Calmar Steamship’s Alamar. Brother Stevens shipped in the deck department. He made his home in Las Vegas and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1995. LUTHER MYREX Pensioner Luther Myrex, 77, died Jan. 8. After serving in the U.S. Army, Brother Myrex joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of San Francisco. His first voyage was on the Alcoa Patriot. The deck department member was born in Alabama. Brother Myrex last went to sea aboard the LNG Taurus. He began receiving his pension in 1992 and resided in his native state. DONALD PETERS Pensioner Donald Peters, 88, passed away Aug. 8, 2003. Brother Peters became a Seafarer in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first voyage was on a Calmar Steamship vessel. The engine department member began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1986. Brother Peters was born in California but called South Gate, Ga. home. ROBERT PICKETT Pensioner Robert Pickett, 68, died CLAUDE STURGES Pensioner Claude Sturges, 63, passed away April 22. Brother Sturges began his career with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia-born mariner shipped in the steward department, first sailing on the Seagarden. Brother Sturges went on pension in 1977 and continued to live in his native state. AMBROCIO SUGUITAN Pensioner Ambrocio Suguitan, 96, died May 1. Born in the Philippines, Brother Suguitan launched his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. He went on pension in 1970. Brother Suguitan made his home in Honolulu. CLYDE WOODS Pensioner Clyde Woods, 89, passed away April 23. Brother Woods embarked on his seafaring career in 1945 in Savannah, Ga. The steward department member last sailed aboard a Gulf Atlantic Transport Corp. vessel. He called Candler, Ga. home and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1975. GREAT LAKES FRANK KASPERSKI Pensioner Frank Kasperski, 86, died March 15. Brother Kasperski joined the union in 1960 in Detroit, after serving in the U.S. Army. The New York-born mariner worked in the deck department, last sailing on the William Roesch. Brother Kasperski started receiving his pension in 1981 and resided in his native state. INLAND CHESTER LEWIS Pensioner Chester Lewis, 85, died April 19. Before joining the SIU in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va., Boatman Lewis served in the U.S. Army. He was born in Pamlico, N.C. and worked in the steward department, shipping primarily aboard vessels operated by Maritrans. Boatman Lewis resided in Grantsboro, N.C. and began receiving his pension in 1983. ROLAND MASON SR. Pensioner Roland Mason Sr., 80, passed away May 14. Boatman Mason embarked on his career with the SIU in 1958 in the port of Baltimore. Born in North Carolina, he sailed in the deck department as a captain. Boatman Mason initially worked aboard the Government Camp. His final voyage was on the STC Little Curtis. Boatman Mason started receiving his pension in 1988 and resided in Chesapeake, Va. JACK STOUT Pensioner Jack Stout, 73, passed away May 6. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Boatman Stout joined the SIU in 1970. His initial voyage was aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. Born in Wichita, Kan., Boatman Stout worked in the deck department. He last sailed on a G&H Towing vessel. Boatman Stout made his home in Rye, Texas and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1993. Continued on page 20 August 2004 �23844_P4,14_17,19.qxd 7/22/2004 3:24 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..``` ACHIEVER (USSM), May 16— Chairman James E. Davis, Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate Peter Wojcikowski, Steward Delegate Obencio Espinoza. Chairman reminded crew this is an election year and to vote for pro-maritime candidates. He also encouraged members to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks to steward department for keeping living areas orderly. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston; Norfolk, Va. MOTIVATOR (USMM), May 17—Chairman Anthony Mabew, Secretary Matthew Scott. Chairman announced ship payoff in Houston. He thanked crew members for job well done. Secretary emphasized educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs reported; OT issue in deck department to be settled at payoff. Clarification requested on transportation expenses. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (OSG), May 21—Chairman John M. Zepeda, Secretary George Quinn, Deck Delegate Floyd Patterson, Engine Delegate Jerome E. Dooms, Steward Delegate Leoncio A. Castro. Chairman announced payoff May 23 in Miami, Fla. with stores brought on that day. Secretary thanked crew for help keeping crew mess hall clean. Beefs and disputed OT reported in engine department; none in deck or steward departments. Recommendation made to get weight set for exercise room. Security crew given drill on how to spot bombs planted aboard ship. Next port New Orleans. COAST RANGE (Intrepid), June 27—Chairman Gregory R. Jenkins, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox, Educational Director Scott S. Fuller, Deck Delegate Donnie W. Collins, Engine Delegate Scott Fuller, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman reminded crew members to wait to be properly relieved before being paid off and to make sure rooms are left clean. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep common areas and mess hall clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to rename “Vacation Benefit.” Fresh milk and produce to be brought at first port of entry. Next port: Garyville, La. EL YUNQUE (IUM), June 27— Chairman Luis J. Ramirez, Secretary Francis E. Ostendarp, Educational Director John J. Walsh, Deck Delegate Jose Canales, Engine Delegate Ronald Williams, Steward Delegate Nelson F. Morales. Chairman announced payoff July 1 in Port Everglades, Fla. He asked crew members to watch instructional video in union halls addressing terrorism. Educational director advised crew to upgrade whenever possible at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. and to keep all records up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding seatime and age requirements for pension benefits. ENDURANCE (USSM), June 14 —Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, August 2004 Secretary Jesse B. Natividad, Educational Director Ron M. Schexnayder, Deck Delegate Dennis A. Hurley, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Thurman C. Johnson. Chairman thanked crew for smooth trip and led discussion on ship security. Treasurer stated $1,190 in crew’s fund, less $72 for a dart board set. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crew getting off to lock rooms and give keys to chief mate. Next port: Los Angeles. EXPRESS (USSM), June 20— Chairman George H. Perry, Secretary Richard E. Hicks, Educational Director Mohamad Y. Abdullah. Chairman thanked those members who took vessel out of yard for excellent job cleaning and getting ship running again. Secretary thanked crew for pleasant trip and for keeping everything clean. Communications read regarding no bus service in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Baltimore, Newark, N.J. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), June 20— Chairman Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director Lorence D. Pence, Deck Delegate Basil D. Stolen, Engine Delegate John R. Day. Chairman announced payoff June 22 in Tacoma, Wash. He notified crew of mandatory Coast Guard security drills June 23. Educational director advised crew to keep upgrading at union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to engine and deck departments for keeping living areas clean and to steward department for good meals and service. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), June 22— Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Vainuu L. Sili, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Robert J. Natividad, Engine Delegate Thomas V. Hastings, Steward Delegate Henry O. Wright. Chairman announced arrival June 22 in Oakland, Calif. with payoff that same day. He thanked crew for keeping ship clean and plastic items separate from regular trash. Due to security, only one access door should be open while in port. Departing crew members were reminded to leave set of clean linen for next person. Educational director stressed importance of attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read president’s report pertaining to training and security aboard ships. Recommendation made to reduce seatime needed for pension and increase monthly benefit. Suggestion made to order new mattresses and towels. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), June 5—Chairman Donald D. Rico, Secretary Kristen M. Swann, Educational Director John C. Ropp. Chairman asked department crew members to clean staterooms and leave fresh linen. He also stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Secretary encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and make sure all paperwork and docu- ments are current, allowing plenty of time for z-card renewal. Educational director advised crew to keep up with union and industry business by reading Seafarers LOG. Treasurer stated $335 in ship’s fund and $100 in cookout fund. Beef reported by engine department delegate. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), June 21—Chairman Dominic L. Brunamonti, Secretary Sherman W. Anderson, Educational Director Odgen W. Lafaye, Deck Delegate Wilfredo G. Caidoy, Engine Delegate George B. Lockett, Steward Delegate Bienvenido C. Badillo. Chairman announced payoff July 3 in Tacoma, Wash. Everyone reminded to carry current, up-to-date z-cards in and out of port gate and not to compromise marked restricted entry doors and hatches when in port. He thanked crew members for promptly extinguishing electrical fire and working well together this voyage. Educational director advised Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $1,152.11 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reminded to be cautious around 440-volt cables and to be quiet in passageways since watchstanders may be sleeping. Request made that those going on watch be allowed to eat first. Deck department asked that work gloves and coveralls be available in Slop Chest. HORIZON SPRIT (Horizon Lines), June 7—Chairman Howard W. Gibbs, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Roger M. Wasserman, Deck Delegate Charles L. Mull, Engine Delegate Randall P. Story. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. followed by blanket relief. He reminded crew to check with patrolman before leaving ship and advised them of security training. Secretary asked crew members to keep noise down so watchstanders can sleep and for department members to leave rooms clean for next person. Educational director encouraged crew to keep documents current and to upgrade skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to amend shipping procedure rules. Suggestion made to replace sofa and chairs. After pricing is obtained, they can, hopefully, be purchased in Oakland. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), June 7—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn, Educational Director Michael G. McGlone, Deck Delegate Robert Brown, Engine Delegate James B. Long, Steward Delegate Ronald E. Dewitt. Chairman encouraged crew members to keep dues paid current and support SPAD. He announced payoff June 8 upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. and thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean. Educational director urged all members to take advantage of upgrading classes at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced that radio and reception would be repaired as soon as possible. Suggestion made to shorten seatime for pension and raise monthly benefit. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. INNOVATOR (USSM), June 20— Chairman Dirk W. Adams, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Roger D. Phillips, Deck Delegate Eric Lund, Engine Delegate Bryan T. Field, Steward Delegate Mostafa Loumrhari. Chairman complimented crew on job well done and encouraged them to read articles in Seafarers LOG about new security measures. He also recognized the passing of former SIU VP West Coast George McCartney. Secretary thanked crew members, especially bosun and two day men, for great job cleaning and painting. Treasurer stated $326 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to increase retirement benefits. Stove plate in galley needs repair. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), June 1—Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director RICHARD G. MATTHIESON (Ocean Shipholding), June 14— Chairman David M. Fridstrom, Secretary Thomas K. Gingerich, Deck Delegate Troy R. Ingersoll, Steward Delegate Gerald Watkins. Chairman notified crew that a Navy security team would be coming aboard in Long Beach for a month. Smoking area will be in crew mess hall, but not during meal hours. Crew members asked to show up for meals on time since security team will eat at 8 a.m., noon and 5:30 p.m. Secretary requested everyone help keep mess area clean. Educational director reminded crew to keep documents up to date. Crew also encouraged Greetings from the Maersk Constellation En route from South Africa to Houston (via Mozambique and Tanzania), crew members aboard the Maersk Constellation were treated to a shipboard barbecue. These photos were sent to the LOG by AB George Jordanides. Enjoying the great food are (clockwise, from top) AB George Jordanides and AB Earl Jones; AB Nick Adderly; and AB Jamie Gill. Geoffrey L. James, Engine Delegate Hussein A Mohamed, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Chairman stressed need for safety at all time. He asked that everyone be quiet in passageways and advised everyone to keep all documents (e.g., MMDs, TRBs, benzene cards, passports) current. He encouraged members to contribute to SPAD—the union’s voice in Congress. Educational director stated that movies were due in next port. Treasurer said that movie fund would be given $200 per month. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to receive copy of Piney Point membership meeting aboard ship. Thanks given “to Mr. Amasha for his new-found penchant for baking.” His salad bars are great, as are his freshly made hot rolls, cookies, breads, cakes and puddings. Next port: Houston. OVERSEAS MARILYN (OSG), June 20—Chairman Marco A. Galliano, Secretary Tyler N. Laffitte, Deck Delegate Oscar R. Padilla, Engine Delegate Hilario C. Martinez, Steward Delegate Isabel Miranda. Chairman advised crew to start renewal process for MMDs early to avoid last-minute delays. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Recommendation made regarding lump-sum option for pension plan. Next port: New Orleans. PATRIOT (USSM), June 27— Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Daniel Q. Payne, Educational Director Mario G Paquiz, Deck Delegate Philemon C. Quitoriano, Engine Delegate Sharif Noor, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Bosun reminded everyone to be aware of new security policies. Educational Director recommended Seafarers upgrade skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension benefits. Crew reminded to help keep ship clean. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department requested third cook on board when a security team of 10 or more sails with vessel for long period of time. Toaster needs to be repaired or replaced. Crew also suggested more plastic chairs be purchased for use during barbecues. Bosun thanked steward department for job well done. Steward department, in turn, thanked bosun for all his help. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Sulphur Carriers), June 13— Chairman Nettali Santana, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Alfred G. Lane, Deck Delegate Tibby L. Clotter, Steward Delegate Jose R. Morales. Chairman encouraged members to upgrade skills in Piney Point. Secretary requested crew return dirty dishes to galley. He also reminded those members getting off to make sure room is clean and with fresh linen for next person. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding increased medical and pension benefits for members and spouses. Recommendation made for union to look into satellite TV issue as well as increase in pay. Additional washer needed in laundry room. Vote of thanks given to chief cook, steward and SA for jobs well done. Next port: Tampa. USNS PAUL BUCK (OSI), June 17—Chairman Kevin A. Kellum, Secretary Michael Tobman, Engine Delegate Orlando V. Pajarillo Jr. Chairman noted concern about current cost of shipboard e-mail. Secretary reminded crew members that dues will be collected in Guam. Educational director emphasized importance of keeping all necessary shipping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on pay scale for messman and DEU on MSC-contacted vessels. Recommendation made to purchase new printer for computer. Next port: Guam. Seafarers LOG 19 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/23/2004 6:58 PM Page 20 Letter to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Merchant Marine Vet Thanked for WWII Service I was at the dedication of the new National World War II Memorial May 29, 2004. It is a beautiful memorial, and it includes the seals of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Army Air Force, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine. On the Mall in Washington, D.C., people came up to me, some with tears in their eyes, and thanked me and others in the Merchant Marine for keeping America free. It made me proud to say that I served in the Merchant Marine in World War II. We delivered 85 to 90 percent of all goods used by the U.S. Final Departures Continued from page 18 WILLIAM WATSON Pensioner William Watson, 87, died April 13. Boatman Watson began his seafaring career in 1958 in the port of Baltimore. He shipped in the deck department as a captain and worked primarily aboard Maritrans vessels. Boatman Watson began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1981. Swan Quarter, N.C. was his 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. PEDRO SOLER Pensioner Pedro Soler, 77, passed away May 16. Brother Soler joined the NMU in 1963, first shipping from the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard the Santa Maria. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Soler worked in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1990. MIGUEL SANCHEZ armed forces, in addition to the fighting troops. We delivered the goods, but not without a cost. The Merchant Marine had one of the highest casualty rates of all the services. Of the 200,000 people at the World War II Memorial dedication, a local paper, The Washington Times, took pictures of some of the World War II veterans. I told my war stories to a volunteer from the Library of Congress, where a collection of similar stories will be housed. I would like to thank all the members of the Seafarers Union for their great help in writing to their representatives of Congress for support of H.R. 3729 [the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act]. As of June 10, 2004, there were 69 representatives of Congress who are co-sponsoring the bill. We need more members of Congress to add their support. So, please keep up the good work—and we will be victorious. Richard G. Wiggins Kansas City, Mo. in 1947, Brother Popek’s initial voyage was aboard the Sedalia Victory. He was born in Massachusetts and worked in the engine department. Brother Popek last sailed on the Export Freedom and began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1978. Pensioner Walter Leycock, 92, died June 3. Brother Leycock was born in St. Croix, V.I. and started his career with the NMU in 1953. Sailing from the port of New York, his first vessel was the Arlington. Brother Leycock shipped in the engine department. He last went to sea aboard the American Export and started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1976. HERBERT GILLARD Pensioner Herbert Gillard, 74, passed away May 18. Brother Gillard began his career with the NMU in 1945, first shipping from Port Arthur, Texas. His first vessel was the James Island. The steward department member was born in Texas. He last sailed aboard the Keystoner and started receiving his pension in 1973. NATHAN EBANKS Pensioner Nathan Ebanks, 79, died June 4. Brother Ebanks was born in the West Indies and joined the NMU in 1941. He initially went to sea from the port of New York aboard the James W. Cannon. Brother Ebanks worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Marine Duval. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1974. LOUIS POPEK THOMAS CARTER Pensioner Louis Popek, 82, passed away June 9. After joining the NMU Pensioner Thomas Carter, 81, passed away May 8. Brother Carter started Seafarers LOG 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 condi- tions 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. Procedure for Absentee Ballots WALTER LEYCOCK Pensioner Miguel Sanchez, 83, died May 31. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Sanchez first sailed with the NMU in 1939 from the port of New York on the Borinquen. Brother Sanchez’s last voyage was on the Newberry Victory. The deck department member went on pension in 1965. 20 Know Your Rights 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 self-addressed and stamped. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight Dec. 31, 2004 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2005. his seafaring career with the NMU in 1943. Born in Kentucky, the engine department member first shipped from the port of New York on the Sparrows Point. Brother Carter last sailed aboard the Genevieve Lykes. He started receiving retirement compensation in 1987. 95 81 81 78 77 77 89 83 85 77 82 76 96 81 87 71 73 81 100 80 81 68 77 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 Anjiras, William Badger, Stanley Bloes, Arthur 89 77 94 May 4 June 11 June 5 Bogdan, Lawrence Carter, Thomas Cerrato, Alejandro Damon, George Davidson, Cecil Evans, John Ferrer, Juan Ferrer, Jose Ford, Samuel Gomes, Harwood Huertas, Pablo Johns, Earle Lamot, John Mazzola, Michael Nicodemus, John Padilla, Hector Redesky, Thomas Rudnickas, Joseph Salinas, Nicasio Tate, Wilton Torres, Pablo Wijngaarde, Otmar Williams, Charles May 18 May 8 April 5 May 21 June 2 June 14 June 4 June 5 May 19 June 11 May 19 May 18 June 11 May 31 May 20 June 10 May 30 June 10 May 27 June 14 May 27 June 11 May 15 Attention Seafarers: August 2004 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:25 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Recertification Bosun The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 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. October 11 Engine 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 August 23 October 4 November 1 September 10 October 22 November 19 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion August16 September 27 November 8 September 10 October 22 December 3 September 13 November 15 September 17 November 19 Celestial Navigation September 27 October 22 GMDSS (Simulator) August 23 September 27 November 1 September 3 October 8 November 12 August 2 September 13 October 25 August 13 September 24 November 5 Course Able Seaman Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* August 23 September 20 November 8 September 3 October 1 November 19 Basic Safety Training (BST) August 2 August 30 August 6 September 3 Fast Rescue Boat August 30 September 3 Government Vessels September 13 October 1 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* October 4 October 8 (*must have basic fire fighting) *(must have radar unlimited) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Navigation Fundamentals November 29 December 10 Radar August 30 November 1 September 10 November 12 August 9 October 4 November 29 August 20 October 15 December 10 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) November 8 (*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. 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 July 18, 2004. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ 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. 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 ________________________________________________ August 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. 8/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:25 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 651 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 651 (in alphabetical order) James Carey, Troy Davis, Daniel Fields, Adam Guerrero, Clark Howard, Shantay Joquin, Perry Martin, Jamal Ricks, John Rodriguez, Bryan Singleterry, Adam Soto and Robert Starr. Able Seaman — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending June 18 are (in alphabetical order) Miguel Baerga, Warren Barney, Harvey Carvajal, Michael Hames, Larry Howard, Terry Igot, Peter Martin, Carl Pedersen, Eugene Perez, Jon Phillips, Jay Pierce, Terrell Poole, La Terrance Ransom, Rigoberto Ruiz, Anthony Sanchez, Marc Simpson, Miles Souders, James Trotter, Tom War and Lakindra Williams. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given July 2 to Kenji Hoffman (left), Steven Haver (center) and Gabriel Bonefont (front). Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, stands in the back. ARPA — Earning their ARPA certificates June 25 are (in no specific order) Loren Wolfe, Harry Claar II, Darryl Alexander, Jermaine Williams, Louis Barra, Karl Mayhew, Nebojsh Milosevic and (not pictured) James Reece. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far right. Fast Rescue — Galley Operations — Upgrading their baking skills in the school’s galley lab recently are (from left) Emilia Wooden (Advanced Galley Operations), Arlene Ringler (chief instructor), Peter Williams (Advanced Galley Operations), Ali Nasser, Lee Holiday, Xu Ziting, Elba Alfaro, Brian Holmes, Khaled Musleh and Felipa Aranda. Under the instruction of Stan Beck (third from left) are Seafarers who completed the fast rescue boat course June 11. They are (in alphabetical order) Darryl Alexander, Robert Carroll, Neil Carter, Frank Mahr and Paul McCready. Radar — Under the instruction of Mike Smith (far right) are Seafarers who completed the radar couse June 18. They are (in alphabetical order) Brook Bowers, James Fekany, Karl Mayhew, David Steinberg and Jermaine Williams. Not pictured are Nebojsa Milosevic and James Reece. Marine Electrician — Completing the marine electrician course July 1 are (in alphabetical order) John Alicea, Jeoffrey Curry, Joseph Egan, Richard Huffman, William McLaughlin, Robert Nelson, Jose Ramirez, Jeffery Roddy, Terry Santure, Ronald Smith, Lionel Taylor and Olie Webber. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is standing at far right. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Computer Lab Class Showing off his certificates of achievement for completion of several computer classes at the Paul Hall Center is Carlos Diaz. With him is his instructor, Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops — Upgrading Seafarers Bon Vannaxay, Selahattin Akpinar and Charles Johnson joined with unlicensed apprentices in completing the basic auxiliary plant operations course June 11. They are (in no specific order) Jess Cooper, Adam Begleiter, Taneisha Johnson, Daniel Miller, Michael Snowden Jr., Michael Maskalenka, Lloyd Clark, Gilbert Johnson, Nicholas Collins, Hashiem Pittman, Orlando Pabon, Joseph Waller, Nicholas Doffoh and Antoine Rainey. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is in the back, far right. August 2004 �23844_P7,9_11,18,20_23.qxd 7/22/2004 4:26 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Small Arms Training— Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Graduating from the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course June 25 are (in no particular order) Steven Hall, Steven Lonas, Douglas Carson, Steven Media, Bruce Heath, Timothy Dunn, Walter Sainvil, Juan Colon, Irving Rochez, Rigoberto Beata, Bon Vannaxay, Selahattin Akpinar, Charles Johnson, Camille Diagne and Leonard Soriano. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Completing the small arms training course June 18 are (in alphabetical order) Nicholas Collins, Michael Cox, Timothy Dexter, Rocky Dupraw, Kent Harper, Gilbert Johnson, Jamie Medina, John Niday IV, Antoine Rainey, Coda Russell, Michael Snowden Jr., Joseph Waldera, Richard Wiltison and Christopher Yohe. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — May 7: Andrew Baumrucker, Charles Burton, Johnny Cothren, Amanda Haun, Jessica Koutecky, Chantry McSherry, Kieran McSherry, Noah Rowan and Lamar Solomon. STCW — May 14: Holly Alfrey, Edward Birdsong, Jeffrey Fiegel, Tony Green, Simien James, James Niotis, Melissa Oakley, Eduardo Osorio, Jimmy Pruitt, Charles Reeve, James Rodriguez, Vasilijs Semesjuks, Marvin St. George, Edgar Stanley, Rick Leach and Debra Meadows. STCW — May 28: Matthew Caplins, Joseph Corr, Alvin Moore Jr., Inocencio Roxas, Ahmed Saleh and Phillip Stephens. STCW — June 25: John Brantly, Harvey Carvajal, George DiCanio, John Habib, Michael Hames Sr., Peter Martin, Sadeq Nasser, Robert Ott, Andrew Page, Carl Pedersen, Jon Phillips, Michelle Picton and Miguel Vinca. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion June 11 from instructor Stacey Harris (front row, center) are Coda Russell, Joseph Waldera, Ty Varnadoe, Christopher Yohe, Christopher Czarske, Richard Wiltison, Nathaniel Leachman, Neftali Erausquin, Santos Gary, Damian Spedale, Kent Harper and Mohamed Mosed. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Earning their lifeboatman/water survival endorsements May 21 are (in alphabetical order) Louie Acerudano, Alberto Armas, Mark Beleno, Keoni Bounds, Mary DeGuzman, Elizabeth Dominguez, Danny Fletcher, Brian Grieder II, Sheila Hanson, Kathleen Kleaver, Aaron Lanet, Tyler Motz, Noheapualani Polendey and Thelma Sokiano. August 2004 Specially Trained OS — Another STOS class that graduated June 11, but under the instruction of Tony Sevilla (back row, far right) are Phillip Maxfield, Timothy Dexter, Jamar Reed, Kevin Johnson, Jor-el Holmberg, Mark Beck, John Crawford, Damar Shaw, John Niday IV, Donaldo Valencia and Jaime Medina. Seafarers LOG 23 �Pg1,2,5,12,13,24, 4cx.qxd 7/22/2004 6:08 PM Page 24 Volume 66, Number 8 August 2004 Tuesday, Nov. 2 is Election Day 2004 Remember, you can’t vote unless you are registered. Participate . . . Register . . . VOTE! Flickertail State Earns Professional Ship Award mance, efficiency, reliability, productivity and safety. “During Operation Haiti, when you worked under fire delivering supplies and equipment to the Marine Corps, and in Operation New Horizons, when you tested new technology at sea during exercises in the North Atlantic, you lived up to the U.S. Merchant Marine’s vital role as America’s Fourth Arm of Defense. That role remains as important as ever, with our nation leading the fight in the global Crew members and officers aboard the Flickertail State were presented with war against terrorism and the Professional Ship Award for an outstanding job in Operation Haiti and also continuing the Operation New Horizons during a ceremony July 15 in Newport News, Va.st They are (back row, from left) GUDE Curtis Spencer, Bosun David Brown, 1 rebuilding of Iraq.” A/E Jim Schwartz, C/E Scott Stillianos, Capt. Joe Regan, AB Bill Humphrey, 3rd The letter conclud- A/E Pat Jarvis, (seated from left) C/M Bernie Fitzgerald, Electrician Mann ed, “I simply couldn’t Aroon, Wiper James Burke, Wiper Nathan Jenkins, AB Stacy Twiford and AB be more proud of each Phillip Harmon. and every one of you. Your performance, defense operations,” he said. Ugland Management. Seafarers your patriotism and your “Our nation’s Ready Reserve sailing aboard the vessel during dedication are a credit to the Force helps ensure our security Operation Haiti included ABWs entire union and indeed the by supporting the men and Heather Frizzelle and Curtis entire U.S. Merchant Marine. women of the U.S. armed Williams; ABMs Adrian Jones Your story will be shared forces.” and Jonathan Davis; STOSs with the membership as a The ceremony was attended Melvin Stegall, Christopher shining example of what the by representatives from the U.S. Bryan and Melvin Hall; OMUs Transportation Command and John Morrison, John Steeber SIU is all about.” Schubert praised the crew the Military Sealift Command, and Brad Neathery; Wipers and officers. “The crew of the which have operational control Nathan Jenkins and Vincent Flickertail State is an out- of Ready Reserve Force ships Knight; Chief Cook Adele George and SAs Willie Uzzle, standing example of the inte- when they support the military. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (seated at far right) took The Flickertail State is operat- Teresa MacMartin and Kareem part in the ceremony honoring Flickertail State crew members last month in gral role the Ready Reserve Newport News, Va. Force plays in our national ed by SIU-contracted Interocean Walters. The SIU-crewed Flickertail State received the Professional Ship Award from U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William Schubert during a ceremony July 15 in Newport News, Va. SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram took part in the event. He congratulated the crew for “an outstanding job” in Operation Haiti and Operation New Horizons— performances which earned them the recognition from the Maritime Administration. “Welcome home, and thanks for making us all proud,” Mangram stated. Speaking to the rest of the audience, he noted, “Most of you here today are very familiar with the long history of the U.S. Merchant Marine and our role as the fourth arm of defense. We’ve proven our value time after time. We’ve proven our loyalty and reliability since the very beginnings of this country.” In a letter to the crew, SIU President Michael Sacco noted, “Your recognition is well-earned and it certainly isn’t something to be taken lightly, considering that the U.S. Maritime Administrator’s Professional Ship Award is given to non-military vessels that achieve the highest degree of readiness, perfor- With Seafarers at the Honolulu Hall Left: AB Bill Dwyer Right: SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz Early last month, Seafarers at the SIU hall in Honolulu greeted a number of officials who were in town for the Pride of Aloha christening and other union business. Pictured from left to right are (top photo, standing) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Seafarers Edgardo Ines and Eddie Tomas, SIU President Michael Sacco, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez and Seafarers Alejandro Quirolgico, Pedro Amore, (seated) Sure Anitak and Domingo Barroga. The photo below shows Heindel, Sacco, AB Tomas and Tellez. Pictured from left to right are SIU members Dominico Dacua, Alejandro Quirolgico, Raul Napoles, Getolio Medallo, Johanis Christiaan, Mariano Ylaya and Domingo Barroga. � 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 August 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES USNS BRIDGE JOINS SIU CIVMAR FLEET SIU-CREWED PRIDE OF ALOHA CHRISTENED MATSON’S MAUNAWILI CHRISTENED NASSCO FLOATS OUT SECOND BP TANKER UNION MOURNS PORT AGENT MALONE BOSTON, CHARLESTON CLINICS OPEN DOORS FOR SEAFARER TESTING ‘TEAM EFFORT’ WITH MARIITME INDUSTRY HELPS USCG TACKLE NEW SECURITY RULES SIU OFFICIALS TO SERVE ON SECURITY COMMITTEES U.S. LABOR DEPARTMENT UPDATING CONFIDENTIAL MARITIME DATABASE AGENCY SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR ‘O*NET’ PROJECT CLAIMS DEPT. CO-DIRECTOR MARTHA CARR DIES AT 51 ALASKA TANKER CO. WINS PRESTIGIOUS SAFETY AWARD CONGRESSMAN HUNTER HONORED BY SHIPBUILDING ASSOCIATION SECRETARY MINETA UNDERSCORES NEED FOR U.S. -FLAG FLEET TRIBUTE TO MERCHANT MARINERS INCLUDED IN DENALI MEMORIAL TOP HEALTH CARE BENEFITS HIGHLIGHT INLAND CONTRACTS UNION SECURES SUBSTANTIAL SETTLEMENT FOR CIVMARS IN HEALTH & SAFETY GRIEVANCE ARC CLINICAL DIRECTOR BILL ECKLES RETIRES SIU BOSUN NAMED ‘OUTSTANDING MARINER’ TRANSPORTATION DEPT. BACKS BILL COMPENSATING WWII MARINERS U.S. HEALTH CARE COSTS CONTINUE UPWARD SPIRAL SEAFARERS, DEPENDENTS CAN HELP UNION REDUCE FEES TO PLAN AD PARTICIPANTS FLICKERTAIL STATE EARNS PROFESSIONAL SHIP AWARD 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 08/01/2004 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. 8 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/27b12defbca76d5bfbfacc5f4874fff4.pdf eb45059f9fab6aac73923639963bb04e PDF Text Text 23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/26/2004 2:32 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 7 July 2004 NCL AMERICA Seafarers Crew Up Pride of Aloha Goes The SIU last month welcomed new shipboard jobs as NCL America’s Pride of Aloha (photos at far left) reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. The 2,000-passenger cruise ship is scheduled to begin offering cruises this month in Hawaii. Formerly the Bahamian-flagged Norwegian Sky, the Pride of Aloha reflagged U.S. on June 7 in San Francisco, following a multimillion dollar refurbishment. The vessel employs nearly 800 shipboard personnel. LEFT: SIU Assistant VP George Tricker (left) and SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (right) are pictured with Bosun Renato Govico aboard the newly reflagged ship. ABOVE: Crew members applaud as the U.S. flag is hoisted aboard the Pride of Aloha. Page 3. Matson’s Maunawili Set for Christening Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, along with Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, is scheduled to christen the Maunawili (right) this month. The Maunawili is the second diesel-powered containership built for Matson at Kvaerner Philadelphia, which is hosting the July 17 christening. Page 3. Advisory Board Weighs Vital Security Issues Page 2 Flickertail State Delivers For U.S. Marines in Haiti Page 4 U.S. Tax Dollars Help Fund Foreign-Flag Ferry Page 5 �23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/24/2004 1:13 PM Page 2 President’s Report A Welcome Rebirth The U.S. flag sails over an oceangoing passenger ship again. Seafarers and other U.S. mariners are showing tourists relaxing on the high seas why we are the best-trained and safest professionals in the world. Last month’s reflagging of NCL America’s first cruise ship under the Stars and Stripes drew warm applause and proud salutes during the ceremony in San Francisco. It was a great day for the Seafarers, a great day for NCL America and Michael Sacco a great day for anyone who supports a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. But in order to more fully appreciate the moment June 7 when our flag was raised on the Pride of Aloha, you may have to think back to one of the darkest days in our nation’s history: September 11, 2001. Obviously, the loss of innocent lives on that grim day is by far the most tragic part of the attacks. Yet, there were other significant aftershocks, not the least of which has been the ongoing impact on our economy. The travel and tourism industries were crippled in September 11’s immediate aftermath, and the U.S.-flag deep-sea cruise business ceased to exist. It has taken nearly three full years, but at last we can say it: We’re back! The work that’s been done to revive U.S.-flag cruise ships has been well-documented. What’s important now is that the SIU has a great opportunity for a bright future in this segment of our industry (and others). NCL America is planning to operate three U.S.-flag ships in Hawaii. That means more and more jobs for Seafarers and, as noted at the reflagging ceremony, it also means a stronger U.S. Merchant Marine in general. I think the Pride of Aloha also may signify something special to Seafarers who embrace the opportunity. Namely, it’s a chance to be part of a vitally important moment in SIU history. It’s a chance to help your union—in other words, your brother and sister Seafarers—get off to a strong start in this newly reborn trade. This isn’t the first time we’ve faced such a challenge. More than 20 years ago, Seafarers were called upon to revive the U.S.flag passenger trade. The Constitution and Independence came back home to the American flag. Seafarers jumped at the opportunity to make the project work. Sure, we had problems, but we overcame them. The Connie and the Indy were huge success stories. Many of our members owe their start in our union to these vessels. Maybe you’ve read about some of the SIU’s historic organizing drives from the 1940s and 1950s, or perhaps you’ve hung around the union hall and heard some of our old-timers talk about sailing during World War II. Undoubtedly, many of you know about our late SIU President Paul Hall defying the skeptics by starting a training school for seamen in southern Maryland back in 1967. Those are more than just stories. They’re key components of who and what Seafarers are today. The hard work and sacrifice and commitment of our predecessors gave us a chance to become the strongest maritime union in the United States. It’s going to take more of the same to help ensure our continued success. And the new cruise ships definitely involve hard work and sacrifice and commitment. Let’s face it—when you’re helping to restart any business, you’re bound to hit a few rough seas along the way. But any way you slice it, this is a glorious moment for the SIU. Every Seafarer can take pride in the fact that our members are sailing aboard the Pride of Aloha. And I know that every one of us will do whatever it takes to help ensure the success of our newest ships. Volume 66, Number 7 July 2004 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2004 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG School’s Advisory Board Weighs Key Security Issues Maritime Security and related issues dominated the packed agenda of the 37th Annual Paul Hall Maritime Center Advisory Board Meeting. The yearly conference took place June 10 at the Piney Point, Md.-based, SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Attendees included representatives of U.S.-flag shipping companies, officials from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Maritime Administration, U.S. Military Sealift Command, Transportation Security Administration and International Labor Organization, and representatives of the union and the school. Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan welcomed conference participants and introduced SIU President Michael Sacco. After thanking those present for their participation in the meeting, Sacco said, “As all of you know, port security and shipboard security are the hottest topics in our industry….We’re all facing tremendous challenges when it comes to keeping our ships and ports safe. “But we’re in this together— the unions, the companies, the Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, MSC, the ports themselves, and the list goes on,” Sacco continued. “We’re all on the same side. It’s important to keep that in mind, especially when we get together on the various maritime security groups at ports throughout the nation. That type of cooperation and participation can only help when it comes to training seafarers and improving safety all around.” Following his remarks on port and shipboard security, President Sacco briefed meeting participants on some of the Paul Hall Center’s accomplishments since the last advisory board meeting in 2002. Among the events Sacco cited were: The Paul Hall Center successfully transitioned to the amended STCW convention. This accomplishment was achieved by running a school with top instructors and staff who put together curriculums and assessments to provide companies with the safe, qualified shipboard manpower they need. The school opened a new hotel at about the same time of the last advisory board meeting. As a result of this addition, upgraders now have single-occupancy rooms, which makes for a more academically friendly environment. The school added a small arms facility as well as curriculums. The facility and courses were approved by U.S. Military Sealift Command. The school also added or improved other courses including Navigation Fundamentals, Marine Electrician, FOWT and others. A diesel engine that is useful as a training aid recently was added to the school’s training equipment inventory. The school continued operating a satellite school in Hawaii, providing STCW Cdr. Cindy Stowe U.S. Coast Guard Cdr. Linda Fagan U.S. Coast Guard Cdr. Ed Wingfield U.S. Coast Guard Robby Moss, Transportation Security Administration training which helped in the rebirth of the U.S.-flag cruise industry. The unlicensed apprentice program continues to draw numerous applicants from all over the country. The Paul Hall Center during the last two months has provided security training in Jacksonville, Port Everglades, Mobile, Houston, Lake Charles and New Orleans and aboard vessels. In addition, training has been scheduled on the West Coast to help companies meet not only vessel security officer training requirements but also general security awareness for the membership. President Sacco thanked advisory board participants for their previous inputs and suggestions on how the school could achieve its varied objectives. “And make no mistake,” he said, “The advisory board’s input played a big part in helping achieve these goals (outlined above).” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Paul Hall Center Training Director Bill Eglinton then discussed the meeting’s agenda and outlined its goals. The principal speakers for the gathering addressed the audience via a panel discussion format. Those giving presentations in their respective subject areas were: Cdr. Cindy Stowe, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), “Implementation of the Maritime Security Transportation Regulations;” Robby Moss, Transportation Security Administration, “Transportation Worker Identification Card;” Cdr. Linda Fagan, USCG, “Port State Control Issues;” Mayte Medina, USCG, “Maritime Security Training;” Jim Zok, U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) and International Labor Organization, “Seafarer Identification Document Convention;” Todd Ripley, MarAd, “SOCP Mariner Administrative Card;” and Cdr. Ed Wingfield, USCG, “Mariner Licensing & Documentation Program.” Panel members indicated that despite some setbacks in each of their respective areas, significant progress is being made in the implementation of all phases of port security requirements set forth in SOLAS Chapter XI-2, the ISPS Code and the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. Collectively, they expressed strong optimism that most Continued on page 7 SIU Contract Remains in Place Following Sale of Horizon Lines SIU-contracted Horizon Lines is being sold to private equity firm Castle Harlan, according to the companies involved. The union’s contract remains in place and unchanged, noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Horizon Lines will retain its name and continue operating the 16 SIU-crewed vessels included in the sale. The Carlyle Group had acquired Horizon Lines (formerly CSX Lines) from CSX Corp. in February 2003. Castle Harlan Managing Director Marcel Fournier stated, “We’ve been impressed with the results that Horizon Lines has achieved over the last several years and are excited about the company’s prospects.” July 2004 �23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/24/2004 1:41 PM Page 3 Pride of Aloha Joins SIU Fleet Seafarers Crew Up Newly Reflagged Cruise Ship The SIU has returned to the deep-sea cruise ship industry—and in a big way. Seafarers recently crewed up NCL America’s newly reflagged Pride of Aloha, an 853-foot vessel that marks the start of Norwegian Cruise Line’s U.S.-flag division. “This is a great moment for ing economic consultants, NCL our union,” SIU President America’s three U.S.-flag cruise Michael Sacco said June 7 when ships planned for Hawaii are the Stars and Stripes went up on expected to create more than the Pride of Aloha. “It means new 20,000 U.S. jobs and generate jobs for Seafarers, but it also rep- more than $825 million of expenresents a promising start to the ditures in the U.S. economy by rebirth of the U.S.-flag deep-sea the end of 2007. (The Pride of America and another cruise ship cruise ship industry.” “Reflagging this ship is far yet to be named also will be more than symbolic,” said U.S. flagged as U.S. ships.) Nearly Secretary of Transportation $360 million in federal tax revenue are also Norman Minprojected by eta. “Raising 2007 from the the Stars and “Reflagging this ships and the Stripes over landside ecomore ships rais- ship is far more nomic activities es our maritime stimulated by strength and than symbolic. them. raises jobs.” The U.S. The Pride of Raising the Stars Maritime AdAloha is schedministration uled to enter and Stripes over noted that it service this helped bring the month, offering more ships raises Pride of Aloha cruises in Ha- our maritime into the U.S.waii. Formerly flag fleet by the Bahamian- strength and raises overseeing imflagged Norplementation of wegian Sky, the jobs.” the reflagging vessel recently – U.S. Secretary of effort enabling underwent a Transportation the ship to meet multi-million Norman Mineta requirements dollar refurbishestablished by ment in San Congress. Francisco, U.S. Maritime Administrator where it was reflagged. Its home Capt. William Schubert said of port will be Honolulu. The Pride of Aloha employs the reflagging and the other nearly 800 shipboard personnel planned ships, “This is great news for the U.S. Merchant Marine as and can carry 2,000 passengers. “Today marks a milestone not it increases the number of ships only in the cruise industry, but sailing under the American flag. also in our nation’s maritime his- Our nation’s economic welltory,” Norwegian Cruise Line being hinges on an economically America President and CEO viable maritime industry and Colin Veitch said at the reflagging today marks another big step in ceremony. “We are proud to be the right direction.” U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant the first cruise company in recent memory to offer travelers an Tony Guild added, “We worked unparalleled combination of in cooperation with NCL America interisland Hawaii cruising and a to ensure that the vessel met all modern U.S.-flagged, U.S.- international standards for a passenger ship. This entailed a comcrewed mega-ship.” According to an independent plete inspection of the vessel and study by one of the nation’s lead- its safety and security systems Capt. Gerald Swanson (seated) certifies the Pride of Aloha as a U.S.-flag vessel while NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch looks on. July 2004 The Pride of Aloha signals new jobs for SIU members and a strengthening of the U.S.-flag fleet. Pride of Aloha At a Glance Entered service: August 1999 Reflagged U.S. in June 2004 Length: 853 feet Breadth: 108 feet Draft: 26 feet Speed: 23 knots Tonnage: 77,104 GRT Propulsion: Diesel electric, six diesel generators Auxiliary power: From diesel electric plant Guest capacity: 2,002 double occupancy Guest decks: 12 from life jackets, lifeboats, complex firefighting systems, complex automation systems that manage the ship’s power and propulsion plants, to various security plans and equipment. In addition, the Coast Guard ensured that the ship’s crew met all The American flag is raised on the Pride of Aloha during a ceremony June 7 in San Francisco. required U.S. standards for merchant mariner certification.” Following an inaugural celebration and a christening on July 4, the Pride of Aloha will begin its regular seven-day, year-round Hawaii cruise schedule. Visiting all four main islands and offering passengers up to 96 hours in port, the cruise features two overnight stays in Kauai and Maui while also making full day calls in Kona and Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Matson, Kvaerner Philadelphia To Christen Maunawili July 17 Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, along with Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, is scheduled to christen the Maunawili this month. The Maunawili is the second dieselpowered containership built for Matson at Kvaerner Philadelphia, which is hosting the July 17 christening. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (RCalif.), a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, is the event’s keynote speaker. Lt. General Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), also will address the audience. Marianna G. Shaw, great granddaughter of one of the founders of Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. will do the christening. (Matson is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alexander & Baldwin.) The Maunawili is virtually identical to sister ship Manukai, Matson’s newest vessel, the Maunawili, is scheduled for christening this month in Philadelphia. which was christened in July 2003 at Kvaerner Philadelphia. Each diesel-powered vessel is 712 feet long and can carry 2,600 containers. The shipyard reported that the Maunawili was floated for the first time on May 15. The vessel is expected to be added to Matson’s fleet of Jones Act trade vessels. The Manukai was the first vessel built in the newly revitalized Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard and the first newly constructed vessel introduced by Matson since 1992 (the R.J. Pfeiffer). SIU members sail in the steward department aboard Matson ships. Seafarers LOG 3 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:17 PM Page 4 SIU Maintains Jobs On 7 Survey Ships Horizon Lines Awarded Contract by MSC The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) last month awarded the operating contract for seven oceanographic survey ships to SIU-contracted Horizon Lines. The vessels covered by the agreement are the USNS Pathfinder, USNS Bowditch, USNS Sumner, USNS Henson, USNS Bruce C. Heezen, USNS Mary Sears and USNS John McDonnell. The ships currently are operated by Seafarers-contracted Dyn Marine Services. Turnover operations are expected to take place in early October. In a mid-June letter to ships’ chairmen in the seven-vessel fleet, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez pointed out that when the ships transfer to the new operating company, unlicensed personnel will have the opportunity to continue their employment aboard the vessels. Tellez also noted that the new contract improves medical benefits (under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s top level) and increases the Seafarers Vacation Plan benefit. Additionally, SIU members will receive Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan benefits of 3 percent of the daily base wage per man, per day. “To those who opt to continue with Horizon Lines, we expect the company to benefit from the same professionalism and performance you consistently deliver,” Tellez wrote. According to MSC, oceanographic survey ships “study the world’s oceans using multi-beam, wide-angle, precision hydro- graphic sonar systems to collect bathymetric data. One coastal survey ship, the USNS John McDonnell, surveys the sea bottom and collects data in the littorals areas along coastlines. Information gathered is used to develop accurate maritime charts.” The SIU-crewed USNS Bruce C. Heezen is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s fleet of oceanographic survey ships. Flickertail State Crew Delivers Critical Cargo to U.S. Marines in Haiti Seafarers in March again answered the country’s call to deliver the goods when President Bush sent 1,600 U.S. Marines to Haiti to quell the bloody uprising that prompted Haitian president Jean-Bertrand Aristide’s Feb. 29 resignation. The SIU-crewed SS Flickertail State—part of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force and under the operational control of Military Sealift Command (MSC)—was summoned to deliver cargo to support the Marines. The Flickertail State, fresh from participating in a joint logistics over-the-shore military exercise providing humanitarian relief to Honduras, was in port in Norfolk, Va. for a mere 24 hours before being again called to duty. The crane ship sailed from Norfolk to Morehead City, N.C. to pick up 12,000 square feet of Marine Corps support equipment, and on March 7 departed North Carolina for Haiti. The ship’s 600-ton load consisted of Humvees, medical supplies, crates of bottled water and two “reverse osmosis water purification systems.” According to MSC, reverse osmosis machines are designed to purify contaminated water into water that is suitable for drinking—something for which the Marines had a critical need and that is in short supply in Haiti, a country whose infrastructure has crumbled and whose utilities system is in a massive state of disrepair. MSC Representative John Gregov, the individual responsible for coordinating the off- Seafarers aboard the Flickertail State delivered the goods for U.S. Marines in Haiti. load of the urgently needed supplies, knew the off-load would be tricky because the ship was sailing into Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where gangs of well-armed Aristide supporters were on a rampage of looting and destruction in response to his fall from power. With little lead time to make arrangements and only a handful of local port operators on the ground in Haiti, Gregov planned the off-load during the Flickertail’s journey south. “I was sending e-mails from the ship on the way down, rounding up local stevedores and equipment to help with the offloading,” he noted. Gregov ordered flatbed trucks to haul cargo and portable generators to light the pier as it offloaded, but only half of the items made it to the port. “I was notified by port authorities that the items were stuck in transit due to firefights,” said Gregov. “I ordered three portable generators because there were no lights on the dock. One out of the three actually made it. “I also asked the captain for permission to use the ship’s crew during the off-load, which we don’t usually do,” he added. “But we needed them because, under the circumstances, we didn’t want any of the locals coming on board the ship.” The captain agreed. The ship arrived in Port-auPrince in the early morning on March 11, and the crew pitched in operating the vessel’s four cranes to transfer cargo from the ship to the pier. Seafarers aboard the vessel who assisted in the freight download were: ABWs Heather Frizzelle and Curtis Williams; ABMs Adrian Jones and Jonathan Davis; OMUs John Morrison, John Steeber and Brad Neathery; Wipers Nathan Jenkins and Vincent Knight; Chief Cook Adele George and SAs Willie Uzzle, Teresa MacMartin and Kareem Walters. Also aboard the vessel were STOSs Melvin Stegall, Christopher Bryan and Melvin Hall. The crew worked so quickly that they turned their expected 72-hour stay into only a day-long venture. “They really did an outstanding job,” said Gregov. At midnight on March 11, the ship pulled away from Haiti and sailed home. “It was a very good, efficient operation,” said Gregov. “And everyone got home safely.” Notice/Reminder Full Book Applications Happy Retirement to REC Chief SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) and Assistant VP Jim McGee (right) recently presented a ship’s wheel to U.S. Coast Guard REC Chief C.J. Bidwell in Houston on the occasion of her retirement after 32 years of service. Bidwell most recently worked at the Coast Guard’s regional exam center in Houston. The wheel was donated by Seafarers and SIU officials, who wish Chief Bidwell a happy retirement and thank her for her work at the REC. 4 Seafarers LOG Seafarers who have at least 260 days of sea time in the past 24 months are eligible to apply for full book membership in the union. This of course includes members who were in the NMU when that union merged into the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (in 2001). Members are encouraged to apply at any SIU hall. Please bring discharges or pay vouchers (or both) verifying the required sea time, along with two passport-size photos. In order to apply for full book membership, dues must be current, initiation must be paid in full and the member must be in good standing. There is a $10 fee for each application; processing typically takes two to three weeks. Sea time for any member working on equipment that formerly was covered by an NMU agreement and now is covered by an SIU/NMU contract counts toward eligibility for application. Members are reminded that, among other potential benefits, full book membership helps allow Seafarers the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. This is an election year for the SIU. For more information, please contact your port agent. July 2004 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/24/2004 1:24 AM Page 5 SIU, MTD, Others Protest Bahamian-Flagged Ferry State, Federal Funds Aid Boat Sailing New York-Toronto Route The SIU along with the AFLCIO Maritime Trades Department and other labor organizations are calling upon government officials in the U.S. and Canada to remove the Bahamian flag from a new fast ferry that has been heavily subsidized by American and Canadian taxpayer dollars. The Spirit of Ontario last month was scheduled to begin offering service between Rochester, N.Y. and Toronto. Built by Austal Ships of Australia, the ferry is owned by Canadian American Transportation Systems, which maintains offices in New York and Ontario. Mariners Remembered at Memorial Dedication According to news reports, the State of New York provided $14 million to help build the $42.5 million boat. Another $25 million in federal funds have been awarded in recent years to redevelop the Rochester harbor to enable the ferry project’s launch. More than $6 million in City of Rochester funds have been given for the project. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security granted $1.1 million to the owner and the ferry. Canadian funds also were awarded. In a letter to U.S. Senator Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco said that the ferry itself and the harbor improvements are good ideas, but registering the Spirit of Ontario under the Bahamian flag instead of the U.S. or Canadian flag “is particularly disturbing. By registering the ferry under the Bahamian flag, Canadian American Transport Systems’ fast ferry operation will enjoy the success of the public investment while at the same time avoid meeting U.S. tax obligations on the income generated once the ferry begins service,” Sacco wrote. “I am certain that the public officials who backed this project and who have worked diligently to ensure its launching had no clue that the company would be in a position to skirt U.S. tax payments. It must be disheartening to those New Yorkers to know that their tax dollars have advanced the fast ferry project but the U.S. Treasury will not see a truly just return on the investment.” The SIU of Canada, the New York State AFL-CIO, some of the state’s central labor councils, the MTD and its port maritime councils also have spread the word about the runaway-flag ferry. In a resolution adopted by its executive board earlier this year, the MTD said it “urges officials in both nations to call on Canadian American Transportation Systems to do the right thing by sailing under the American or Canadian flag and hire American or Canadian mariners.” Currently, the ferry reportedly employs a mix of Australian and U.S. mariners. The ferry was supposed to enter service May 1, but a docking accident and engine trouble delayed its opening. The boat can carry 774 passengers and 238 cars. Representative McCrery Receives Annual ‘Salute to Congress’ Award President Bush mentioned the U.S. Merchant Marine during the May 29 dedication of the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. As previously reported, two identical merchant marine bronze emblems are featured at the memorial. During the ceremony, President Bush noted, “In all, more than 16 million Americans would put on the uniform of the soldier, the sailor, the airman, the Marine, the Coast Guardsman or the Merchant Mariner.” The National World War II Memorial is the first national monument dedicated to all who served during the Second World War. Photos by Rick Latoff / American Battle Monuments Commission The chairman of the Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee on the House Ways and Means Committee recently reaffirmed his fervent support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. U.S. Rep. Jim McCrery (RLa.), honored May 4 with The Propeller Club of the United States’ annual Salute to Congress Award, in a prepared address told a maritime audience in Bethesda, Md. that their industry is vitally important to his state as well as the nation. Speaking specifically about his state, the congressman said, “Many of you may not realize that Louisiana is the top state in the country for waterborne transportation with more than 500 million tons of cargo annually shipped and received within the state. MarAd Okays MSP Transfer Agreements SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited last month applauded the U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) decision approving the company’s request to transfer the 15 Maritime Security Program (MSP) operating agreements for the ships currently being operated by U.S. Ship Management (USSM). In a news release, Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) noted that it had petitioned MarAd in 2003 to transfer the MSP operating agreements so the company could more effectively and efficiently operate the vessels. In the original operating contracts between the two companies, USSM agreed to transfer direct operation of the 15 vessels to MLL should MLL elect to become the MSP contractor. The decision follows an arbitration award concluding that the applications for the MSP operating agreements “submitted by MLL to MarAd were properly submitted by MLL.” “We are extremely pleased with the MarAd’s decision approving the transfer of the 15 MSP operating agreements to MLL,” said Kenneth C. Gaulden, MLL senior vice president. “Our first priority with this action was always to ensure that we deliver the best possible service to the U.S. government, both in peacetime and war. Now, we look forward to the benefits that will be brought about by streamlining operations and creating much-needed efficiencies.” Gaulden added, “MLL will work closely with MarAd to assume direct operation of the ships in an appropriate, efficient and expeditious manner, while continuing to support our military forces engaged in the war on terrorism and serve our commercial customers.” July 2004 The vessels will remain U.S.-flagged supporting U.S. global trade and national security, and will be crewed by American seafarers. MLL also provides the U.S. government immediate access to its global network of intermodal assets including terminals, cranes, logistical platforms, computerized management systems and equipment. According to the company, MarAd’s decision “closely integrates management of the 15 MSP vessels with that global system, strengthening the MSP for military purposes and enhancing the U.S.-flag presence in international shipping.” MarAd noted the role of MLL in national security in its decision: “[MLL] currently operates vessels for the U.S. military performing missions as diverse as the afloat pre-positioning of U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps combat equipment, U.S. Navy counter-drug operations, and highly classified ocean surveillance. Maersk also holds a special security agreement. The United States Transportation Command supports the transfer and has advised us that they consider [MLL] to be an industry leader providing [the Department of Defense] unparalleled transportation services, not only with regard to U.S.-flag vessels, but also its extensive global infrastructure consisting of berths, cranes, IT systems, transportation systems, regional logistics expertise, and much more.” MLL will work with MarAd to meet the conditions specified in the decision for transfer of the operating agreements, the company noted. MLL is based in Norfolk, Va., and is one of the Department of Defense’s primary shipping contractors. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) greets U.S. Rep. Jim McCrery (R-La.) shortly before the congressman receives the 2004 Salute to Congress Award. With major coastal and inland ports, the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi, Red and other rivers, Louisiana is a major transloading point for billions of dollars of commercial cargo.” Congressman McCrery continued, “Your industry is vitally important to providing jobs for American workers and enhancing our nation’s trade and productivity in all other industrial and economic sectors. I am proud to be a soldier in the fight on your behalf to make the U.S. maritime industry more competitive in the world economy.” He added “I am fortunate through my seniority on the House Ways and Means Committee to be able to lead the effort to ensure that fair and balanced trade policies are implemented to protect your interests, and to work closely with the Congressional leadership and the administration to formulate and enact tax legislation to aid the vitally important maritime industry.” Congressman McCrery has been an advocate of changes to the U.S. tax code to help improve the competitiveness of the U.S.flag merchant marine, and he has supported projects to revitalize the nation’s inland waterway system. McCrery was named by the Congressional Quarterly Magazine as one of the 28 “emerging players” who will shape the Congressional agenda in the post- September 11 world. He has represented the 4th Congressional District in Louisiana since 1988. In accepting the Salute to Congress Award, the congressman offered, “I am extremely honored by this award, and I am pleased to know that you appreciate my heartfelt efforts to support a strong and vibrant United States maritime industry. “At the same time, I am humbled to be included among other distinguished Congressional members from the great state of Louisiana who have received the prestigious Salute to Congress Award,” he continued, “….Senator Russell Long, Senator John Breaux, and of course my former colleague and dear friend, Congressman Bob Livingston.” The annual Salute to Congress dinner in 1985 was established by The Propeller Club of the United States to honor a member of Congress who demonstrated leadership in furthering the cause of the American merchant marine and allied industries. The salute affords an opportunity for all segments of the maritime industry to get together at one forum with not only their own senators and congressmen, but also members of Congress from all over the country to discuss future growth the U.S. fleet. Recent recipients of the Salute to Congress Award include U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), Senator Fritz Hollings (D-S.C.), Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) and U.S. Rep. James L. Oberstar (D-Minn.). Seafarers LOG 5 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/23/2004 1:42 PM Page 6 Maritime Lawyer Victor Hanson Dies at 80 Detroit Attorney Victor Hanson, a prominent litigator of highprofile cases involving major maritime incidents and also a founder of a forerunner to today’s National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), died May 26 of a heart attack. He was 80. Hanson in 1973 established Labor’s International Hall of Fame to afford recognition to the founders and heroes of the union movement as well as to educate today’s workers and public about the struggles and sacrifices that made today’s labor movement possible. Although not a union member himself, he did a great deal of work as a lawyer for unions including the SIU, the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, the Teamsters, the American Guild of Variety Arts and many buildingtrades unions. Hanson was involved in cases relating to the following maritime disasters, some of which claimed the lives of Seafarers: the Noronic in 1949 with 119 dead; the Andrea Doria in 1956 with 52 dead; the Carl D. Bradley in 1958 with 33 dead; and the Edmund Fitzgerald in 1975 with 29 dead. Byron Kelley, retired SIU vice president Great Lakes and current Labor’s International Hall of Fame president, knew Hanson well. “He was really a man’s man, and he was always a staunch supporter of the Seafarers,” Kelley said. “Vic was quite a guy. He was bright, he was politically active, and he’ll certainly be a viable candidate for Labor’s International Hall of Fame, which he founded.” Retired SIU of Puerto Rico President Terpe Passes Away Retired SIU of Puerto Rico President Keith Terpe passed away May 30 in California. He was 80. A native of Minnesota, Brother Terpe embarked on his profession with the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of New York. After sailing for several years in the deep sea division in both the steward and engine departments, he came ashore as a union official. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay recalled first meeting Terpe “while I was still going to sea and he was head organizer for Atlantic Refinery. He was a good organizer and he was dedicated to the cause.” Brother Terpe was elected as a patrolman for the port of New York in 1969 and later became president of the SIU of Puerto Rico. He retired in 1981. Victor Nunez, SIU port agent in Puerto Rico, noted that Terpe “was very politically active. He also did a lot of organizing for the UIW. He is remembered by many people in this region.” Brother Terpe was proud of the pivotal role the SIU played in the economics of the commonwealth during his tenure as president. In a piece which was written for his presidential column in the union’s magazine in July 1969, Brother Terpe said, “Clearly, The Island of Dreams as Paul Hall frequently refers to lovely Puerto Rico, has demonstrated that under a free, democratic system and with a free democratic labor movement great progress not only could be made—bust has been made! Once again we must state that we are proud to have been an integral part of this amazing success story that is Puerto Rico today from the poor house of the Caribbean to the showcase of affluent democracy.” Retired SIU Vice President Contracts Red Campbell worked with Terpe in Puerto Rico for approximately six years. He recalled that Terpe kept an unusual pet around the office. “He had a jaguar— not a car, a real one, “ Campbell said. Survivors include his wife, Marilu; his sons, Keith and Kent; daughters Kim Lerman and Karen Palmer; and his sister, Kaye McMarlin. Hanson’s nephew, Robert Edick, told the Detroit Free Press that his uncle “was very active with union politics…. He was very much a people person.” Born in northwest Detroit, Hanson was a 1940 graduate of Redford High School. Following graduation, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps where he served as a paratrooper. An injury suffered during a jump, however, forced him to do the majority of his service in San Diego. After his 1943 discharge as a private, Hanson returned to Detroit. There he enrolled in Wayne State University and began a decadeslong relationship with the school. He earned his bachelor’s and law degrees there. Hanson played guard for the Wayne State Tartars football team from 1945 to 1946 and later became an active member of the Gas House Gang, a club of the school’s former football players. His gridiron fervor served him well in the 1950s when he represented a Detroit Lions football player who had injured his knee and wanted worker’s compensation. During that time, players were considered independent contractors and, therefore, were not entitled to benefits. Hanson won the case—securing weekly payments of $33 for 500 weeks—for the hobbled athlete, who was making $13,000 annually. Hanson also is credited with playing a key role in changing the Victor Hanson, right, posed with Michigan Attorney General Frank Kelley, left, and SIU VP Byron Kelley during an awards dinner in 1990. Hanson assisted the SIU in a variety of legal matters during his career as an attorney. status of professional football players for good when he founded an association which essentially served as a union. That organization was a predecessor to the NFLPA. Hanson raised money for Detroit’s St. Francis Home for Boys and Most Holy Trinity Church and was active in the Democratic Party. He also founded Hands That Help, a charity that distributes clothing and blankets to veterans’ homes. He is survived by a stepdaughter, Loralee Coomes; three sisters, Evelyn Hanson, Beatrice Kuhl and Rose Marie Berry; and two grandsons. Matson Mourns Passing Of Retired President Gray Retired SIU of Puerto Rico President Keith Terpe, center, walks the pickets with his 400-pound jaguar. The animal reportedly was the union’s unofficial mascot in Puerto Rico during Terpe’s tenure as president. Something Fishy on the Expedition Aboard the Horizon Expedition in Guam, SIU steward department personnel enthusiastically prepare sashimi and other fish delicacies for dinner. Chief Steward Mike Gramer (above) and Chief Cook Tom Kelly acquired the catch from local fishermen. 6 Seafarers LOG James P. Gray, retired president of Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, died May 5 in Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. He was 87. Gray’s career with Matson spanned 45 years, beginning in 1936 when he joined the company as a stenographer and clerk in Wilmington, Calif. He worked his way up in various positions during the next 11 years before leaving Matson to try a non-maritime busiJames P. Gray retired as ness venture. president of Matson NaviBy 1951, Gray was back with gation Company in 1981. Matson. He earned numerous promotions over the years, eventually becoming the vice president and general manager of the Matson subsidiary, Matson Terminals, Inc. in 1970. Two years later, he was named president of the subsidiary, overseeing all terminal operations for Matson on the West Coast and in Hawaii. In 1977, Gray returned to Matson Navigation Company and was promoted to senior vice president of the freight division, a role that involved overseeing all vessel and container operations. The following year, he was promoted to executive vice president, operations. In 1979, Gray was promoted to president and chief operating officer of Matson Navigation Company, reporting to Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Pfeiffer. As president, Gray was responsible for all aspects of Matson’s business activities, including Matson Terminals. In a press release announcing Gray’s death, the company noted, “His extensive experience with the company during his career gave him a keen understanding of Matson’s operations at all levels of the organization, and his personable style made him both respected and well-liked by employees throughout the company.” Gray retired in 1981 but stayed involved in the industry. He remained a member of the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter of the National Defense Transportation Association, among other activities. Gray is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carolyn; son, James S. Gray of Huntington Beach, Calif.; two daughters, Susan Meek of Potter Valley, Calif. and Janet Gray of Tonopah, Ariz.; four grandchildren and one great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or a hospice of the donor’s choice. July 2004 �23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/24/2004 1:51 PM Page 7 Classrooms Upgraded in Simulator Building In keeping with its tradition of remaining ahead of industry demands, the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. has made major improvements in its already excellent simulator building. Specifically, according to Assistant Director of Training J.C. Wiegman, significant upgrades recently were achieved in four classrooms which are housed in the Logan Building. These enhancements, said Wiegman, will not only intensify the quality of training that merchant mariners receive in the facility, but also augment the techniques instructors utilize to deliver their respective course materials. The showpiece of the upgrades is the facility’s electronics technician’s classroom which will be used in the junior engineer, marine electronics technician, chief electrician and marine electrician courses. The room also may be used for marine refrigeration training. “This room already was state- of-the-art throughout,” said Instructor Jay Henderson. “These recent upgrades, however, really will increase our ability to train the people coming through here.” A retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer who sailed for three years as a Seafarer (marine electrician aboard Maersk LMSRs), Henderson will be the primary tenant in the renovated classroom. Some of the upgrades in the electronics technician’s classroom are as follows: Twelve new electronic work Advisory Board Discusses Security Issues Continued from page 2 of the enforcement provisions would be in place by established deadlines. At the conclusion of the panel’s discussion on Maritime Security and a question/answer session, meeting participants formed two working groups to discuss another pair of issues which have come to the forefront in the maritime industry: shipboard food sanitation and towing/coastal licensing. John Dobson and J.C. Weigman, both instructors at the Paul Hall Center, led the respective discussions. In a related development, U.S. Homeland Security Department Secretary Tom Ridge on June 21 in Los Angeles announced that the nation’s seaports are ready to meet the July 1 deadline for international maritime security standards. Ridge made the announcement after touring the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. “I’m very pleased to announce as of today, the United States is in full compliance with the requirements of this new standard,” Secretary Ridge said. “For the first time ever, through an international effort there will be one world standard for ship and port security.” New security measures are being implemented across the United States, providing for safer ports in America. With the implementation of these international standards, in advance of the July 1 deadline, the U.S. is better able to harden the port’s physical infrastructure, verify the security of individual vessels before they approach a U.S. port, and better restrict access to the port area, the secretary noted. “Over 80 percent of world trade travels by sea,” Ridge Jim Zok MarAd/ILO Mayte Medina U.S. Coast Guard added. “By taking a layered, cooperative and balanced approach to strengthening the international maritime system, we are not only further securing our country, we are also protecting U.S. economic interests and the global economy.” In addition to the international requirements of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, the United States has required vessels, maritime facilities and ports around the country to implement security measures by July 1, as part of the domestic Maritime Transportation Security Act that establishes a new, robust baseline of security for our nation’s ports. Vessels and port facilities around the country are now on target to meet the July 1 deadline for these increased security measures, as well. An estimated 9,500 vessels, 3,200 facilities, and 40 off-shore oil or natural gas rigs are directly affected. Secretary Ridge also called on all citizens to do their part. “Be alert to things that seem suspicious. Securing our ports and waterways is a team effort— everyone, from local govern- ments and private citizens to the international community play an important role in ensuring that our waterways remain open for business.” Elsewhere, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2005 (H.R. 4567) has passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate and is being forwarded to the president for his signature and enactment into law. Among other things, this bill provides the following funding: $4.6 billion for operations of Customs and Border Protection; not less than $321 million (with conditions) for the development of the Automated Commercial Environment; $2.37 billion for operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement; $65 million for expenses related to maritime and land transportation security grants and services; $5.17 billion for expenses of the Coast Guard; $697 million (with conditions) for the USCG Integrated Deepwater System program; and $125 million for port security grants. CIVMAR News Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program Sets ‘Open Season’ The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently announced the first open season for the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program (FEGLI) since 1999. The FEGLI 2004 Open Season will take place from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30, 2004, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the program. “The Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program is just one of the federal benefits that employees can use to plan for the future and to anticipate the fulfillment of essential responsibility to their families,” said OPM Director Kay Coles James in announcing the open season May 25. “This will give federal employees the opportunity to make any adjustments they need to better plan for the future.” The FEGLI program consists of basic life insurance coverage and three options that include coverage for up to five times an employee’s base salary July 2004 plus coverage for family members. In most cases, a new federal employee is automatically covered by basic life insurance. The types and amounts of coverages available are not changing. During the open season, federal and U.S. Post Office employees in eligible positions may enroll in the FEGLI program or increase or change current coverage without having a physical or answering any questions about their health. The earliest that newly elected coverage will be effective is Sept. 1, 2005. OPM offers much more information on line at http://www.opm.gov/asd/htm/2004/04-203.asp. The federal government established the FEGLI program on Aug. 29, 1954. It is the largest group life insurance program in the world, covering over 4 million federal employees and retirees, as well as many of their family members. stations have been added. Each station is now equipped with 1-½ inch non-conducting (stone) desktops. IBM computers have been installed at each workstation. Each workstation also is now equipped with an assortment of tools for students to use should they have to fabricate a piece of equipment. Each workstation is equipped with new desks, chairs and stools. Instructors now have two computers at their disposal (one in their office area and a second at their lecture locations). Software is on order that will aid student in their equipment designs. Classroom now features an overhead projector that will show power point presentations on screen. Old carpet has been replaced by new tile. Classroom has been enlarged by eight feet. Walls have been painted; new ceiling tiles and light fixtures have been installed. “These upgrades will enable students to go directly to workstations to practice concepts they just received from instructors,” said Henderson. “This capability will be a tremendous time saver because students no longer will have to go to another room, break out tools, etc. to do various projects associated with their training.” In addition to the foregoing renovations, upgrades also have been made in three other classrooms, according to Wiegman. First, all engineering computers (used for shipboard assessments) have been moved to a centralized location in one room. Paul Hall Center Instructor Eric Malzkuhn was instrumental in effecting this change. Two additional rooms that once housed simulators have been converted into one larger, air conditioned classrooms. The same upgrades were accomplished in a room that contained diesel simulators. Under the new setup, simulators are in one room and two new rooms have been earmarked for instruction. Upgraders already are taking advantage of the upgraded facilities in the Logan Building. Above, Instructor Jay Henderson (standing) assists (from left) Olie Webber, Lionel Taylor and Richard Huffman. With Seafarers Aboard the Explorer The Explorer paid off June 2 in Los Angeles. Among those pictured aboard the USSM vessel are (top photo) AB Al Moore, GUDE Saleh Ali, QMED Victor Viernes, AB Abdul Musaed, Steward/Baker William Burdette, AB Leo Bognoson, AB Samuel Lampshire and Chief Cook James Boss. Pictured below right are AB William Horton, AB Andres Mano and QEE Jimmie Robles. At left are Bosun Phil Corl and AB Al Moore. Seafarers LOG 7 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:17 PM Page 8 Nation Honors Service & Sacrifice Of Merchant Marine PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS — Father Sinclair Oubre, president of the Apostleship of the Sea and an SIU member, delivers the invocation at Maritime Day ceremonies in Port Arthur, Texas. This year’s celebration honored the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine—with special recognition to those who are serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “The officers and men of the Merchant Marine, by their devotion to duty in the face of enemy action, as well a natural danger of the sea, have brought us the tool to finish the job. Their contribution to final victory will long be remembered.” Maritime Day was observed across the country in May to honor the courage, determination, service and sacrifice of the nation’s Merchant Marine. The June 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG covered the day’s events from Washington, D.C. Some of the other celebrations, which took place in various U.S. ports, appear on this page. —Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower Maritime Day, 1945 SAN PEDRO, CALIF. — SIU Wilmington dispatcher Nick Rios (left) and SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox stand before the SIU/NMU wreath following a National Maritime Day observance and memorial service May 22. (Rios is wearing his Bronze Star and other medals from the Vietnam War.) The ceremony (below) took place at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial, which was dedicated on May 22, 1989. Included among the speakers were Councilwoman Janice Hahn, State Senator Betty Karnette, Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.), Capt. Peter Neffenger of the U.S. Coast Guard, and Dr. William R. Eisenhardt, president of the California Maritime Academy. The arrival of the Color Guard signals the beginning of the shipboard ceremony. Chester Wheeler of the Government Services Division presents the SIU wreath. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. — Maritime Day ceremonies were held May 22 aboard the Liberty Ship Jeremiah O’Brien. Capt. Patrick Moloney sailed the vessel out beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, where wreaths were laid in honor of all the maritime trades, services and unions. This memorial cruise was dedicated to the men and women serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. A wreath also was presented in memory of the late SIU VP West Coast George McCartney who died in March. In the photo at left, Captain Moloney poses with McCartney’s wife, Helga (right), and daughter, Heidi. SIU San Francisco Rep Archie Ware helped commemorate Maritime Day. “The men of our American Merchant Marine have pushed through despite the perils of the submarine, the dive bomber and the surface raider. They have returned voluntarily to their jobs at sea again and again, because they realized that the life-lines to our battle fronts would be broken if they did not carry out their vital part in this global war.” —President Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1943 QMED Tommy Taylor (third from left), who was recognized for his 39 years of service with the SIU, poses with SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (third from right) and members of the U.S Coast Guard’s Color Guard. 8 Seafarers LOG NORFOLK, VA. — QMED Tommy “Coastwise” Taylor was recognized by the Propeller Club during Maritime Day ceremonies for his 39 years of service with the SIU. Taylor, who comes from a long line of Seafarers, began sailing in 1965 on coal boats running between Norfolk and Amsterday, Holland. He was aboard the Joplin Victory in Vietnam during the Tet offensive and on the Stonewall Jackson in the heavily mined Red Sea. Years later, he earned his nickname “Coastwise Tommy” because he would relieve Waterman crew members returning from overseas, so that they could spend a couple weeks with their families while their vessels discharged their cargos in ports from Norfolk to New Orleans. Dave Brown (above, right) receives a commendation from MarAd for meritorious service as bosun aboard the Flickertail State. At right, Recertified Steward Mike Pooler is awarded a commendation for being a “good feeder” during the Flickertail State’s mission to Haiti. July 2004 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/25/2004 9:15 PM Page 9 The APL Philippines, Cape Mohican and Manoa were three of the many SIU-crewed ships calling on the port of San Francisco over the last few months. Sailing into San Francisco MANOA APL PHILIPPINES Clockwise (from left): Kenneth Lee, the ship’s new chief cook, reports for work; ACU Hussain Ahmed; and Chief Steward Brian Burchett. Ivan Zuluaga Gomez Chief Steward ACU Mohamed Wasel, Chief Steward Jill Prescott CAPE MOHICAN Muckbil Shaibi ACU Steven Sun Chief Cook LURLINE Bonifacio Lozada Chief Cook July 2004 Lucille Aguilar Chief Steward Clockwise (from top left): SIU San Francisco Rep Archie Ware and Bob Rogers, VP Operations at IUM; AB Jimmy Crate and Bosun Stephen Garay; and Chief Steward Louis Morris. Seafarers LOG 9 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/25/2004 9:20 PM Page 10 Scenes from the Far East Aboard the LNG Libra The SIU-crewed Libra, a liquid natural gas carrier, was launched in the United States in 1979. With a capacity of 126,300 cubic meters, the vessel carries its load from Indonesia to Japan. The carrier is owned by BGT, Ltd. and managed by Pronav Ship Management. AB David W. Collins took most of the photos appearing on this page, and Bosun Frank P. Hedge sent them to the LOG. 10 Seafarers LOG Other SIU members aboard the LNG Libra during the voyage included ABs Craig A. Pare, Lyle J. McCorison, Hector Barnes, Dennis M. Byrne and Robert Triano; QMEDs Paul E. Peterson, John G. Knott and Tran P. Luu; GUDE Brian D. McBride; Steward Vernon S. Thibodeaux; Chief Cook Jose E. Guzman; and SAs Jabr A. Matari, Paul Armstrong and Luis A. Sepulveda. July 2004 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/25/2004 9:23 PM Page 11 National Labor Division Helps Unions Back Israel Federation Continues Supporting Bonds Program The Israel Bonds National Labor Division was created to perpetuate the historic ties between North American trade unionists and Israel. Under National Labor Division auspices, local, state and international trade unions have expressed support for Israel through events, delegations to Israel and investment in Israel bonds. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney has endorsed the investment in Israel bonds, declaring, “We will continue to support the State of Israel by purchasing the bonds that build and strengthen Israel’s economic infrastructure and create jobs for union workers in Israel.” Israel bond investments are helping to bring the following projects—all of which will be built with union labor—to fruition: Laying the latest stretch of the Trans-Israel Highway, which eventually will connect the northern and southern sections of the country. Developing a new community in the Negev. Constructing what will ultimately be the world’s largest SIU President Set for Award SIU President Michael Sacco has been chosen to receive the Ben-Gurion Labor Award from the State of Israel Bonds National Labor Division, in recognition of the union’s decades of support for the State of Israel. The award will be presented in November in Washington, D.C. Boat Lifting in Long Beach A recent visit by SIU Port Agent John Cox to the Port of Long Beach, Calif. found Seafarer Paul Jernstrom (right) lifting one of American Marine Corp.’s dive boats from the pier to the water. The boat is powered through a transformer on an “alternative maritime power” (AMP) barge, eliminating stack emissions. Attention Seafarers: July 2004 desalination plant along Israel’s Mediterranean coast. Expanding Israel’s international airport. Creating a light rail system to alleviate traffic and pollution. Labor’s solidarity with Israel has remained steadfast for decades. At its annual convention in 1917, the American Federation of Labor passed the movement’s first resolution in support of Jewish people’s right to establish an independent nation in their historic homeland. At its 2001 constitutional convention, the AFL-CIO issued an unequivocal statement reaffirming Israel’s right to exist in peace and security. “The strong, durable relationship between the AFL-CIO and the State of Israel is a source of great pride to everyone associated with the American labor movement,” Sweeney noted. “Our support for Israel is based on common values and ideals rooted in democracy and the inalienable rights of working men and women.” Morton Bahr, president of the Communications Workers of America, pointed out, Labor’s ties with Israel pre-date the establishment of the state, and have only strengthened over the years. Israel is the only place in the Middle East where free trade unionism is a fact of life.” Cecil Roberts, International President of the United Mine Workers of America, added, “We reach out to the people and State AFL-CIO President John Sweeney of Israel because they deserve the support of the American labor movement.” The Israel Bonds organization itself was founded in 1951. It serves as a bridge between Israel and its friends and supporters throughout the world. For more information, visit www.israelbonds.com. Raymond Ebeling, Robert Magee Selected for 2004 AOTOS Award The 2004 United Seamen’s Service (USS) Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award will be presented to Raymond P. Ebeling, chairman and president of American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC), and Robert P. Magee, chairman and CEO of Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). The honors will be awarded at an industry dinner and dance scheduled for Nov. 5 at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers in New York City. John Bowers, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFLCIO, made the announcement. “These two industry leaders from management we salute this year represent the finest in American spirit,” said Bowers. “Mr. Ebeling’s career has spanned some of the finest companies in American shipping and Bob Magee has been a career maritime man at sea, on shore and in shipbuilding.” Bowers added, “Our recipients have been selected by those who know them best—international transportation leaders who understand very well the challenges and issues that confront United States shipping and American seafarers and who wish to recognize leadership in this area.” Raymond Ebeling and Robert Magee led the field of nominees for the award, solicited by USS from more than 200 maritime management, labor and government officials. All proceeds from the event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries. Both recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea. Ebeling has been president and chairman of SIU-contracted ARC, a U.S.-flag liner service ocean carrier, since 1990. The carrier operates three Americanflag ships between the United States and Northern Europe, and Robert P. Magee, chairman and CEO, Totem Ocean Trailer Express Raymond P. Ebeling, chairman and president, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier two U.S.-flag vessels between the U.S. and the Mediterranean and Black Seas, and the latter of which carry most of the U.S. military vehicles in those trades. He also is president and chairman of American Auto Logistics (AAL), a logistics management firm that manages the worldwide movement of military service member’s vehicles for the U.S. Department of Defense. Ebeling has served on several advisory commissions to the U.S. government including appointment by President Bush as Commissioner on the Advisory Commission on Conferences in Ocean Shipping. Ebeling was awarded the National Transportation Award by the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) and the Herb Brand Award by the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department for “dedication to a strong and viable American Maritime Industry.” Robert Magee’s professional career has always been associated with the maritime industry. A graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, he served as a deck officer before becoming a manager with Sun Shipbuilding, where he was instrumental in establishing a new Sun Shipbuilding subsidiary, Seafarers-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. Following a stint as senior vice president with Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc., he returned to TOTE as vice president and later as chairman and CEO. The American Shipping Group he now heads is a holding company that comprises the blue water domestic and military support shipping businesses of Saltchuk Resources. These businesses include: Totem Ocean Trailer Express, which owns and operates five ships and 1,500 trailers and serves the mainland/Alaska trade; Sea Star Line L.L.C., which operates between Florida and Puerto Rico with two RO/RO-container vessels and is a partnership with Matson Navigation and Taino Star Investments; and Interocean Ugland Management, a technical ship management and ship crewing company that manages and operates 22 vessels—11 of which are in the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force. His achievements have included an awareness of environmental responsibilities. The new TOTE diesel-electronic Orca class vessels, have received awards for environmental design elements from government entities in the United States and Canada. Seafarers LOG 11 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/24/2004 4:13 PM Page 12 Unl lear AB Ray Spooner operates the hatch crane aboard the American Mariner. ABs Larry Curnow (top) and John Anderson work on the deck of the Joseph H. Frantz at fitout in Toledo, Ohio. Aboard the Indiana Harbor at the Detroit Edison plant in St. Clair, Mich. are UA Jamal Ricks (left) and AB William Padgett. The gateman on the Sam Laud is Baisel Kuvshinikov. AB Brendan Murphy works on the boom on board the Joseph H. Frantz. Bon Hosing down the cargo hold on the Indiana Harbor is AB James Davison. Ahmed Kaid is an SA on the John J. Boland. Harry Petersen, the 2nd cook on the Buffalo, gives the pot a stir. AB Mike Locke tends to the lines on the deck of the Great Lakes Towing tug Idaho in Toledo, Ohio. The Great Lakes region represents a multi-billion dollar component of the United States economy, and SIU members consistently do their part to keep waterborne cargo safely moving throughout the area. Seafarers transport approximately half of all cargo that is shipped on Lakes Erie, Huron, Michigan, Ontario and Superior. SIU members in those areas sail aboard self-unloaders, cement carriers, tankers, tugs and barges, dredges and more. The largest SIU-crewed ships on the Great Lakes exceed AB Charles Richardson works during fitout on the Sam Laud in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. 1,000 feet apiece. Cargoes consist of iron ore, stone, coal, cement, salt, sand, grain and liquid-bulk products. The region’s top economic activities include steel production (which relies on some of the aforementioned cargoes), industrial manufacturing and agriculture. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski noted that Great Lakes shipping “has been very good this year. We’ve got jobs ranging from 30 to 120 days, and we’ve seen Bosun Mike “Irish” Keogh hoses down the cargo hold aboard the John J. Boland after unloading coal at the U.S. Steel plant in Detroit. The use of safety gear is important when working aboard the Southdown Conquest. 12 Seafarers LOG July 2004 m r r s p y th �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/24/2004 4:13 PM Page 13 Unlicensed Apprentices Timothy Bauer (left) and Mark Kane (right) learn from Conveyorman Richard Mullins aboard the John J. Boland. From the left aboard the Sam Laud are DEU Ahmed Nasser, DEU Ken Troy and AB Walter Sipper. Bosun Ron Bochek (left) directs the DEU operating the hatch crane aboard the Sam Laud. Bonita Vineyard is an OS on board the Southdown Challenger. Serving up some lunch on the American Mariner is 2nd Cook Phil Martin. All is well aboard the Southdown Conquest. From the left are AB Mike Kelley, Cook Gerald Rifenbark, AB Larry Budnick, AMO Engineer Don McDonald and AB Brian Goudy. more and more members who normally sail deep sea, taking relief jobs on the lakes. That’s a credit to the new shipping rules and the new (Great Lakes) agreement that’s similar to the standard contract for deep sea.” For the year, Great Lakes cargoes are up significantly— partly because of better weather this year compared to last year. In the past, U.S.-flag Great Lakes ships have moved more than 125 million tons in a year. The increased traffic in 2004 is good news for Seafarers, but it’s not the only welcome story in that region. In recent months, employees at two companies (Laken Shipping and also Buffalo Industrial Diving) voted to join the SIU. Also, SIU-contracted Hannah Marine recently brought in a new oil barge. “These developments all point to people having confidence in the SIU, confidence in our crews,” Orzechowski said. “They know we’re in this for the long haul and we’re committed to providing well-trained, loyal crew members.” SA William Agnello poses in the galley of the Buffalo. DEU Abdul Ghaleb operates the hatch crane aboard the John J. Boland. AB Mike Kelley works on the deck of the Southdown Conquest. July 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:17 PM Page 14 Congratulations, Graduates! SIU President Michael Sacco (right photo, at podium) offers his congratulations and encouragement to graduates of the unlicensed apprentice program June 11 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The SIU president told the graduates (also pictured at left) that he is confident in a strong future for the union, the school and the entire U.S. Merchant Marine. For detailed information on the apprentice program, visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 946061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $12,590,672. These expenses included $920,244 in administrative expenses and $11,670,428 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,929 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $137,395,691 as of July 31, 2003, compared to $139,693,037 as of August 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $2,297,346. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is the difference between the value of the Plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $10,293,326, including employer contributions of $34,378, gains of $1,175,214 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $9,075,571 and other income of $8,163. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco CA 94102, telephone (415) 437-6850. The charge to cover copying costs will be $9.50 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 and the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. 14 Seafarers LOG Crowley Credits SIU’s Tacoma Hall An official from SIU-contracted Crowley Liner Services recently wrote to SIU President Michael Sacco to convey appreciation for the efforts of officials at the union’s hall in Tacoma, Wash. Edwin Colon, crewing coordinator at Crowley, noted that in answering the call for the first two phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom, “Many Crowley Liner Services ships have been called into service with very short notice and critical deadlines to meet in order to deliver the goods and satisfy our obligations…. We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation for the invaluable assistance rendered by the SIU hall in Tacoma, Wash.” Colon continued, “In particular, (Assistant Vice President) Donnie Anderson has been a tremendous help in many cases where we had very critical need and he saved the day on such occasions. In addition, (Port Agent) Bryan Powell and the other officials there all regularly go above and beyond the call of duty to assure the swift and effective crewing of our ships and deal with any other labor issues that may arise.” He concluded, “As a union hall, we feel Tacoma demonstrates a work ethic and commitment that goes above and beyond most. We feel that the hard work and commitment shown by this particular group of individuals should be recognized and rewarded. Please convey to them our gratitude and appreciation.” IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS PLAN, INC This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Plan, Inc., EIN 94-1431246, for the year ended July 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay all supplemental benefits. Basic Financial Statements The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $2,109,227 as of July 31, 2003, compared to $2,535,841 as of August 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $426,614. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $8,612,666, including employer contributions of $8,567,523, earnings from investments of $42,841 and other income of $2,302. Plan expenses were $9,039,280. These expenses included $472,106 in administrative expenses, and $8,567,174 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Plan, Inc., at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; telephone number (415) 437-6832. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, and at the U.S. Department of Labor Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:08 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2004 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 3 1 3 24 38 0 19 23 32 14 9 1 12 30 0 35 28 272 0 7 1 5 15 38 0 11 16 22 15 3 26 6 12 4 20 26 227 2 3 2 6 22 16 1 4 13 14 7 2 7 1 5 3 24 10 142 1 7 0 6 23 22 0 11 15 19 10 3 0 6 13 0 23 17 176 0 6 3 4 11 30 1 7 16 21 12 2 6 8 9 2 18 17 173 1 2 0 1 9 6 0 2 4 9 6 0 5 1 2 2 10 4 64 0 0 0 1 24 21 0 7 13 26 12 0 2 4 13 0 24 9 156 1 5 2 11 42 63 0 29 23 45 21 10 3 12 40 2 60 38 407 3 6 5 13 18 44 0 16 15 25 27 5 35 8 17 7 44 42 330 3 3 2 5 38 33 1 9 23 33 11 5 3 2 13 5 33 28 250 0 5 1 11 16 30 0 12 13 21 13 6 3 3 17 3 20 14 188 1 5 2 8 15 45 0 7 18 16 24 4 2 2 16 4 25 14 208 3 0 0 1 13 15 0 4 6 14 7 1 0 1 2 2 8 9 86 0 0 0 3 6 8 0 0 3 6 0 0 0 1 9 0 10 7 53 0 3 1 17 25 30 0 11 15 29 13 4 6 4 39 2 36 34 269 3 1 2 9 6 20 0 8 10 17 18 1 5 1 7 0 7 10 125 1 0 0 1 5 11 0 1 2 9 7 0 0 0 2 1 7 8 55 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 4 1 4 13 18 0 7 4 15 7 3 1 3 8 2 9 8 107 0 5 1 2 5 20 0 7 9 11 12 4 1 4 15 1 16 12 125 0 0 0 0 10 10 0 4 1 5 6 1 0 1 0 2 3 4 47 0 3 1 9 18 23 0 10 11 14 8 2 4 1 26 1 23 23 177 2 1 2 4 6 13 1 4 5 7 13 0 4 1 4 1 6 11 85 0 1 0 0 1 7 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 20 1 4 0 10 9 14 0 4 6 9 4 1 2 0 17 0 19 15 115 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 5 5 7 0 2 1 3 0 0 0 0 5 0 8 6 42 2 4 0 12 13 17 0 4 6 28 8 2 22 2 15 1 21 8 165 4 4 1 4 25 22 0 2 6 33 14 1 21 1 10 0 25 16 189 0 0 0 7 3 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 3 2 24 1 5 0 5 16 9 0 5 6 20 2 1 9 2 9 0 12 3 105 2 0 0 2 7 10 0 1 3 4 11 0 6 0 3 0 7 3 59 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 8 9 0 1 2 8 0 0 0 2 9 0 10 6 59 2 1 4 25 20 35 1 8 7 51 16 2 23 4 21 3 34 15 272 5 7 3 17 42 39 0 2 16 70 17 4 40 2 16 1 45 28 354 Totals All Departments 598 602 398 406 426 172 274 923 935 745 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 5 1 10 11 14 0 4 9 6 6 0 4 3 8 1 5 3 91 0 4 3 1 4 20 0 5 4 7 6 4 2 5 8 0 8 8 89 2 1 0 0 3 4 0 1 1 3 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 22 0 1 1 5 5 11 0 2 2 5 3 2 1 8 9 1 6 3 65 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 1 0 5 2 8 1 3 4 3 11 0 2 2 3 1 5 8 59 Piney Point .............Monday: August 2 ................................Tuesday: September 7* ............................................*(change created by Labor Day holiday) DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 0 2 0 0 3 7 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 0 1 0 3 4 27 Algonac ..................Friday: August 6, September 10 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 5, September 9 Boston.....................Friday: August 6, September 10 Duluth .....................Wednesday: August 11, September 15 Guam ......................Thursday: August 19, September 23 Honolulu .................Friday: August 13, September 17 Houston ..................Monday: August 9, September 13 Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 5, September 9 Joliet .......................Thursday: August 12, September 16 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 11, September 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 10, September 14 New York................Tuesday: August 3, September 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 5, September 9 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 4, September 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: August 12, September 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 12, September 16 San Juan..................Thursday: August 5, September 9 St. Louis..................Friday: August 13, September 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 20, September 24 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: August 17* ................................Monday: September 20 ............................................*(change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals ROBERT GOLDSON Please contact Lucinda Jones at 3114 Dumbarton Road, Richmond, VA 23228; telephone (804) 553-8181. Union Plus gives Seafarers and their families access to many cost-saving benefits programs. The SIU participates in a number of the programs, including credit card, mortgage and real estate, life insurance, health savings, auto insurance, education services and more. Below is one of the newer options. For more information, visit Union Plus at www.unionplus.org. ENTRY DEPARTMENT *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2004 Seafarers LOG 15 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/25/2004 Seafarers International Union Directory 9:36 PM Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 31542, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 10 2 4 14 0 1 9 40 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 3 0 4 1 2 3 0 0 5 15 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 11 7 3 12 1 1 9 44 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 5 0 3 2 0 3 0 0 5 13 1 11 2 2 9 0 0 5 30 0 29 12 11 36 2 1 21 130 0 5 4 5 3 0 0 8 25 0 30 7 13 0 0 0 0 50 2 4 3 1 4 0 3 1 18 0 13 10 6 14 2 3 20 68 0 6 4 1 3 0 1 2 17 0 19 5 11 0 0 0 0 35 1 2 2 1 3 1 0 1 11 0 7 7 6 10 1 1 10 42 0 3 1 4 16 0 2 5 31 0 20 4 11 0 0 0 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 5 1 10 1 1 6 27 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 3 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 6 4 1 5 0 1 3 20 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 2 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 4 2 4 1 1 6 19 0 1 1 1 4 0 0 2 9 0 2 0 1 1 0 1 3 8 Port 0 1 3 2 2 1 1 4 14 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 4 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 3 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 3 0 1 1 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 Totals All Departments 86 16 31 78 12 26 67 222 73 121 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Adonis Ard Sr. of Bogalusa, La. It was taken in November 1967 in front of the mess hall at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Ard, now 53, is the young man on the right. He doesn’t remember the two other students. Can anyone identify them? Still sailing as an AB, Ard most recently worked aboard the Lykes Navigator. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:09 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ALI M. ABDULLA, 66, began his seafaring career in 1991 in the port of New York. He first shipped on the PFC William Baugh. Born in Yemen, Brother Abdulla worked in the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Integrity and is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. NICK ANDREWS, 67, began his career with the SIU in 1978 in Seattle. Brother Andrews was born in Greece and shipped in the steward department. He completed steward recertification training in 1987 at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Andrews first went to sea aboard the Westward Venture and last sailed aboard the Horizon Challenger. Brother Andrews lives in his native country. PATRICK CORLESS, 65, was born in Altoona, Pa. Brother Corless joined the SIU in 1990 in the port of Piney Point, Md., initially sailing aboard the Cape Florida. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Corless shipped in the engine department. He upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the Captain Steven L Bennett. Brother Corless makes his home in Ft. Myers, Fla. JACK GARTON, 65, hails from Iowa. After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Brother Garton joined the SIU in 1972 in Seattle. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Garton last sailed aboard the Northern Lights. He resides in Seattle. RICHARD HOUGHTON, 65, began his seafaring career in 1980 in Houston. Born in Philadelphia, he shipped in the deck department and was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Houghton last sailed on the Liberty Sun. He continues to live in Houston. HUSSEIN M. NASSER, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1979 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. An engine department member, he sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by CSX Lines including the Sea-Land Shining and the Exchange. Brother Nasser was born in Yemen and makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. JAMES OSBEY, 65, joined the SIU in 1964 in New Orleans. He July 2004 worked in the steward department and last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Pride. Brother Osbey makes his home in Houston. HIGOLD SCHULTZE, 70, joined the SIU in 1992 in the port of New York. Born in Argentina, his first voyage was aboard the ITB Baltimore. Brother Schultze sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He most recently sailed on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Sgt. Matej Kocak. North Miami Beach, Fla. is his home. CHARLES SCOTT, 70, began his career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Coeur D’Alene Victory. Brother Scott worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills in 1980 when he completed steward recertification training at the Paul Hall Center. His last voyage was aboard Pacific-Gulf Marine’s Equity State. Brother Scott was born in Arkansas. He now calls Webster, Texas home. Inland NORMAN HANCOCK SR., 65, started his SIU career in 1973 in St. Louis after serving in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. Boatman Hancock worked in the deck department and on numerous occasions enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped aboard the Buffalo Soldier. Boatman Hancock was born in St. Louis. He currently resides in Farmington, Mo. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. JUAN ADAMS, 65, embarked on his NMU career in 1967. He first shipped out of the New York port aboard the Constitution. Born in St. Croix, V.I., Brother Adams last sailed on the Pacifico. CORNEAL BRAXTON, 70, launched his NMU profession in 1978. Brother Braxton’s first ocean voyage was aboard the American Lark. Born in Mobile, Ala., he worked in the steward department. Brother Corneal last went to sea on the Cape Hudson. JOSE GARCIA, 68, hails from La Habana, Cuba. Brother Garcia launched his career with the NMU in 1996, initially sailing aboard the Cape Horn. Brother Garcia worked in the steward department. His last ship was the Chesapeake Bay. JAMES GARRITY, 68, began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1976. Brother Garrity was born in Liverpool, England. He worked in the deck department and made his last voyage on the Lykes Liberator. JAMES HILL, 60, launched his seafaring career with the NMU in 1964 in San Francisco. Brother Hill was born in the Philippines. His first ship was the Exminster. Brother Hill shipped as a member of the engine department. LEROY HOCKINS, 66, was born in Philadelphia. He joined the NMU in 1964 in the port of New York. A deck department member, Brother Hockins first shipped aboard the Gorden. His last ship was the Louise Lykes. GEORGE HUDDLESTON, 63, began his profession with the NMU in 1965. Born in San Pedro, Calif., his first voyage was aboard the Volunteer State. Brother Huddleston worked in the engine department and last went to sea on the Cape Island. MOISES MARTINEZ, 81, started sailing with the NMU in 1968 from the port of Philadelphia. His first ship was the African Grove. Brother Martinez was born in Puerto Rico and was a member of the steward department. He last worked aboard the Texaco Maryland. JUAN RAMIREZ, 70, joined the NMU in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Ramirez initially went to sea on the United States. The Puerto Rico-born mariner shipped in the steward department and last sailed aboard the American Archer. LORENE ROBINSON, 59, hails from Los Angeles. Sister Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 The War Shipping Administration has established new rules for medical examinations for merchant seamen. The new directive requires a complete annual physical examination for all seafarers shipping aboard WSA ships in addition to the regular signing-on physical. The WSA designated that the U.S. Department of Public Health and its facilities be in charge of implementing the new regulations. It also established that any seaman who does not pass a physical examination can appeal the rejection in accordance with the provisions of his collective bargaining agreement. The WSA also established a requirement that seamen be required to take immunization shots when their vessels will be proceeding into pestilence areas. Robinson started her career with the NMU in 1980 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Her first ship was the Howell Lykes and her last was the Cape Hudson. Sister Robinson worked in the steward department. GHALEB SALEH, 65, joined the NMU in 1966. The Yemenborn mariner first sailed aboard the American Falcon. He shipped in the engine department. RONALD SMITH, 55, embarked on his NMU profession in 1977. His first ship was the USNS Shoshone. Born in Nampa, Idaho, Brother Smith worked as a member of the steward department. He last sailed on the Fredericksburg. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the date indicated. Name Age EDP Cepedes, Salvador 72 May 1 Esquibel, Alberto 58 May 1 Johnson, Gerald 71 May 1 Williams, Wells 61 May 1 manpower needs. The Vietnam War has put great pressure on the existing SIU manpower, but the SIU has always provided enough men to man the needed ships. The SIU, through its extensive upgrading and training programs, is able to provide a pool of manpower to meet sudden crises, such as the Vietnam call-up. The break-out of vessels from the reserve fleet has meant that more jobs are available to SIU men, and the union has effectively filled them. This Month In SIU History 1966 Earl Shepard, vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast, has been assigned the responsibility of meeting SIU Atlantic and Gulf Coast 1994 SIU members in the port of San Juan, P.R. last month helped pull a grounded oil tanker to safety without spilling any of the 13 million gallons of fuel oil the runaway-flag vessel was carrying. Seafarers aboard tugs operated by Crowley Maritime moved the Greek-flagged, Liberian-owned Mantinia safely into Guayanilla Bay. The 749-foot ship had been grounded in sand. Other SIU members were standing by with oil containment booms and skimming equipment in case of a spill. SIU tankermen also were on hand in case the Mantinia needed to be lightened before the move. Seafarers LOG 17 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:14 PM Page 18 Final Departures his career with the Marine, Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1965 in San Francisco. He made his home in Oakland, Calif. and went on pension in 1979. DEEP SEA PAUL ANDERSEN Pensioner Paul Andersen, 89, passed away March 14. Brother Andersen launched his seafaring career in 1946 in the port of New York. He was born in Denmark and worked in the deck department. Brother Andersen initially sailed on a Louisiana Sulphur Carrier vessel. His final voyage was on the Arecibo, a Puerto Rico Marine Management vessel. Brother Andersen resided in Florida and went on pension in 1978. GEORGE BERTHOLD Pensioner George Berthold, 93, died Feb. 23. Brother Berthold was born in New Orleans and joined the SIU there in 1951. The U.S. Army veteran was a member of the engine department. Brother Berthold last went to sea on the Sea-Land McLean. He called Foley, Ala. home and started receiving his retirement income in 1977. KENNETH BETHEA Brother Kenneth Bethea, 45, passed away Jan. 20. Brother Bethea joined the SIU in 1989 in the port of Jacksonville. He initially shipped with Crowley Towing & Transport Co. The steward department member’s last voyage was on the SeaLand Performance. Brother Bethea resided in his native state of Florida. VINCENT CARAFA Pensioner Vincent Carafa, 75, died Jan. 15. Brother Carafa joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. He first went to sea on the Panoceanic Faith. The Pennsylvania-born mariner sailed in the deck department, last working aboard the Sea-Land Mariner. He lived in Santa Rosa, Calif. and began receiving retirement compensation in 1992. JOSE CORTES Pensioner Jose Cortes, 83, passed away Feb. 12. Brother Cortes began his SIU career in 1946 in the port of Baltimore. His first voyage was aboard an A.H. Bull Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Cortes shipped in the deck department, last sailing on the Seattle. He made his home in Puerto Rico and went on pension in 1982. FRANK CUNNINGHAM Pensioner Frank Cunningham, 80, died Feb. 5. Brother Cunningham became a Seafarer in 1953. The deck department member shipped as a bosun, most recently aboard the Overseas Ohio. He began receiving retirement stipends in 1987. Brother Cunningham resided in Mathis, Texas. RAYMOND DAVIS Pensioner Raymond Davis, 77, passed away Nov. 3, 2003. Brother Davis began his seafaring career in 1953 in the port of New York. Born in Athol, Mass., he was a member of the engine department. Brother Davis first went to sea on Delta Steamship Lines’ Del Alba. His last voyage was aboard the Overseas Ulla. Brother Davis began receiving retirement compensation in 1983. He lived in Contoocook, N.H. LLOYD HAWKINS Pensioner Lloyd Hawkins, 88, died Feb. 8. Brother Hawkins joined the MC&S in San Francisco. He resided in Houston and began receiving his pension in 1978. JOHN HAYES Brother John Hayes, 63, passed away Jan. 20. He joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Hayes initially sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Madaket. The deck department member’s last voyage was on the Sea-Land Discovery. Brother Hayes was born in New York but called San Juan, P.R. home. JUAN HERNANDEZ Pensioner Juan Hernandez, 79, died March 25. Brother Hernandez started his career with the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Manati, P.R., he was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Brother Hernandez sailed in the engine department, initially working aboard an Ore Navigation vessel. He last worked on the Sea-Land Expedition. Brother Hernandez made his home in Davie, Fla. and went on pension in 1989. WALTER MCCALLUM Pensioner Walter McCallum, 85, died Feb. 14. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Brother McCallum embarked on his SIU career in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The New York-born mariner shipped in the engine department and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Sea-Land/CSX Lines. Brother McCallum resided in Yountville, Calif. and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1984. Brother Mills also sailed in the inland division. He was born in Georgia and resided in Honolulu. His last voyage was on Maersk Line’s USNS Capable. WILLIAM MITCHELL Pensioner William Mitchell, 83, died Jan. 27. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Brother Mitchell joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was on the Madaket. Born in South Carolina, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Mitchell last went to sea aboard the Walter Rice. He lived in Chesapeake Va. and began receiving retirement compensation in 1991. INLAND Boatman Calvin Barletto, 51, died March 21. Born in Louisiana, he launched his SIU career in 1978 in New Orleans. He first sailed on a Crescent Towing vessel. Boatman Barletto last worked aboard a Moran Towing of Texas vessel. He called Franklin, La. home. A.B. COCEK Pensioner A.B. Cocek, 80, passed away Jan. 14. Boatman Cocek joined the union in 1967 in Houston, after serving in the U.S. Army. The Texas born-mariner sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing. Boatman Cocek shipped in the deck department as a captain and went on pension in 1986. Houston was his home. EDMOND RUBERTO Boatman Edmond Ruberto, 57, died February 25. The New Jersey-born mariner joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Ruberto initially worked aboard the Geneva, a vessel operated by U.S. Steel Corp. He shipped in the deck department, last working aboard a Maritrans vessel. Boatman Ruberto called Rockhall, Md. home. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM COCHENET Pensioner William Cochenet, 65, died April 4. Brother Cochenet joined the SIU in 1960 in Detroit. Born in Wisconsin, his first voyage was on an American Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Cochenet sailed in the engine department, last working aboard the Southdown Challenger. He resided in Las Vegas and began receiving his pension in 2000. DONALD LING Pensioner Donald Ling, 73, died May 8. Brother Ling joined the SIU in 1949 in Detroit. He first sailed aboard the Bob-Lo Island; his last voyage was on the Steel Crapo. Born in Port Huron, Mich., Boatman Ling worked in the engine department. He continued to live in Michigan and began receiving his pension in 1997. SCOTT MILLS ANTONIO DIACCI Pensioner Manning Davis, 78, died Jan. 29, 2003. Brother Davis was born in Louisiana and embarked on Brother Scott Mills, 49, passed away Feb. 13. He joined the SIU in 2001. A member of the deck department, Pensioner Antonio Diacci, 80, died May 27. Born in Yugoslavia, Brother Diacci joined the SIU in 1969 in Seafarers LOG FRANK SIWIK Brother Frank Siwik, 48, passed away March 14. He launched his seafaring career in 1979 in Detroit after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Born in Michigan, Brother Siwik sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Co. The deck department member first went to sea on the J.T. Hutchinson. His last voyage was on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Siwik called Detroit home. CALVIN BARLETTO MANNING DAVIS 18 Toledo, Ohio. He shipped primarily aboard American Steamship Co. vessels as a member of the engine department. Brother Diacci, who called Chicago home, went on pension in 1988. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. DIONISIO AGUILAR Pensioner Dionisio Aguilar, 80, passed away April 26. Brother Aguilar joined the NMU in 1945, initially sailing aboard a Lykes Brothers vessel. Born in Honduras, his final voyage was on another Lykes Brothers ship. Brother Aguilar went on pension in 1968. deck department, last sailing on the American Trader. Brother Clark went on pension in 1979. THOMAS DAHER Pensioner Thomas Daher, 75, died May 7. After joining the NMU in 1963, his initial voyage was from the port of New Bedford, Mass. aboard the Marthas Vineyard. He last went to sea on the MV Islander. Brother Daher worked as a member of the deck department. He began receiving his pension in 1975. SERGIO ESQUADRA Pensioner Sergio Esquadra, 90, passed away May 7. Brother Esquadra started his career with the NMU in 1944. Sailing from the port of New York, he first sailed on a Lykes Brothers vessel. He was born in the Philippines and worked in the steward department. Brother Esquadra began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1970. RICHARD MITCHELL Pensioner Richard Mitchell, 80, died March 24. Brother Mitchell was born in Georgia and joined the NMU in 1964. He last shipped aboard the Star Massachusetts and started receiving his pension in 1984. PEDRO ALVARADO Pensioner Pedro Alvarado, 82, died May 14. Brother Alvarado started his seafaring career with the NMU in 1966, first shipping on the American Forwarder. Born in Honduras, he worked in the engine department. Brother Alvarado last sailed aboard the Export Champion. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1983. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers and sisters, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE DOD Adam, Hassen 82 May 16 Archie, Charles 71 April 29 Aviles, Ismael 82 April 25 Baran, Briggie 90 April 26 Brideau, Arthur 78 April 27 Brin, Alexandre 68 March 4 MANUEL BARBOZA Camargo, Juan 81 March 6 Pensioner Manuel Barboza, 88, passed away April 30. Brother Barboza started sailing with NMU in 1932 from the port of Boston. He worked in the steward department. Brother Barboza’s final voyage was aboard a Hess Petroleum vessel. He went on pension in 1968. Clarke, Walter 93 May 2 Colville, Frank 89 Dec 20 Coram, Ethelbert 84 Feb. 20 HARRIS BLAKE Heinz, Pensioner Harris Blake, 87, died May 5. Brother Blake was born in Georgia. He joined the NMU in 1950, first shipping from the port of Boston on the Reading. Brother Blake worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1985. ZOLLIE CLARK Pensioner Zollie Clark, 76, passed away May 4. Brother Clark first sailed with the NMU in 1945 aboard the Ohio. He worked in the Daw, Mary 68 May 18 Emil, Edward 77 April 13 Farris, Earl 76 March 1 Franklin, Victor 96 April 30 Henry Elliot 68 May 6 Irizarry, Pablo 87 Dec. 23 Jones, John 70 May 1 Lopes, Howard 79 Jan. 18 Lorenzo, Luis 87 April 30 Mallard, Otis 78 May 13 Martin, Juan 77 April 13 Minnard, Melvin 82 April 27 Miskulin, Nicholas 74 May 18 Murphy, Cornelia 71 May 16 Myslinski, Stefan 89 May 11 Pedro, Christian 80 Feb. 27 Peele, Robert 67 May 4 Robinson, Donald 78 Dec. 25 Ryan, Donald 79 Jan. 2 Sanchez, Daniel 82 May 14 Stokes, Calvin 70 March 21 Tolcha, Samuel 85 March 1 Washington, Johnnie 80 May 8 July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/25/2004 9:27 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.``` CAPE ISLAND (Crowley Liner Services), April 25—Chairman Stephen D. Castle, Secretary Terry N. White, Educational Director Stanley D. Castro, Engine Delegate Allen E. Ward, Steward Delegate Cynthia C. Beatley. Chairman thanked crew members for smooth trip and professional job. Secretary reminded everyone getting off to leave rooms clean and place dirty linen in bags. Educational director emphasized educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. for upgrading skills and ratings. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits and decreasing seatime needed. Request made for improved mail service. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. GT DILIGENCE (Maritrans), April 29—Chairman Ronald L. Paradise, Secretary Mary Lou Smith, Educational Director Arthur K. Outlaw, Engine Delegate Patrick Carroll, Steward Delegate Audry C. Flemings. Chairman announced payoff April 30 in Jacksonville. He talked about waste management program and thanked deck department for job well done. He expressed sympathy on behalf of entire crew to family of George McCartney, who will be missed and thought of often. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep living areas orderly. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications read from headquarters regarding vacation pay and unemployment benefits. COLUMBIA (ATC), May 20— Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Ramon T. Guimba Jr., Engine Delegate Detricke R. Kelly, Steward Delegate Albert Sison. Secretary reported on company applications for new builds and explained procedure and time constraints. Treasurer stated $5,576 in crew’s fund of which $750 earmarked for installation of XM radio antenna. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made that funds expended for fishing gear and replacement DVD players be reimbursed. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. ENDURANCE (USSM), May 10—Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Jesse B. Natividad Sr., Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Dennis A. Hurley, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Thurman C. Johnson. Chairman noted smooth sailing. He talked about reflagged passenger ships soon to be in operation around Hawaiian Islands, which could mean more jobs for SIU members. Ship’s fund, temporarily held by captain, contains about $1,100. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to purchase dart set. Crew inquired July 2004 about having satellite reception aboard ship. ERIC G. GIBSON (Osprey Ship Management), May 9—Chairman Thomas E. Minton, Secretary Steve E. Parker III, Educational Director Doug Foley. Bosun advised crew of letter written to headquarters requesting clarification of transportation issues. He gave thanks to all departments for job well done, with special kudos to AB Robert“Mango” Hinckley Jr. for his smooth crane skills while loading ammunition. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess halls and lounge clean. Educational director stressed importance of attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. He also encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vessel has gone from prepositioning status to ammunition cargo carrier to grain ship and back to container ship. Crew members requested contract to reflect that, mirroring contract of American Tern or going to standard contract. Crew requested new pillows, fitted sheets and fan. Suggestion made to build saltwater pool. Vote of thanks given to steward department for innovative menus and barbecues. Next port: Singapore. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), May 2—Chairman Dan P. Fleehearty, Secretary Amanda F. Suncin, Educational Director William M. Pinkham, Engine Delegate John R. Day. Chairman announced payoff May 11 in Tacoma, Wash. Blanket day off moved to next day. Coast Guard inspection scheduled for May 21 in Tacoma. Educational director advised everyone to check expiration dates on all documents and renew in plenty of time. He also spoke about new security plans to go into effect July 1. No beefs reported; OT issue in steward department to be discussed with boarding patrolman at payoff. Crew members asked to help keep lounge and laundry areas clean. Next ports: Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), May 2—Chairman Jay C. Dillon, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Donnel C. Tagart Jr., Deck Delegate John T. Emrich, Engine Delegate Gregorio M. Abalos Jr., Steward Delegate Thomas E. Kleine. Chairman announced payoff on arrival May 4 in Oakland, Calif. He thanked crew for smooth, safe trip. Secretary informed crew members about new guidelines being drawn up for port security scheduled to go into effect July 1. He advised everyone to have proper identification when entering terminal. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made for contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits and lowering age requirement. Suggestion made to start collection for new movies and entertainment. Crew members encouraged to sign up for SPAD contributions when filing for vacation. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles, Calif.; Honolulu. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), May 16—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Franchesca Rose, Educational Director Mike J. Wells, Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate Cecilio A. Banga, Steward Delegate Alejo Fabia. Chairman announced arrival May 21 in Tacoma, Wash. Payoff will take place after clearing customs and immigration. New security regulations go into effect July 1. Everyone reminded to carry current, up-to-date z-card to comply with port security. Secretary stated captain will conduct sanitary inspection of cabins and boxes May 20. He also discussed ordering of consumable food stores and cleaning material. Educational director reminded crew to allow several months when renewing Coast Guard documentation. He also talked about upgrading courses available at Piney Point and led discussion about SPAD and how that fund gets used. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in engine department. Written proposals for next negotiating session sent to contracts department. New refrigerator installed in crew mess. Engine and deck departments were thanked for their work in moving, installing and securing the appliance. Vote of thanks given to steward department for two great barbecues. Thanks also given to Oakland and Tacoma shoregangs for all their help and support while ship is in those ports. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON EXPEDITION (Horizon Lines), May 9—Chairman Winston D. Thompson, Secretary Michael J. Gramer, Educational Director Glenn A. Snow, Engine Delegate Eric D Vieira, Steward Delegate Thomas M. Kelly. Chairman stated he was not sure whether ship would make another trip before laying up. Captain said he was very happy with recent sanitation inspection and thanked crew for their efforts in getting ship ready on short notice. If another voyage is made, captain said there is a 35-day food order ready. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), May 9—Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Vainuu L. Sili, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Robert J. Natividad, Steward Delegate Henry O. Wright Jr. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival May 11 in Oakland, Calif. He advised crew members to keep doors locked and be aware of strangers or others who may not belong aboard ship. He thanked everyone for good job separating plastic items from regular trash and asked that those getting off ship leave set of clean linen for next person. Secretary stated everything running smoothly. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for better paying jobs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding prescription benefits for seamen living abroad. INNOVATOR (USSM), May 16— Chairman Dirk W Adams, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Paul B. Flores, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Adel B. Irani, Steward Delegate Ahmed M. Quraish. Chairman expressed condolences to family of ARC Director Rick Reisman, who died March 8. He informed crew of change in shipping rules. Secretary thanked chairman, ABs and engine department for jobs well done. Educational director reminded crew members of upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point and of need to make sure all shipping documents are up to date. Treasurer stated $316 in ship’s fund. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in deck department. Recommendation made for contracts department to look into ship when in drydock. Any information about extension or renewal of contract would be welcome. Next ports: Nagoya, Japan; Bontang, Indonesia; Tobata, Japan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Ltd.), May 13—Chairman Carlton P. Hall, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director John A Collins Jr., Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Chairman announced payoff May 18 in Newark, N.J. He thanked everyone for doing a great job. “Keep it up.” Secretary expressed appreciation to crew for keeping vessel clean and secure. Payoff on the Endurance SIU Wilmington, Calif. Safety Director Marshall Novack met with Seafarers May 12 for a payoff on the Endurance in Los Angeles. Pictured aboard the USSM vessel are (from left) QMED Teddie Carter, Electrician Tes Gebregziabher, AB Dennis Hurley, AB Don Pegram, Chief Cook Danny Guerrero, GSU Hassan Mohamed, Chief Steward Jesse Natividad Sr. and Bosun Romeo Lugtu. reducing seatime needed for retirement and to increase pension benefits. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. INTEGRITY (USSM), May 16— Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Gerhard Schwarz, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Alexander Nicholson, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward Delegate Lonnie Jordan. Chairman thanked crew for good voyage. Secretary joined bosun in asking those getting off ship to leave clean linen for next person. Educational director advised crew members to check z-cards for expiration date and leave plenty of time for renewal. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to upgrade pension, medical and dental benefits. Request made for locker for crew storage. Thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J.; Charleston, S.C.; Miami; Houston. LNG VIRGO (Pronav), May 16— Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary John A. Palughi, Educational Director John W. Stewart, Deck Delegate Raymond Naterlin, Steward Delegate Joseph Welle. Chairman thanked everyone for good, safe work. Secretary reported cabin stores ordered for Japan delivery are to be delivered May 22. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center as often as possible. Treasurer stated $500 in crew fund. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted by engine delegate. Clarification requested on formula used for reliefs for vessel and whether seniority matters in being relieved. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into allowing full medical benefits to retirees at age 55. New mattresses will be ordered for entire Educational director recommended Seafarers attend upgrading classes at Piney Point. He also suggested they allow plenty of time when renewing shipping documents. Treasurer stated $1,652 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding food and support. USNS BELLATRIX (Amsea), May 21—Chairman Wayne Venison, Secretary Anthony L. Curran, Educational Director Francis C. Quebedeaux, Deck Delegate Corrie J. Stockton, Engine Delegate Michael L, Mefferd. Chairman announced arrival in Texas followed by layup in Boston. Educational director noted many new upgrading courses available at Paul Hall Center. Steward thanked everyone for trouble-free and enjoyable voyage. He asked departing crew to sort laundry and place outside door prior to departure. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department and storekeeper for jobs well done. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Ltd.), May 23—Chairman Kenneth L. Steiner, Secretary Walter J. Matt, Educational Director Thomas P. Arthur, Deck Delegate Dale Harrison, Engine Delegate Pati F. Taototo, Steward Delegate Kimberly A. Strate. Vessel currently in Diego Garcia. Chairman talked about security and keeping safe while working and on liberty. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point when possible and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made regarding pension plan. Request made to replace refrigerator in crew lounge. TV reception needs to be improved for lounge area and staterooms. Seafarers LOG 19 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:18 PM THE GALLEY CORNER Page 20 Jim Battista sent in this article, recipe and accompanying photograph from aboard the Maersk Constellation, where he currently is the chief steward. The Kane, Pa. native came to the SIU through the veterans’ program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. After fulfilling his STCW requirements and other mandatory training, Battista began his career as a merchant mariner in the SIU. Into Africa: Stores Aboard! by Chief Steward Jim Battista Under Capt. Thomas Tankersley, the Maersk Constellation left the USA loaded with what seemed to be a million bags of rice and grain. Through a United Nations effort, they were to be delivered to five ports in East Africa for the starving people there. The trip went as scheduled, and the seas were calm. Obviously, Neptune smiled upon us. We traveled from one port to the next and saw the people in need of our cargo. We saw men who unloaded the rice eating it raw off the deck. Sights such as these have to make one reflect on the great country we live in, the union that supports us, the jobs we have, and the abundance of food for our families. But, on a lighter side, let’s talk food. When we arrived in Tanzania, we decided to try and get some fruit and vegetables for the vessel. I contacted the chandlers in port and put in our order. The next day, to my surprise, there was a line of people with woven baskets on their heads loaded with our produce. Fresh melons, pineapples, mangoes like footballs, and all sorts of fresh fruit and vegetables they thought we would like to check out and try. To say the least, it was like going back in time 150 years. Now don’t get me wrong. The inventory was excellent, and some of the items left Chief Cook Cesar Macias and myself scratching our heads. But all was well in Africa, and the chandlers instructed us in what an item was and how and when to eat Letter to the Editor Chief Steward Jim Battista decides what to do with some of the fresh produce that was delivered to the ship in woven baskets. it or combine it with other items and how to cook it. The people brought huge stalks of bananas to the ship with easily 100 bananas on each, so we had plenty of pudding, banana splits, banana cake and one of the crew’ favorites: banana bread (see recipe on this page). The trip to Africa was, to say the least, enlightening and eventful. Smooth sailing to all the departments out there. Keep up the good work, stand tall for what you do, and don’t forget the support you get is what you give. Banana Nut Bread 5 cups flour 2 cups sugar 4 tablespoons baking powder 2 teaspoons salt 6 tablespoons salad oil 1½ cups milk 2 large eggs 2 cups very ripe bananas, mashed 2 cups chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) Mix all ingredients together for three or four minutes until well blended. Pour ¾ full into three sprayed bread loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees F for 55-65 minutes. (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Former Seafarer Still Active on Ships On my 17th birthday, I joined the USMS and took basic training at Catalina Island in December 1944. I later sailed with the NMU in the Atlantic as a messman on the USAT George Washington and Laconia Victory. When the war in Europe was over, I sailed in the Pacific on the Standard Oil tanker R.C. Stoner and then back on the East Coast aboard a collier, the Walter D. Noyes. I returned to California to finish my schooling, never sailing again except in 1985, when I went on board the German ship Lillooet, a 723foot RO/RO with rear ramp. I worked as an ordinary seaman and was the oldest person and only American on the ship, which had German officers and engine crew and a Spanish deck crew. I sailed as a worka-way passenger from Oak- land, Calif. to Brisbane, Australia and had 21 days ashore while the ship went to Sydney, Melbourne and back to Brisbane, where I once again boarded it. It then sailed to Noumea and Suva and back to Tacoma, Wash., where I took a bus home. Since I retired from the correctional system in California in 1979, I have been a volunteer with the Coos Bay Seamen’s Center for 21 years, 14 of those as manager (with no pay). We closed the center about two years ago for lack of ships. However, now at age 76, I still board each ship that stops here and take aboard magazines, Christian tracts, calendars in season, a map of the area, and copies of the Seafarers LOG. My hobby is collecting old or new paper money from around the world and would appreciate any donations. You can write to me at the address below or e-mail me at buddy.san@verizon.net. All letters or e-mails will be answered. Check out my web page at: http://home1.gte.net/res0gtse. Buddy Hincke 66642 East Bay Road, #50 North Bend, OR 97459 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works 20 Seafarers LOG and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. July 2004 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:18 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 2004. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Able Seaman Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) Start Date Date of Completion July 5 August 16 September 27 November 8 July 30 September 10 October 22 December 3 September 13 November 15 September 17 November 19 *(must have radar unlimited) Recertification Bosun October 11 November 8 Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation July 26 September 20 November 15 August 20 October 15 December 10 FOWT July 12 October 25 September 3 December 17 QMED - Junior Engineer September 27 December 17 Welding August 23 October 4 November 1 September 10 October 22 November 19 Course Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* July 19 August 23 September 20 November 8 July 30 September 3 October 1 November 19 Basic Safety Training (BST) July 19 August 2 August 30 July 23 August 6 September 3 Fast Rescue Boat July 26 August 30 July 30 September 3 (*must have basic fire fighting) Celestial Navigation September 27 October 22 GMDSS (Simulator) July 12 August 23 September 27 November 1 July 23 September 3 October 8 November 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 2 September 13 October 25 August 13 September 24 November 5 Navigation Fundamentals July 19 November 29 July 30 December 10 Government Vessels July 19 September 13 August 6 October 1 Radar August 30 November 1 September 10 November 12 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* July 26 October 4 July 30 October 8 August 9 October 4 November 29 August 20 October 15 December 10 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most recently beginning June 21, 2004. (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2004 SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:44 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 650 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 650. They are (from left, kneeling) De’shanna Sherrod, Zsuzsanna Balla, (second row) Christian Oding, Kyle Rayborn, Norman Rodriguez, Richard McKain, Gregory Lariviere, Sigfrid Mayer, Ernie Smith, Harry Smith, William Brinson, Matthew Wright, (third row) Lando Adams, Jason Brown, Kyle Pillsworth, Jerry Stamer, John Tullier, Joshua Smith, Daniel Gaffney and Christopher Dickens. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given May 14 to (in alphabetical order) Ramaninder Bhyllor, James Buchowski, Francisco Cordeiro, John Cull and Quincy Wilson. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is third from left. ARPA — Government Vessels — Upgrading Seafarers graduating May 21 from the government vessels course are (in no particular order) Brooks Crawford, Mark Beck, Kevin Johnson, Jaime Medina, Gary Santos, Neftali Erausquin, Phillip Maxfield, Joseph Waldera, Damar Shaw, Nathaniel Leachman, Timothy Dexter, Jor-el Holmberg, Christopher Czarske, Richard Wiltison, John Niday, Coda Russell, Ty Varnadoe, Damian Spedale, Christopher Yore, William Bell and Kent Harper. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, is at far left. (Note: not all are pictured.) Earning their ARPA certificate May 28 are (in alphabetical order) Jared Blavat, James Enah, Peter Madden, Steve Randle, George Rew and Jerry Sobieraj. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far right. GMDSS — Finishing the 70-hour GMDSS course May 7 are (in alphabetical order) James Enah, Aryid Friberg III, Tzvetan Ovalov, Kenneth Salgado, Ovidio Santos and William Sholley. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far left. Fundamental Concepts of Navigation— Advanced Fire Fighting — Earning their advanced fire fighting endorsements May 28 are (in alphabetical order) Ian Ferguson, Charles Huggins, Elisha Johnson, Carlos Majao, Steven Medina, Brandon Purcell and Anthony Simon. Their instructor, Anthony Hammett, is at far right. Upgrading deck department members who successfully completed the navigation fundamentals course May 7 are (in no particular order) Miles Janecka, Wayne Smiley, John Mensah, Johnie Chavis, Jared Blavat, David Steinberg, Philip Perry, Adeeb Saleh and Vasiliy Semesjuks. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, as at far left. Specially Trained OS — Completing the STOS course May 14 are Alaska fishermen (in alphabetical order) Ronaldo Aguirre, Ruben Aguirre, Dianna Baines, Reynaldo Dineros, Kyle Hudson, Jay Jones, Robert Makowski and Alexander Millendez. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Computer Lab Class Left: Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes May 14 at the Paul Hall Center are (from left, front row) Adeeb M. Saleh, Tzvetan Ovalov and (back row) David E. Steinberg. With them is their instructor, Rick Prucha. Right: Also being congratulated by instructor Rick Prucha is Joao F. Cordeiro, holding his certificate. 22 Seafarers LOG Fast Rescue Boat — Instructor Stan Beck (far left) sits with upgrading students who completed the fast rescue boat class May 7. They are (in alphabetical order) Alexander Fyodorovykh, Richard Huffman, Elisha Johnson, William Schuppman and Lawrence Rose. July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:51 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL)— Two tanker assistant classes, both ending May 7, included the following students (in no specific order): Lloyd Clark, Nigel Williams, Gilbert Johnson, Rocky Dupraw, Phillip Maxfield, Taneisha Johnson, Neftali Erausquin, Gary Santos, Jaime Medina, Timothy Dexter, Nicholas Doffoh, Jess Cooper, Joseph Waldera, Daniel Miler, Adam Begleiter, Damian Spedale, Jorel Holmberg, Mark Beck, Brooks Crawford, John Niday IV, Coda Russell, Hashiem Pittman, Orlando Pabon, Antonie Rainey, Kevin Johhnson, Michael Maskalenko, Kent Harper, Michael Snowden Jr, Christopher Yohe, Richard Wiltison, Christopher Czarske, Michael Cox, Nicholas Collins, Joseph Walter Jr., Darrion Intram, Damar Shaw, Nathaniel Leachman and Ty Varnadoe. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — May 28 graduates of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course are (in no particular order) Emilio Gonzalez, Marvin St. George, Adeeb Saleh, John Gilliam, David Steinberg, Paul Kucan II, Agustin Arriaga, Duane Evans, George Mazzola, Nebojisa Milosevic, Douglas Maravelias, Randolph Sutton, Charles Franks, Ziting Zu, Kevin Carraby and Maximo Lambert. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is standing at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Two classes, both ending April 16: Megdi Bady, Brandon Barnato, Francis Butler, Michael Caputo, Diana Chaloux, Sherry Collins, Steve Dalton, Jeremy Fleck, Antonio Garcia, Andrew Gay, Anthony Harris, Natasha Jefferson, Akram Khoury, William Laurila Jr., Joshua Longley, Robert Mathias, Brandy McCracken, Matthew Meeker, Rose Ocampo, Catherina O’Keefe, Tanner Raban, Ryan Riviere, Matthew Rubin, Myka Schwagmeier, Jennifer Sheets, John Siekkinen, Kiera Smith, Dominic Swanek, Jessica Smith, Delinda Dontje and Carl Barnett. Water Survival — April 9: Will Laurila Jr., Jessica Smith, Anthony Harris, Akram Khoury, Tanner Raban, Megdi Bady, Jennifer Sheets, Ryan Riviere, Michael Smeltzer, Joshua Longley, Kiera Smith, Dominic Swanek, Romeo Alcain, John Alonzo and Duane Judd. (Note: not all are pictured.) Water Survival — April 23: Antonio Garcia, James Cedillo, Jeremy Fleck, Michael Caputo, R.C. Cabalouinto, Rose Ocampo, John Siekkinen, Andrew Gay, Josef Mansour, Diana Chaloux, Matthew Meeker, Delinda Dontje, Brandon Barnato, Marion Flores and Natasha Jefferson. Standing at the stern of the boat are their instructors, Tom Gilliland (left) and Stan Beck. STCW — April 30: Ann Adam, Ronaldo Agirre, Ruben Aguirre, Justin Bagley, Dianna Baines, Kim Blosser, Reynaldo ineros, Kyle Hudson, Jay Jones, Colin Lemon, Robert Makowski, Alexander Millendez, Marc Pferdekamper, Jennifer Sanders, Stacy Silverman, Josef Mansour, Cheri Sigford, Anton Nedeltchey, Deborah Hamilton, Terje Ostbye and Iris Zwack. Their instructor, Tom Gilliland, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Water Survival — April 30: Jessica Koutecky, Noah Rowan, Amanda Haun, Charles Burton, Chantry McSherry, Kieran McSherry, Lamar Solomon, Andrew Baumrucker and Johnny Cothren. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. Water Survival — May 7: Ronaldo Aguirre, Ruben Aguirre, Dianna Bawes, Reynaldo Dineros, Jeffrey Fiegel, Kyle Hudson, Jay Jones, Robert Makowski, Alexander Millendez, Milissa Oakley and Iris Zwack. Their instructors were Tony Sevilla and Tom Gilliland. Sevilla is at far right. July 2004 Seafarers LOG 23 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/26/2004 2:04 PM Page 24 A P D P D R P P p S P I 1 The photos of the Lykes Navigator crew members on this page were sent to the LOG by Jevon Vontoure of Gulfport, Miss. They were taken during a union meeting following completion of a recent voyage from northern Europe. At left are Steward Clyde (Chuck) Thompson and Demac Eloris (Moosie) Tart. At right, signing the patrolman’s forms, are (from left) Steward Clyde Thompson, Demac Eloris Tart, Chief Cook Michael Brown, Bosun Sandy Price and OS Kenny Gaston. Lykes Navigator Specifications: The Lykes Navigator carries about 3,000 containers as it crosses the Atlantic. Gross Tonnage ..................................................39,100 Deadweight ......................................................45,000 LOA ..............................................................259.01m Beam................................................................32.21m Draft ................................................................11.92m Service Speed............................................21.25 knots Container Capacity ....................................3,010 TEU Shaft Horsepower ............................................18,800 Launched in 1987 as the Almeria Lykes Following construction of the Lykes Navigator in Japan, the vessel entered service in 1987 as the Almeria Lykes. Throughout its career, the ship has always flown the U.S. flag, although it has had several name changes since then. In 1996, it was called the President Buchanan; in 1998, it was again named the Almeria Lykes and finally the Lykes Navigator. Six years ago, the U.S. Maritime Administration approved an application for three Lykes vessels (Discoverer, Liberator and Navigator) to participate in the Maritime Security Program and be operated by Marine Transport Lines. The 259-meter Lykes Navigator, a container ship, is on a regular run from the Gulf ports of New Orleans and Houston to the northern European ports of Bremerhaven, Germany, Thamesport, England and Antwerp, Belgium. Steward Clyde Thompson does much of his menu planning on the computer. Great camaraderie exists in the galley of the Lykes Navigator with Clyde Thompson (left) as steward and Michael Brown as the chief cook. Jevon Vontoure, who was relief electrician aboard the Lykes Navigator, is shown in photo above and at home in the engine room at left. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SCHOOL’S ADVISORY BOARD WEIGHS KEY SECURITY ISSUES SIU CONTRACT REMAINS IN PLACE FOLLOWING SALE OF HORIZON LINES PRIDE OF ALOHA JOINS SIU FLEET SEAFARERS CREW UP NEWLY REFLAGGED CRUISE SHIP MATSON, KVAERNER PHILADELPHIA TO CHRISTEN MAUNAWILI JULY 17 SIU MAINTAINS JOBS ON 7 SURVEY SHIPS SIU MAINTAINS JOBS ON 7 SURVEY SHIPS FLICKERTAIL STATE CREW DELIVERS CRITICAL CARGO TO U.S. MARINES IN HAITI SIU, MTD, OTHERS PROTEST BAHAMIAN-FLAGGED FERRY REPRESENTATIVE MCCRERY RECEIVES ANNUAL ‘SALUTE TO CONGRESS’ AWARD MARAD OKAYS MSP TRANSFER AGREEMENTS MARITIME LAWYER VICTOR HANSON DIES AT 80 RETIRED SIU OF PUERTO RICO PRESIDENT TERPE PASSES AWAY MATSON MOURNS PASSING OF RETIRED PRESIDENT GRAY CLASSROOMS UPGRADED IN SIMULATOR BUILDING NATION HONORS SERVICE & SACRIFICE OF MERCHANT MARINE SCENES FROM THE FAR EAST ABOARD THE LNG LIBRA NATIONAL LABOR DIVISION HELPS UNIONS BACK ISRAEL FEDERATION CONTINUES SUPPORTING BONDS PROGRAM RAYMOND EBELING, ROBERT MAGEE SELECTED FOR 2004 AOTOS AWARD GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS HELPS KEEP ECONOMY MOVING CROWLEY CREDITS SIU’S TACOMA HALL LYKES NAVIGATOR SAILS FROM GULF TO N. EUROPE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2004 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 66, No. 7 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/9725735ce57e39eefbcf6f52c93ed5d5.pdf cd05b926db73f382af6d3c264c35c9f9 PDF Text Text 23075_P01,2,24.qxd 5/28/2004 5:30 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 6 June 2004 ALASKAN FRONTIER CHRISTENED Double-Hull Tanker To Join SIU Fleet The SIU last month welcomed the christening of its newest ship, the double-hull tanker Alaskan Frontier. Among those attending the event May 20 in San Diego were (from left) OSG Ship Management Executive VP Bob Johnston, BP Alaska President Steve Marshall, MEBA President Ron Davis, SIU President Michael Sacco, BP West Coast Region President Bob Malone, Alaska Tanker Co. President Anil Mathur and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Page 3. Seafarers and SIU officials participated in National Maritime Day ceremonies May 20 in Washington, D.C. Left: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta (left) and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel are e s n e f y e a D D f e o m i m t i r r A a h on M t r u Fo ored Hon BELOW: U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao meets apprentices from the Paul Hall Center and SIU officials including (front row, from left) Assistant VP Ambrose Cucinotta, SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel and Assistant VP George Tricker. Pages 12-13. pictured at the event hosted by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Right: U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) chats with Unlicensed Apprentice (and Mississippi resident) Thomas Nicely at MSC’s ceremony. Scholarship Winners Announced Pages 2, 7 ITF Inspectors Help Foreign Crews Page 3 Mariners Included in WWII Memorial Page 2 Crescent Boatmen Approve Contract By a vote of 123-8, SIU members who sail aboard tugs operated by Crescent Towing (including the Point Clear, left) recently approved a new three-year contract. Page 3. �23075_P01,2,24.qxd 5/28/2004 5:30 PM Page 2 President’s Report Meeting Our Goals This month’s LOG provides an especially revealing snapshot of what the SIU is all about. Good jobs for Seafarers. Top-notch training. Fair contracts. Helping fellow mariners. Upholding our legacy as the nation’s fourth arm of defense. The SIU continues to achieve all of those things and more. As I’ve said before, it all starts with jobs. Michael Sacco On that front, I was proud to represent Seafarers last month at christening ceremonies for a new double-hull tanker in San Diego. Whether it’s replacement tonnage or outright new additions, it’s obviously vital that we continue maintaining and growing the SIU-contracted fleet. The new tanker Alaskan Frontier and its soon-to-come sister ships represent continued employment opportunities for SIU members. That’s our No. 1 priority, as always. We also recently welcomed a newly contracted tanker, the Charleston, to our fleet. Other new job opportunities are on the horizon and approaching fast. As the Paul Hall Center’s Deep Sea and Inland Towing Advisory Board prepares to meet this month at the campus in Piney Point, Md., I again congratulate our affiliated school for leading the way when it comes to maritime security training. The school’s directors and instructors have worked hard to stay on top of what can only be described as a complex and evolving subject. As a result, our crews are well prepared at a time when shipboard and port security have reached unprecedented levels of scrutiny and importance. I also extend congratulations to our negotiating team at Crescent Towing, where SIU boatmen recently approved a new three-year contract. Having served on more than a few bargaining committees, I understand and appreciate what it takes to secure a good agreement like the one at Crescent. Once again, our team delivered. Likewise, our team of inspectors for the International Transport Workers’ Federation recently came through for foreign crew members who were owed substantial amounts of back pay. Our involvement in the ITF is crucial on many levels, and we often find ourselves working together on very complicated global issues. But, as in the recent cases reported on page 3, it really all boils down to one thing: helping fellow mariners. Finally, a word about National Maritime Day. At a time when U.S. mariners—including more than 2,000 SIU members—are handling the largest sealift effort since World War II, it’s great to see our industry receive the recognition we deserve. This year, at National Maritime Day ceremonies across the country, military and government leaders paid tribute not only to our heroic crews from past conflicts, but also to today’s mariners. Additionally, World War II-era mariners were included in the National World War II Memorial in Washington that was dedicated at the end of May. The gratitude to those who paid the ultimate price is fitting. The acknowledgment that America continues to rely on U.S. citizen crews to support our armed forces is essential. As U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao put it, “In peace and war, the merchant marine supports the twin pillars of America’s strength: economic prosperity and national security.” The SIU remains a proud part of that formula. Our commitment to delivering the goods has never been stronger. Volume 66, Number 6 June 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 U.S. Merchant Marine Included In WWII Memorial Dedication The new National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., scheduled for official dedication as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, includes a tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Two identical merchant marine bronze emblems atop marble bases are featured at the memorial, which was slated to formally open May 29. More than 1,200 members of the Seafarers International Union gave their lives in World War II. The U.S. Maritime Administration called the inclusion “long overdue recognition.” U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert was to represent American mariners during the dedication. “Merchant mariners crewed the Liberty ships, the Victory ships, and thousands of other ships that carried troops and many tons of materiel for the Allied cause in World War II,” the agency noted in a news release announcing its participation in the dedication. “Nearly 215,000 people served in the U.S. Merchant Marine in World War II, and almost one mariner in 30 died in the line of duty. The Merchant Marine suffered higher casualty rates than any branch of the Armed Services except the Marine Corps.” Schubert stated, “The contribution of merchant mariners to the war effort has too often been overlooked. Their inclusion on The new monument was open for public viewing a month before its official dedication May 29. the memorial and in the ceremonies is a fitting tribute to the sacrifices made by the merchant marine.” According to Maritime Administration figures, 733 American cargo ships were lost to enemy action during WWII and more than 6,000 civilian American seafarers were killed. Thousands were injured during attacks and nearly 600 were held as prisoners of war. “Merchant mariners are consistently first in, last out,” Schubert added. “In World War II, they The U.S. Merchant Marine emblem appears were the ones carrytwice at the National World War II Memorial, at ing cargo across the the bases of two flagpoles. North Atlantic to Britain, and making the runs to Murmansk before the United States entered the war. And when the war was over, it was the merchant marine who also brought the troops home.” The National World War II Memorial, located on the Mall between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, opened for public viewing in late April, a month before the official dedication. It is the first national memorial dedicated to all who served during the Second World War. The memorial was authorized by Congress in 1993. Construction began in September 2001 after several years of fund raising and public hearings. The dedication ceremonies were scheduled to span four days. 1 Seafarer, 5 Dependents Selected for Scholarships The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has announced this year’s scholarship recipients. Selected by a panel of professional educators last month were one Seafarer and five dependents of SIU members—for a total monetary value of $106,000. In past years, Seafarers were eligible for three of the scholarships—one four-year, $20,000 award and two $6,000 stipends for a two-year course of study at a college or vocational school. This year, however, none of the applicants was eligible for the fouryear award, and only one applicant was eligible for the two-year award. Mark Anthony Dyer from Newbern, N.C. is the Seafarer selected for the two-year scholarship. The five dependents of SIU members are Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston, Aaron J. Gilson, son of James O. Gilson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohamed Shibly; and Glenys I. Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. This year’s selection committee, meeting in San Juan, P.R., was appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The panel was composed of the following scholars and academicians: Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College of Maryland; Dr. Gayle A. Olson, University of New Orleans; Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Charles County (Md.) Community College; Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities; Father David A. Boileau, Ph.D., Loyla University; Dr. Keith Schlender, Medical College of Ohio; and Professor Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president of academic affairs, California State (San Bernardino). See page 7 for brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the six collegebound students. The selection committee goes over each of the applications submitted for one of the eight scholarships awarded annually by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. June 2004 �p3,4,12,13.qxd 5/28/2004 5:33 PM Page 3 Tanker Alaskan Frontier Christened Seafarers will crew up the Alaskan Frontier, christened May 20 in San Diego. The Alaskan Frontier, the first in a series of double-hull oil tankers being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA, was christened May 20 at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in San Diego. SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez represented the union at the event. The ship will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. (ATC). “The Alaskan Frontier represents upcoming job opportunities for Seafarers,” Sacco noted. “It’s also important from the standpoint of helping maintain a pool of qualified, loyal U.S. mariners who may be called upon to support our troops in times of conflict.” The state-of-the-art doublehull ship (as well as its sister ships being built at NASSCO) has a length of 941feet and a beam of 164 feet. The design of the 1.3million-barrel-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, the vessels employ the latest in international marine technologies, including twin-screw, mediumspeed, diesel-electric propulsion that can achieve a speed of more than 15 knots. The ships come fitted with the most modern machinery and cargo control systems and an integrated navigation system. Pam Olver, spouse of Richard Olver, deputy group chief executive of BP, was the ship’s sponsor, naming the Alaskan Frontier and striking a ceremonial bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull. Bob Malone, chief executive of BP Shipping, Ltd., was the keynote speaker at the event. Altogether, four Alaska Class tankers are scheduled to be delivered between this summer and the end of 2006. “These environmentally friendly ships use seawater instead of oil to cool and lubricate the propeller shafts, thus eliminating accidental oil leaks,” Malone said. “Their cargo piping, normally installed on the deck, is inside the cargo tanks, to reduce the risk of small spills.” Crescent Boatmen Okay 3-Year Pact SIU members who sail aboard tugs operated by Crescent Towing approved a new three-year contract that improves health benefits and maintains four-person crews. The vote, which took place from late April to early May aboard the boats and at the SIU hall in New Orleans, was 123-8 in favor of the agreement. The SIU represents Crescent crew members on a total of 18 boats in New Orleans; Mobile, Ala.; and Savannah, Ga. Serving on the union’s negotiating committee were New Orleans Engine Delegate David Walker, New Orleans Captain Delegate Joseph Carson, New Orleans Deckhand Delegate Richard Rosser, Mobile Captain Delegate Ronnie Walker, Mobile Engine Delegate Kyle Tucker, Mobile Deckhand Delegate John Wint, Savannah Deckhand Delegate Charlie Warren, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, and SIU Consultant (and retired Port Agent) Jim Martin. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez credited the union’s bargaining committee for “outstanding work” and also noted that Crescent “refused to bow to certain pressures from elsewhere in the industry. They realized, at the end of the day, that it benefits all concerned to have safe, reliable, enthusiastic crew members who feel like they’re partners, so to speak, rather than just numbers.” Like everyone else involved, Corgey described the negotiations as tough, despite the long-standing productive working relationship between the union and the company. “But in very challenging economic conditions, we bargained in good faith to a fair compromise that protects the standard of living for employees while maintaining the competitiveness of the company,” Corgey noted. “I take my hat off to the rank-and-file delegate committee for doing a superb job and hanging in there. They really looked out for the people they work with.” Negotiations took place in New Orleans and lasted about three weeks. In addition to gaining the top medical benefits offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (Plan G) and maintaining crew size, the contract changes rules concerning lay-ups so that Seafarers almost certainly will gain additional work. “I’m proud we maintained people’s jobs,” Judd stated. Carson said, “I feel we did very well, considering what we were up against. I think we came out of it great and the company did, too. We made compromises for the medical benefits, which is what everyone wanted. (Maintaining) the fourth man was first, then the benefits. We came out with both.” A 24-year member of the SIU, Carson added that his spirits were lifted by “the strength of the union. If it wouldn’t have been for our brotherhood and the leadership of the SIU…. We knew we had their support, absolutely. We had everything from legal advice to guys from another union company willing to walk our picket line if we needed help.” Walker, who also has served on numerous negotiating teams, said, “We got a little bloody but we lived to fight another day. I feel pretty good about the contract. (Keeping) the fourth man was the most important thing, along with the new medical plan. I’m 100 percent good with that.” He pointed out that Crescent boatmen now will have full coverage for their dependents, including prescription coverage. Among those participating in negotiations were (front, from left) Crescent Senior VP Arthur Kulp, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Crescent Executive Scott Cooper, (standing) Crescent Assistant Operations Manager Jodie Scharfenstein, Crescent Safety Director Keith Glass, Crescent Assistant Vice President Eddie Pinner, SIU New Orleans Captain Delegate Joseph Carson, SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, SIU New Orleans Deckhand Delegate Richard Rosser and SIU New Orleans Engine Delegate David Walker. Among those not in the photo but also taking part in negotiations were Seafarers Ronnie Walker, Kyle Tucker, John Wint and Charlie Warren, SIU Consultant Jim Martin and Crescent CEO Keith Kettering. Similarly, Rosser noted, “The medical plan is a raise in itself—a lifesaver for a lot of people. I think we should be very happy with what we accomplished.” A 30-year veteran of the tugboats, Rosser asserted, “One man’s job lost is one too many, and four men is what’s needed on Cresent tugs in the Gulf. I really do believe that. It’s safe and reasonable, and I hope other companies follow our precedent.” SIU ITF Inspectors Secure $186,000 In Back Wages for Foreign Crews Four SIU International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspectors recently secured a total of $186,000 in back wages for the foreign crews of three vessels. SIU ITF Assistant Coordinator Enrico Esopa along with SIU ITF Inspectors Arthur Petitpas, Tony Sacco and Shwe Tun Aung came through for the mariners in March. “Unfortunately, back-wage claims are nothing new aboard some foreign-flag ships,” Esopa said. “Many foreign mariners are afraid to come forward because of (potential) retaliation by the shipowners, but the crews have a great ally in the ITF and its inspectors. When given the chance, we can help.” In early March, Petitpas met with mariners aboard the Maltaflagged SafMarine Douala in Camden, N.J. after receiving written complaints from the Filipino crew alleging double bookkeeping (meaning they were paid a lower rate than what their contract called for). The crew also said they had been forced to work unpaid overtime. Petitpas quickly secured a written agreement from the ship manager (Ormos Compania Naviera of Greece) including not Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, July 5, 2004 for the observance of Independence Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. June 2004 only back pay, but also a onemonth wage bonus. He subsequently met with the crew in Norfolk, Va. and supervised the payment of more than $53,000 in back wages. Aung then met the vessel in Houston to check on the final payments (totaling more than $24,000) and repatriation. He also successfully fought off alleged attempts by the ship’s master to blacklist the crew. Later that month, mariners aboard another Malta-flagged ship operated by Ormos (the Alice) contacted the ITF after learning that the SafMarine Douala crew had received back pay. At the Red Hook terminal in Brooklyn, N.Y., the Alice crew told Esopa that they also were owed money by the company. In this case, Esopa the next day secured more than $30,000 in back pay for the crew, along with repatriation for five Filipino crew Crew members from the SafMarine Douala show their thanks to the ITF. They received more than $77,000 in back pay, thanks to the federation. members. Finally in March, Sacco met with Ghanaian crew members of the British-flagged ship Kent Trader in Georgetown, S.C. after receiving a report from the ITF’s London-based headquarters. The mariners were concerned about unpaid wages. Sacco contacted the new fleet manager in Germany and secured back pay according to the ITF contract, along with a bonus and repatriation that were promised to the crew if they sailed the vessel to the next port (Halifax, Nova Scotia). In total, the mariners received more than $78,000. The ITF is a federation of more than 550 transport workers’ unions, including the SIU. Those unions represent more than 4.5 million workers in 130 countries. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section. Seafarers LOG 3 �p3,4,12,13.qxd 5/28/2004 5:34 PM Page 4 SIU-Crewed M/V Resolve Praised for Rescue at Sea The SIU-crewed Resolve recently received a Meritorious Public Service Award from the U.S. Coast Guard for rescuing two fishermen late last year. AB Paul Altenor was among those who manned the lifeboat which rescued the survivors. The Resolve is crewed by Seafarers and members of the American Maritime Officers (AMO). It is operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine. The following SIU members were aboard the vessel when the rescue took place: Bosun Ruben Rivera; ABs Altenor, Julio Alvarez and Earl Bostrom; OSs Flora Garland and George Peters; QMED Mark Mosher; OMUs Scotie Beezley and Michael Joel; Chief Steward Griffin Carter; Chief Cook Pedro Edar; SA Eric Hernandez; and Unlicensed Apprentice Lloyd Clark. The text of the award follows. “The Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District takes great pleasure in presenting the U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award to Captain Michael R Frye and the crew of the M/V RESOLVE for actions in the rescue at sea of two shipwrecked fishermen on the afternoon of December 13, 2003. Notice: Philadelphia Clinic The Philadelphia health clinic has moved to a different floor in Methodist Hospital (from the first to the second floor). As of May 21, the clinic is located on the second floor. The address is unchanged: Healthmark Clinic, 2301 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. Captain Frye, master of the M/V RESOLVE, was at the beginning of a transatlantic passage off of Frying Pan Shoals, North Carolina, when his crew overheard a partial distress call from the F/V ALL HOOKED UP. Captain Frye notified the nearest Coast Guard station of the call and then, lacking more precise location of the distress, diverted his ship to begin a precarious search based only upon the maximum potential range of radio reception of the call. “Shortly thereafter, the Coast Guard correlated the distress Captain Frye had heard to an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) signal and a cellular telephone call from two fishermen who had abandoned the F/V ALL HOOKED UP as it sank, and now were adrift in the vessel’s life raft. The Coast Guard notified Captain Frye of this additional information and the specific distress position received through the EPIRB. Captain Frye immediately altered course and made best speed to the identified coordinates. Combating heavy seas and deteriorating weather, Captain Frye and his crew located the life raft containing the two survivors. Working in the extremely dangerous seas and near gale force winds, the crew lowered a rescue boat to retrieve the two hypothermic survivors. After providing essential medical attention, Captain Frye coordinated the transfer of both survivors from the M/V RESOLVE to a Coast Guard helicopter. The two survivors were then safely brought ashore for medical evaluation and treatment. “The heroic, unselfish actions of Captain Frye and his crew, despite the treacherous weather conditions and the danger to his own vessel, saved two lives and upheld the highest traditions of humanitarian service.” Instructor Relishes Chance To Help Students Advance two daughters. “Rendering assistance to others has always been something I wanted to do, and being here (at the Paul Hall Center) as a maritime instructor provides me with the ideal way of doing it.” Pelingon, who still sails on SIU-contracted vessels, currently serves as the deck department’s lead instructor for able seamen. He teaches various deck department courses, including lifeboat/water survival, specially trained ordinary seaman and basic safety training/STCW. So far, Pelingon has achieved a 100 percent passing rate for students in the subject areas of: deck and marlinespike seamanship, cargo handling, navigation, shiphandling, rules of the road and deck safety. Born in the Philippines, Pelingon is a natural for the classroom. “I come from a family of many educators,” he shared. “My mother, sisters, uncles as well as other relatives all are or were educators in the Philippines. At some point in their careers, most of them have been associated with seafarers because in the Philippines you either work on the farm or you work at Maritime Instructor Bernabe Pelingon con- sea. These are the two ducts a marlinespike seamanship class at the largest professions Paul Hall Center. Pelingon is the deck depart- back home, but I knew ment’s lead instructor for able seamen at the I did not want to be a Piney Point, Md.-based school. A third generation mariner who comes from a family of educators has concocted the perfect recipe for his diversified talents. After spending 20-plus years in the U.S. Navy and two more sailing aboard deep sea vessels for the SIU, Bernabe S. Pelingon in 1999 became an instructor at the union’s affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Becoming a maritime instructor, in his estimation, has translated into the fulfillment of his destiny. “I’ve always wanted to be in a position to help people,” said Pelingon, a husband and father of 4 Seafarers LOG full-time farmer.” Pelingon attended the Iloilo Maritime Academy in the Philippines where he earned an associate’s degree in Nautical Science and a bachelor’s in Marine Transportation. He also received his third mate’s license (unlimited foreign). Pelingon enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1977. After serving for 20 years as quartermaster first class, earning numerous decorations along the way and attending a myriad of military training schools, he retired and began contemplating second career options. While a number of professions attracted his interests, his handsdown favorite was the merchant marine. “I attended a job fair in Norfolk, Va., where I met representatives of the SIU,” Pelingon said. “I talked to them about joining the SIU because, based on past experiences, I already knew what was happening with the merchant marines and it was nothing new to me. I guess I really was born one (a merchant mariner).” In 1997, Pelingon was accepted for the veteran’s program at Piney Point. “I was the first veteran in the program that year,” he recalled. “Once aboard, I upgraded in all areas of the deck department and then began shipping out.” Completely satisfied with his second career, Pelingon soon began thinking of ways to spread the good news about the merchant marine and the SIU to others. When not shipping, he The Seafarers-crewed Resolve (formerly the Tanabata) earned recognition for rescuing two fishermen. Seafarer’s Last Request Honored Recertified Steward Robert S. Davis reports that on March 27, 2004, under clear skies, the earthly remains of his late wife, Chief Steward Tracy Jane Davis (pictured aboard the Overseas New Orleans in 2001), were scattered on the calm waters of Kailua Bay on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Sister Davis was a longtime Seafarer, and her last request was that she be set free in the sea in Hawaii on her birthday. Joining Robert Davis at the remembrance were Tracy Davis’ father, sister and several close friends. Tracy passed away at her home in Montgomery, Texas in December 2002. Anyone wishing to share their memories of her, or to express any related thoughts, may contact Robert Davis at 99 Lakeview Village in Montgomery, Texas 77356-5917 or telephone (832) 656-6843. thought it might benefit the union as well as military veterans if he attended Navy Transition and Separation Programs in Norfolk and introduced job seekers to the transportation industry. “My idea was well-received, partly because I had access into the Navy’s personnel system, knew how it worked and was a retired military ID card holder,” he said. “I started speaking during seminars, sharing my personal experiences and giving various presentations on behalf of the merchant marine. We appealed to the interests of several hundred of people who later came into the SIU under the vets program.” In addition to being a volunteer recruiter, Pelingon helps enlist instructors and serves as a peer tutor and mentor for upgraders at the Paul Hall Center, some of whom have English as a second language. When asked to share his guiding philosophy on life, Pelingon said, “Take care of people, they are your most valuable asset. Help them, for they may find it hard not to help you when you’re the one in need.” Sailing, Teaching Are Right Mix For Pelingon Seafarer Bernabe Pelingon has found a winning combination: sailing and teaching. Pelingon sails in the deck department with the SIU and also serves as an instructor at the union’s affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. When not in the classroom, he returns to the sea. “I’m still an active Seafarer today,” he said. “Making the transition from being an instructor to going back to sea or vice versa is not a problem for me because in either case I’m in a position to help people.” Mariners who may be interested in teaching at the Paul Hall Center (either full- or part-time) are asked to contact John Mason at (800) 360-1068. Crewing Up the Charleston The chemical carrier Charleston is a new addition to the SIU-contracted fleet, as reported last month. Seafarers in April crewed up the 635-foot tanker in Houston. Among those signing on were Bosun John Nichols, ABs Randell Paredes, Donald Clotter, Harvey Ramos, Tavell Love and Janaro Jackson, QEPs John Bonefont and Clarence Verdun, Chief Cook John Stephen, GUDE Machavellia Bagsby, ACU Gamal Asaad and SA Faustino Castillo. The Charleston is the eighth ship in the United States Shipping LLC U.S.-flag fleet. June 2004 �PG5_7,19,21.qxd 5/24/2004 4:59 PM Page 5 SIU President Honored by St. Louis AMMV A group of St. Louis-area U.S. Merchant Marine veterans went all out to honor SIU President Michael Sacco last month during an early National Maritime Day ceremony that attracted high-ranking officials from government and the military. The S.S. Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) and Navy Armed Guard hosted the May 15 event at the Soldiers Memorial in downtown St. Louis. “We just want Mike Sacco to know how much we appreciate everything he’s done for us,” noted George Ward, an officer with the 90-member Samuel Parker Chapter who sailed as an NMU member during World War II. “I’ve met him on several occasions and he’s an A-number-1 guy.” Among other efforts, Ward cited the SIU president’s active role in helping secure extension of the cutoff date for veterans’ status for World War II mariners. The morning ceremony also featured tributes to war-era mariners, including members of the local AMMV chapter who passed away since last year’s National Maritime Day ceremony. But much of the event was dedicated to Sacco, a St. Louis resident who received plaques and proclamations, including declara- Pictured from left to right are St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, SIU President Michael Sacco and Soldiers Memorial Superintendent Ralph Weichert. tions from the governor, mayor and other elected representatives. The AMMV chapter dedicated an anchor chain in his honor (situated outside the museum) and also displayed a banner recognizing Sacco as “America’s No. 1 Merchant Marine.” SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper introduced the SIU president to the crowd. “The U.S. Merchant Marine has no greater friend than Mike Sacco. He has devoted his life not only to his own union, but really to the entire industry,” Sleeper stated. “He is a leading voice in Washington when it comes to promoting the merchant marine’s important role as America’s fourth arm of defense.” Sacco thanked everyone involved with the day’s events and then turned his attention to those mariners who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. “The best way we can honor them and confirm that they did not die in vain is to keep the American flag flying on the high seas,” he said. “History has taught us, again and again, that when America is involved in conflicts, it depends on the sealift provided by a strong merchant marine. There is no other reliable, practical alternative, as we’ve again seen during Operation Iraqi Freedom.” Among those attending were Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); Lt. Col. Todd Robbins; St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay; Alderman Stephen Gregali; State Senator The S.S. Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) and Navy Armed Guard surprised SIU President Michael Sacco with a banner (held by, from left, chapter members Don Adams and Harry Student) and also dedicated an anchor chain to him. ITF Questions Elimination of Crew List Visa International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary David Cockroft recently wrote to the U.S. State Department expressing his disappointment that the government is planning to abolish crew list visas for visiting mariners—despite advice from, among others, the heads of the International Labor Organization and International Maritime Organization that this will penalize mariners and may even undermine major new developments designed to enhance security. Cockroft wrote in part, “Further to our previous communications during the rule making process, we are extremely disappointed that the United States has issued the Interim Final Rule in Public Notice 4654. We also note that the Public Notice advises that the proposed rule solicited 81 comments from seafarers’ trade unions, shipowners and Governments, all of which argued against the elimination of the crew list visa. Moreover, earlier this year the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization and the Director-General of the International Labor Office wrote a joint letter to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security requesting the United States to recognize the June 2004 exceptional position of seafarers in terms of entry into foreign countries and to facilitate shore leave for seafarers. “The joint letter by the heads of two United Nations Specialized Agencies notes the way the international community has, in the wake of September 11, put in place additional stringent and comprehensive measures to address the question of maritime security. The International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) Code, adopted by the IMO, which comes into force on July 1 this year, puts seafarers at the forefront of the new maritime security regime. The IMO Diplomatic Conference that adopted amendments to the SOLAS Convention and the ISPS Code also adopted a Conference Resolution on Human Element Aspects and Shore Leave for Seafarers. “The ILO also promptly responded to a request, which originated from the United States, to revise the Seafarers’ Identity Document Convention and adopted ILO Convention No.185 in June 2003…. The fact that two United Nations Specialized Agencies adopted such Resolutions, which recognize that seafarers need special protection, shore leave and facilitation of travel to and from ships, are indicative of the importance the international community attaches to such matters. “The requirement that seafarers secure individual visa is causing great hardship. The State Department Public Notice wrongly suggests that individual visas would be cheaper as most seafarers would receive a multiple entry, long-term visa. However, it ignores the SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left) joins members of the St. Louis AMMV chapter (from left) Bill Hessi, Tex Cannady and George Ward for the ceremony. Anita Yeckle; State Senator Jack Jackson; Ralph Weichert, superintendent of the museum; and SIU officials including Executive Vice President John Fay; Vice President Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski; and SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz.. Congratulating SIU President Michael Sacco (left) on the ceremony as well as joining in observing National Maritime Day are (from left) Lt. Col. Todd Robbins; Monsignor Sal Polizzi; and Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM). Guests are greeted by Bill Hessi (standing) of the Samuel Parker Chapter of the AMMV. fact that the cost of a crew list visa was borne by the shipowner, while the costs associated with the issuance of an individual visa are generally met by the seafarer. As many seafarers come from developing countries and live in communities some distance from a United States Embassy or Consulate, the costs are not insubstantial…. “The State Department Public Notice erroneously suggests that the new seafarers’ identity document, which contains biometric details, would take many years to be developed. The Convention has been adopted and the necessary technical standards to ensure global interoperability have just been agreed. Moreover, a number of countries have started to ratify the ILO Convention and some are receiving technical assistance from the United States to implement the onerous provisions associated with the issuance of seafarers’ identity documents. We would have hoped that the United States would have encouraged widespread ratification of the ILO Convention, through the provision of an incentive that would have provided more favorable treatment for seafarers holding the new seafarers’ identity document. “The State Department Public Notice states: ‘By eliminating the crew list visa, the Department will ensure that each crewmember entering the United States will be required to complete the nonimmigrant visa application forms, submit a valid passport and undergo an interview and background checks.’ It also suggests that ‘one of the principal reasons for requiring individual visas is the need, for security purposes, for a consular officer to personally interview each applicant.’ “However, this ignores the modalities of the shipping industry and the fact that many ships, crewed by seafarers who do not hold a valid United States visa and who have not been subject to a consular interview, are likely to call at ports in the United States…. “We are firmly of the view that the new seafarers’ identity document, coupled with other measures, most notably the 96 hour rule that requires the details of all persons on board to be submitted to the United States Coast Guard 96 hours prior to the arrival of the vessel, provide an equivalent level of security and adequate time for background checks…. “Seafarers cannot understand why they are subject to such a visa regime by the United States and are, at the same time, expected to be responsible for the ship’s security and for the implementation of the onerous duties imposed by the ISPS Code…. “The ITF stands ready to co-operate with the various United States agencies to put in place a regime which will improve maritime security and the homeland security of the United States, while at the same time, providing for the more equitable treatment of seafarers and recognizing their crucial role in terms of functioning of the global economy and their pre-eminent role in enhancing maritime security.” The ITF is a federation of more than 550 transport workers’ unions which represent more than 4.5 million transport workers in 130 countries. Seafarers LOG 5 �PG5_7,19,21.qxd 5/24/2004 4:59 PM Page 6 Ed Turner, Retired SIU VP and MC&S Founder, Dies Retired SIU Executive Vice President Ed Turner, a link to the union’s storied past and a former president of the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S), died April 30. He was 82. Nearly 70 years ago, with the seamen’s movement facing extreme challenges, Brother Turner was part of a generation of labor leaders who recognized the deep sea sailor and laid the foundation for improved wages, working conditions and job security. He also played a pivotal role in many of the union’s early organizing drives. “Ed was an extremely loyal and dedicated member of our union for more than six decades,” noted SIU President Michael Sacco. “He always promoted the interests of Seafarers and the good of the maritime industry first. We all will miss him a great deal.” “He did a lot of good things for the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S),” noted SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, referring to the union that merged into the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District in 1978. “Ed was one of the old guard and he enjoyed helping people. He was politically active and stayed involved with the union well past retirement.” United States Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), in a letter of condolence to Turner’s son Tom, said, “Ed was a man who wore may hats and wore them all very well. I remember him when he served as President of the Marine Cooks and Stewards and later became a hardworking and wellrespected Executive Vice President of the Seafarers Union. He served with honor and distinction and earned the reputation of integrity and fairness. He worked hard to ensure a high standard of safety in the workplace and fair wages for workers. He did so much for so many in San Francisco, and he will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to know him, especially by his friends at the Calamari Club. He has set a standard of excellence for all who will follow in his footsteps.” Turner was born in Flemingsburg, Ky., and was raised in Lucasville, Ohio. He was a man of many adventures and many accomplishments. Before the outbreak of World War II he joined the Navy. He was present during the bombing of Pearl Harbor. After serving his time in the Navy, he joined the SIU and quickly moved up the ladder to become a bosun. In 1947 he became an organizer for the SIU. Four years later, Turner organized and founded the MC&S. Turner in 1957 was elected president of the MC&S and shortly thereafter founded one of the first maritime training schools in the hills of Santa Rosa, Calif., training thousands of men and women for the steward department in the maritime industry. He held the MC&S presidency until 1978 and was instrumental in merging the union with the AGLIWD. Following the merger of the two unions, Turner became SIU vice president West Coast. Prior to his retirement in 1985, he became executive vice president of the SIU. In addition to the maritime industry, Turner also was active in many other organizations. He was a member of the San Francisco Blue Lodge No. 120 F&A.M., a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and a Shriner. Turner was a member of the San Francisco Calamari Club, a director of the Red Cross Disaster Corp., Commonwealth Club of San Francisco., Irish/Italian Israeli Society, Navy League of the United States, and Propeller Club of the United States. He also was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In past years, Turner was active in advising a number of humanitarian groups including the Apostleship Of the Sea, American League for the Handicapped, Colombian Missionary Fathers, Jewish Labor Committee, Samoan Civic Association, Seven Step Foundation, USO and the City of Hope, for which he was named Man of the Year and awarded the 6 Seafarers LOG Ed Turner stands at the wheel during the early 1980s. Retired UIW Director Edney Dies at 87 The union last month lost a stanch labor pioneer with the passing of retired United Industrial Workers (UIW) National Director Steve Edney. Brother Edney died May 4 in California following a lengthy illness. He was 87. “Our union and the labor movement as a whole has lost a truly devoted combatant who never backed down from a fight,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “Steve selflessly and generously gave of himself so that things would get better for all of his union brothers and sisters. “Through his efforts over the years,” Sacco continued, “thousands of workers on the West Coast and especially in the Terminal Island, Calif. area gained improved treatment in terms of working conditions, wages, and benefits. We all owe him a debt of gratitude and he will be sorely missed.” Union Mourns Passing of Retired NMU Port Agent Ike Williams Retired NMU Port Agent Isaiah “Ike” Robert Williams Sr. passed away May 2 in California. He was 71. Born just outside the city limits of Dardanelle, Ark., Brother Williams was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He launched his NMU career in 1966 and sailed on deep sea vessels until 1977. During his days at sea, he served on several vessels as engine department delegate and ship’s chairman. As a rank-and-file member, Brother Williams constantly was involved in the affairs of the union’s membership. A staunch advocate for worker rights, he was actively engaged in organizing. Brother Williams was a delegate to the 17th National NMU Convention from the port of San Francisco and served on the contract committee in 1976. After becoming a union official, he served as a registrar, patrolman and port agent in the ports of San Pedro, San Francisco and Seattle. Brother Williams also served as the NMU national representative in charge of the West Coast. “Ike was a very compassionate person who related to and identified with the membership,” said former NMU President and current SIU Vice President at Large René Lioeanjie. “No member’s beef was ever too small to be considered by him. To those who knew him, he was a true brother. He will be missed.” Golden Torch Award in 1971. He was a founding member and the first president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans Golden Gate Chapter. Funeral services for Turner were held May 6 in Richmond, Calif. His wife of 54 years, Betty Jean Reynolds Turner, preceded in him death. Survivors include his daughter, Jackie Hernandez; son and daughter-in-law, Tom Turner and Susan Turner; grandchildren, Betsy Dye, Larry Hernandez, Jeff Tice, Ed Turner II and Tom Turner Jr.; and great-grandchildren, Daniel Dye, Nicole Dye, Ashley Dye, Brittany Hernandez, Justin Turner, Simone Turner and Ed Turner III. “Ike was a unique person,” offered Talmage Simpkins, executive director, AFLCIO Maritime Committee, who knew Williams personally and professionally. “His large physical presence was deceiving in Isaiah Williams (left) joins former NMU President that he was always and current SIU VP at Large Rene Lioeanjie and mild-mannered and Talmage Simpkins, executive director, AFL-CIO receptive to the Maritime Committee (right), during the 1999 members regard- Maritime Trades Department meetings in Los less of the situa- Angeles. tion.” Simpkins conWilliams were held May 10 at the cluded, “He never—in the 30-plus Harrison Ross Mortuary’s Fireyears that I knew him—let any- stone Chapel in Los Angeles. The thing interfere with what was best burial was private. for the members and the union.” Survivors include Brother John Cox, SIU port agent in Williams’ seven children: Isaiah Wilmington, Calif., worked with Robert Williams Jr. of Arizona; Brother Williams on several occasions. “All I can say about Ike is Greg Williams of Reno, Nev.; that he was a true union man Keith Williams and Scott through and through. He’d go to Williams, both of Muskogee, bat for his brothers and sisters Okla.; Terry Williams of Tulsa, without hesitation and regardless Okla.; Judy Roberta Williams of of the nature of their respective Minnesota and Linda Hubson of Oklahoma City, Okla. situations. In addition to the foregoing “With a champion like Ike fighting for their cause, union family members, Brother Wilmembers could always rest liams had three stepchildren: assured that their concerns would LaShaun Roper, Vance Crawford be addressed,” Cox continued. and Uchenna Mbelu, all of Los “We all have suffered a tremen- Angeles. Brother Williams also leaves behind a host of siblings, dous loss with his passing.” Funeral services for Brother other relatives and friends. John Spadaro, who in 2001 succeeded Edney as national director of the SIU-affiliated UIW, also remembered Edney as a labor stalwart. “I have only good things to say about Steve because he did it all for the UIW for such a long time,” Spadaro stated. “He made so many contributions to the UIW and the labor movement as a whole. We will miss him a great deal.” UIW Wilmington, Calif. Representative Beatrice Ortegon described Edney as “a real peoples’ person … one who always put the needs of others ahead of his own. Steve was one of the finest and most honest people I have ever known,” Ortegon said. “He was very knowledgeable and well versed in all aspects of the labor movement and laborers’ rights … In so many ways, he taught me the real meaning of the word union.” A native of Anderson, S.C., Edney became acquainted with organized labor during in the late 1940s after he migrated to the West Coast. His first job there was with Todd’s Shipyard in San Pedro, Calif. where he worked as a member of the shipbuilders union. Not long thereafter, Edney left the shipyard in the midst of massive layoffs to take a position in a canning plant, which then was represented by the Cannery Workers Union of the Pacific, an SIU affiliate. Soon after coming aboard at the canning plant, Edney was elected shop steward. Then, he was voted in as chief shop steward. At this juncture, he became increasingly agitated by the quality-of-life issues affecting his fellow cannery workers—especially the absence of benefits. Workers had no health insurance or pension plan. Edney organized a shop stewards council. Among other functions, the council would address health insurance and pensions. Edney approached union officials about these concerns and remained persistent until they were addressed and ultimately remedied. In the process, Edney became a union representative as well as president of the shop stewards council that he had earlier formed. Over the years the Cannery Workers Union of the Pacific grew in numbers as well as strength, reaching its peak with more than 10,000 members. As the union grew, so did Edney’s role in it. He became a business representative, then vice president, and later president of the union. In September 1970 Edney was elected a vice president of the California Federation of Labor. This marked the first time in the history of the 1.3-million member California AFL-CIO that a black person was elected into office. Some 10 years later, Edney met with then SIU/UIW President Frank Drozak to discuss a merger of the Cannery Workers Union of the Pacific with the SIU/UIW. After their talks the merger was approved. Edney was elected to the UIW national director post in 1981. He retired from that position in 2001 following more than a half century of dedicated service. Funeral services were conducted for Edney May 12 in Culver City, Calif. He is survived by his wife Alberta; daughter, Lena; son, Henry and daughter-in-law, Barbara; two grandsons, Russell and Tyus Edney; three great grandchildren, Kennedi, Kolbi Rae and Tyus Dwayne Edney; a sister, Elizabeth Winkfield; and a host of other relatives and friends. Photo credit: Ray Crowell/Page One Retired UIW National Director Steve Edney, center, receives an award recognizing his 50-plus years of service to organized labor during the April 2001 AFL-CIO Union Industries Show in Los Angeles. Making the presentation are AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka (left) and Union Label & Service Trades Department President Charles Mercer (right). June 2004 �PG5_7,19,21.qxd 5/24/2004 5:00 PM Seafarer Mark Anthony Dyer Two years ago, Mark Anthony Dyer, 36, of Newport, N.C., received a two-year scholarship for study in the culinary field at Johnson & Wales University in Norfolk, Va. This year, the deep sea member again was awarded a two-year stipend, and he will use it to continue his degree in applied science and culinary arts. Dyer began sailing in 1989 at the urging of his younger brother Aaron. (Two other brothers, Jeff and Lance, also sail.) Over the years, the chief steward has received many compliments and praises for his dedication and professionalism in the galley and for his strong interest in the welfare and morale of his fellow crew members. His brother Aaron passed away at the age of 20, and Dyer, in winning this and the previous scholarship, is keeping a promise he made to his younger brother to better himself in his chosen field. In addition to his studies, Dyer is a member of the American Culinary Federation. He and his wife, Kicia, have one son and two daughters. Dependents Five $20,000 scholarships were awarded to dependents of SIU members. Page 7 When the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) scholarship program was introduced in 1953, it was considered one of the most progressive and forward-looking measures to be adopted by any trade union. At that time, four full college scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each were awarded to children of Seafarers or to Seafarers not over 35 years of age who qualified in competitive examinations. For more than half a century, the SHBP has continued to award scholarships to deserving Seafarers as well as to spouses and dependents of SIU members. This year, the plan has selected six recipients—for a total monetary value of $106,000. Chosen by a panel of professional educators last month were one Seafarer and five dependents. In past years, Seafarers were eligible for three of the scholarships—one four-year, $20,000 award and two stipends for $6,000 each. This year, however, none of the Seafarers who applied qualified for the four-year award, and only one was eligible for a two-year scholarship. On this page are brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the six college-bound students. Union Scholarship Program Awards $106,000 to Six College-Bound Students University in Provo, Utah. As the youngest of eight children, Hornby has always been an avid reader. She notes that “when I wasn’t busy doing chores or farm work, I would read to entertain myself.” She excels academically (a 3.99 grade point average), participates in school sports (volleyball, cross country, track and field) and has a love of learning that is contagious. She is a member of her school’s Knowledge Bowl, jazz and honor bands, National Honor Society, Spirit Club, Student Leadership Team and has held a number of class offices as well as performed community volunteer work. Hornby would like to make a career of writing. “I may not care to write with the intent of changing the world,” she stated in her application, “but if, by some strange chance, I do revolutionize the planet, I would not be displeased. I merely want to write about things that make me smile and, hopefully, brighten the lives of other people, too.” University of Virginia, majoring in biomedical engineering. She hopes to be a nuclear med-tech or engineer, and looks forward to going full time into the medical field. Preston already has participated in the Magnet School for the Science and Health Professions held at Eastern Virginia Medical School, where she took chemistry, physics, AP biology, anatomy and physiology, and had an opportunity to examine organs and cadavers. But her interests span a wide variety of subjects: She also plays sports and musical instruments and is involved in other school activities as well as with her family, church and community. heavy schedule of courses along with membership in the RIT Honors Program and membership in the Air Force ROTC—and still has been able to maintain a 3.95 grade point average, volunteer his time to help others, lead an active social life and participate in intramural sports. As a member of the Air Force ROTC, Gilson is assured a career straight out of college. After graduating from RIT with his computer engineering degree, he plans to enter the U.S. Air Force as an officer. “This opportunity will provide me with a stable environment in which to begin my adult life, providing a chance to serve and protect my country while also allowing me to grow and experience my career field.” Aaron J. Gilson Eleanor Preston Mary A. Hornby Mary A. Hornby is graduating this month from White Pass Junior/Senior High School in Randle, Wash. She is the daughter of Liatris and AB James Hornby, who joined the union in 1961 and currently sails as an AB. The 17-year-old plans to major in journalism or linguistics at Brigham Young June 2004 Eleanor Preston is graduating this month from Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk, Va., where she ranks second in a class of 264 students and is the class salutatorian. She is the daughter of Elena and Chester Preston, a deep sea member since 1991, who works in the engine department. The 18-year-old loves science and plans to attend the Nineteen-year-old Aaron J. Gilson of Norris, Tenn. is the son of Debra and James O. Gilson. His father, who works in the deck department in the inland division, has been with the union since 1997. A 2003 graduate of Anderson County High school in Clinton, Tenn., Gilson was ranked first in his class, was valedictorian at his graduation and was listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students,” as well as receiving many other honors. He already has completed one year at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in Rochester, N.Y., where he is majoring in computer engineering, and will use his scholarship money to continue his studies there. Gilson has taken on a Rafika M. Shibly With a love for business and the international community, Rafika M. Shibly plans to use her scholarship to study managerial and international business at the undergraduate level and then obtain an MBA. She has applied to George Washington University in Washington, D.C. as well as the University of Washington and Seattle University, both in Seattle, Wash. The 18-year-old is the daughter of Marianne and Mohamad Shibly. Her father sails as a chief cook in the deep sea division and has been a member of the SIU since 1985. Shibly is graduating from Franklin High School in Seattle, where she carries a 4.0 grade point average. She has taken honors and college prep courses and was elected president of the school’s Academy of Finance program. She has served as vice president of the National Honor Society, cochair of the Seattle Academy Student Leaders, and participated in other clubs, including the Key Club, as well as girls’ tennis. She also has volunteered her time to tutor students and provide clerical support in the main office. Last summer, Shibly was selected for an internship at the investment firm of Smith Barney. Shibly, who wants to incorporate travel into her future career, eventually hopes to head up her own corporation and take it global. Glenys Castro Glenys Castro is graduating this month from McDonough #35 High School in New Orleans, La., 7th in her class of 243 students. She is the daughter of Glenys and OMU Salome Castro. Her father joined the union in 1989 and sails in the deep sea division, most recently aboard the Seabulk Arctic. Castro plans to use her scholarship money to attend Louisiana State University, where she will major in premedicine and later specialize in pediatrics. Throughout her high school years, where she maintains a 3.9 grade point average, Castro has received numerous awards. She has been an active member of the National Honor Society (vice president), student council (secretary), Future Health Professionals and Mu Alpha Theta. She also is enrolled at Xavier University of Louisiana, where she is taking college courses for credit. The 18-year-old volunteers her time to tutor her peers and also has a part-time job as a cashier at a local supermarket. Castro says she has the dedication to become a doctor, and with the help of this scholarship, she is one step closer to achieving her ultimate goal. Those Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for a scholarship and were not selected are encouraged to apply again next year, provided they still meet all the eligibilty requirements. Seafarers LOG 7 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 6:50 PM Page 8 Bosun Ralph Moore (center) welcomes SIU President Mike Sacco (left) and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel to the open house. Retiree Joe Clark (left), Chief Cook Luis Caballero AB Thomas Corrales, VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Bosun Rafael Pereira, Bosun Robert Zepeda, VP Dean Corgey Houston Hall Hosts ‘Open House’ More than 150 Seafarers and retirees and their families stopped by the Houston SIU hall for an “open house” May 6. Houston Patrolman Kevin Marchand sent the following summary: “Over the past several months, the Houston hall has gone through many improvements. The hall was remodeled with new furniture, the place was completely painted, new carpet was laid in the office area, and the tile floor was redone. Also, a new TV set was purchased for the membership. “Several officials from SIU headquarters came to check out the remodeling and visit with the Houston-area Bosun Ralph membership on May 6. President Mike Sacco, Executive Moore volunVice President John Fay, Vice President Contracts Augie teered his time Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer Dave Heindel were on and cleaned hand for the enthusiastic but informal gathering. and painted “We at the hall had invited all the local membership the hall. A big and their families to attend the open house and enjoy the vote of thanks famous barbecue delights that were served. More than goes to 150 members and their families were on hand to greet Brother Moore Mike and the other officials as well as the local staff, and for all his we all enjoyed a good time. help. “Mike took the podium and addressed the member“Patrolman ship with an inspirational speech that moved everyone. Jimmy White He talked about the importance of the U.S.-flag fleet and held the how well we’ve performed during Operation Iraqi counter down AB Thomas Haney and his wife, Julie, were among 150 or so Seafarers and Freedom 2. He also touched on topics concerning MMD while everyrenewals and Coast Guard issues; the importance of one was on the their families who came to the open SPAD and how the funds are used; and the Jones Act. third floor. All house. He stressed the importance of making sure we all have the members the training we need and the value of upgrading at Piney had a great time and enjoyed the food. Point. “Lastly, I can’t forget the rest of the staff that works “Father Sinclair Oubre was on hand for the invocaso hard around our office day in and day out. Houston is tion. a very busy hall and the staff gives it their all.” “A number of Seafarers presented SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey with a ship’s wheel (with a clock) in appreciation Hands-On Training in Piney Point of all the good work he has done keeping people working. “This whole gathering wouldn’t have happened without SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee (Jimbo), who worked what The Houston hall has undergone many improvements in seemed like endless hours putting it together. recent months. Patrolman Jimmy White, President Mike Sacco On behalf of numerous Houston-area Seafarers, Bosun John Cain (left) presents SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey with a ship’s wheel as a thank-you for the official’s work. Active and retired Seafarers took part in the event. Among those pictured here are Retiree Joe Clark, SA Rodrigo Jimenez, Chief Steward Mariano Norales, Chief Cook Luis Caballero and OS Brian Kinard. 8 Seafarers LOG Pictured here are students (including Seafarer Joe Kadak, top photo) honing their skills last month at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. As part of an ATB Operations class, the Seafarers worked on a CAT 3608 engine which was donated to the school by Marine Transport Lines. Other students, including unlicensed apprentices, also utilize the engine for various courses. VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Bosun Clyde Smith June 2004 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 6/1/2004 8:23 PM Page 9 In the Port of San Francisco ABOARD THE APL SINGAPORE — Churney William (above left) is the chief cook on the APL Singapore (above right), which recently sailed into the port of San Francisco. Steward/Baker Peter Schmitt (below left) is at work in the galley of the vessel, and ACU Quarish Abdulla is below right. ABOARD THE APL KOREA — Chief Cook Ali Yahya (left) and ACU Moega Talama start breakfast aboard the American President Lines vessel. ABOARD THE R.J. PFEIFFER — Working in the galley of the Matson Navigation Co. vessel are Chief Cook Mark Cabasag (left) and ACU Christopher Hyatt. SLUSHING — Cleaning and lubricating the wires (slushing) takes place on a regular basis. Deck department members took advantage of their port time in San Francisco to get some of the work done, as on the Keystone State (above). Performing the task are (below, from left) AB Gheorghe Savencu on the Keystone State, AB Mike Carvalho on the Grand Canyon State and AB John Young on the Gem State. These are three of the Military Sealift Command’s 10 crane ships. ABOARD THE GRAND CANYON STATE — GUDE Larry Ganon is operating a a crane on the Grand Canyon State. June 2004 Seafarers LOG 9 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 8:40 PM Page 10 Annual Union-IIndustries Show Gets Great Turnout in St. Louis Pictured at the SIU-UIW booth are (from left) UIW VPs Herb Perez and Bill Ellis, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, retired UIW VP Bill Dobbins, UIW Representative Kevin McDonald, SEATU member Ron Griffin, SIU President Michael Sacco and UIW National Director John Spadaro. The annual AFL-CIO Union-Industries Show drew an estimated 300,000 visitors last month at the America’s Center in St. Louis. Themed “America at Its Best” and produced by the AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department, the show took place April 2326. The SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) participated. The show featured the latest in union-made-in-the-USA autos and accessories, motorcycles, hardware, clothing, sporting goods, furniture, baked goods and groceries, appliances and housewares spread across an area equal to four football fields. Interspersed with product displays were exhibits by skilled craft workers demonstrating everything from ornate sheet metal work to bricklaying, carpentry, decorative plastering, iron work and plumbing while offering information on how to get training to prepare for good union jobs and the pay and benefits those jobs provide. UIW-contracted companies that participated in the show included Bron-Shoe; Church & Dwight; Franklin Glue; Worthington Foods; Sealy Mattress; Juanita’s Foods; Cott Beverages; the Queen Mary; La Victoria; and Chicken of the Sea. According to the Union Visitors stop by the SIU-UIW booth Label and Service Trades Department, the show received “major play” at the annual Union-Industries Show in the St. Louis media, including newspaper stories and generous last month in St. Louis. radio and television news coverage. Missouri Governor Bob Holden and St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay joined with AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka, Missouri AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Herb Johnson and St. Louis AFLCIO Secretary-Treasurer Bob Soutier to open the event. “The story behind every product you see here is the story of what makes our country great,” Trumka said. Holden echoed the message of pride in labor’s accomplishments. “Unions have made our nation what it is today . . . and labor is critical to the nation’s future, essential to make sure our nation can grow and sustain a middle class,” he said. The show also hosted 500 local schoolchildren in an outreach to the St. Louis-area school system. “The theme—America at Its Best—was a great description of the content and the purpose of the SIU President Michael Sacco hands out some free samples of unionshow. Hard work and dedication by union leaders from St. Louis and throughout the state helped make made products that were donated this show one of the best we’ve ever had,” noted Charles Mercer, president of the Union Label and for the show. Service Trades Department. Next year’s show is scheduled to take place at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland (April 29-May 2). Great prizes like this union-made motorcycle are part of the attraction at the annual trade show. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka (left) chats with UIW officials (from left) VP Bill Ellis, National Director John Spadaro and VP Herb Perez. A number of UIW-contracted companies loaned or donated display items, including Juanita’s Foods and Chicken of the Sea (left), Bron-Shoe (above) and Church & Dwight (right). 10 Seafarers LOG June 2004 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 7:27 PM Page 11 Earl Shakes and his wife, Lashawn, met at the Paul Hall Center when both were in the trainee program. They now live in Jacksonville with their son, Anthony. Earl sails as an oiler while Lashawn works as a DEU. Children, birthdays, anniversaries, friendships . . . 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. Vern Poulsen (left), shoregang bosun in Tacoma, Wash., celebrated his 70th birthday March 6. Among the many in attendance were SIU Assistant Vice President Don Anderson (center) and Horizon Lines Senior Vessel Superintendent Jay Hess. Michael “Bubba” Neathery is a regular at the Norfolk, Va. hiring hall. His daddy is OMU Brad Neathery. Other family members who are in the SIU include uncles Anthony “A.J.” (FOWT), Keith (QMED) and Ryan (wiper), as well as “Paw-Paw” Emmett Neathery (QEE). June 2004 At home in Isabela, P.R. during vacation, GUDE Reina Mendez enjoys time with her daughter, Reyna Lee Mendez. AB Arthur Machado, (center) who retired last year, poses with his wife, Barbara, and a friend, AB Henney Haylock. On Nov. 6, the Machados will celebrate 32 years of marriage. They live in Belle Chasse, La. Thor Young, who sails as a bosun from the port of Baltimore, poses with his wife, Holly Beth, and their son, Baron Thor. Retired Seafarer Ian Allison (left) sailed with the SIU during World War II. He currently serves as president of the North Bay Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans and continues to seek support for H.R. 3729, which would pay a monthly benefit to qualified merchant mariners. With him is Congressman Bob Filner of California, who introduced the bill in the House of Representatives Jan. 27. Seafarers LOG 11 �p3,4,12,13.qxd 5/28/2004 5:37 PM Page 12 U.S. Mariners Past and Present Praised for Patriotism, Reliability proud to be part of a celebration honor- Shane said that SEA-21 will emphasize ing the brave merchant mariners who a new measure of leadership and coorhave sacrificed so much to keep our dination with DOT, and across the federal government. It will focus on levercountry free and secure.” Secretary Mineta, after receiving the aging funds from federal, state and local American Spirit Medallion from governments, as well as the private secNational D-Day Museum President and tor, to address the capital needs of the CEO Gordon H. Mueller, reflected on marine transportation system. “We will also carefully examine the the actions of merchant mariners during World War II who sacrificed their lives tax burdens on our maritime sector with the goal of improving our fleet’s and in service to the nation. Merchant mariners crewed crews’ ability to compete internationalthe Liberty ships, the Victory ly,” he said. At the Washington Navy Yard, ships, and thousands of other vessels that carried troops and Vice Adm. Brewer noted, “Since many tons of materiel for the 1949, Military Sealift Command Allied cause in World War II. has depended on America’s merNearly 215,000 people served in chant mariners to provide the best the U.S. Merchant Marine dur- ocean transportation system in the ing the campaign, and nearly one world. MSC is proud of our civilmariner in 30 died in the line of ian mariners, so it is fitting that duty. In fact, the U.S. Merchant today is set aside to acknowledge Marine suffered higher casualty the great debt of gratitude we owe rates than any branch of the to the dedicated men and women armed services except the of the U.S. Merchant Marine. “We especially remember those Marine Corps. “They traveled unarmed, who made the ultimate sacrifice,” the often into dangerous waters, to admiral concluded. U.S. Representative Gene Taylor (Dsupport our armed forces overseas,” Secretary Mineta said. Miss.) delivered the keynote address at “Their work was vital to the the MSC event. He paid tribute to the Allied cause, and without their courageous U.S. merchant mariners sacrifice our freedom might who have served in all conflicts. “The stories of their (merchant have been lost.” Using a quote from Supreme mariners) sacrifices are incredible,” Allied Forces Commander Gen. Congressman Taylor said. Dwight D. Eisenhower to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. demonstrate the role Mineta wears the American Spirit mariners played during the Medallion, which he received from National war, Mineta said, “Every D-Day Museum President and CEO Gordon man in this Allied comH. Mueller during Maritime Day celebra- mand is quick to express tions at the Navy Memorial. his admiration for the loyalty, courage and fortitude of Jeffrey N. Shane; Vice Admiral David the officers and men of the merL. Brewer III, commander, Military chant marine.” Secretary Mineta said a strong Sealift Command (MSC); and U.S. Congressman Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) U.S. Merchant Marine “is esseneach noted with praise and gratitude the tial to support overseas military varied contributions of U.S. crews past operations,” in today’s world. and present during events hosted by the “More than 5,000 merchant U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd), mariners voluntarily put themMSC and the Washington Chapter of selves in harm’s way to transport much-needed equipment and supthe Propeller Club. SIU officials and a large contingent plies to our troops serving in of apprentices from the union’s affiliat- Operation Enduring Freedom and ed Paul Hall Center for Maritime Operation Iraqi Freedom,” he said. “Our wonderful commander in Training and Education in Piney Point, chief, President George W. Bush Md. also attended the events. “In peace and war, the merchant … appreciates the mariners who marine supports the twin pillars of stand ready to support our nation’s America’s strength: economic prosperi- commerce and nation’s armed ty and national security,” Secretary forces whenever and wherever Chao said during her remarks at the they are needed,” Mineta said. “At MarAd ceremony at the U.S. Navy the U.S. Department of Transportation, we too stand ready to Maritime Administrator Capt. William G. Memorial. “In peace they keep America work- support our mariners and present.” Schubert noted that the U.S. Merchant Maritime Administrator Capt. ing with the world by transporting our Marine has served in every conflict in U.S. imports and exports,” she continued. William G. Schubert noted that the “They crew the ships that conduct our U.S. Merchant Marine was found- history. worldwide commerce and they are vital ed in 1775, and has served in every to our prosperity. In war, they serve conflict in United States history. “We owe a great debt of gratitude to alongside our soldiers as an auxiliary to “Merchant mariners were ready to serve the thousands of young Americans who their country at a moment’s notice in the stepped forward to serve their country the U.S. Navy.” Focusing on the vital role merchant past, are prepared to do so now, and will in times of war like World War II,” he mariners played during Operations Iraqi continue to be prepared in the future,” continued. “It was just remarkable sacFreedom and Enduring Freedom, he said. rifice. Jeffrey N. Shane, Under Secretary of Secretary Chao said, “The fall of “Today we grieve that we have now Saddam Hussein would not have hap- Transportation for Policy, was the lost over 700 young Americans in Iraq,” pened without the assistance of the U.S. keynote speaker during the Maritime the congressman added. “But to think of Merchant Marine fleet….When the his- Day ceremony at the Propeller Club. the thousands if not the tens of thoutory of this war is written, the U.S. Among other issues, he discussed sands of merchant mariners who Merchant Marine will be remembered progress on the industry-anticipated stepped forward and gave their lives as it has been in every war; that their SEA-21 program. Noting that the comprehensive during World War II is truly a testimony service was vital to our victory. “So today on National Maritime Marine Transportation System initiative first to them and then to the nation that Day,” Secretary Chao concluded, “I am is under final policy review, Secretary they were willing to die for.” A host of dignitaries on May 20 paid tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine for its 230 years of service to the nation during the 71st observance of National Maritime Day in Washington, D.C. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao; Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta; U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William G. Schubert; Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy 12 Seafarers LOG M I T I R A 200 M May 21, 2 NATIONAL MARIT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UN A PROCLAM National Maritime Day provides an opportunity to States Merchant Marine and their contributions to our Since they first offered their ships and services to a independence, to their distinguished service in World sacrificed to protect our country and defend our freed tributions of these patriots and established the U.S. M iary in time of war or national emergency." Today, m plies and equipment to our troops in Iraq and bravely play an important role in our Nation's efforts to adva the world, and we are grateful for their dedication. Merchant mariners also contribute significantly to th than 95 percent of non-North American trade enters o handle more than $740 billion and 2 billion tons of Those in the maritime industry, including merchant m help promote America's economic growth. Today, we honor the courage, determination, and s remember the many who have given their lives in def patriotism and devotion to duty that make America gr In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merch approved on May 20, 1933, as amended, has des Maritime Day," and has authorized and requested tha calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, Presid by proclaim May 22, 2004, as National Maritime Day to celebrate this observance and to display the flag of communities. I also request that all ships sailing under IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my h of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independe hundred and twenty-eighth. June 2004 �p3,4,12,13.qxd 5/28/2004 IM E 004 5:37 PM Page 13 Secretary Chao Issues Maritime Day Statement DAY Editor’s Note: U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao was a principal speaker during National Maritime Day ceremonies at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington D.C. Following is a statement she released for the observance. On this National Maritime Day 2004, I urge all Americans to honor the brave men and women who serve in the United States Merchant Marine and to remember those merchant mariners who have made the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives in the service of our country. The record of our merchant mariners and their contribution to our nation is long and distinguished. Their history of devoted service—in both war and peace—is an inspiration to every generation of Americans. Their tradition of courage, patriotism and perseverance has become an integral part of our nation’s heritage. Today, merchant mariners are crewing auxiliary vessels for the United States Navy and supporting our troops in Afghanistan and U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao expressed her pride at being part of a celebratrion honoring the “brave merchant mariners who have sacrificed so much to keep our country free and secure.” Iraq. Being part of a noble and patriotic profession, these merchant mariners always stand ready to respond to those situations when commercial ships are called upon to support military operations overseas. More than 5,000 brave merchant mariners have put themselves in harm’s way to deliver to our troops the combat gear, fuel, and other supplies needed to complete the liberation and reconstruction of Iraq. All told, merchant mariners have delivered more than 2.6 million short tons of cargo, representing more than 85 percent of the equipment and supplies needed by our brave troops. And true to America’s compassionate character, these courageous merchant mariners are also delivering food and supplies to the Iraqi people. The United States in the 21st Century is the single largest national economy in the world and a premier force in international trade. America needs a strong U.S.-flag merchant marine to carry our commerce, promote our exports and support our national defense. National Maritime Day 2004 keeps alive the memory of merchant mariners who sacrificed for us in the past and who honor us today with their committed service. It is altogether fitting to pay our respects to these men and women who have always been ready to assist in America’s defense. 21, 2004 RITIME DAY, 2004 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA LAMATION y to recognize the men and women of the United o our national security and economic strength. s to assist the Continental Navy in our struggle for orld War II, merchant mariners have courageously freedoms. In 1936, America recognized the conU.S. Merchant Marine "as a naval or military auxilay, merchant mariners are delivering essential supvely serving the cause of liberty. They continue to advance democracy, peace, and freedom around n. to the U.S. maritime transportation system. More ters our country through our seaports. These ports s of domestic and international freight each year. ant mariners, enhance waterborne commerce and and service of our Nation's merchant mariners and n defense of our country. Their work reflects the ica great. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by joint resolution s designated May 22 of each year as "National d that the President issue an annual proclamation Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III (above), commander, Military S e a l i f t iC o m m a n d , salutes as the colors are posted. U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (DMiss.) delivers the keynote address at the MSC event, which was held outdoors at the Washington Navy Yard. Left: Laying the memorial wreaths are (from left) Lt. Dan Fitzgerald, USCG Reserve; Walter Keane, USMM Academy; and AB Christopher Mortenson, USNS Comfort. President of the United States of America, do heree Day. I call upon the people of the United States ag of the United States at their homes and in their nder the American flag dress ship on that day. my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year endence of the United States of America the two GEORGE W. BUSH SIU officials and a large contingent of apprentices from the Paul Hall Center attended the Maritime Day events. Here, they are joined by U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) at the Washington Navy Yard. June 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 7:28 PM Page 14 Hard Work Pays Off! At the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., Jor-el Holmberg (center) is presented with his high school diploma from the state of Maryland by SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Holmberg, who hails from Alaska, currently is in Phase 3 of the unlicensed apprentice program at the school. He studied for the state examination for a period of about six weeks on his own time, after regular classes—and the hard work paid off. New Opportunities for Displaced Alaskan Fishermen Following four weeks at the Paul Hall Center, in which they completed lifeboat training, fire fighting and STCW courses as well as STOS, the most recent group of Alaskan students is ready to return home to jobs in the merchant marine through a Ketchikan-based non-profit agency called SEA Link. From the left are Kyle Hudson, Reynaldo Dineros, Robert Makowski, Alexander Millendez, Ronaldo Aguirre, Ruben Aguirre and Dianna Baines. (Not pictured is Jay Jones.) In partnership with the SIU, the school and SEA Link—in a program begun last year—qualified dislocated Alaskan men and women previously employed in the fishing industry are being trained and placed into family-wage jobs as merchant mariners on board U.S.-flag commercial vessels engaged in the Alaska, domestic and international deep sea shipping industry. It’s Vacation Time at Piney Point UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at the Paul Hall Center is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.00/day Spouse $10.00/day Child $10.00/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed above include all meals but do not include tax. This summer, treat yourself and your family to an unforgettable vacation. Everything you could ask for in a summer holiday can be found at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. This benefit, unique to Seafarers, offers comfortable accommodations, three meals each day and lots of opportunities for activities that will please every member of the family—for up to two weeks—and all at very reasonable rates (see box at left). Swimming, boating, fishing and playing tennis are but a few of the options available within the center complex. For those who wish to venture farther afield, the choices are endless. Piney Point is just a little more than an hour’s drive to a number of exciting destinations in the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area (which includes Arlington and Alexandria, Va. as well as Baltimore and Annapolis, Md.)—museums, ballparks, historical sights, craft shows, concerts and much, much more. Send the completed application form (below) to the address listed, and you will be able to look back on a memorable 2004 summer vacation spent with your family. PAUL HALL CENTER TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: ____________________________________________________________ Social Security number: _____________________ Book number: ____________ Address:____________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Telephone number: __________________________________________________ Number in party / ages of children, if applicable: ____________________________ Date of arrival: 1st choice: ______ 2nd choice: ______ (Stay is limited to a maximum of two weeks) 3rd choice: ______ Date of departure: ___________________________ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 14 Seafarers LOG 6/04 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. 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 Procedure for 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, 2004 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, 2004 and 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 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 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. 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 lefthand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight Dec. 31, 2004 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2005. June 2004 �PG15,21.qxd 5/20/2004 6:45 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July & August 2004 Membership Meetings APRIL 16 — MAY 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 3 4 1 9 26 40 0 12 8 21 16 3 0 6 12 1 25 14 201 2 4 0 4 21 29 0 7 8 19 13 0 0 3 12 0 16 11 149 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 1 3 5 8 13 24 1 9 12 17 15 5 17 9 9 3 29 18 198 1 3 0 0 17 20 0 6 11 15 10 0 2 2 7 2 14 15 125 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 1 1 0 9 16 26 0 5 11 12 9 2 7 6 7 1 16 16 145 ............................................*(change created by Independence Day holiday) 0 1 0 1 12 5 0 3 4 3 7 0 1 0 2 0 11 11 61 0 3 0 2 14 20 0 1 11 12 5 0 0 4 4 0 14 7 97 2 8 2 15 46 58 0 26 18 45 18 8 2 9 25 3 55 36 376 4 8 8 12 18 38 2 14 17 33 26 5 18 13 16 5 49 35 321 3 5 0 2 30 33 1 11 23 42 11 3 2 3 9 5 29 28 240 0 2 0 3 1 8 0 1 3 6 1 1 0 4 5 0 13 4 52 1 5 1 18 19 29 0 9 21 16 14 4 6 3 16 2 19 12 195 1 5 4 10 14 47 0 6 14 19 24 5 4 4 10 5 28 13 213 5 1 1 1 13 13 0 1 10 17 4 1 0 1 5 1 7 8 89 0 0 1 2 6 15 0 0 1 4 4 1 0 1 3 0 6 4 48 1 6 0 20 20 25 0 7 14 28 10 4 7 3 34 1 37 32 249 2 1 0 11 2 18 0 8 12 18 19 1 4 1 6 0 6 9 118 1 1 0 1 7 16 0 0 3 9 10 1 1 0 1 1 8 10 70 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 4 0 11 11 14 0 7 12 5 5 3 5 3 13 2 12 6 114 1 3 4 4 10 24 0 5 10 7 9 2 2 3 5 0 14 4 107 4 0 0 0 4 8 1 2 6 7 1 1 0 0 1 0 3 4 42 1 3 1 9 11 13 0 2 6 15 7 3 5 4 17 1 21 11 130 0 0 0 6 3 14 0 4 7 6 7 1 1 1 3 0 3 5 61 1 0 0 1 6 8 0 0 1 2 8 0 1 1 1 0 8 6 44 0 1 1 6 10 19 0 1 7 11 9 3 2 1 13 1 9 10 104 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 3 4 3 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 9 0 2 0 27 1 1 4 11 11 20 1 8 5 34 4 1 17 5 9 2 24 10 168 2 3 2 7 19 19 0 1 7 23 13 1 18 1 7 2 21 12 158 0 0 0 4 2 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 2 7 0 4 2 25 1 1 4 3 7 5 0 3 5 12 4 0 7 1 4 0 11 5 73 1 2 1 0 5 6 0 0 0 1 7 0 17 1 6 1 11 7 66 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 6 7 0 1 3 5 0 0 0 4 7 0 5 3 49 2 1 4 27 27 35 1 10 8 56 10 1 14 5 19 3 34 12 269 4 4 2 21 34 44 0 3 19 62 22 3 27 3 16 2 42 22 330 Totals All Departments 472 534 369 353 335 162 197 869 921 729 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 5 0 3 9 13 1 3 1 6 3 0 1 3 12 1 10 4 75 0 0 2 3 4 12 0 2 5 8 8 1 0 3 4 0 13 10 75 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 1 4 1 17 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 0 1 4 3 7 0 1 3 2 9 2 0 2 5 0 2 1 42 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 1 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 3 1 18 Algonac ..................Friday: July 9 August 6 Baltimore ................Thursday: July 8, August 5 Boston.....................Friday: July 9, August 6 Duluth .....................Wednesday: July 14, August 11 Guam ......................Thursday: July 22, August 19 Honolulu .................Friday: July 16, August 13 Houston ..................Monday: July 12, August 9 Jacksonville ............Thursday: July 8, August 5 Joliet .......................Thursday: July 15, August 12 Mobile ....................Wednesday: July 14, August 11 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: July 13, August 10 New York................Tuesday: July 6, August 3 Norfolk ...................Thursday:July 8, August 5 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: July 7, August 4 Port Everglades.......Thursday: July 15, August 12 San Francisco .........Thursday: July 15, August 12 San Juan..................Thursday:July 8, August 5 St. Louis..................Friday: July 16, August 13 Tacoma ...................Friday: July 23, August 20 Wilmington ...............Monday: July 19 ................................Tuesday: August 17* ............................................*(change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals FRIENDS OF JAMES “JIM” BYERS Mrs. Dorothy “Dee” Byers is trying to contact any merchant seaman who may have sailed with her late husband, James “Jim” Byers. Jim sailed mostly as a chief electrician. His last vessel before retiring was the Seatrain Florida, operated by Hudson Waterways Corp. If you sailed with Jim, please contact Dee at 19760 Hunters Loop, Fairhope, AL 36532. On the Galveston-to-Tampa Run 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. June 2004 Piney Point .............Tuesday: July 6* ................................Monday: August 2 Cesar A. Gutierrez, recertified bosun aboard the Sulphur Enterprise, prepares for docking as the Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel heads to the unloading berth in Tampa, Fla. Bosun Gutierrez notes that the Sulphur Enterprise, which is on the Galveston-to-Tampa run, is “a good vessel with the best crew.” Seafarers LOG 15 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 7:29 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report APRIL 16 — MAY 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 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 ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 11 4 3 9 4 1 9 41 0 5 2 3 1 0 0 4 14 0 6 0 0 1 0 0 0 7 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 13 1 6 12 2 0 2 36 0 2 2 3 1 0 0 2 10 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 4 3 4 4 6 2 1 2 26 0 24 18 11 41 4 3 21 122 0 5 5 5 5 0 0 8 28 0 27 8 11 0 0 0 0 46 3 2 3 1 4 0 0 3 16 0 13 9 6 12 1 4 16 61 0 7 4 1 2 0 0 6 20 0 19 6 11 0 0 0 0 36 0 0 1 0 3 2 0 1 7 0 6 6 8 12 2 1 10 46 1 1 1 3 16 0 2 3 28 0 3 4 10 0 0 0 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 1 3 4 0 2 3 16 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 1 0 0 0 6 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 7 3 3 3 0 0 1 17 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 3 3 6 1 0 3 18 0 1 0 1 6 0 1 0 9 0 3 0 2 0 0 0 1 6 Port 0 2 4 1 4 2 0 2 15 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 2 0 1 0 0 1 9 0 0 0 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 75 26 19 68 15 10 58 229 76 118 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo is from the archives of the Seafarers LOG. It was taken of the SIU hall in the port of Tampa, Fla. in 1948. The union hall at that time was located at 1809-1811 N. Franklin Street. Does anyone recognize himself in the picture? In 1967, the Tampa hall moved to 312 Harrison Street; in 1975, to 2610 W. Kennedy Blvd; and then for a short while it was located at 306 Plant Ave., before closing in 1982. 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. �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/24/2004 4:57 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 JOSEPH BURKETTE, 56, joined the SIU in 1965 in New Orleans. His first vessel was the Marore. Born in Louisiana, Brother Burkette shipped in the engine department. He last worked aboard the Horizon Consumer and lives in New Orleans. RAYMOND E. GORJU, 54, began his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of Piney Point, Md. The Mobile, Ala. native first worked aboard the Alcoa Commander. Brother Gorju shipped in the deck department as a bosun and enhanced his skills frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He completed the bosun recertification course in 1989. A resident of Fairhope, Ala., Brother Gorju last went to sea on the USNS Capable. CLAUDE LEE HOLLIER, 59, hails from Leonville, La. He began his seafaring career in 1980 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Hollier’s first SIU ship was the Achilles. The deck department member resides in his native state. He last worked on the Overseas Marilyn. HURBERT KNUCKLES, 64, joined the SIU in 1966 in Seattle. Born in Georgia, Brother Knuckles is a U.S. Navy veteran. His first SIU ship was the Alice Brown. The steward department member last went to sea on the Seabulk Challenge. Brother Knuckles resides in Atlanta. PATRICK F. MATHES, 64, began his seafaring career in 1967 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Mathes first sailed aboard the OMI Leader. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills several times at the Paul Hall Center. A resident of Holts Summit, Mo., Brother Mathes last went to sea aboard the Overseas New York. JOAN ANN RILEY, 64, initiated her SIU career in 1992 in the port of Honolulu. Sister Riley’s first vessel was American Hawaii Cruises’ Independence. A native June 2004 of Buffalo, N.Y., she shipped in the steward department. Sister Riley upgraded her skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1993 and 1995 and last sailed on Matson Navigation’s Maui. She resides in Gig Harbor, Wash. ROBERT SANTOS, 66, was born in Texas. Brother Santos joined the SIU ranks in 1960, first sailing aboard an Ore Navigation Corp. vessel. A frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school, Brother Santos resides in South Houston, Texas. He last sailed on Alaska Tanker’s Overseas Washington. MARK SERLIS, 61, joined the union in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Serlis’ first voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Houston. Born in Egypt, he sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Serlis makes his home in North Bellmore, N.Y. INLAND ERNEST GINGLES JR., 65, hails from Memphis, Tenn. He joined the SIU in 1968 in Port Arthur, Texas after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Boatman Gingles shipped in the deck department and upgraded his skills on a number of occasions at the Seafarers training school. He makes his home in Temple, Texas. KENNETH R. KIRWIN, 64, launched his career with the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Kirwin worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions, initially shipping aboard Interocean Management’s Ft. Hoskins. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1978. Boatman Kirwin last worked on a McAllister Towing Co. vessel. He makes his home in Oaklyn, Pa. LEON PULLEY, 64, was born in Philadelphia. Boatman Pulley joined the SIU in 1964 after serving in the U.S. Navy. He worked in the deck department in all three divisions, sailing as a bosun for many years aboard Maersk vessels and most recently sailing as a captain. A frequent upgrader at the Seafarers training school, Boatman Pulley lives in Milwaukee. THOMAS C. REAVES, 61, joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York. The Henderson, N.C. native initially worked aboard the Steel Artisan. Boatman Reaves shipped as a member of the deck department, last working on a McAllister Towing Co.vessel. He makes his home in Virginia Beach, Va. MANUEL SAMPEDRO, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Sampedro shipped as a member of the engine department. He upgraded his skills in 1977 at the union’s training school. Born in Spain, Boatman Sampedro makes his home in Baltimore. JULIAN WALTER, 63, launched his SIU career in 1985 in New Orleans. Boatman Walters worked primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessels, including the Mississippi Queen. Born in Honduras, he shipped in the engine department. Boatman Walters upgraded his skills in 1987 at the Paul Hall Center and lives in New Orleans. GREAT LAKES ARTHUR BEAUCHAMP, 57, commenced his seafaring career in 1964 in Detroit. Born in Austria, he shipped in the deck department and worked primarily aboard American Steamship Co. vessels, including the American Mariner. Brother Beauchamp makes his home in Delton, Fla. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Unin (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. DEAN THOMAS HALE, 54, joined the NMU in 1980. Brother Hale’s first ship was the Marine Electric. Born in Oskaloosa, Iowa, he worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Green Bay. JOSEPH F. HOLLOMAN, 67, hails from New York City. Brother Holloman launched his NMU career in 1980 as a member of the stew- 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 JOHN P. McLANE, 56, began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1980. Born in Olympia, Wash., his first ship was the Fort Worth. Brother McLane worked in the deck department and completed bosun recertification training in 1998. Brother McLane last went to sea on the Overseas New York. FRANK L. PERKOWITZ, 55, commenced his NMU career in 1969. The Woodbury, N.J. native worked in both the deck and engine departments, sailing primarily aboard the tug Brandywine. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the dates indicated. Name Age EDP Allen, Joseph 70 April 1 Arce, Dagoberto 65 April 1 Jackson, Albert 55 May 1 Legore, Franklin 70 April 1 Salomon, Roberto 65 April 1 Vazquez, Agapito 65 April 1 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 and fuel oil for delivery to ard department. He initially sailed from the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Holloman’s first vessel was the same as his last, the Chemical Pioneer. 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 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 8:17 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JOHN CARNES Pensioner John Carnes, 77, died April 2. Brother Carnes began his SIU career in 1959 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Army. His first ship was the Oremar. Brother Carnes was born in Kansas City, Kan. and sailed in the deck department. He was a resident of Burien, Wash., and last worked on the Sea-Land Defender. Brother Carnes went on pension in 1992. ALLEN HOOPER Brother Allen Hooper, 51, passed away March 20. After serving in the U.S. Navy, he joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Hooper worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard Maersk Lines’ Constellation. He lived in Leesburg, N.J. WILLIAM JOHNSON Brother William Johnson, 45, died March 1. Brother Johnson began his seafaring career in 1991 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Johnson’s first ship was the Lawrence Gianella. Born in Panama City, Fla., the deck department member made his home in Cantonment, Fla. He last sailed on the Seabulk Challenge. JAN KROP Brother Jan Krop, 80, passed away Feb. 12. He launched his SIU career in 1962 in San Francisco. Brother Krop initially went to sea aboard Delta Steamship’s Santa Mariana. The Czechoslovakia-born mariner shipped as a member of the steward department, last working on American Ship Management’s California. Brother Krop resided in his native republic. JULIUS LUKACS Pensioner Julius Lukacs, 75, died Dec. 6, 2002. Brother Lukacs started his SIU career in 1946 in the port of New York. Born in Elizabeth, N.J., he resided in Yokohama, Japan. A member of the engine department, he went on pension in 1990. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Enterprise. ALFREDO ORTIZ Pensioner Alfredo Ortiz, 85, passed away March 27. Brother Ortiz joined the SIU in 1942 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first vessel was A.H. Bull’s Rosario. The Puerto Ricanborn mariner shipped in the deck department and last went to sea aboard the Borinquen. Brother Ortiz began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1981. He resided in his native commonwealth. 18 Seafarers LOG DAREN REDMOND JOHN TUCKER Pensioner Daren Redmond, 80, died Feb. 11. Brother Redmond launched his seafaring career in 1950 in the port of New York. Born in North Carolina, he sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Redmond, who lived in Riverview, Mich., began receiving his pension in 1969. Pensioner John Tucker, 77, died March 7. Brother Tucker began his SIU career in 1951 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. He shipped as a member of the engine department, last sailing on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Tucker was born in Moundsville, W.Va. and made his home in Cumberland, Md. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985. MAURICE ROSENTHAL Pensioner Maurice Rosenthal, 85, passed away Feb. 20. Brother Rosenthal joined the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Coe Victory. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Rosenthal worked in both the deck and engine departments. He lived in Tucson, Ariz. and began receiving his pension in 1981. EDWARD RUE INLAND WILLIAM BROOKS Pensioner William Brooks, 86, died March 28. Boatman Brooks joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Halliford, Va., he shipped in the deck department as a master. The Cobbs Creek, Va. resident went on pension in 1984. Pensioner Edward Rue, 79, died Feb. 20. Brother Rue joined the SIU in 1972 in Seattle. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, his first SIU ship was Delta Steamship’s Del Sol, and he last went to sea aboard Interocean Management Corp.’s Great Land. The Scranton, Pa.-born mariner worked in the steward department. He made his home in Federal Way, Wash. and began receiving his pension in 1996. CHARLES EFFORD JOSE SALCEDO WALTER PACHULSKI Pensioner Jose Salcedo, 60, passed away Feb. 10. He started his seafaring career in 1964 in Puerto Rico. Brother Salcedo worked in all three departments. His last ship was the USNS Algol. Brother Salcedo made his home in New Orleans and started receiving his pension in 2000. Pensioner Walter Pachulski, 86, died Jan. 20. Boatman Pachulski joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Baltimore after serving in the U.S. Navy. Born in Maryland, he sailed as a member of the engine department. He continued to live in his native state and and went on pension in 1977. KATHY LEE SHANER Sister Kathy Lee Shaner, 54, died April 2. She joined the SIU in 1991 in San Francisco, first sailing aboard the USNS Lynch. Born in New Mexico, Sister Shaner worked in the steward department. She resided in Las Vegas and last sailed aboard the President Grant. RALPH STARNES Pensioner Ralph Starnes, 86, passed away Jan. 19. Brother Starnes began his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Born in Montana, he worked in the steward department. Brother Starnes lived in Reno, Nev. and started receiving his pension in 1968. Pensioner Charles Efford, 84, passed away March 31. He began his seafaring career in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Maryland, Boatman Efford shipped in the engine department. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Moran Towing Co. Boatman Efford resided in his native state and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1982. JULIAN PICHOU Pensioner Julian Pichou, 85, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Pichou launched his career with the Seafarers in 1958 in New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Army. He was born in Bay St. Louis, Miss. and worked in the deck department. Boatman Pichou, who lived in his native state, began receiving his pension in 1984. Beach, Va., he began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1992. THOMAS RANCOUR Boatman Thomas Rancour, 55, passed away Jan 29. He joined the Seafarers in 1992 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Born in Winona, Minn., Boatman Rancour shipped in the deck department. He lived in Florida and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing Co. CHESTER RICKARDS Pensioner Chester Rickards, 92, died April 1. Boatman Rickards joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. The Millsboro, Del. native sailed in the deck department as a captain, having worked his way up from his first job as a deckhand when he was 15 years old. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. Boatman Rickards lived in Mantua, N.J. ROBERTO ROBLES Pensioner Roberto Robles, 67, passed away March 7. He joined the SIU in 1976 after serving in the U.S. Army. Born in Guaynabo, P.R., Boatman Robles shipped in the deck department, working primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing Co. Boatman Robles resided in his native commonwealth and began receiving his pension in 1998. DONNA SCHNAARE Seafarer Donna Schnaare, 58, died Feb. 14. Sister Schnaare joined the SIU in 1999, working primarily aboard vessels operated by Orgulf Transport Co. Born in Paducah, Ky., she shipped as a member of the steward department. Sister Schnaare resided in her native state. GREAT LAKES PAUL LaTOUR Pensioner Paul LaTour, 88, died March 23. Brother LaTour embarked on his seafaring career in 1962 in Duluth, Minn. He sailed as a fireman and lineman, working primarily aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Towing. Born in Minnesota, Brother LaTour started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1979. He resided in his native state. ATLANTIC FISHERMAN LEO QUERY ANDREW ORLANDO Pensioner Leo Query, 76, died Jan. 26. He joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Query was born in Virginia and shipped in the deck department. A resident of Virginia Pensioner Andrew Orlando, 95, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Orlando started his career with the Atlantic Fishermen’s Union in Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGIWD. Born in Italy, he worked in the deck department. Brother Orlando lived in Gloucester and began receiving his pension in 1974. 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. IRADELL ABNEY Pensioner Iradell Abney, 82, died April 15. Brother Abney joined the NMU in 1953. Sailing out of the port of New York, his first vessel was the Stephen A. Douglas. The South Carlonia-born mariner worked in the steward department as a chief steward, last sailing on the African Neptune. Brother Abney started receiving his pension in 1975. RALPH ALBARELLA Pensioner Ralph Albarella, 77, passed away April 13. Born in Pennsylvania, he joined the NMU in 1963. Brother Albarella first sailed on the Santa Cecilia and took his last trip on the American Merchant. He worked in the deck department and began receiving his pension stipends in 1988. HAROLD BROWN Pensioner Harold Brown, 75, died April 16. Brother Brown joined the NMU in 1957. His first ship was the Thomas Tracy. Born in Baltimore, Brother Brown shipped in the steward department, last sailing on the Cherry Valley. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1986. SCOTT DANIEL Pensioner Scott Daniel, 84, passed away Dec. 7. Brother Daniel started his NMU career in 1943. Born in Eagle Lake, Texas, he initially went to sea aboard the Fort Royal. The steward department member last worked on the Gansmill. Brother Daniel started receiving his pension in 1965. GEORGE EALY Pensioner George Ealy, 82, died April 8. Brother Ealy joined the NMU in 1967, first sailing aboard the Ryder Victory. Born in Houston, he worked in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Ealy began receiving retirement stipends in 1991. He last worked on the Ohio Intrepid. PEDRO ELIAS Pensioner Pedro Elias, 81, passed away March 13. Brother Elias started his NMU career in 1947. The Puerto Rican- Continued on page 20 June 2004 �PG5_7,19,21.qxd 5/24/2004 5:22 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.``` COAST RANGE (Intrepid Ship Management), April 24—Chairman Terry D. Cowans Sr., Secretary Donna M. DeCesare, Educational Director David E. Switzer, Deck Delegate Ricky R. Wiemer, Engine Delegate Scott S. Fuller, Steward Delegate Lemuel E Robinson. Chairman announced arrival April 26 in Garyville, La. Payoff to take place May 1 or 2. Rooms to be inspected before mariners leave ship. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into lowering retirement age and increasing pension benefits. Request also made for copies of current contracts as well as Seafarers LOGs on board. EL MORRO (IUM), April 28— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs Jr., Secretary Abraham M. Martinez, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr., Steward Delegate Theodore E. Quammie. Chairman announced payoff April 29 in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked crew for safe voyage and reminded them to support union by contributing to SPAD and MDL. He advised everyone to check expiration dates on all documents needed for shipping, including STCW, passport, z-card. Educational director stated upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center can mean higher rating and more money in your pocket. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. Recommendation made to change eligibility requirements for retirement to 20 years. Everyone advised to check money purchase pension plan statements to verify that days are correct. Vessel due into shipyard around June 4, probably in Mobile, Ala. Vote of thanks given to steward department. After payoff in Jacksonville, vessel heading to San Juan, P.R. ENDURANCE (USSM), April 5—Chairman Paul S. Wills, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Carlos R. Bonilla, Engine Delegate Rhonda Koski. Chairman thanked crew for good work and smooth trip. He led discussion of new courses offered at Paul Hall Center and of nice accommodations at newly constructed hotel there. Secretary thanked crew members for helping keep common areas tidy. He reminded those getting off to clean rooms and provide clean linen, towels, soap, etc., for next person. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility and contribute to SPAD. Treasurer stated about $900 available in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made that rotation aboard ship be one-on-one basis; e.g., two trips on, two trips off; three trips on, three trips off. Payoff scheduled April 7 in Long Beach, Calif. EXPLORER (USSM), April 25— Chairman Philip A. Corl, Secretary James E. Harper, Educational Director Edmond H. Hawkins Jr., Deck Delegate Abdulhamid F. Musaed, Steward Dele- June 2004 gate Fernando Onativia. Chairman reported great trip. He announced payoff April 28 in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary encouraged Seafarers to continue to educate themselves, especially since many changes are occurring in maritime industry due to homeland security issues. He suggested everyone check to be sure all documents are up to date. Treasurer stated $880 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for captain to consider steward department schedule when arranging bus rides at overseas ports so that they have time to go ashore as well. Recommendation made to address shipboard security issues relative to ABs being trained in task of searching visitors bags, etc. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into lowering age requirements and reducing required seatime for normal retirement HORIZON CRUSADER (Horizon Lines), April 27—Chairman Antonio M. Mercado, Secretary Joseph P, Emidy, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Steward Delegate Jose L. Garcia. Chairman announced payoff April 29 in Jacksonville, Fla. Educational director advised members to keep track of vacation pay. He also talked about improving job skills by upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about requirements for becoming union official. Suggestions made for covering 100 percent of medical costs, increasing pension and reducing seatime requirements for pension to 20 years, regardless of age. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), April 20—Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary Osvaldo Ramos, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Janan J. Driggers, Engine Delegate Michael G. Bautista. Chairman announced payoff April 23 in Jacksonville, Fla. All concerns and questions should be addressed to patrolman at that time. Bosun thanked crew for assisting in clean-up of ship after yard period in Portugal, with special thanks to electrician Angel Hernandez for re-wiring satellite system. Educational director advised all hands to make sure credentials are in order. He reminded them to start z-card renewal up to one year before expiration and talked about two newly approved SAB actions. Treasurer stated $2,227 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to raise pension, lower seatime and be able to collect pension after required seatime, regardless of age. Crew gave round of applause to GSU Angel D. Corchado for outstanding job. “This man is a true pro at his job and is well respected aboard this vessel.” Next ports: San Juan, P.R.; Elizabeth, N.J. INNOVATOR (USSM), April 11— Chairman Dirk W. Adams, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Paul B. Flores, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Adel B. Irani, Steward Delegate Ahmed M. Quraish. Chairman gave spe- cial thanks to both unlicensed apprentices for jobs well done. Secretary expressed gratitude to members for helping keep ship clean and safe. Educational director urged fellow shipmates to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center and to check expiration dates on all documents. Treasurer acknowledged donations to ship’s fund and stated balance of $758.14. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members informed that Coast Guard will board ship in port to implement new port security procedures. Suggestion made to increase retirement benefits and include cost-ofliving raises. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), April 25—Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Philip F. Lau, Educational Director Gualberto Salaria, Steward Delegate Lolita Sanchez. Chairman announced payoff April 28 in Beaumont, Texas. Secretary requested more stores and food for next trip. Educational director reminded crew members about upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point and about early renewal of z-cards. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new turning table for microwave oven and additional washing machine. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line), April 25—Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary John G. Reid, Educational Director John E. Conn, Deck Delegate Abdulla Mohsin, Steward Delegate Victor M. Acevedo. Chairman announced arrival and payoff April 30 in Charleston, S.C. He thanked everyone for great trip and reminded them to clean rooms and turn in keys before leaving for vacation. Secretary added his thanks to crew for helping keep house clean. He stated 50-day stores to be loaded in Portsmouth, Va. Educational director urged mariners to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. He also suggested they check expiration dates on all documents and support union by contributing to SPAD. Beef reported in engine department; no beefs or disputed OT noted in deck or steward departments. Recommendation made to add vacation days, increase pension benefits and lower age for pension eligibility. Due to security issues, crew agreed with captain and chief mate to move sailing board outside ship’s office instead of by gangway. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done, especially Steward Acevedo’s Cuban sandwiches. Next ports after payoff: Portsmouth; Newark, N.J., Algeciras, Spain. NORTHERN LIGHTS (IUM), April 25—Chairman Jerry D. Martinsen, Secretary Franklin Robertson, Engine Delegate Alexander E. Bendolph. Chairman announced arrival and payoff April 28 in Charleston, S.C. He asked everyone to make sure to separate plastic items from other trash. Captain was requested to arrange for taxis in port. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for new movies, books and magazines aboard ship, as well as some new refrigerators and fans. Clarification requested on reimbursement of prescriptions purchased overseas. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. SEABULK POWER (Seabulk Tankers), April 25—Chairman Bradley L. Seibel, Secretary Steven R. Wagner, Educational Director Abu Bakr Spanhoff, Deck Delegate Randy W. Powell, Engine Delegate Rudolph K. Miller, Steward Delegate Samuel S. Johnson. Chairman announced arrival and payoff April 26 in Lake Charles, La. He asked crew members to keep current security threat level in mind when on gangway watch. U.S. Coast Guard may board at any time to check security plans. He also requested everyone continue to separate plastic items from regular trash. Steward delegate asked crew to provide clean linen for next person and to keep silverware separate from dishes in galley sink. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and be aware of expiration dates on all gym equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Requests made for new TV, coffee machine and vacuum as well as refrigerators in all rooms. WASHINGTON (ATC), April 25—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Robert M. Mensching, Educational Director Kevin E Hall, Deck Delegate Douglas R. Gantenbeim, Engine Delegate Antonio N. Libo-on, Steward Delegate Gary W. Loftin. Chairman reported on ATC conference. He talked about SPAD and how it helps the union and also asked crew to report any electrical, plumbing or appliance problems to Seen Aboard the Horizon Anchorage . . . necessary shipping documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department. After Lake Charles, ship heading to Tampa, Fla. SEABULK TRADER (Seabulk Tankers), April 25—Chairman William K Barrett, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Educational Director Eron G. Hall Jr., Engine Delegate Victor M. Quioto, Steward Delegate James Harris. Chairman read president’s report from LOG. He reminded all members of new security protocol on board ship and emphasized importance of contributing to SPAD. Secretary noted receipt of ruling from Florida unemployment commission and requested copies of all plans booklets from union. Educational director advised everyone to check that all documents are up to date. He advised crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and to keep all payoff stubs, which are needed to collect vacation pay. Treasurer stated rental bicycles now available at $2/day; satellite fee is $15/month. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to instate full buy-out option to retirement plan. Current contract with company ends Jan. 1, 2005. Suggestion made to include 16 days vacation and no loss of manpower in next contract. Clarification requested on how to collect money purchase pension plan upon leaving industry and upon retirement. Next ports: Lake Charles, La.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. USNS ALGOL (American Overseas Marine), April 9— Secretary Ralph D. Thomas, Educational Director Troy Ancar. Chairman announced payoff April 21 in Violet, La. He noted repairs completed to garbage disposal and dumbwaiter and new washing machine installed. Educational director advised members to increase job security by attending upgrading courses at Piney Point. Bosun noted that although there is no treasurer, money is being collected for videotapes. Educational director also suggested purchase of bosun. Educational director informed crew of need to initiate document renewal before expiration date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made that “vacation benefit” be renamed “supplementary per diem” for uncompensated shipboard time on emergency call. Suggestion also made to reinstate penalty meal hours and add resolution to contract defining steward department breaks and meals. Thanks given to chief engineer and pumpman for help in satellite TV reception. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska; Long Beach, Calif. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), May 2—Chairman Dan P. Fleehearty, Secretary Amanda Suncin, Educational Director William M. Pinkham, Engine Delegate John R. Day. Chairman announced payoff May 11 in Tacoma, Wash. Blanket day off moved to May 12. Coast Guard inspection scheduled for May 21. Educational director suggested everyone check expiration dates on all documents and make sure to renew early. He talked about new security plans that go into effect July 1. No beefs reported; OT issue in steward department to be discussed with patrolman at payoff. Next ports: Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), May 1—Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Secretary Howard H. Lewis, Educational Director Geoffrey L. James, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Bosun talked extensively about Jones Act and necessity of supporting SPAD. He asked crew members to remove lint from dryers (possible fire hazard) and to take advantage of upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $200 in ship’s fund. Educational director will try to buy DVDs in next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for bosun to give new crew members more detailed orientation to workings of an ITB. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. Seafarers LOG 19 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 8:20 PM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Student: Top Marks To Paul Hall Center The following is addressed to my fellow brothers and sisters in the deck department. I recently sat for the USCG Third Mate-Oceans Exam (new testing), and am happy to report that I passed this 800 lb. gorilla! This was, without a doubt, the most difficult undertaking of my life (and I ain’t no Boy Scout). After accumulating the necessary 1,080 days of sea time, driving my 2/M and C/M crazy to proctor the onboard assessments, and attending months and months of upgrading back at Piney Point, I had finally satisfied everything required to sit for the test. Next came two solid months of intense study, and then I was ready to go for it! Final Departures Continued from page 18 born mariner’s first voyage was aboard the Borinquen. He shipped as a member of the engine department and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1977. ROBERT J. KITELEY Pensioner Robert J. Kiteley, 80, died Dec. 21. Born in Mexia, Texas, Brother Kiteley launched his profession with the NMU in 1942. The engine department member’s first trip originated out of Port Arthur, Texas aboard the Good Gulf. Brother Kitley was a frequent upgrader, enhancing his skills on seven separate occasions. His last vessel was the Margaret Lykes. Brother Kiteley went on pension in 1984. HENRY D. LAMBERTY Pensioner Henry D. Lamberty, 103, passed away Feb. 23. The Puerto Ricanborn mariner worked in the steward department and initially sailed from the port of New York. Brother Lamberty worked primarily aboard the S.S. Independence and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1968. ANTONIO LOSTERNAU Pensioner Antonio Losternau, 78, died March 4. Brother Losternau joined the NMU in 1951. Born in Peru, his first vessel was the Marine Snapper. He sailed in the steward department and began collecting retirement stipends in 1975. Brother Losternau’s final voyage was aboard the Santa Lucia. FELIX MANZANO JR. Pensioner Felix Manzano Jr., 81, passed away March 25. Born in Puerto Rico, he began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1943. Brother 20 Seafarers LOG The hawsepipe can still be climbed, but it now takes tremendous dedication and unsinkable determination to see you through. This is a long hard fight, but as members of the SIU, we benefit from the free courses, lodging and travel that others do not. I have compared what I received from the Paul Hall Center free of charge to other “commercial sea schools” and have saved over $60,000 in out-of-pocket expenditures! I owe my success and gratitude to the fine staff of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Thank you! Respectfully Submitted, Michael Thomas (Via email) Remembering Paul Warren I want to thank all the old-timers who sailed during World War II for the sacrifices they made for all mariners. I do support H.R. 3729 (the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act) to amend Title 46 of the Manzano’s first vessel was the Gulf Point. He worked in the steward department and last sailed on the Argentina. Brother Manzano started receiving his pension in 1970. JOHN PICKETT Pensioner John Pickett, 78, died March 6. He began his career with the NMU in 1945. Brother Picket initially sailed from the port of Baltimore aboard the Justin S. Merrill. Born in South Carolina, he worked in the steward department. He upgraded his skills several times and last shipped on the Adm. William W. Callaghan. Brother Pickett started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1980. FRANCISCO REBOUCAS Pensioner Francisco Reboucas, 87, passed away April 13. Brother Reboucas joined the NMU in 1943. His first ship was the El Coston. Born in Manaus, Brazil, Brother Reboucas shipped as a member of the engine department. He went on pension in 1970 and last worked on the Brasil. FELIX HUGH RICHARDS Pensioner Felix Hugh Richards, 80, died March 16. Brother Richards joined the NMU in 1943 and initially went to sea aboard the MV Matagorda. Born in Post, Texas, he worked in both the steward and engine departments. Brother Richards’ last voyage was aboard the Ruth Lykes. He went on pension in 1964. HARRY T. STEWART Pensioner Harry T. Stewart, 76, passed away Feb. 10. A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Brother Stewart donned the NMU colors in 1945. His first vessel was the Nehalem. United States Code. My true regret was in hearing of a very good friend’s death in the April issue of the LOG. Paul Warren was indeed a fine, smart man. He was a good sailor (whom I sailed with), a good union patrolman and a man I worked with on many occasions while organizing Cities Service Oil Company tankers in Lake Charles, La. I ended up on the vessels Bradford Island and the Abiqua, where I spent nine months and obtained my union book (#11,111 Gulf original and then to C-263). I sailed for 20 years. Again, I give my thanks to Paul Warren for his advice to me in conversations, and I mourn his death. Harold E. Crane Opelousas, La. (The writer is a former Delta Lines port steward) McCartney Had Time For All Seafarers My name is Samuel Garrett, and I’m an A-seniority member upgrading again at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Stewart worked in all three departments and was a frequent upgrader. His final voyage, during which he sailed as a bosun, was aboard the Santa Clara. Brother Stewart began collecting retirement stipends in 1979. CARL STOECKLINE Pensioner Carl Stoeckline, 79, died Jan. 8. Brother Stoeckline joined the NMU in 1943, first sailing aboard the Jeremiah Dailey. A native of Kansas, he shipped in the engine department. Brother Stoeckline last worked on the Texaco Minnesota and began receiving his pension in 1986. HARRISON THOMASCIEN Pensioner Harrison Thomascien, 87, passed away March 10. Born in the West Indies, Brother Thomascien joined the ranks of the NMU in 1963. His premier ocean voyage was aboard the Houston. Brother Thomascien worked in the steward department. He last sailed on the American Leader and went on pension in 1980. JOHN H. YOUNG Pensioner John Young, 83, died April 8. Brother Young embarked on his NMU career in 1946. His initial voyage was aboard the Key Hold. Born in Alabama, he worked in the engine department. Brother Young began receiving retirement stipends in 1977. He last went to sea on the Gulf Baker. When I first met George McCartney in the 1990s, he had this energy about him and always had a smile on his face, with a greeting for each and every member of the SIU. George had this special way of communicating with the membership that always was positive. One of the things he told me was to always support the SIU, its loyal brothers, sisters and officials—because blood is thicker than water, and you’re part of our family, he would say. George inspired new and old members to be truthful, loyal and have heart. Today, I’m a better, stronger person because of George and other officials like him. George was always busy, but never too busy to stop and speak with me and others. He wanted to know from every member how he could help them. Sometimes that meant just listening to a member discuss a personal problem. George will always be missed by everyone in the Seafarers International Union. Samuel Garrett Piney Point, Md. 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 individ- ual 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. June 2004 �PG5_7,19,21.qxd 5/21/2004 12:12 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Recertification Bosun The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 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 July 5 August16 September 27 November 8 July 30 September 10 October 22 December 3 June 21 September 13 November 15 June 25 September 17 November 19 Celestial Navigation September 27 October 22 GMDSS (Simulator) July 12 August 23 September 27 November 1 July 23 September 3 October 8 November 12 June 21 August 2 September 13 October 25 July 2 August 13 September 24 November 5 Navigation Fundamentals July 19 November 29 July 30 December 10 Radar June 7 August 30 November 1 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) August 9 October 4 November 29 Course Able Seaman Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) *(must have radar unlimited) Lifeboatman/Water Survival November 8 Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation July 26 September 20 November 15 August 20 October 15 December 10 FOWT July 12 October 25 September 3 December 17 QMED - Junior Engineer September 27 December 17 Welding June 14 August 23 October 4 November 1 July 2 September 10 October 22 November 19 Course Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion July 19 August 23 September 20 November 8 July 30 September 3 October 1 November 19 Basic Safety Training (BST) June 21 July 19 August 2 August 30 June 25 July 23 August 6 September 3 Fast Rescue Boat June 7 July 26 August 30 June 11 July 30 September 3 June 18 September 10 November 12 Government Vessels June 28 July 19 September 13 July 2 August 6 October 1 August 20 October 15 December 10 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* July 26 October 4 July 30 October 8 Course Advanced Fire Fighting* (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses 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 May 24, 2004. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ October 11 Date of Birth ______________________ 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. 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 ________________________________________________ June 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. 6/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 8:23 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 649 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 649 (in alphabetical order) Aaron Barnes, Felsher Beasley Jr., Christopher Burke, Jovita Carino, Jonathan Carrico, Terry Chance II, Derriace Collins, Dameon Cooler, Laura Edwards, Nicholas Fleming, James Foote, Paula Gomez, Kenneth Housley, Jessie Johnson, David Kelch, Bruce Livingstone, Elijah Mack, Lonnie Myers Jr., Allan Oyao Jr., Gregory Ralston, Yamil Sanchez-Padilla, Keesha Smith, Theresa Twisdale, John Villarta and Travis Zeller. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given April 16 to (in alphabetical order) Sam Vanderbrug, Steven Ruppert, Stanley Sporna, Ibarra Mangaya, Christopher Schneider, Jason Powell, Douglas Carson, Ramon Corretjer Jr. and Oscar Luis. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is third from right. Small Arms — AB — Receiving their certificates for completion of the AB class ending May 7 are (from left) Abraham Krula, Tony Green, Edward Boyd, Eduardo Osorio, Michael Pockat, Charles Reeve, Edgar Stanley, Kenric Henry and Bernabe Pelingon (instructor). Completing the small arms training course April 23 are (from left, front row) Darnell O’Hara, Bill Yore, Joe Gierbolini, Harlan Hulst, (second row) Bart Clendenin, Josh Mele and Harry Abrams. Celestial Navigation — Upgraders who successfully completed the celestial navigation course April 23 are (from left, front row) Charles Mills, Tom Grose, Jawaid Pardesi, William Sholley, (second row) Benjamin Barnes, Alexander Fyodorovykh, Victor Antunez, Emmett Wattigny, William Schuppman and Stacey Harris (instructor). Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL)— April 9 graduates of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course are (in alphabetical order) Jose Baltazar, Albert Bharrat, William Bunch, Arnulfo Calderon, Robert Guilmette, Hugo Infante, Mohamed Jebokji, Francis Johnson, Brandon Leach, John Maynor, Brian McEleney, Ronald Poole, Horace Rains, Blas Robert, Uriel Ross, Michael Sanders, Daniel Stavron, Kreg Stiebben, Jerome Torrence, Victor Velez, Michael Wiley and John Zabielski. Advanced Fire Fighting — With their instructor, Tom Cessna (far left), are upgrading Seafarers who completed the advanced fire fighting course April 30. They are (in alphabetical order) Stephen Bradfute, Richard Huffman, Oswaldo Lopez, Tran Luu, Ibarra Mangaya, Lewis O’Neal, Steve Randle, Lawrence Rose, John Shea, Kreg Stiebben and Sam Vanderbrug. Any student who has registered for a class and finds— for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Computer Lab Class Left: Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes April 9 at the Paul Hall Center are (from left, front row) Jared Taylor, John Fain, (back row) Quincy Wilson and Stephen Bradfute. With them is their instructor, Rick Prucha. Right: Also congratulated by instructor Rick Prucha is Ian Payne with his certificates. 22 Seafarers LOG Right: Instructor Rick Prucha (standing left) poses with students who completed computer courses April 16. Seated, from left, are Quincy Wilson and Michael Sanders. In the back row with Prucha is Kreg Stiebben. June 2004 �PG8_11,14,16_18,20_23.qxd 5/20/2004 8:23 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Engine Utility — Successfully completing the engine utility course April 16 are (in alphabetical order) Shane Avila, Luis Barbosa, Marvin Charles Jr., Clayton Coulter, Jerome Culbreth, Orlando Herrera, Peter Jensen, Joshua Kirk, Damien Law and Jamar Rodriguez. Crane Operations — Crowley boatmen attended the crane operations course in April at the Paul Hall Center. In photo above left are (from left) Sandino Diaz, Greg Thompson (instructor) and Hansel Tyson. In photo above right are (from left) Ulric Sutton, Trenton Benjamin and Thompson. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — March 19: Richard Rowland, Memphis Herring, Antonio Myrick, Brandy White, STCW — April 9: Joshua Anders, Joaquin Aumentado, Nicholas Babcock, Steven Cebulal, Sergio Cugtas, Antonio Gomez, Franklin Hale Jr., Michael Hallisey, Emily Harris, William Loy Jr. , Edgardo Lozada, Carl Mahaffey, Ryan Martinson, Joe Morris, Luke Respicio, Tara Robins, Angela Schwindt, Robert Thilo and Samuel Zaydon. Carlos Ralon, Francisco Al Almazan, Timothy Blakley, De’Angelo Davis, Amy Moosman, Jerrold Maggard, Aaron Wood, Darlene Weymouth, Australia Batista, James Cedillo, John Sandos, Jamie Sabourin, Robert Arpke, Donald Cook, Christina Watson, Amy Warhol, Wilson Avery, Pedro Pedroso, Wilfredo Polo, Mary Davila, Helen Chapman, Anthony Wyatt, Kary Duncan, Wadeea Alnasafi, Larry Bachelor, Alex Hunting, Kristen Palmen, Cameron Radford and James Anderson III. Their instructors, Ben Vernon and Stan Beck, are at right in the front row. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Water Survival — March 12: Jon Ferris, Joseph Nikolas, Rupert Manalili, Hattus Lapina, Peter Shannon, Robert Berasis, Jonathan Fagan, Theresa Hill, Pablito Dexanadera, Sven Erstad, Jason Hill, Megan Moran, Andrea LaCoy, Margaret Hegeman, David Allen, Chevon Holmes, Sarah Jean Conway, Christopher Cortez, Jorge Obando, David Kamau Jr., Dwight Kau, Elmer Armas, Michael Fiesta, Joshua Kamakeeaina, Emilio Guevara, Kevin Martin, Elizabeth Herrmann, Alicia Glass and Maren Spurgeon. Their instructors were Stan Beck (far left) and Tony Sevilla and Stacey Harris (far right). Water Survival — March 26: De’Angelo Davis, Wilfredo Vazquez, Pedro Pedroso, Ben Koss, Laurien Helfrich-Nuss, Ronald Fronda, Ji Hyun Cha, Albert Muna, Victoria Messamore, Angie Lee, Lurinda Sawyer, Matthew Jenness, Keinani Merten, Louis Charles and Hoku Kipi. Their instructors were Tony Sevilla (far left) and Stan Beck (far right). Specially Trained OS — Unlicensed apprentices in the third phase of their training completed the STOS course March 26. With their instructor, Brad Wheeler (far left) are (in alphabetical order) Kevin Gain, Donald Gallagher, Gordon Grant, Ramon Guity, Bruce Hendrickson, John Maynor, Amber Osbekoff, Horace Rains, Mario Rascon and Ryan Thorne. June 2004 Marine Refrigeration Technician — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the marine refrigeration technician course May 21 are (in alphabetical order) Lawrence Banks, Samuel Garrett, Paul Hanley, Jose Liwag, William McLaughlin, John Osburn, Albert Riollano, Hector Solis, Clifford Taylor and Jevon Vontoure. Seafarers LOG 23 �23075_P01,2,24.qxd 5/28/2004 5:45 PM Page 24 Honoring Our Merchant Marine Veterans on Maritime Day — Pages 12, 13 U.S. Labor Secretary Tours SIU Ship U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao joined SIU President Michael Sacco, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, officials from SIU-contracted American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) and others May 26 for a tour of the Seafarers-crewed Patriot in Baltimore. A longtime friend of the SIU and a solid supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, Chao chatted with several Seafarers aboard the ship. One of them, Unlicensed Apprentice Kyle Pillsworth, is enrolled in the entry training program at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md.—a program endorsed by Secretary Chao and the Labor Department in 2003. “It’s going real good—better than I expected,” said Pillsworth, who is in Phase II of the three-part curriculum. “I’ve learned a lot. Shipboard work is tough, but the crew is good and you learn every day.” The Patriot, operated by ARC, was loading tractors, trucks, cars and other vehicles when the tour took place. The ship sailed for Antwerp, Belgium later that day. Others who welcomed the secretary included SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz, ARC Executive Vice President and COO Jim Wells, ARC Vice President Steve Gill, Port of Baltimore Executive Director Jim White, and Maryland Port Commissioner Tom Koch. This wasn’t Chao’s first time aboard an SIU ship. Two years ago in New Orleans, she visited the fast sealift vessel USNS Bellatrix and also stopped by the local SIU hall. As was the case two years ago, last month’s visit was successful, noted Sacco. “Secretary Chao was Eager to tour the vessel and very interested in the ship but also in the crew memmeet crew members, Secretary bers and their jobs,” he observed. “She was extremely Chao walks up the Patriot’s gracious, as always, and remains a true supporter of ramp before touring the ship. the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Cargo operations aboard the Patriot were in full swing during the tour. Secretary Chao shakes hand with Unlicensed Apprentice Kyle Pillsworth, who is enrolled in a training program (based at the Paul Hall Center) endorsed by the U.S. Labor Department. Jim Wells, executive vice president and chief operating officer of American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier, presents a ship model to U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao aboard the Patriot. See page 13 for Secretary Chao’s National Maritime Day statement. Pictured on the Patriot’s deck are (from left) STOS Carlos Grillasca, SIU President Michael Sacco, Unlicensed Apprentice Kyle Pillsworth, U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, Kings Point Cadet Austin Howell and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. AT THE HELM— After hearing a brief explanation of bridge operations, Secretary Chao looks like a natural at the wheel. SA Darlene Weymouth poses with Secretary Chao. Pictured in the crew mess are (from left) SIU VP Augie Tellez, Chief Steward Jimmy Williams, Chief Cook Ralph Borja, Bosun Jim Muldowney (behind Borja), SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz, SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, Unlicensed Apprentice Kyle Pillsworth, AB Ahmed Elshabassy, AB Ryan Casas and AB Gil Villana. � 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 June 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES U.S. MERCHANT MARINE INCLUDED IN WWII MEMORIAL DEDICATION TANKER ALASKAN FRONTIER CHRISTENED CRESCENT BOATMEN OKAY 3-YEAR PACT SIU ITF INSPECTORS SECURE $186, 000 IN BACK WAGES FOR FOREIGN CREWS SIU-CREWED M/V RESOLVE PRAISED FOR RESCUE AT SEA INSTRUCTOR RELISHES CHANCE TO HELP STUDENTS ADVANCE SIU PRESIDENT HONORED BY ST. LOUIS AMMV ITF QUESTIONS ELIMINATION OF CREW LIST VISA ED TURNER, RETIRED SIU VP AND MC&S FOUNDER, DIES RETIRED UIW DIRECTOR EDNEY DIES AT 87 UNION MOURNS PASSING OF RETIRED NMU PORT AGENT IKE WILLIAMS HOUSTON HALL HOSTS ‘OPEN HOUSE’ ANNUAL UNION-INDUSTRIES SHOW GETS GREAT TOURNOUT IN ST. LOUIS U.S. MARINERS PAST AND PRSENT PRAISED FOR PATRIOTISM, RELIABILITY U.S. LABOR SECRETARY TOURS SIU 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 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 06/01/2004 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. 6 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/6aa2198a751556be7de56723b69c9389.pdf 6fffa80bffce724b21309928a5562677 PDF Text Text 22755_P01.2.3.9.10.21.qxd 4/28/2004 7:05 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 5 Tanker Charleston Joins SIU Fleet May 2004 LAKEN SHIPPING GOES SIU! Mariners at Laken Shipping LLC recently voted to join the SIU. The Cleveland-based company operates an integrated tug-barge (ITB) that primarily hauls stone from Kelley’s lsland, Ohio to Cleveland and Sandusky, Ohio. Page 3. Newly Added Vessel Signals More Jobs for Seafarers The union last month welcomed new shipboard job opportunities as the chemical carrier Charleston joined the SIU fleet. Seafarers crewed up the 635-foot tanker in Houston. Page 3. Seafarers Deliver the Goods For U.S. Troops in ‘OIF2’ The sealift mission known as Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 continues running smoothly, and SIU members are doing their part to support U.S. troops in Iraq. Sixty SIU-crewed ships are sailing in OIF2, including the Cape May (pictured above and at right). AB George Papuchis (left, at Cape May’s helm) is one of more than 2,000 Seafarers who have mobilized for this phase of the mission. Page 2. SMPPP Statements Mailed Page 9 George McCartney Remembrance Page 6 �22755_P01.2.3.9.10.21.qxd 4/28/2004 7:05 PM Page 2 President’s Report Training and Security Shipboard and port security may be the hottest topic in our industry. With the approach of the July 1 deadline for compliance with the Maritime Transportation Security Act, U.S.-flag operators and their crews along with American ports are making sure they’re ready. The vast majority of affected U.S. vessels and facilities already have submitted their respective security plans to the U.S. Coast Guard—a significant accomplishment, according to the agency’s commandant. Michael Sacco As with most, if not all new maritime regulations that impact shipboard procedures, proper training will be essential for Seafarers and our contracted companies. On that front, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is ahead of the game. Working closely with SIU-contracted operators, the union and the school have developed and implemented useful courses related to maritime security. For instance, every student at the Paul Hall Center must complete a four-hour class called “general security awareness.” The course 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). It is not only offered at the school in Piney Point, Md., but also has been taught by Paul Hall Center instructors aboard SIU ships. Several other classes also deal with security. All students at the Paul Hall Center receive a government-approved anti-terrorism briefing. For many years, the school has conducted a government vessels course that includes anti-terrorism components. Also, the Paul Hall Center offers instruction for vessel security officers, as well as security-team training which includes small-arms lessons (for those sailing aboard military-contracted ships). Naturally, providing the most up-to-date security training is an ongoing process. With that in mind, I’m especially looking forward to the upcoming advisory board meeting next month in Piney Point, where representatives of the school, the armed forces, maritime labor, the Coast Guard, the U.S. Maritime Administration and U.S.-flag operators will thoroughly examine new security requirements and the best ways to fulfill them. Meanwhile, the Paul Hall Center is living up to its tradition of constantly staying a step ahead of the industry’s needs. OIF2 The U.S. Military Sealift Command didn’t exaggerate when it promised that Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 (OIF2) would be the largest, fastest combat cargo movement since World War II. Already, 60 SIU-crewed ships have mobilized for OIF2. They are helping transport an estimated 24 million square feet of cargo for U.S. troops into and out of Iraq. Counting members of our Government Services Division, more than 2,000 Seafarers are sailing in support of the mission. Once again, I couldn’t be more proud of the way our members are upholding our legacy as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. Just as they did before and during the all-out combat phase of the war in Iraq, SIU members are answering the call in OIF2 with quiet, determined patriotism and a level of professionalism that’s second-tonone. The OIF2 sealift is yet another great example of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s value to our national and economic security. It’s also further proof of something that’s been true since our founding in 1938: Seafarers deliver the goods. George McCartney Finally, I encourage all Seafarers to spend a few minutes reading about the career of our recently departed brother George McCartney, retired vice president of the union’s West Coast region (page 6). We’ve been fortunate over the years to have had many officials and members who have gone above and beyond when it comes to promoting not just the SIU but the whole U.S. Merchant Marine. Even by that standard, George was exceptional. He found a home early on with the SIU and spent the next 50-plus years doing everything possible to strengthen our union. That type of dedication is essential to our continued success. We all would do well to live up to the model that George provided. Volume 66, Number 5 May 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, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 2004 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Seafarers Deliver the Goods In Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 While the overall mission of stabilizing Iraq remains complex, the sealift operation known as Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 (OIF2) is proceeding smoothly—and Seafarers continue playing a key role in the process. Approximately 60 SIU-crewed vessels remain active in the massive resupply mission that commenced early this year. As previously reported, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) estimates that more than 240,000 U.S. military personnel will have rotated into and out of the Middle East by the time OIF2 concludes. MSC also reported that U.S.-flag ships are carrying 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 are being moved by ship during OIF2. One early highlight of the mission involved five Seafarers-crewed large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) ships loading out more than 70,000 tons of Army hardware in Antwerp, Belgium for the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division— known as Big Red One. From Jan. 25 to early February, the LMSRs (USNS Brittin, USNS Wiper Ryan Neathery pre- Red Cloud, USNS pares for a safety drill Dahl, USNS Charlton and USNS Watkins) aboard the Cape May. Pictured aboard the Cape May, one of 60 SIUcrewed ships that mobilized for OIF2, are (from left) Third Mate Ed McDonnell, AB George Papuchis, OS Jeff Perez and QMED/Electrician Emmett Neathery. The SIU-crewed Cape May carries military gear after loading in Norfolk, Va. took on a wide range of materiel for delivery to an area northwest of Baghdad, where Big Red One relieved the 4th Infantry Division. The cargo included M1-A1 Abrams heavy battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, Bradley fighting vehicles, heavy trucks, Humvees, fuel trucks and containers loaded with various supplies. For Seafarers, OIF2 is the continuation of a patriotic duty that began with pre-war mobilizations for the all-out combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. As U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert recently noted, “Over a year ago, when we first learned that U.S. armed forces would 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 Continued on page 10 Rank-and-File Finance Committee Okays Union’s Records for 2003 A seven-person committee of rank-and-file union members, elected by their fellow Seafarers during the April headquarters/ Port of Piney Point membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. has completed its review of the SIU’s financial records for the year 2003 and found them in good order. Serving on the committee were Gerard Costello, port of Baltimore; Herbert Davis and Michael Dempster from the port of Norfolk, Va.; Michael Joel and William Kelly from the port of Philadelphia; David Martz, port of Baltimore; and Jamie Miller from the port of Piney Point. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel worked with the committee and made himself and the records of his office available to them. In its report, the committee noted, “We … do hereby state that we have examined the procedure for controlling of the funds of the Union and have found that the system of internal control is ade- At the conclusion of their business, members of the union’s 2004 finance committee joined SIU Secretary David Heindel, left, for this photo. Pictured with Heindel are, from the left, Herb Davis, William Kelly, David Martz, Mike Dempster, Jamie Miller, Gerard Costello and Mike Joel. quate to safeguard them properly.” Article X, Section 15 of the SIU Constitution mandates that a financial committee annually examine the union’s financial records. That segment reads: “The Annual Financial Committee shall make an examination for each annual period of the finances of the Union and shall report fully on their findings and recommendations.” The committee is hard at work. May 2004 �22755_P01.2.3.9.10.21.qxd 4/28/2004 7:05 PM Page 3 Laken Shipping Mariners Vote SIU Union Contract Brings Many Gains for Newest Seafarers Mariners at Laken Shipping LLC recently voted to join the SIU. The Cleveland-based company operates an integrated tug-barge (ITB) that primarily hauls stone from Kelley’s Island, Ohio to Cleveland and Sandusky, Ohio. Leading the organizing drive were SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski, SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak and Seafarer Tim McKenna, the union’s port steward for Great Lakes Towing Company in Cleveland. “Congratulations are in order, both to our newest members and to those who worked on the organizing campaign,” said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “Their contract is something to be proud of, and it’s great to have them aboard with the SIU family.” Laken mariners in late March expressed unanimous support for joining the SIU, and the company quickly recognized the union as the exclusive bargaining representative for all seamen employed on its vessels. Laken’s ITB Cleveland/Cleveland Rocks is crewed by a captain, mate, engineer, lead deckhand and three other deckhands. The newest Seafarers include Mate Garland Attaway, Deckhand Joel Budzar, Lead Deckhand Patrick Carney, Deckhand Tony Cenname, Deckhand Aaron Gordon, Engineer Matthew Hoban, Captain James Long, Deckhand Jeffrey Marin, Deckhand/Cook Eric Piascik and Engineer Mark Stevenson. The ITB entered service for the season on April 7—one week after crew members unanimously approved a five-year contract that brought substantial improvements. Previously, the mariners had not received a pay raise for three years. They also had no holiday pay or pension plan, and their health insurance required co-payments. Under the new contract’s terms, the crews received immediate wage increases and are scheduled for raises in each subsequent year of the pact. They are covered by the union’s top medical plan (Plan G), which does not require co-payments. Additionally, they are enrolled in the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) and are eligible to upgrade at the union’s affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Other contract highlights include holiday and bereavement pay, establishment of a grievance procedure and implementation of a seniority system for layoffs, promotions and transfers. The self-unloading barge Cleveland Rocks is a new addition to the SIU fleet on the Great Lakes. More New Jobs! Tanker Charleston Joins SIU Fleet The union last month welcomed new shipboard job opportunities as the chemical carrier Charleston joined the SIU fleet. Seafarers crewed up the 635foot tanker in Houston. The Charleston is the eighth ship in the United States Shipping LLC U.S.-flag fleet. Built at Louisiana’s Avondale Shipyard in 1983, the vessel has a breadth of 106 feet and a deadweight tonnage of slightly more than 48,000. It is equipped with 43 cargo tanks. Seafarers also sail aboard United States Shipping’s integrated tug-barges Baltimore, Groton, Jacksonville, Mobile, New York and Philadelphia, as well as the Chemical Pioneer. The ITBs typically carry refined petroleum products including gasoline, heating oil and jet fuel to the Caribbean as well as the East, Gulf and West coasts. The Chemical Pioneer, acquired by United States Shipping in July 2003, transports a wide variety of chemicals from U.S. Gulf Coast ports to U.S. East Coast ports. The Jones Act tanker company is based in Edison, N.J. “This ship means more new jobs for Seafarers, so the union obviously welcomes the addition of the Charleston,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “The SIU’s ongoing commitment to gaining new, good jobs for Seafarers continues to get results. Our crews are dedicated, productive, safe and reliable—all of which helps tremendously when it comes to securing new work.” He added that the union and the company enjoy a good working relationship and will continue exploring ways to expand the U.S.-flag fleet. Aboard the tug Cleveland, Seafarers review details of their new fiveyear contract before unanimously approving the pact. The tug Cleveland is part of an ITB that hauls stone from Kelley’s Island, Ohio to Cleveland and Sandusky, Ohio. U.S. ITF Affiliates Meet in Washington Officials from numerous affiliates of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) met in Washington, D.C. in late March to discuss potential strategies for increased grassroots activities and international solidarity. David Cockroft, general secretary of the London-based federation, addressed the gathering. SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, participated and offered their insights. They are pictured seventh and eighth from left, respectively. Speaking is Tom Keegel, secretary-treasurer of the Teamsters. Letter to NMU Welfare Plan Participants Editor’s note: The following letter was scheduled for mailing May 1 to participants in the NMU Welfare Plan. As previously reported, the Plans’ merger doesn’t change anyone’s benefits. May 1, 2004 Dear Participant: As you know from Membership Meetings and the Seafarers LOG, the NMU Welfare Plan will merge with the Seafarers Health & Benefits Plan on June 1, 2004. May 2004 You will continue to receive the exact same benefits that you now receive from the NMU Welfare Plan. The new identity for the merged plan will be Seafarers Health & Benefits Plan, Level N. Effective June 1, 2004, all outpatient medical claims should be submitted to the following address: Seafarers Health & Benefits Plan – Level N P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 Telephone: 1-800-252-4674 You should continue to call First Health at the same number you already use (1-800-8391980) for pre-certification for hospital stays and facility locations. Your group number with First Health, Plan 501, remains the same. First Health may also help you locate a doctor in your area. Hospitals should continue to send their claims to the First Health address on your membership card. Your new membership card, which contains all of this information, is enclosed. As in the past, you may show this card to the doctor or hospital when they request information regarding your health insurance plan. Please note, this card does not guarantee eligibility for benefits. You must continue to earn eligibility in accordance with plan requirements. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the NMU Welfare Plan staff for their years of service and dedication to Plan Participants and their families. The Seafarers staff will continue the tradition of service and dedication to the membership. In fact, the level of service should be better because of the Seafarer’s larger network of ports and staff. You should continue to contact the NMU Benefit Plans’ office for questions concerning vacation, annuity and pension benefits. Very truly yours, William J. Dennis Administrator Seafarers LOG 3 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:27 PM Page 4 Membership Receives President’s Pre-Balloting Report SIU President Michael Sacco has issued the pre-balloting report to the membership announcing general elections for the union’s officers will take place this year. The release of this report is called for in Article X, Section 1(e) of the SIU constitution. The report lists the various offices that will appear on the ballot. Voting will begin Nov. 1 and continue through Dec. 31. Those elected will serve a four-year term from 2005 through 2008. A total of 27 positions from president to port agent will appear on the ballot. In presenting the report, Sacco noted he has worked with the union’s executive board and port officials to appraise the needs of the SIU for the next four years and beyond, while considering changes that have occurred in the industry. Printed below is the full text of the 2004 pre-balloting report. May 3, 2004 Pursuant to Article X, section 1(e) of our constitution, I am submitting at this regular May membership meeting of this election year, my pre-balloting report. The balloting for our General Election of Officers for the term 2005-2008 will commence on Nov. 1, 2004 and continue through Dec. 31, 2004. The election will be conducted under the provisions of our constitution, as amended and effective March 16, 2001, and such other voting procedures as our secretary-treasurer may direct. I have, in consultation with our executive board and port representatives, made a careful appraisal of the needs of this union, its membership and its currently existing constitutional ports. We have carefully considered the changes that have taken place in the maritime industry over the last few years, with a view toward meeting the ever-changing demands. It is my recommendation, in accordance with our constitution, that the following offices be placed on the ballot in the 2004 general election of officers for the term 2005-2008: 1 President 1 Executive Vice President 1 Secretary-Treasurer 1 Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement 1 Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast 1 Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast 1 Vice President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes, and Inland Waters 1 Vice President in Charge of the West Coast 1 Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries 2 Vice Presidents at Large 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the West Coast 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries ITF Secures Aid for Crews Of Two FOC Bulk Carriers The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) at the beginning of the year secured more than $64,960 in back pay for crew members aboard two runaway-flag vessels in the Houston area. Upon being informed of complaints from three SriLankan crew members (electrician, bosun and AB) aboard the Taxiarchis Sierra, SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Tun Aung, who works out of Houston, visited the Cyprus-flag bulk carrier when it arrived in that port Jan. 18. He discovered that the managers, Argosy Shipmanagement Inc., based in Piraeus, Greece, had not been paying the crew in accordance with their ITF contract. Aung negotiated with the company and secured the sum of $9,147.60 as per the agreement, which included two months’ wages, overtime and leave pay, along with repatriation for the three crew members. Unfortunately, the mariners could not sign off at that time since they did not have the necessary visas, so Aung arranged for repatriation in the next foreign port. Additionally, he ordered more provisions for the crew, paid by the owner, and recommended that the ITF inspector in the next port check to make sure that everything was Mariners aboard the Turkish-owned Sealight, which flies the flag of Malta, informed the ITF of their complaints. still okay. Aung also was alerted to the plight of the crew aboard the Sealight, managed by Furtrans Shipping Group, a Turkish company based in Istanbul and flying the flag of Malta. The mariners claimed they had not been paid according to the ITF agreement covering that vessel. And wages that were being paid had been delayed for periods of two months or more. The ITF inspector visited the bulk carrier when it arrived in Freeport, Texas and demanded that the company pay all wages, back pay and repatriation costs. In addition, he demanded that the owners take no action against the seafarers for demanding their contractual rights. Aung negotiated with Furtrans and received $55,812.95, which covered Seafarers LOG Fraternally submitted, Michael Sacco President The tug Honcho is part of the Puerto Rico Towing fleet. Negotiations Underway At Puerto Rico Towing two months’ wages for five crew members, as well as overtime, leave pay and repatriation. The remainder of the crew had just boarded the vessel and did not want to claim wages at that time. Aung asked that other inspectors keep an eye out for the Sealight, checking to ensure that the company continued to comply with the ITF agreement. The ITF, based in London and founded in 1886, is an alliance of 594 transportation-related trade unions in 136 countries, representing approximately 5 million workers. The SIU is an ITF affiliate. Three Sri-Lankan crew members aboard the FOC vessel Taxiarchis Sierra count the money they received in back pay, thanks to the assistance of ITF inspector Shwe Tun Aung. 4 10 Port Agents There shall be one (1) port agent in each of the ten (10) constitutional ports; namely: New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Mobile, New Orleans, Houston, DetroitAlgonac, San Francisco, St. Louis and Piney Point. In accordance with the above-mentioned Article X, Section 1(e) of our constitution, I am required to recommend a bank, a bonded warehouse, regular office thereof, or any similar depository, to which the ballots are to be mailed, no later than the first regular meeting in October of this year. I will make such a recommendation to the membership before such deadline. As provided for in Article XIII, Section 1, nominations open July 15, 2004 and close Aug. 15, 2004. The foregoing constitutes your president’s pre-balloting report and, subject to my further recommendation as to the depository to be made hereafter, I recommend its adoption. Negotiations for a first contract are continuing at Puerto Rico Towing, where boatmen recently chose to join the SIU. The company operates tugboats that perform docking and undocking in San Juan Harbor as well as in other ports in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and elsewhere in the Caribbean. Its duties include providing harbor towing services for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) at the U.S. Naval Station at Roosevelt Roads, approximately 50 miles from San Juan. Puerto Rico Towing is a subsidiary of Great Lakes Towing. The SIU represents ABs and deckhands at Puerto Rico Towing, while the licensed personnel are represented by the Seafarersaffiliated American Maritime Officers. The company operates five boats and has reported plans to “expand and deploy additional tugboats in the near future.” Victor Nuñez, SIU port agent in San Juan, credited AB Angel Lozada (among others) with “being a great asset during the organizing drive. He continues to do outstanding work as a union delegate.” Pictured from left to right are AB Angel Lozada, Deckhand Sixto Franco and Deckhand Sinforiano Negrou. Left: Reviewing contract proposals on the tug Punta Borinquen are (from left) Deckhand Sinforiano Negrou, Deckhand Sixto Franco, AB Angel Lozada and SIU San Juan Port Agent Victor Nuñez. May 2004 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/26/2004 11:22 AM Page 5 Unions Voice Strong Objections to MMD Provisions The SIU and seven other maritime unions, along with the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, early last month submitted comments objecting to numerous provisions in a U.S. Coast Guard interim rule (47 CFR Part 12, USCG-2003-14500) covering forms and procedures for the issuance and renewal of merchant mariners’ documents (MMDs). The joint statement came from the SIU; MTD; American Maritime Officers; Inland Boatmen’s Union of the Pacific; International Longshore and Warehouse Union; International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; Marine Firemen’s Union; and the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific. The unions called for a public hearing “in order to develop a complete and accurate record regarding the provisions and consequences of the Interim Rule.” “At the outset, we believe it is extremely important to emphasize that the procedures and requirements governing the issuance and renewal of MMDs determine whether a trained and qualified individual will or will not in fact be able to pursue his or her chosen profession,” the unions wrote. “It is absolutely essential that such procedures and requirements be reasonable, realistic, clear and fair, and that they do not serve to arbitrarily deny qualified persons with the opportunity to work aboard U.S.-flag commercial vessels. “It is also important to empha- size that to the extent American citizens are denied the chance to pursue a career in the United States merchant marine for reasons that have very little if anything to do with their current qualifications and on-the-job performance, our country will lose a valuable, irreplaceable component of its militarily-useful commercial sealift.” The unions argued that the interim rule “is directed at mariners least in need of additional regulation and is thus an unnecessary means to improve security.” They also pointed to runaway flags (also known as flags of convenience) as “the real threat to the security of the United States,” from a maritime perspective. “While we commend the United States Coast Guard for the steps it has taken in recent years to regulate foreign-flag vessels, far more regulation is needed in this area rather than against United Statesflag ships.” Further, they noted that the interim rule “simply further regulates the group of people in the maritime industry who are already the most regulated. Adding to the complexity of merchant mariner documentation does not itself enhance the security interests of the United States. Our country needs more, not less, U.S.-flag ships and more, not fewer, U.S. citizen crews if the United States wants to seriously address the threats to our ports, our economy and to our citizens posed by flagof-convenience vessels and their foreign citizen crews.” Among other objections, the unions particularly took issue with the “character and habits of life” standard included in the interim rule. “The Interim Rule provides that the ‘character and habits of life’ of the applicant, and whether the applicant is determined to be a ‘safe and suitable person’, shall be considered by the Coast Guard when deciding whether or not to issue or renew a merchant mariners’ document,” the unions wrote. “These terms are not defined, but rather will, according to the Interim Rule, be left to the ‘appropriate Coast Guard official’ to decide. “We understand that prior to the promulgation of this Interim Rule, 33 CFR section 6.10-1 permitted the Coast Guard to grant MMDs only if ‘the Commandant is satisfied that the character and habits of life of such person are such as to authorize the belief that the presence of the individual on board would not be inimical to the security of the United States.’ However, we know of no instance in the last twenty years when this rule was used to deny the issuance of an MMD. In fact, this rule has all but been struck down by the United States Supreme Court, and the Coast Guard’s attempt to resurrect it and to make it part of the regular MMD application process cannot succeed….” They also pointed out, “We understand that the intent of this standard is to thwart terrorism and terrorist activities. However, we are greatly concerned that as writ- Land Management Agreement Geared Toward ‘Environmentally Sound Energy Development’ Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton has signed a document that finalizes the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) plan for managing 8.8 million acres of public land in the Northwest portion of the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. In signing the document, known as a Record of Decision, Norton said the BLM’s management plan “will help meet America’s need for environmentally sound energy development as directed by the president’s National Energy Plan.” Under its management plan, the BLM will make 7.23 million acres of the 8.8 million Northwest portion acres available for energy leasing and will defer 1.57 million acres from leasing for 10 years. All energy leases will be subject to strict environmental standards. In addition, the plan includes provisions to protect water quality, vegetation, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitats, and subsistence uses. This plan was the result of extensive consultations with Alaskans. “With America’s dependence on foreign oil growing each year, energy from the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska can help in the long term to increase our domestic energy production and stabilize prices,” Secretary Norton said. “This plan will help produce energy in an environmentally responsible manner with the best available technology, while protecting the important biological, subsistence and cultural values found in this area.” The U.S. Geological Survey May 2004 estimates that the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska has between 5.9 and 13.2 billion barrels of technically recoverable oil with a mean estimate of 9.3 billion barrels. President Warren A. Harding created the Naval Petroleum Reserve Number 4 in 1923. In 1976, BLM assumed management responsibility for the area, and the name was changed to the National Petroleum ReserveAlaska. In 1980, Congress instructed the interior secretary to undertake “an expeditious program of competitive leasing of oil and gas” in the Reserve. Throughout the past two years the BLM has used various studies to develop the Northwest Plan for the National Petroleum ReserveAlaska. “With today’s signing, we can continue to access these vital reserves and in doing so we can increase our national security, provide more stable energy prices for America’s families, reduce our dependency on foreign oil and create new jobs in America,” Secretary Norton said. As part of the Record of Decision, Norton designated 102,000 acres as the Kasegaluk Lagoon Special Area. “This area is important for migratory birds and marine mammals and features marine tidal flats that are rare on the North Slope. I concur with BLM’s recommendation for this area, and it will be protected,” Secretary Norton said. BLM will include “no surface occupancy” restrictions that pro- hibit permanent structures and contain other protective stipulations on any leases issued in this special area. The plan, detailed in the Final Northwest National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska Integrated Activity Plan/ Environmental Impact Statement, includes a variety of restrictions and designations designed to protect water quality, vegetation, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, subsistence uses and scenic/recreational values. ten, the undefined ‘character and habits of life’ criteria could be used as a catch-all excuse to deny individuals an opportunity to work aboard U.S.-flag vessels based not on their qualifications or on-thejob performance, but rather on their unpopular but legitimate and legal politics; personal habits and lifestyle; or other equally irrelevant, non-terrorist related matters. Without clear definition and specific criteria, United States citi- Alaska to Offer Drilling Leases On Some State-Managed Waters Oil and gas drilling leases for up to 350,000 acres of state-managed waters along the whole coast north of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in October will be offered by the state of Alaska, according to published reports. Alaska Gov. Frank Murkowski (R) made the announcement March 31. By law, the state manages waters up to three miles offshore. State administrators can enact land-use policies without the Alaska Legislature’s approval. “It’s a solid answer to America’s energy shortage,” said Murkowski during a Washington, D.C. press conference. “It sends a very strong message that we are not going to be held hostage by OPEC.” The governor’s announcement came after OPEC ratified a pledge it made in February to reduce the cumulative target oil output of its 15 member nations by a million barrels per day. Experts say that the pledge likely will further increase U.S. gas pump prices, which have averaged more than $1.75 per gallon nationwide in recent weeks. In a related development, Interior Secretary Gale Norton said that oil reserves in the far Northern Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) represent the nation’s largest single prospect for future oil production—greater than any state, including Texas and Louisiana. The secretary in March shared statistics about ANWR’s energy potential with members of the U.S. House Resource Committee during testimony on Capitol Hill. Coast Guard Admiral Reminds ‘Maritime Partners’ About MTSA’s July 1 Implementation U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Thomas H. Collins, the agency’s commandant, recently distributed a letter to “maritime partners” concerning deadlines related to the Maritime Transportation Security Act. The mid-March communication includes a reminder about the Coast Guard’s “help desk” that provides the latest details on maritime security regulations. Extensive details of the Act have been published in previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. The text of Admiral Collins’ letter follows. “As you are by now well aware, the January 1, 2004 deadline for submitting security plans required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) has passed, and the implementation date of July 1, 2004 for ves- zens are in the position where they may lose their right to work in the profession of their choice based on purely subjective determinations by an agency of the United States government.” Lastly, the unions asserted that the appeals process for mariners whose applications are denied “is unclear and insufficient,” while the cost of the interim rule to mariners “is vastly underrated.” sel and facility security will soon be upon us. “To date, we have received security plans from over 95 percent of those vessels and facilities required to comply with the MTSA. This is no small accomplishment. However, plan approval is only a part of the security process. The implementation of those security plans by the vessel and facility operators is the crucial element that will solidify the MTSA foundation. I ask that you please ensure your members are aware of the approaching compliance date and are fully prepared to implement their individual security plans. The Coast Guard takes these security requirements very seriously, and we will aggressively enforce the July 1 deadline. “Additionally, if they have not “The administration firmly believes that we can develop energy at home while protecting the environmental values we all hold dear,” Secretary Norton said. “The Coastal Plain of ANWR’s 1002 area is the nation’s single greatest onshore oil reserve. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that it contains a mean expected value of 10.4 billion barrels of technically recoverable oil. To put that into context, the potential daily production from ANWR’s 1002 area is larger than the current daily onshore oil production of any of the lower 48 states. “ANWR could produce nearly 1.4 million barrels of oil, while Texas produces just more than one million barrels a day, California just less than one million barrels a day and Louisiana produces slightly more than 200,000 barrels a day,” the interior secretary said. Secretary Norton reiterated the Interior Department’s support for energy production in the far Northern Coastal Plain of ANWR—the area set aside for possible oil and gas production in 1980 by President Carter and Congress. “Energy production in Alaska’s Northern Coastal Plain will reduce dependence on foreign oil; will create new jobs; is strongly supported by organizations that represent working men and women; and will protect wildlife with the toughest environmental regulations ever applied,” she said. “With American ingenuity and new technologies, we can protect the tundra and wildlife on the Northern Coastal Plain.” already done so, I strongly urge your members to submit their security plans now. To facilitate this effort, the Coast Guard has established a help desk to provide a “one-stop-shop” for up-to-date information on implementation of the maritime security regulations. Your members can visit the help desk web site at the following address: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/gm/mp/mtsa.shtml “The help desk itself operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 1877-MTSA-Aid (1-877-6872243) or 202-366-9991 for all MTSA-ISPS needs. The help desk staff will either immediately respond to questions or will research the issue and promptly provide a written response. “I thank you and your members for their efforts thus far, and look forward to the full implementation of the MTSA so that, together, we can make our waterways safe and secure.” Seafarers LOG 5 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:28 PM Page 6 Remembering George McCartney Lifelong Passion for SIU Defined Retired VP Retired SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney, one of the union’s most enthusiastic champions for more than a half-century, died March 19 at his home in San Mateo, Calif. following a long illness. He was 72. McCartney spent his entire career with the Seafarers. At age 17 he climbed the gangway to his first SIU ship, the Liberty tanker Catahoula, in 1948. He retired as vice president of the union’s West Coast region in 1998, but remained very active with the SIU. In fact, he attended the monthly membership meeting in San Francisco the day before his passing. In remembering the New York City native, union officials and former shipmates pointed to McCartney’s lifelong passion for the Seafarers. “I go back a long way with this union. I can honestly say that I never met anyone who cared about the SIU any more than George did,” SIU President Michael Sacco said March 26 at a graveside service at Seafarers Haven Cemetery in Piney Point, Md. “I always thought that if someone X-rayed George’s heart, they’d see a ship’s wheel inside, with the words ‘Brotherhood of the Sea.’” SIU Executive Vice President John Fay described McCartney as “an eloquent spokesman for the SIU. He loved the SIU and, like most of us that came around in that era, it was his whole life…. You never heard anybody say anything unkind about him.” Nick Marrone, who succeeded McCartney upon his retirement, noted, “I knew him for 20-plus years. He was a very honest, forthright individual. What I During a 1993 meeting of the American Merchant Marine Veterans in Portland, Ore., McCartney pledges the SIU’s support in the fight to extend the cutoff date for veterans’ status for WWII mariners. remember most was his positive attitude and his thumbs-up gesture…. George loved the union. This was the biggest part of his life and he enjoyed every moment of it.” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez observed, “George embraced the cause and fought for the membership literally until his last days. In our line of work, you simply can’t have enough people like George McCartney.” SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona first met McCartney in 1977 and later worked for him on the West Coast. “He was extremely loyal, he loved the union and we worked well together,” Celona said. “When it came to the merchant marine and the SIU in particular, he would always stand up. He just loved the SIU and the membership. Since he retired, he attended every meeting. I’m glad I worked with him.” Retired SIU Vice President Contracts Red Campbell sailed with McCartney during the 1950s and later worked with him again when both were officials. “He was an excellent shipmate and he always knew his job,” Campbell stated. “Beyond that, he was ‘Mr. Union.’ George took part in many of the waterfront beefs and really was involved in all of the union’s campaigns.” Retired SIU Bosun Joseph Morrison knew McCartney for more than 40 years. “George was a dedicated official and union member,” Morrison said. “He knew everyone and treated everyone equally. He’d be in the office very early in the morning. As the members would come in, he would shake their hands. He knew everyone’s name.” McCartney also was a friend to the Seafarers LOG. He regularly kept in touch with the union’s newspaper staff and was quick to offer background, story ideas, compliments and constructive criticism. “When he called our office, he identified himself as the West Coast cub reporter,” recalled Jeanne Textor, longtime office manager at the LOG. “He kept us updated on maritime issues on the West Coast and he shared his wealth of information when an SIU or MC&S member or official retired or passed away. George absolutely will be missed by all of us.” Raised in the Hell’s Kitchen area of New York, McCartney sailed in the engine and steward departments from 1948 until 1960, when he came ashore as part of the maintenance gang in McCartney enjoyed attending meetings of the Maritime Trades Department, first as an active official (top photo, flanked by SIU President Michael Sacco, left, and current SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone) and later as a retiree (below, with MFOW President Whitey Disley). his native city. During the 1960s, he worked as a patrolman in New York and also served as the port agent in Wilmington, Calif. for two years. He was the union’s New York port agent from 1972-76, then moved to the West Coast. McCartney worked as the Seattle port agent in 1977, then as San Francisco port agent beginning in 1978. In 1981, he was appointed to the newly created position of West Coast vice president—a slot to which he was reelected several times, until his retirement. McCartney was instrumental in aiding the union’s return to the passenger trade, and he also played a part in many of the SIU’s historical and central campaigns. He was active in local port councils, central labor councils, state labor federations—and anywhere else he saw an opportunity to promote the SIU’s interests. “He was a friendly, hardworking, decent, loyal person,” SIU President Sacco remembered. “Most of all, he was—and always will be—a Seafarer.” Duly credited with helping the SIU return to the passenger trade, McCartney is pictured aboard the SS Independence in 1984. McCartney’s SIU career began in 1948. Whether working with Seafarers (top two photos) or supporting members of other unions in times of need (bottom), his efforts were tireless. Pictured in New York in 1974 are (from left) McCartney, SUP President Morris Weisberger, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Lane Kirkland and ILA President Ted Gleason. 6 Seafarers LOG May 2004 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/28/2004 8:15 PM Page 7 Lakes Seafarers Complete Fitout Shipboard Security Plans in Place on SIU Vessels SIU crews on the Great Lakes completed a busy but routine fitout in mid-April. “It was very busy from the beginning of March, but everything went smoothly,” noted SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak. “All of our contracted companies are running. The last one (Great Lakes Associates) broke out the weekend of April 17.” The SIU halls in Joliet, Ill. and Duluth, Minn. reported similar activity levels in March and April. 2nd Cook Earl Hicks American Spirit The Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA), a trade group representing U.S.-flag operators, reported that 45 American-flag vessels were operating on the Lakes by early April. That figure is more than double the number from last year at the same time. “Equally important, the April 1 tally is the highest since 2000, when 51 U.S.-flag ‘Lakers’ were in service,” the LCA noted. “Most of the increase comes in the category of vessels that carry iron ore, limestone and coal.” SA Darlene Weymouth American Spirit AB Terry Arlt American Spirit Shipments of coal on the Great Lakes in March totaled 1.1 million net tons, more than double the total recorded a year earlier, the association reported. Weather played a big role in the increase, as icy conditions in March 2003 slowed or delayed some shipments. “For the year, the Lakes coal trade stands at 2.6 million tons, again more than double the volume recorded at the same point in 2003, and a slight increase over the 5-year average for the January-March timeframe,” the association said. “It must be noted that the 2004 season-todate total includes a number of western coal cargos that moved as a result of the one-time extension of the closing date for the locks at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.” Like other segments of the U.S.-flag fleet, Lakes crews and operators have begun complying with the requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) well in advance of the July 1, 2004 deadline. “An LCA-developed Alternative Security Program for Great Lakes Dry-Bulk Carriers was approved by the U.S. Coast Guard in late December, and LCA members have begun training personnel in the requirements of the Program,” the association noted. While many elements of the LCA Program are deemed Security Sensitive Information (SSI) by the federal government and therefore are not for public disclosure, the Program details the responsibilities of shipboard and land-based employees in complying with the security requirements set forth in the MTSA, passed by Congress in 2002. ASC Bosuns Address Key Issues SIU bosuns who sail with American Steamship Company (ASC) took part in informative meetings March 16 at the union hall in Algonac, Mich. The first part of the day-long session covered many topics including shipping rules, contract administration, responsibilities of the ship’s chairman and the importance of political activity. During the afternoon meeting, the bosuns tackled vessel security, shipboard safety, the 2004 outlook for maritime trade on the Great Lakes, and more. The following Seafarers participated: David Barber, Ronald Bochek, Albert Brzezinski, Jeffrey Eckhart, Scott Gallagher, Michael Keogh, William Mulcahy, Charles Niegebauer, Michael Schaff, Larry Smith and Rudolph Tahtinen. Helping conduct the initial meeting were SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski, Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, Joliet Port Agent Don Thornton and Patrolman Chad Partridge. Representing the company were ASC President Jerry Welsch, Safety and Security Officer Tom Anderson, Vice President of Operations Noel Basset, Vice President of Traffic and Sales Keith Collingnon, Human Resources Manager Kathy Elinski and Human Resources Vice President Kevin McMonagle. ASC’s SIU-crewed Great Lakes fleet includes the Indiana Harbor, Walter J. McCarthy, St. Clair, American Mariner, H. Lee White, John J. Boland, Adam E. Cornelius, American Republic, Buffalo, Sam Laud and American Spirit. QMED John Norick American Spirit AB Issam Hani American Spirit Among other rules, the MTSA requires security training for mariners and shore staff and various safeguards such as inspection of holds prior to and during loading and unloading of cargo. It also calls for screening of noncrewmembers boarding the vessel. Lakes Boatmen Okay Pact By an overwhelming majority, Seafarers who sail aboard line boats operated by Material Services Corporation on the Great Lakes recently ratified a new five-year contract. The new pact, which covers 34 mariners, became effective Jan. 1 and runs through Jan. 15, 2009 with a wage and benefit re-opener on Jan. 16, 2007. Among other gains, the new contract features a $1,500 signing bonus in the first year and three percent wage increases in both the second and third years. Benefits also improved, as the pact calls for an increase to $22.50 per day for maintenance and cure. Additionally, SIU members will receive travel reimbursement from the company when they successfully complete upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “The members seem very pleased with the features of the new contract,” said Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak, who served on the negotiating committee. Talks for the contract commenced in December and continued for about two months. “We had a total of three meetings, each of which lasted two days,” Brdak said. “The hours were long and challenging, but the end results were well worth it.” In addition to Brdak, the negotiating committee was composed of Joliet Port Agent Don Thornton and Delegates John Kline, Lonnie Hibner and Wallace Killion. Material Services Corporation operates three tug/barge units in the Chicago River System. Attention Seafarers: Bosuns Al Brzezinski (left) and Michael Schaff review the Great Lakes Standard Freightship Agreement. American Steamship Company Security Officer Tom Anderson addresses the bosuns about the vessel security plan scheduled to take effect July 1. Participating in the meeting are (from left) Patrolman Chad Partridge, Bosun Bill Mulcahy, SIU VP Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski and Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak. May 2004 Seafarers LOG 7 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/28/2004 8:36 PM Page 8 Former Scholarship Winner Gives $5,000 to Help Others The cover page of the May 1978 Seafarers LOG includes a picture of James Mann as one of the scholarship winners for that year. He is the center photo in the top row. When James F. (Jimmy) Mann received a $5,000 award from the union’s scholarship program in 1978 for two years of study, it helped him on the road to attaining his educational goals. Twenty-six years later, Mann has contributed a check in that same amount to the scholarship fund in the “sincere hope and expectation that it will help another young person realize a part of their dreams, as it once did for me in my younger years.” He initially planned to use his scholarship money to attend the Berklee College of Music in Boston Mass. and did, in fact, study jazz piano there. He transferred to Newbury Junior College, also in Boston, where he received an associate degree in hotel and restaurant management and then completed his studies at the hotel school at Cornell University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Mann came out of the trainee program at Piney Point in 1973 and returned the next year to upgrade to second cook and baker. Between classes and colleges over a 13-year period, he continued to go to sea and upgrade his skills, working his way up the ranks to become chief steward in 1983. The deep sea member then took the position of fleet commissary manager with Sea-Land Service Inc., which involved managing a 42-ship feeding and steward department operation. At the same time, he shared his food service management skills with the steward upgraders at the Paul Hall Center several times a year. A memorable moment for Mann came when in 1989, SIU President Michael Sacco awarded him with an honorary steward recertification certificate for all his work with the school. Mann now has his own company, Mari-Serve Network Inc.—a steward department management and consulting firm in San Leandro, Calif.— and also works full time as supervisor of vessel operations with Matson Navigation Co., an SIU-contracted operator, where he has been for 11 years. Twenty-six years after being awarded an SIU scholarship, James Mann contributes $5,000 to help another young person on the path to success and personal fulfillment. The former Seafarer continues to view his association with the SIU as “nothing short of a wonderful experience in life. That experience has included many great memories, a college scholarship, education and training opportunities and enduring friendships that have lasted to this day,” he wrote in a note accompanying the check. Memorial Planned to Meredith Victory Captain, NMU Crew The Korean monks of St. Paul’s Abbey in Newton, N.J. are raising funds for the building of a monument to be dedicated Oct. 14, 2004 for the rescue of 14,000 Korean refugees by Captain Leonard P. LaRue, master aboard the Meredith Victory and the ship’s officers and NMU crew. The ceremonies are scheduled to take place on the third anniversary of the captain’s death. The two-fold story behind this effort is an interesting and uplifting one that was brought to the attention of the Seafarers LOG by Charles P. Thole, a retired member of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association who lives in Newton. The Korean Conflict The first part of the story occurred during the Korean Conflict, when the 455foot Meredith Victory, operated by Moore-McCormack Lines under charter to the Military Sea Transportation Service with Capt. LaRue at the helm, was carrying supplies to American servicemen in Korea on behalf of the Navy. Three days before Christmas in 1950, the vessel— along with about 200 other American ships—was summoned to the North Korean port of Hungnam to evacuate American and South Korean marines and soldiers as well as more than 90,000 North Korean civilians. Capt. LaRue saw refugees thronging the docks, carrying everything they could in their flight from Communist troops. He ordered his crew of 47 to begin loading them onto the vessel until it could hold no more. There were 14,000 crammed into the five cargo holds and covering the entire main deck of a freighter that was designed to hold 60 persons, and set sail for the port of Pusan in South Korea, 28 hours away—a treacherous voyage through the heavily mined Sea of Japan, which was being patrolled by enemy submarines. The ship also was carrying 300 tons of jet fuel in 52-gallon drums. Food and water were scarce and sanitary conditions were deplorable, but the 8 Seafarers LOG freighter eventually arrived in Pusan, only to be turned away by Korean officials who were inundated with other refugees. They were told to head for the island of Koje Do, 50 miles away. They arrived there on Christmas day, but the port was too small and crowded, so the refugees had to wait on board another night at sea until Navy LSTs finally were able to transport the refugees from the ship to the shore. In the ship’s log, Capt. LaRue wrote: “The nearness of Christmas carries my thoughts to the Holy Family—how they, too, were cold and without shelter.” The amazing part of this journey was that not one refugee died in the evacuation and, in fact, five babies were born during the harsh voyage! Capt. LaRue, a Philadelphia native and veteran of World War II merchant marine operations in the Atlantic, remained in command of the Meredith Victory until it was decommissioned in 1952. In 1960, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Merchant Marine’s highest honor. He also received many citations from the governments of America and South Korea for his rescue, and the freighter was designated a Gallant Ship by Congress. The ship was put back in service in 1966 for service in the Vietnam War. It was finally sold for scrap on Oct. 1, 1993. In 1954, the captain, always a religious man, retired from seafaring life and, under the name of Brother Marinus, joined the Benedictine monks at St. Paul’s Abbey, where he lived until his death at 87 in October 2001. In an obituary printed in The New York Times, they quoted Capt. LaRue’s view of the rescue as a turning point in his life. “I think often of that voyage. I think of how such a small vessel was able to hold so many persons and surmount endless perils without harm to a soul. The clear, unmistakable message comes to me that on that Christmastide, in the bleak and bitter waters off the shores of Korea, God’s own The Meredith Victory saw action in World War II, the Korean Conflict and in Vietnam. hand was at the helm of my ship.” The Korean Monks The second part of the story pertains to the arrival of the Korean monks at St. Paul’s Abbey. In 1949, after Korea was divided, the Communists closed the monasteries in North Korea and killed or imprisoned the monks. Some managed to escape and make their way south. One monk, who had taken home leave from his abbey in Korea, stayed at St. Paul’s Abbey until 1951, when he was asked to return to Korea to gather up the monks and start a new monastery. With the help of U.S. Army chaplains, a new monastery was established at Waegwan, South Korea and became very successful. Meanwhile, St. Paul’s Abbey started to decline as some of the older monks began to die off and no new ones took their places. In the summer of 2000, it was decided that St. Paul’s Abbey would have to close. But the very next year—just two days before Brother Marinus died—the abbot at Waegwan agreed to send monks to St. Paul’s. And in 2002, the Koreans formally took over the operation of the Newton, N.J. abbey. Since their arrival, they have been working very hard to improve the grounds and repair the deteriorating buildings. They all know about the rescue of the Koreans and the role Brother Marinus played—and want to build a monument commemorating that event. The monks have a theme: “Brother Marinus saved the Korean people. Now the Koreans are going to save the monastery.” In addition to planning the monument and seeking contributions, the monks have a book for sale that tells the story of the Meredith Victory. It describes the rescue as well as the suffering of the Korean people and their strong desire for freedom. “Ship of Miracles,” with a foreword written by former Secretary of State Alexander Haig Jr., is for sale ($28.83, which includes tax and shipping). Contributions for the building of the monument, or checks for the purchase of the book, may be sent to St. Paul’s Abbey, P.O. Box 7, Newton, NJ 07860. The telephone number is (973) 383-2470. Be sure to indicate that the contribution is for the building of the monument. In addition, please list the name of the organization to which you belong. May 2004 �22755_P01.2.3.9.10.21.qxd 4/28/2004 7:06 PM Page 9 SMPPP Earned 15 Percent Last Year Annual Statements Mailed in March Annual statements from the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) were mailed to Plan participants during the final week of March, according to SMPPP Administrator Bill Dennis. Based on year-end reports received from Morgan Stanley Dean Witter, SMPPP investment manager, the Plan continues to perform well despite recent and ongoing market volatility. Interest earned on the accounts during 2003 was 15 percent; the total amount in all accounts was more than $22.1 million. The SMPPP originated in 1996, as the SIU successfully negotiated the new benefit into standard freightship and tanker agreements. The SMPPP subsequently has been included in other SIU contracts. Approved by the Internal Revenue Service, the SMPPP is an individual interest-earning investment account funded by a daily contribution made by an SIU-contracted company on behalf of a Seafarer who is working for that employer. SIU members may make voluntary contributions to their respective accounts through a Vacation Plan deduction. The SMPPP is completely separate from a member’s defined benefit pension. Under the SMPPP, a Seafarer is immediate- Reminder New Towing Licenses For boatmen seeking to qualify for a license as a mate (pilot) on towing vessels, May 21 is the deadline for completing service or training requirements. After that date, new requirements take effect. The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) in March 2002 issued Policy Letter 07-02, which provided information for license applicants who began serving or training aboard towing vessels before May 21, 2001 and for those who would complete all requirements for license issuance before May 21, 2003. The latter date subsequently was extended to May 21, 2004. According to the policy letter, “A mariner may obtain a license as a mate (pilot) of towing vessels … provided he or she holds documentary evidence demonstrating relevant service or training before 21 May 2001. The applicant must also fully qualify for the license, including completion of all testing requirements, before 21 May 2003. (Editor’s note: Again, the latter deadline was bumped back to May 21, 2004.) To be eligible for the license, a mariner must either: a. Provide proof of at least 18 months service on deck, including at least 12 months on towing vessels, and at least three months of training or duty in the wheelhouse of towing vessels. The sea service must include at least three months of service in each geographic area for which licensure is requested; or b. Provide proof of at least six months of service on towing vessels while holding a merchant mariner’s document endorsed as able seaman unlimited, able seaman limited, or able seaman special. The service must include three months service in the wheelhouse in each particular geographic area for which licensure is requested. In addition, the applicant must provide proof of either two months of training or duty in the wheelhouse or one month of training or duty in the wheelhouse along with completion of an approved course that substitutes for such service.” The policy letter further points out that mariners who provide evidence of the above service “may qualify for a license as mate (pilot) of towing vessels, and may be issued an endorsement as master of towing vessels for a limited local area within the scope of the inland route (inland waters or Western rivers) within the authority of the license. After completion of an additional 18 months of service operating towing vessels, the mate (pilot) of towing vessels license may be upgraded to master of towing vessels. Those mariners with limited service, as determined by the cognizant Officer in Charge Marine Inspection, will receive licenses as mate (pilot) of towing vessels (limited). After an additional 12 months of service, operating towing vessels, the licenses will be upgraded to master of towing vessels (limited).” The old license for operator, uninspected towing vessels (OUTV) is replaced by the new license, for master of towing vessels. Similarly, the old 2nd class OUTV license is replaced by the license for mate (pilot) of towing vessels. For more information on the new towing licenses, contact your nearest U.S. Coast Guard regional exam center (see box, this page), preferably before May 21; or visit the Coast Guard’s licensing and documentation web site at: http://www.uscg.mil/stcw/ (The site also is linked to www.seafarers.org, in the “Member Benefits and Resources” section.) May 2004 ly vested from the first day money is received on his or her behalf. Unlike the Seafarers Pension Plan, there is no minimum amount of seatime needed to receive the money from an SMPPP account. Seafarers can collect the funds from their SMPPP account when they reach retirement age, become totally and permanently disabled, or leave the industry. Widows/widowers may collect the funds in the event of their spouse’s death. The annual statements include the following information: Member’s name, address and Social Security number (which is also the participant’s account number); Statement date; The opening balance for 2003 (which was the year- end 2002 closing balance); Interest earned and administrative expenses charged; Any payouts made to the member in 2003; and The closing balance for 2003 (which will appear as the opening balance on next year’s annual statement). Members who have questions about their accounts, or do not receive their year-end statements within a reasonable time, may call 1-800-485-3703. Notice: Sailors’ Snug Harbor The Sailors’ Snug Harbor Mariners Outreach Assistance Program offers assistance paying bills directly to the service provider. If you are retired with 10 years worth of sea time, the program may be able to help. To find out if you qualify, contact: Mariners Outreach Assistance Program P.O. Box 99 Sea Level, NC 28577 Telephone 1-800-257-5456 Email sshoutreach@bizec.rr.com Web www.thesailorssnugharbor.com The program involves completing an application, submitting proof of the required sea time (3,650 days aboard ship) and having a case manager visit in the home. If approved, the financial stipend is paid directly to the vendor for expenses such as electricity, rent, insurance, etc. With Seafarers in Puerto Rico When the Horizon Discovery was in San Juan recently, SIU Port Agent Victor Nuñez was on hand to meet with the crew members. From the left are Chief Steward Joseph Laureta, Chief Cook Jorge Salazar, Nuñez and SIU secretary Wildaliz Rivera. Left: Recertified Bosun Joseph Osorio (left) receives a check from his Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan account from SIU Port Agent Victor Nuñez. Brother Osorio currently resides in the Domincan Republic. SIU Port Agent Victor Nuñez (left) meets with Francisco Merced, a program director at the local Department of Labor, who works closely with maritime labor. Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers 800 E. Diamond Blvd., Suite 3-227 Anchorage, AK 99515 Phone: (907) 271-6736 2760 Sherwood Lane, Suite 2A Juneau, AK 99801-8545 Phone: (907) 463-2458 40 South Gay Street Baltimore, MD 21202-4022 Phone: (410) 962-5132 1001 S. Seaside Avenue, Bldg. 20 San Pedro, CA 90731-0208 Phone: (310) 732-2080 455 Commercial Street Boston, MA 02109-1045 Phone: (617) 223-3040 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 1302 Memphis, TN 38103 Phone: (901) 544-3297 196 Tradd Street Charleston, SC 29401-1899 Phone: (843) 720-3250 Claude Pepper Federal Building 51 S.W. 1st Ave., 6th Floor Miami, FL 33130-1608 Phone: (305) 536-6548/6874 433 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96813-4909 Phone: (808) 522-8264 9820 Lake Forest Blvd., Suite P New Orleans, LA 70127-3077 Phone: (504) 240-7300 8876 Gulf Freeway, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77017-6595 Phone: (713) 948-3350 Battery Park Building 1 South Street New York, NY 10004-1466 Phone: (212) 668-7492 6767 N. Basin Avenue Portland, OR 97217-3992 Phone: (503) 240-9346 915 Second Ave., Room 194 Seattle, WA 98174-1067 Phone: (206) 217-6115 Oakland Federal Bldg., North Tower 1301 Clay Street, Room 180N Oakland, CA 94612-5200 Phone: (510) 637-1124 Fax: (510) 637-1126 E-mail: recsfbay@d11.uscg.mil 1222 Spruce Street, Suite 8.104E St. Louis, MO 63103-2835 Phone: (314) 539-3091 420 Madison Ave., Suite 700 Toledo, OH 43604 Phone: (419) 418-6010 Seafarers LOG 9 �22755_P01.2.3.9.10.21.qxd 4/28/2004 7:06 PM Page 10 Free Choice Act Gaining Support On paper, America’s workers have the right to form unions, but the laws protecting that right are so shattered that employers routinely block workers from exercising their freedom of association. To resolve this situation, workers and their allies in November joined with congressional legislators to launch an unprecedented effort to provide people in the workforce who want to join unions an adequate chance to do so. The proposed legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), S. 1925 and H.R. 3619—sponsored by Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.)— ensures that when a majority of employees in a workplace decide to form a union, they can do so without the debilitating obstacles employers now use to block their workers’ free choice. At press time for the Seafarers LOG, 180 U.S. representatives and 30 senators had signed on as co-sponsors of the EFCA. The proposed bills would allow employees to freely choose whether to form unions by signing cards authorizing union representation, provide mediation and arbitration for first contract disputes and establish stronger penalties for violations of employee rights when workers seek to form a union. Recent polls show some 45 million workers would join a union tomorrow if they had the chance, but few are able to exer- cise this fundamental freedom because employers routinely create barriers to thwart workers’ choice. To ensure workers who want a union are free to form one, the union movement is mobilizing behind the EFCA to make the freedom to join unions a key issue in the 2004 elections and a top priority for the next Congress and the winner of the presidential election. In summary, the EFCA calls for: Certification on the Basis of Signed Authorizations—Provides for certification of a union as the bargaining representative if the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) finds that a majority of employees in an appropriate unit has signed authorizations designating the union as its bargaining representative. The certification also requires the NLRB to develop model authorization language and procedures for establishing the authenticity of signed authorizations. First Contract Mediation and Arbitration—Provides that if an employer and a union are engaged in bargaining for their first contract and are unable to reach agreement within 90 days, either party may refer the dispute to the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) for mediation. If the FMCS has been unable to bring the parties to agreement after 30 days of mediation, the dispute will be referred to arbitration and the results of the arbitration shall be binding on the parties for two years. Time Seafarers Deliver in OIF2 Continued from page 2 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.” Among the SIU-crewed ships SA Mary Ann, AB John Nelson, OS Howard Vick Cape May OS Ali Mohamed Alnassiry Cape May 10 Seafarers LOG limits may be extended by mutual agreement of the parties. Stronger Penalties for Violations—Makes the following new provisions applicable to violations of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) committed by employers against employees during any period while employees are attempting to organize a union or negotiate a first contract with the employer: Mandatory Applications for Injunctions: Provides that sailing in OIF2 are 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. Editor’s note: Ed McDonnell, third mate aboard the Cape May, provided the photos accompanying this story, including the OIF2 pictures on the front page. Pictured from left to right on the Cape May are AB Tecumseh Williams, AB Clay Brown, AB Billy Ray Hanbury, Bosun Greg White and OS Ali Mohamed Alnassiry. Wiper Allen Hammond Cape May just as the NLRB is required to seek a federal court injunction against a union whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that the union has violated the secondary boycott prohibitions in the NLRA, the NLRB must seek a federal court injunction against an employer whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that the employer has discharged or discriminated against employees, threatened to discharge or discriminate against employees or engaged in conduct that significantly interferes with employee rights during an organizing or first contract drive. Triple Back Pay: Increases the amount an employer is required to pay when an employee is discharged or discriminated against during an organizing campaign or first contract drive to three times back pay. Civil Penalties: Provides for civil fines of up to $20,000 per violation against employers found to have willfully or repeatedly violated employees’ rights during an organizing campaign or first contract drive. A waterspout is visible from the Cape May’s stern. The SIU-crewed roll-on/roll-off vessel Cape May (top) and tanker Mt. Washington earlier this year took part in joint logistics over the shore operations ordered by the U.S. military, which normally involve discharging cargo from vessels anchored off-shore and transporting it to various shore-based sites. The Seafarers-crewed Flickertail State also was mobilized for the operation. AB Billy Ray Hanbury Cape May May 2004 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:28 PM Page 11 Left: AB Richard Benoit secures a lifeboat raft aboard the double-hull tanker. Right: Bosun Juan Castillo (left) and AB Mustafa Ahmed pose for a photo in the crew lounge. Aboard the Seabulk Arctic These photos, sent to the LOG by Bosun Juan Castillo, were taken aboard the SIU-crewed Seabulk Arctic in Kenai, Alaska. Owned by Seabulk International, the 46,000-dwt vessel is one of the company’s five new double-hull petroleum and chemical tankers engaged in the domestic Jones Act trade, transporting petroleum products, chemicals and crude oil along the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific coasts, and Alaska. Left: Chief Cook Evelina Barnes can attest to the fact that the snow on the vessel’s deck makes great snowballs. AB Robert Duncan knows that there’s always something that needs repair aboard ship. Right: Posing with Frosty the Snowman on the deck of the Seabulk Arctic are (from left) QMED/Pumpman Salome Castro, Bosun Juan Castillo and AB Mike Jalbert. AB Chris Chikwere warms up with a hot cup of coffee. Below: Chief Steward Alan Bartley (left) keeps QMED/ Pumpman Salome Casto company during lunch. Enjoying a nourishing meal on the Seabulk Arctic are (from left) Wiper Fathi Almuraisi, OMU Roger Saxon and GUDE Faissal Alamri. May 2004 Seafarers LOG 11 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/28/2004 10:32 PM Page 12 Sea DEEP FRE BELOW: Because of icy conditions, McMurdo normally is accessible via ship only two months out of the year. LEFT: The vessel draws interest. tradition by deli Antarctica—the McMurdo is siderations, the ble during Janu “It was a pre way down, roug January), althou in the thirties, b tough, real fast. The Gianella and the Polar S and other stores Gianella Cap Foundation (NS base) “for all th Bosun Bernardino Eda QMED Jason Powell AB Ray Elsner, AB Mike Bay, DEU Mark Juan Abrincia, Bosun Bernardino Eda, AB George Lammers, AB Leroy Williamson SIU members sailing aboard the Gianella during the resupply mission included Bosun Bernardino Eda; ABs Leroy Williamson, George Lammers, Raymond Elsner, Timothy Dunn and Mike Bay; QMEDs Jason Powell, Joseph Stanford and Richard Huffman; DEUs Mark Abrincia and Nasser Kassim; Steward/Baker James Lewis; Chief Cook Gerald Archie; GSUs Brandy Parmer and Abdulnaser Saeed; and Unlicensed Apprentice Nicholas Doffoh. 12 Seafarers LOG May 2004 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/28/2004 10:33 PM Page 13 afarers Help Resupply McMurdo Station EEZE For Seafarers who help resupply the McMurdo scientific research station, going to the end of the Earth is routine. Earlier this year, the SIUcrewed USNS Lawrence Gianella continued the yearly y delivering gasoline, diesel and jet fuel to McMurdo’s U.S. station, located in —the planet’s coldest, driest and windiest place. do is the southernmost ground that’s accessible by ship. Because of weather con, the annual resupply mission—known as Operation Deep Freeze—only is possiJanuary and February. a pretty smooth trip,” said QMED Jason Powell. “We had good weather on the rougher weather on the way back. We were at the base for a week (in late lthough we were actually in Antarctica for three weeks…. The temperatures were ies, but the last couple of days, the wind started to blow quite a bit. It gets real fast.” anella received assistance from two U.S. Coast Guard ice cutters: the Polar Star lar Sea. Another Seafarers-contracted vessel—the American Tern—delivered food tores to McMurdo in mid-February. a Captain John Giacchino credited the Coast Guard and the U.S. National Science n (NSF, which manages the U.S. Antarctic Program and coordinates research at the all their assistance throughout Operation Deep Freeze. It was a pleasure working with all involved in McMurdo and their hospitality and efforts are appreciated,” he noted in a written account of the voyage. SIU members sailing aboard the Gianella during the resupply mission included Bosun Bernardino Eda; ABs Leroy Williamson, George Lammers, Raymond Elsner, Timothy Dunn and Mike Bay; QMEDs Powell, Joseph Stanford and Richard Huffman; DEUs Mark Abrincia and Nasser Kassim; Steward/Baker James Lewis; Chief Cook Gerald Archie; GSUs Brandy Parmer and Abdulnaser Saeed; and Unlicensed Apprentice Nicholas Doffoh. The vessel is operated by Ocean Ships, Inc. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Powell said that for him and many others aboard the Gianella, this was their first trip to Antarctica. “I absolutely would do it again,” he concluded. McMurdo Station houses anywhere from 1,100 scientists and support personnel (during the austral summer) to approximately 250 people (from February to late October). The station opened in 1955 and is built on volcanic rock at the southern end of Ross Island, which measures 45 miles by 45 miles. According to the NSF, the Antarctic Program’s goals are “to understand the Antarctic and its associated ecosystems; to understand the region’s effects on (and responses to) global processes such as climate; and to use Antarctica’s unique features for scientific research that cannot be done as well elsewhere. Research is done in Antarctica only when it cannot be performed at any other location on Earth.“Among the scientific disciplines encompassed by this broad mandate are astronomy, atmospheric sciences, biology, earth science, environmental science, geology, glaciology, marine biology, oceanography, and geophysics.” CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: AB Mike Bay, QMED Joe Stanford, ABs Tim Dunn and Leroy Williamson The station (left) houses anywhere from 1,100 scientists and support personnel (during the austral summer) to approximately 250 people (from February to late October). The Gianella (above) is one of two SIU-crewed ships that called on McMurdo this year—the American Tern is the other. May 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/23/2004 10:11 AM Page 14 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.) Remembering the Old Days at Sea At the February and March meetings of the Merchant Marine Vets, Desert Mariners, we received copies of the Seafarers LOG, and I was very glad to see them as it brought back memories. I was a member of the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific (SUP) in World War II and for several years after the war ended. I had worked as an electrician ashore, so I applied for and received an electrician’s endorsement to my OS papers. There was inter-district shipping between the SUP and SIU then, and I sailed on several ships owned by Bull Lines, Waterman Steamship Corporation and Isthmian Company. My discharges were lost several years ago, and I can’t remember them all. I was surprised to see that women are now crew members, and that the SIU headquarters is no longer located in New York City...and the recent affiliation with the NMU. AFL and CIO unions were enemies when I was sailing. After I married, I left the sea, but I miss it. I am now a few months from 80 years, and retired from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. I guess it’s too late for me to go back to sea. Howard Forman Cave Creek, Ariz. Help Needed Locating Lost Family My name is Kathleen Lawrence, and 27 years ago, my mother gave birth to me. I have not seen her since. I am actively searching for my lost family. I know that I was born in September 1976, and at that time, my mother’s brother (my uncle) was 18 years old and had completed the trainee program at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. I am writing to see if one of his classmates would remember a friend with a pregnant sister. The sister (my mother) would have had a 3-year-old son with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was not married, and her son was in and out of the hospital, diagnosed as a hydrocephalic. The sister may have been a trained beautician and waitress. I believe that at that time, to have a friend with a nephew that is really ill, a sister with a sick son and another baby on the way would have been something to remember. From the information I have, my uncle’s mother (my grandmother) was a civil service secretary. I also know that my uncle’s father (my grandfather) died at the age of 65 from a stroke and heart attack. This information is a bit confusing, but it may be possible that my uncle will read this and will contact me. I am a happily married mother of three children and wish to embrace my birth family with love and appreciation. I am hoping that someone may even have a remote memory of who my uncle may be and lead me in the right direction. Does anyone still keep in contact with him? When and where was the last place he was known to live? I would be happy and most grateful to talk to anyone with even the smallest piece of information and anyone who graduated in the class of 1975-1976. Kathleen M. Lawrence (301) 884-0314 (daytime) (301) 884-3647 (evenings) e-mail: klawrence@cbs-legal.com Summer + Vacation = Piney Point That’s an equation that can add up to fun for the whole family. As many SIU members already have discovered, the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. offers all the ingredients for a memorable summer vacation—and it’s a benefit available only to Seafarers and their families. UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at the Paul Hall Center is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.00/day Spouse $10.00/day Child$10.00/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed above include all meals but do not include tax. The facility offers comfortable accommodations, three meals a day, lots of activities (including tennis, swimming, boating) and an ideal location from which to make this vacation one to talk about throughout the year. All the historic sights of Washington, D.C.; Baltimore and Annapolis, Md.; and Arlington and Alexandria, Va. are but a short drive away. Take a tour of the FBI Building or the White House, visit the National Zoo or one of the Smithsonian’s many museums, go for an outing at Camden Yards to see the Orioles play. The options are endless. But within Southern Maryland, itself, there are many events planned for the summer months that can be fun for everyone in the group. Craft fairs, family concerts, crab feasts and horse tournaments are just a fraction of the many activities going on this summer. By taking advantage of the vacation package at the Paul Hall Center, you, too, can be right in the center of all the activity. Join the many Seafarers and their families who have discovered the additional benefits of fun and recreation provided by the Paul Hall Center. Simply fill out and mail the application printed below, and you will have taken the first step toward a vacation you and your family will talk about for years. 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 PAUL HALL CENTER TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: ______________________________________________________________ Social Security number: _____________________ Book number: ______________ Address: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Telephone number: ____________________________________________________ Number in party / ages of children, if applicable: ____________________________ Date of arrival: 1st choice: ______ 2nd choice: ______ (Stay is limited to a maximum of two weeks) 3rd choice: ______ Date of departure: ___________________________ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 14 Seafarers LOG 5/04 May 2004 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:29 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea MARCH 16 — APRIL 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 3 3 9 17 27 0 9 16 16 17 1 8 6 13 5 28 25 206 1 1 1 0 17 11 0 5 8 18 8 3 0 0 4 2 14 18 111 1 6 1 7 24 27 0 9 20 16 8 3 2 6 22 0 23 9 184 0 5 1 5 13 18 0 3 4 11 11 0 1 5 15 1 17 8 118 0 1 2 5 14 30 0 3 5 10 15 3 3 2 8 4 14 12 131 1 1 0 1 4 2 0 2 2 6 3 0 0 0 3 1 5 5 36 0 5 0 2 10 16 0 4 2 7 3 1 0 6 11 0 15 3 85 0 3 0 16 11 19 0 3 6 15 11 2 0 2 17 2 17 19 143 2 1 1 8 2 11 0 7 6 8 13 1 2 2 5 0 6 5 80 0 0 0 1 3 6 0 1 1 8 7 1 0 0 1 1 5 4 39 0 2 0 6 12 13 0 1 2 12 6 1 0 2 12 1 14 14 98 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 6 4 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 6 3 28 1 2 5 13 15 14 0 5 6 23 15 0 4 0 10 0 10 5 128 2 2 1 10 11 22 0 0 7 26 14 2 30 1 6 0 26 9 169 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 4 0 5 1 20 0 1 0 3 7 7 0 4 2 15 12 0 6 0 5 0 16 2 80 Totals All Departments 505 545 355 387 318 Port 0 1 4 4 11 18 0 7 13 6 7 1 10 1 8 3 15 14 123 0 0 3 1 8 6 0 2 1 1 6 0 0 1 0 0 6 6 41 0 0 1 1 10 15 0 4 4 5 6 2 0 0 14 0 13 13 88 1 9 1 11 45 52 0 25 19 45 20 5 2 6 30 2 47 41 361 4 5 3 18 30 46 1 12 17 32 20 2 8 10 16 3 45 36 308 3 3 0 4 30 25 2 8 17 38 9 3 2 1 4 5 31 26 211 0 1 0 4 4 5 0 2 1 3 5 1 1 2 1 0 3 2 35 0 7 1 14 20 32 1 8 10 18 12 1 3 2 17 2 17 12 177 0 3 4 9 16 42 0 5 12 22 28 5 2 3 12 6 28 18 215 2 1 1 1 11 8 0 1 6 15 7 1 0 1 5 2 11 8 81 0 0 0 2 1 8 0 2 1 3 2 1 1 0 6 1 7 9 44 0 4 1 21 23 35 0 8 16 25 12 4 7 0 34 1 34 34 259 2 1 3 8 3 13 0 8 11 16 24 2 3 3 8 0 8 6 119 0 0 0 1 5 13 0 2 3 9 8 1 1 1 1 1 4 7 57 0 1 1 0 2 5 0 0 2 5 9 0 12 0 1 0 10 6 54 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 4 5 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 5 7 0 8 5 50 2 1 7 22 31 26 0 6 9 50 9 0 7 4 18 1 29 9 231 3 3 1 19 29 44 0 3 16 53 18 2 42 4 18 1 41 23 320 125 167 847 873 669 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 0 5 0 10 26 38 0 13 12 23 13 0 3 2 15 1 27 28 216 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 1 0 1 5 7 13 1 3 3 4 7 1 4 1 2 1 16 7 77 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 9 Piney Point .............Monday: June 7 ................................Tuesday: July 6* ............................................*(change created by Independence Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: June 11, July 9 Baltimore ................Thursday: June 10, July 8 Boston.....................Friday: June 11, July 9 Duluth .....................Wednesday: June 16, July 14 Guam ......................Thursday: June 24, July 22 Honolulu .................Friday: June 18, July 16 Houston ..................Monday: June 14, July 12 Jacksonville ............Thursday: June 10, July 8 Joliet .......................Thursday: June 17, July 15 Mobile ....................Wednesday: June 16, July 14 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: June 22, July 20 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: June 15, July 13 New York................Tuesday: June 8, July 6 Norfolk ...................Thursday: June 10, July 8 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: June 9, July 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: June 17, July 15 San Francisco .........Thursday: June 17, July 15 San Juan..................Thursday: June 10, July 8 St. Louis..................Friday: June 18, July 16 Tacoma ...................Friday: June 25, July 23 Wilmington ...............Monday: June 21, July 19 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 0 0 4 1 10 0 3 1 0 5 0 1 0 3 0 4 6 38 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 3 2 1 2 0 1 0 3 2 21 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals CHIH-HUA CHANG Please contact Linda Yuan at 142-27 Barclay Ave., Apt. 306, Flushing, NY 11355; or call (718) 886-1852. TROY WOOD Please contact your grandmother, Josephine Betz, at 483 Sanborn Road, Newport, WA 99156; or call (509) 447-5770. Celebrating Cesar Chavez Day 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. May 2004 June & July 2004 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters In honor of Cesar Chavez Day in Los Angeles, March 31, crew members aboard the Mokihana passed the hat and contributed more than $4,100 to the working families of the UFCW who were severely affected by their recent long strike in California. Pictured are Captain Jim Hill and crew members representing all unions aboard the vessel: SIU, MMP, MEBA, ARA, SUP and MFU; an official representative from each union; and Shannon D. Donato, director of the Harry Bridges Institute, who accepted the cash donation on behalf of the families. Seafarers LOG 15 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 Seafarers International Union Directory 7:30 PM Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MARCH 16 — APRIL 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269-7877 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 14 2 6 15 2 0 7 46 0 2 1 3 2 0 0 5 13 0 9 0 1 0 0 1 0 11 0 15 1 2 12 2 0 5 37 0 2 1 2 1 0 0 2 8 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 5 4 7 3 3 6 0 0 1 24 0 19 15 14 48 3 2 15 116 0 2 7 6 6 0 1 8 30 0 24 10 13 0 0 0 2 49 0 2 3 2 5 3 0 0 15 0 11 11 6 11 2 4 15 60 0 5 4 2 2 0 0 7 20 0 19 9 10 0 0 0 0 38 0 2 2 1 3 0 0 1 9 0 5 6 7 11 3 2 10 44 0 1 1 3 12 0 1 5 23 0 19 5 9 0 0 0 2 35 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 4 2 4 4 0 1 5 20 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 6 0 1 1 0 0 0 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 0 3 0 1 6 0 0 2 12 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 4 2 3 8 0 0 1 18 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 5 0 5 0 1 1 0 0 0 7 Port 0 4 0 1 11 0 1 3 20 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 5 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Totals All Departments 84 21 26 69 16 11 53 220 73 125 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Port TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Seafarers LOG PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Pensioner Richard E. McAll of Saraland, Ala. It was taken at sea aboard the SS Alcoa Cavalier in the mid-1950s. In the front, kneeling, is the deck steward, Ralph Smith. McAll is directly behind him. Also included in the photo is Bill Lassiter (seated, left). Next to him are Whitey Plumkett, McAll, Quartermaster Bill “Red” Roach, Bill Terry (former New York Giants pitcher, and a passenger on the vessel), Bosun Jimmy Hunt and Jimmy Patterson. Captain Alfred Jump is standing second from right. Others pictured in the snapshot are Morris J. Danzey, Dewey Saxon, George Dean, Armando Salazar, George Gill and James “Fat Boy” Williams. McAll, 75, joined the SIU in the port of Mobile in 1955. He sailed as a chief cook. Brother McAll was on the picket line in the 1946 General Maritime beef. He was a former member of the Boilermakers Union, Local 693 and the Industrial Union of Marine and Shipbuilding Workers of America, Local 18, AFL-CIO. Seafarer McAll was born in Louisiana. He retired from the union in 1986. 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. May 2004 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/23/2004 10:13 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA CAYO C. CEPEDA, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1971 in New Orleans after serving in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. Brother Cepeda first went to sea aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Kyska. He worked in the deck department and in 1975 enhanced his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cepeda last shipped aboard the Horizon Challenger. Born in Central America, he now makes his home in Belle Chase, La. ALBERT COALE JR., 54, hails from Alabama. Brother Coale joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first voyage was on Pan Oceanic Tankers Corp.’s Fairisle. Brother Coale worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills in 1990 when he completed steward recertification training at the union’s school. He last shipped on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Atlantic Forest and currently lives in Mobile. LEON DZIESINSKI, 64, embarked on his seafaring profession in 1958 in Alpena, Mich. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Dziesinski’s first SIU ship was the Mt. Whitney, an American Tramp Shipping & Development Co. vessel. Born in Detroit, he worked in the engine department. Brother Dziesinski most recently sailed on the OMI Charger. He lives in Alpena. HENRY B. EDWARDS, 54, started his SIU career in 1973 in the port of New York. The Louisiana-born mariner first went to sea on Hudson Waterway’s Pecos. Brother Edwards shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skills on three occasions at the Seafarers’ training school in Piney Point, Md. His last voyage was aboard the Overseas Marilyn. Brother Edwards is a resident of New Orleans. GARY HANSON, 65, began his seafaring career in 1991 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Hanson’s first SIU vessel was the USNS Lynch. He worked in the steward department and last went to sea on the USNS Pathfinder. Brother Hanson makes his home in Grants Pass, Ore. SILVIO J. IGLESIAS, 64, hails from Havana. He joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Houston. Brother Iglesias’ first ship was an Intercontinental Carriers vessel. The engine department member May 2004 enhanced his skills in 1995 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. A resident of Houston, Brother Iglesias last worked aboard the Horizon Challenger. THOMAS KREIS, 51, began his seafaring career in 1969 in the port of Mobile, Ala. after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Kreis was born in Montgomery, Ala. and shipped in the steward department. He upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center, including completion of the steward recertification program in 1999. He last sailed on the Liberty Sea. Sarasota, Fla. is his home. BILLY JOE LOCKHART, 64, started his seafaring career in 1981 in the port of Houston after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Lockhart initially sailed aboard Bay Tankers’ New York. The Arkansas-born mariner worked in the deck department and last shipped on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Sam Houston. He makes his home in Little Rock, Ark. PAUL MATSOS, 64, hails from Greece. Brother Matsos launched his career with the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of New York. He worked in the deck department as a bosun and enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center where, in 2000, he completed the bosun recertification course. The Baltimore resident last went to sea aboard the Horizon Pacific. DOCK McGUIRE JR., 59, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Mobile, Ala. after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother McGuire worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills on a number of occasions at the Seafarers’ training school in Piney Point, Md. He makes his home in Mobile. JOSEPH MOORE, 62, was born in Louisiana. He started his career with the SIU in 1963 in New Orleans. Brother Moore initially sailed aboard the Inger, a Reynolds Metal Co. vessel. A member of the deck department, he shipped as a bosun. Brother Moore frequently upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center and completed the bosun recertification course in 1987. He last worked on the Liberty Sun and makes his home in Independence, La. PATRICK B. RANKIN, 55, joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Mobile, Ala. after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Rankin’s first voyage was aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Fairport. The Alabama-born mariner worked in the deck department as a bosun. A frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, he completed the bosun recertification course there in 1992. Brother Rankin last went to sea on the Sea-Land Florida. He makes his home in Mobile. SERGIO ROJAS, 67, commenced his profession with the SIU in 1995 in the port of Houston. His first ship was American Hawaii Cruises’ Independence. Born in Chile, Brother Rojas shipped in the engine department. He enhanced his skills in 1998 and 2001 at the Seafarers’ training school. Brother Rojas last worked on the Horizon Pacific. He resides in Houston. THOMAS B. SCHROEDER, 70, began his seafaring career in 1982 in the port of Honolulu after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Schroeder’s first voyage was aboard the Independence. The Hawaii-born mariner worked in the deck department and last went to sea on the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Schroeder is a resident of Tacoma, Wash. INLAND DARYL DELANEY, 51, joined the SIU in 1976 in New Orleans. Born in Louisiana, Boatman DeLaney worked primarily on vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage Co. The deck department member resides in his native state in Gretna. AUBREY R. JORDAN, 61, started his seafaring career with the union in 1975 in New Orleans. Born in Alabama, Boatman Jordan shipped in the deck department. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Co. Range, Ala. is his home. WILLIAM S. JUDD JR., 49, joined the SIU in 1972 in New Orleans. The Louisianaborn mariner worked in the deck department, primarily aboard Crescent Towing & Salvage Co. vessels. Boatman Judd is a resident of Metairie, La. LEW N. LaHAYE, 62, hails from Eunice, La. Boatman LaHaye launched his SIU career in 1963 in Port Arthur, Texas, working in the engine department. He lives in Nederland, Texas. GREAT LAKES DEAN BROWNING, 63, began his career with the SIU in 1967 in Toledo. Ohio. Born in Michigan, Brother Browning first sailed on American Steamship Co.’s McKee Sons. He shipped in the deck and engine departments and upgraded his skills in 1992 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Browning last worked aboard the H. Lee White. He makes his home in Algonac, Mich. ALBERT L. CROPEK, 61, started his seafaring career in 1970 in Detroit after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Cropek worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Luedtke Engineering Co. He shipped in the deck department and enhanced his skills in 1994 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cropek was born in Westfield, N.Y. and now resides in Girard, Pa. THOMAS S. FORGRAVE, 62, joined the SIU in 1966 in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. Born in Michigan, the deck department member upgraded his skills in 1992 at the Paul Hall Center. He makes his home in Brimley, Mich. JAMES R. WERDA, 65, began his seafaring career in 1960 in Alpena, Mich. Born in Michigan, he sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Werda last sailed aboard Inland Lakes Management Co.’s Alpena. He lives in his native state. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU pension Trust, recently went on pension. FERNANDO L. DAVIS, 55, hails from Newport News, Va. Brother Davis embarked on his NMU career in 1976, initially sailing out of the port of Norfolk, Va. The steward department member’s first ship was the Marine Floridian. Brother Davis last went to sea on the Cape Archway. ARTHUR DIAS, 55, joined the NMU in 1968. He first sailed aboard the P.W. Thirtle. Born in Providence, R.I., Brother Dias worked in the engine department and upgraded his skills on several occasions. His last voyage was on the American Osprey. EDDIE J. FILER, 66, was born in Louisiana. Brother Filer began his NMU career in 1987. His first voyage was aboard the Galveston Bay. Brother Filer shipped as a member of the steward department. He last sailed on the Marine Duval. AURELIO PEREZ, 69, joined the NMU in 1968. He first went to sea out of the port of San Francisco. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Perez worked in the steward department. He last sailed on the Ashley Lykes. HERMAN YOUNG JR., 65, started his NMU career in Charleston, S.C. His first ship was the Pioneer Moon. Born in Charleston, Brother Young worked in the steward department. He upgraded his skills on several occasions and last worked on the Cape Ducato. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the dates indicated. Name Cruz, DeJesus Age EDP 61 April 1 Marshall, Vernal 71 April 1 Pruneda, Ramon 57 April 1 Shorte, Herman 70 April 1 Seafarers LOG 17 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/26/2004 7:53 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA RAYMOND AGBULOS Pensioner Raymond Agbulos, 76, died Feb. 10. Brother Agbulos embarked on his SIU career in 1970 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first SIU ship was the Sea Ohio. Born in the Philippines, he shipped in the steward department. The Freemont, Calif. resident last worked on the Horizon Hawaii. Brother Agbulos began receiving his pension in 1998. AKE ANDERSON Pensioner Ake Anderson, 86, passed away Feb. 26. Brother Anderson joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department and lived in Monmouth, N.J. Brother Anderson started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1981. ROMEO AZCARATE Brother Romeo Azcarate, 57, died Jan. 23. He began his seafaring career in 1994 in New Orleans. The Philippine-born mariner first shipped aboard the USNS Pollux. Brother Azcarate worked in the deck department and resided in Green Bay, Wis. He last sailed on the Liberty Glory. WILLIAM BRIMHALL Pensioner William Brimhall, 69 passed away Jan. 15. Brother Brimhall began his SIU career in 1967 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The U.S. Army veteran’s maiden voyage was aboard Vancor Steamship’s Van Venture. Brother Brimhall was born in California and shipped in the engine department. His final voyage was on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Brimhall began receiving his pension in 2000. He made his home in Santa Rosa, Calif. JAMES CARTER Brother James Carter, 52, died Jan. 15. He joined the SIU in 1971 in the port of New York. Born in Tennessee, Brother Carter’s first voyage was aboard Hudson Waterways’ Transoregon. He sailed in the deck department as a bosun and last shipped on the Sea-Land Explorer. Brother Carter resided in Simi Valley, Calif. ROBERT CHRISTENSEN Pensioner Robert Christensen, 67, passed away Feb. 8. Brother Christensen began his career with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of New York. Born in Long Island, N.Y., he was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Brother Christensen was a member of the deck department. He last sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Robert E. Lee. Brother Christensen, who lived in Perry, Fla., started receiving his pension in 1995. 17. Brother Davis embarked on his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Born in Grundy, Va., he shipped in the steward department. Brother Davis began receiving retirement income in 1979 and resided in White Plains, N.Y JOSEPH DeCINQUE Pensioner Joseph DeCinque, 79 passed away Feb. 26. Brother DeCinque joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of Baltimore. The Cedarville, N.J.-born mariner’s first voyage was aboard Eagle Carriers’ Bluestar. Brother DeCinque worked in the engine department and last went to sea aboard an Asbury Steamship Co. vessel. He began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1979 and resided in Vineland, N.J. ISADORE FLAHERTY Pensioner Isadore Flaherty, 84, died Jan. 18. He became a Seafarer in 1947, joining in the port of New York following service in the U.S. Navy. His first ship was Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Wild Ranger. A native of Boston, Brother Flaherty worked in the deck department. He lived in New Hampshire and last went to sea on the Point Revere, a Point Resolute Corp. vessel. Brother Flaherty went on pension in 1981. ALPHONSE JOHNSON Pensioner Alphonse Johnson, 79, passed away Feb. 2. Brother Johnson launched his profession with the SIU in 1965 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Johnson’s first vessel was Delta Steamship’s Southwestern Victory. The Alabama-born mariner shipped in the steward department and last sailed on Puerto Rico Marine Management’s Osprey. Brother Johnson lived in Mobile, Ala. and went on pension in 1995. GEORGE MALENDES Pensioner George Malendes, 88, died Feb. 9. Brother Malendes began his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Born in Kohali, Hawaii, he worked in the steward department. Brother Malendes started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1959 and resided in Midwest City, Okla. CHARLES MARTIN Pensioner Charles Martin, 83, passed away Feb. 15. Brother Martin joined the SIU in 1949 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. The Brownsville, Pa.-born mariner worked in the engine department and sailed on many vessels during his career, including the SS Potomac. Brother Martin made his home in Middlefield, N.Y. He began receiving his pension in 1982. RUFUS DAVIS YOUNG MCMILLIAN Pensioner Rufus Davis, 94, died Jan. Pensioner Young McMillian, 81, 18 Seafarers LOG died Feb. 27. He joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother McMillian’s first voyage was aboard Alcoa Steamship’s Martin Behrman. Born in Alabama, he worked in the steward department and last shipped on the Cove Sailor. Brother McMillian began collecting stipends for his retirement in 1985, He lived in his native state. FRANCISCO MOLINA Pensioner Francisco Molina, 92, passed away Feb. 11. Brother Molina beganhis seafaring career in 1973 in San Francisco. His first ship was the Overseas Valdez. Brother Molina worked in all three departments and last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Endurance. A resident of the Philippines, he started receiving his pension in 1996. JIMMY MORRIS Pensioner Jimmy Morris, 73, died Feb. 4. Brother Morris joined the SIU in 1949 in Tampa. Fla. Born in Pensacola, Fla., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Morris’ last ship was the OMI Champion. He resided in Jacksonville, Fla. and started receiving his pension in 1986. INLAND JOHNNIE BROWN Pensioner Johnnie Brown, 67, died Feb. 15. Boatman Brown launched his career with the SIU in 1980. Born in Loudon, Tenn., Boatman Brown was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Red Circle Transport Co. and shipped in the steward department. Boatman Brown resided in Interlachen, Fla. and began receiving retirement stipends in 2000. JAMES GILLILAND Pensioner James Gilliland, 77, passed away Feb. 18. Boatman Gilliland joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Okeechobee, Fla., he initially worked on a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Boatman Gilliland shipped in the deck department as a captain. He was last employed aboard a McAllister Towing Co. vessel in Philadelphia. Boatman Gilliland began collecting retirement stipends in 1983 and called Monroe Township, N.J. home. ROBERT HENNINGER Pensioner Robert Henninger, 70, died March 5. Boatman Henninger joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. The Maryland-born mariner worked primarily aboard vessels operated by McAllister Towing of Baltimore. He shipped in the deck department and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1988. Boatman Henninger was a resident of Jarretsville, Md. RALPH HUGHES Pensioner Ralph Hughes, 67, passed away March 14. Boatman Hughes began his seafaring career in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. He was born in Collenswood, N.J. and worked in the engine department. Boatman Hughes started receiving his retirement pay in 1998. He made his home in Ferresburgh, Vt. ROBERT MELBE Boatman Robert Melbe, 56, died March 8. He joined the SIU in 1988 in the port of Mobile. Boatman Melbe sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions as a member of the deck department. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Dredge & Dock, including the Liberty Island. Boatman Melbe was a resident of Pottsville, Ark. DON P. MORGAN Pensioner Don P. Morgan, 73, passed away Feb. 24. Boatman Morgan began working with the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Houston after serving in the U.S. Navy. He sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing as a member of the deck department. Boatman Morgan, who went on pension in 1992, made his home in Corpus Christi, Texas. GREAT LAKES MICHAEL BASHORE Brother Michael Bashore, 54, passed away Jan. 16. He joined the SIU in 1996 in St. Louis. The U.S. Coast Guard veteran’s first SIU vessel was the Steel T. Crapo. Born in Shelby, Ohio, Brother Bashore worked in the deck department, last sailing on American Steamship Co.’s Sam Laud. He made his home in Effingham, Ill. JOHN MONACO Pensioner John Monaco, 70, passed away Feb. 5. Brother Monaco launched his seafaring career in 1961 in Cleveland after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Monaco worked in the Great Lakes as well as inland divisions. Born in Ohio, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Monaco last shipped aboard the Lemmerhirt. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1994 and was a resident of Westlake, Ohio. WILLIAM NEWHOUSE Pensioner William Newhouse, 57, died Feb. 20. He launched his seafaring career in 1965 in Alpena, Mich. The Michigan native worked in the deck department as a bosun. Brother Newhouse sailed mainly aboard vessels operated by Inland Lakes Management, Inc. including the Lewis G. Harriman and Paul H. Townsend. He went on pension in 1987 and lived in his native state. RAILROAD MARINE JOHN CALBY Pensioner John Calby, 78, died Feb. 24. Brother Calby joined the Seafarers in the port of New York following service in the U.S. Army. Brother Calby worked in the deck department and began receiving his pension in 1988. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., he made his home in Algona, Iowa. HUGO HUETSCH Pensioner Hugo Huetsch, 80, passed away March 14. Brother Huetsch joined the SIU in 1960. Born in West Hoboken, N.J., Brother Huetsch was a member of the deck department and last worked on a Pennsylvania Central Transportation Co. vessel. The Little Ferry,. N.J. resident went on pension in 1984. HOLLIS MAUPIN Pensioner Hollis Maupin, 78, died Jan. 4. Brother Maupin started his career with the Seafarers in 1964. A deck department member, he worked chiefly aboard vessels operated by Erie Lackawanna Railroad Co. The Virginia-born mariner began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1988. Jersey City, N.J. was his home. In addition to the foregoing Seafarers, the following brothers, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, passed away on the dates indicated: NAME AGE Baugh Jr., George Benson, Charles Bronko, Peter Brown, Harry Bruce, Charles Cassen, George Centeno, Panfilio Clark, Solomon DeBrosse, Michael Duncan, Lionel Green, Joseph Hennes, Paul Jules, Henry Lawrynkiewicz, John Marrero, Antonio Regman, Frank Rhinehart, Abraham Riley, Isley Whitehead, Augustus Williams, Robert 77 70 79 79 78 84 89 89 78 83 86 77 86 78 89 86 77 80 91 77 DOD Feb. 2 March 3 March 20 March 9 March 21 March 5 March 20 March 15 March 3 March 3 March 21 Feb. 12 March 17 March 11 March 21 Feb 7 March 3 Feb 24 Feb 1 Feb 22 May 2004 �22755_P05.7.8.12.13.18.19.qxd 4/28/2004 7:39 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On 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), Feb. 29—Chairman Samuel L. Porchea, Secretary Donna M. DeCesare, Educational Director Ronald Celious, Deck Delegate Thomas E. Howell, Steward Delegate Sherman Harper. Chairman stated vessel to anchor in Panama March 4 and transit canal next day. Arrival in Houston scheduled March 10. Secretary thanked everyone for keeping house clean and working well together. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded everyone to check expiration dates on all seamen’s documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Question arose as to value of turning on satellite system for 3 days in port (and be charged for whole month). Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. EL MORRO (IUM), Feb. 29— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr., Engine Delegate Stephanie S Brown, Steward Delegate Theodore Quammie. Chairman announced payoff March 1 in San Juan, P.R. He asked that everyone return to ship before 1800; ship sails at 1900. Secretary thanked crew for leaving quarters and mess hall clean. Educational director urged Seafarers to take advantage of upgrading courses offered at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to reduce years of seatime needed for pension benefits. Crew members expressed interest in how money purchase pension plan funds are invested. Steward department given vote of thanks by happy crew for good food. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. ENDURANCE (USSM), Feb. 24 —Chairman Salvatore J. Lagare, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Carlos R. Bonilla, Engine Delegate Rhonda Koski, Steward Delegate Thurman Johnson. Secretary reminded crew members to clean rooms and provide clean linen for next person. Educational director stressed need for everyone to renew expiring documents early and enroll in upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department delegate requested increase in rate for extra meals served in port. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), Feb. 29—Chairman Thomas P. Banks, Secretary Artis E. Pilgrim, Educational Director John C. Orr, Steward Delegate Wilfred Lambey. Bosun thanked deck department for safe and productive trip. Payoff expected March 5 in New Orleans. He reminded crew of new security measures now in place and that ship will be “locked down” while in port. Educational director encouraged crew members to take full advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported, although chairman requested con- May 2004 tract clarification on opening and closing hatches after cargo has been loaded. Suggestion made to look into restructuring of pension plan. Requests made for new toaster in crew mess hall and additional gym equipment. (Previous toaster caught fire in Haifa, Israel at 2330. Alarm sounded and all hands aboard ship promptly reported to emergency stations. Training paid off.) Vote of thanks given to steward department for job very well done. LTC JOHN U.D. PAGE (Maersk Line), Feb. 29—Chairman William N. Henderson, Educational Director David Watkins. Chairman announced payoff March 6 in Wilmington, Calif. He stated pay raise effective March 1 and thanked deck workers for great job. Educational director talked about upgrading programs available at school in Piney Point. He noted college courses available as well. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new mattresses and fans. Information sought on possibility of increase in pension plan benefits. Thanks given to galley gang for great job. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships), Feb. 29—Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Scott Horton, Engine Delegate Jose Irigoyen, Steward Delegate Thomas Gingerich. Chairman announced payoff March 1 in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Educational director reminded crew members to renew z-cards several months before expiration. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to have third cook on board MSC vessels that carry extra personnel, like 15-man security team aboard Matthiesen. Additional dryer needed in laundry room to accommodate extra persons. Recommendation made to raise SIU benefits and increase vacation days. Vote of thanks given to steward department for top-notch meals. Next ports: Manchester, Wash.; Portland, Ore.; Ferndale, Wash.; Pearl Harbor. EL YUNQUE (IUM), March 1— Chairman Luis J. Ramirez, Secretary Rudolph D. Shields Jr., Educational Director John J. Walsh, Deck Delegate Douglas A. Hodges, Engine Delegate Edgar B. Young, Steward Delegate Frederick L. Saffo. Chairman reminded crew members not to wait until last minute to renew merchant mariner documents. Do it early since security issues are causing delays. Educational director advised Seafarers to take courses at Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills and ratings. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made to increase pension and dental benefits. Special thank you given to steward department. Next port: San Juan, P.R. EXPRESS (USSM), March 14— Chairman George H. Perry Jr., Secretary Richard E. Hicks, Educational Director John M. Cronan, Deck Delegate Lorenzo Tifre Jr., Engine Delegate Theodore Wallace, Steward Delegate Rudy A Lopez. Chairman an- nounced payoff March 17 in Port Newark, N.J. Reliefs will be available in Charleston, S.C. Secretary suggested everyone make effort to vote in upcoming elections. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food and service. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), March 7—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary William E. Bryley, Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan. Chairman announced payoff March 13 in Tacoma, Wash. No one allowed ashore until ship clears customs. Room inspections to take place March 10. Steward reminded those getting off to leave clean linen for next crew member. Educational director spoke about April 15 deadline for SIU scholarship program. He also stressed importance of keeping shipping documents up to date, of contributing to SPAD and of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification received from Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell about STCW requirements. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food, especially salad bar and barbecue. Next ports: Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. INDUSTRIAL CHALLENGER (Pacific Gulf Marine), March 15— Chairman Jeremiah J. Harrington, Secretary Norman S. Bush, Educational Director Earl F. Ebbert, Deck Delegate Robert C. Hoppenworth, Engine Delegate Luis Ruiz, Steward Delegate Rodrigo Jiminez. Chairman announced payoff March 20 in Wilmington, N.C. He said all went well during 90-day trip to Iraq, Portugal and Libya. He advised crew members to read LOG and keep abreast of important issues including MMD renewals, new prescription procedures, tax information, anthrax and smallpox vaccines, etc. Educational director reiterated importance of keeping MMDs, passports, drug cards, TRBs, etc. current. Know when they expire. He also encouraged everyone to take advantage of school’s upgrading courses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested regarding rest periods for dayworkers, carrying dangerous cargo and day’s pay in lieu of day off. Crew asked for new TV and microwave oven. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Industrial Challenger apparently was first U.S. vessel to call on port of Tripoli, Libya in 23 years since trade and travel restrictions were put into place. Next ports: Wilmington and Houston. INNOVATOR (USSM), March 7—Chairman Stephen R. Kastel, Secretary Charles A. Medeiros, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Adel B. Irani. Chairman announced payoff March 10 on arrival in Long Beach, Calif. He thanked crew for great camaraderie and job well done keeping ship clean. He also thanked union for two good unlicensed apprentices that joined ship’s crew. Secretary spoke about tax returns due April 15 and suggested everyone read Feb. 2004 LOG article on tax tips for Seafarers. Educational director noted listing of upgrading courses in each issue of LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), March 2—Chairman Richard A. Szabo, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director Daniel N. Daligcon, Deck Delegate Hussein Mohamed. Chairman noted all’s well on board ITB Baltimore. Educational director highlighted need to keep shipping documents up to date and encouraged everyone to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated VCR recently purchased with ship’s funds. More movies will be bought. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LIBERATOR (USSM), March 14 —Chairman Joel G. Miller, Secretary Guillermo F. Thomas, Educational Director David M. Parker, Deck Delegate Edward F. OBrien, Engine Delegate Si Hughes. Chairman announced vessel going in for yard period. Everyone should turn in keys at MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line), March 2—Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secretary Kenneth A. Roetzer, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth. Chairman announced change in schedule, and vessel to pay off March 5 in Charleston, S.C. He asked crew to keep rooms clean, make sure all documents are up to date, and upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship to receive new ice machine with stores this trip in Norfolk, Va. New crew will join ship in Elizabeth, N.J. Clarification of contract and money purchase pension plan requested. Suggestion made that large container vessels Thumbs Up to Ewa Steward Department Tom Stapleton, captain aboard the Matson container vessel, SS Ewa, sent the Seafarers LOG this photo of the “tremendous SIU steward department” preparing “another award-winning barbecue” en route to Honolulu. From the left are OBR Kasem Ali, Assistant Cook Philip Desett, Chief Cook Steve Bowmer and Steward/Baker Robert Miller. layoff. After recrewing, vessel heading for Middle East shuttle run. New DVD player and X-box received for crew entertainment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SIU President Michael Sacco visited ship last trip and met with crew members. LYKES DISCOVERER (MTL), March 11—Chairman John E. Pegan III, Secretary Charles H. McField, Educational Director Daniel G. Ramirez Jr. Secretary read communications received and posted on bulletin board. Educational director talked about opportunities available at Piney Point for upgrading skills and urged crew members to take advantage of them. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Questions raised regarding pensions and medical benefits. Next ports: New Orleans, La.; Charleston, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Houston. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line), March 7—Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary John G. Reid, Educational Director John E. Conn, Deck Delegate Mohsin Abdulla, Engine Delegate Rahul Bagchi. Chairman announced payoff March 12 in Charleston, S.C. He reminded everyone to report possible unsafe conditions to department heads at any time. He thanked crew members for smooth and safe trip and reminded them to clean rooms before getting off. Secretary stated 60-day stores to be taken in Portsmouth, Va. He thanked crew for helping keep house and passageways clean. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD and upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. He further advised them to check expiration dates on shot card and all other documents necessary for shipping. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for small refrigerators in each room. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Charleston; Portsmouth; Newark, N.J.; Algeciras, Spain. like Maersk Missouri get additional dayworkers and wiper. MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), March 1—Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Bonifacio Fortes, Engine Delegate Detricke Kelly, Steward Delegate Albert Sison. Chairman reminded crew of no-smoking policy in lounge and of company’s aggressive environmental safety policies. Treasurer stated $5,762 in ship’s fund. Suggestions made on items to buy, including DVD players and scale for gym. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification raised about missing man wages. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (ATC), March 14—Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Director Edward Self. Chairman announced that after Long Beach, Calif., vessel going to shipyard in Singapore and will remain there for about three weeks. Crew will remain on board and receive lodging pay. Before leaving, everyone will sign foreign articles. No word yet if shots are needed, but if they are, doctor will come to ship. Anyone with current shots should take shot card to captain. On way to Singapore, tanks will be cleaned. Steward explained how new prescription coverage works. She asked crew to bring dirty linen to locker before arrival in port. Educational director reminded crew to be ready to answer questions regarding company’s policies and individual job duties when rep from BP comes aboard. Treasurer stated money received from company’s performance contract fund. Bosun bought several movies in Valdez, Alaska. Anyone else who wants to buy movies should give receipts to captain. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to improve medical/dental/prescription coverage. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. Seafarers LOG 19 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:30 PM Page 20 The Seafarers LOG is bringing back a feature we ran several years ago—The Galley Corner. We invite our members (in any department) to contribute some of their favorite recipes and, perhaps, a story about an unforgettable experience Steward Jack Williams shows off aboard ship. probably the largest loaf of bread We will start ever baked on a tugboat. this month with a submission from Steward Jack Williams. An accomplished chef with 10 years in the maritime industry in addition to many years experience in country clubs and restaurants, Brother Williams currently is working aboard the MV Button. He loves to cook and bake, and he notes that Buffalo Shrimp “every time I go out on a vessel, my lbs peeled and deveined goal is to serve the crew the best food they have ever had on a ship.” shrimp THE GALLEY CORNER The Storm Soup Saga by Steward Jack Williams I have been cooking in the marine industry for the past 11 years. During that time I have worked on tugboats, coastal freighters and research vessels in various oceans and seas of the world. As the cook on a boat, you are at the center of it all. You hear and see everything that goes on: the gossip, the news, the weather—and you are always right in the middle of those fantastic sea stories that everyone likes to tell about their experiences on the water. It was at the galley table that I overheard a discussion between a salty old tugboat captain and a crusty veteran chief engineer about split pea soup. The captain was relating an old superstition that warns that making split pea soup while you are underway will bring up a storm. Of course I had to jump right in and stir the pot by challenging the whole idea. I asked the captain if he had ever seen proof of this first hand. He replied that he had, and he had no desire to see it again. I countered that it sounded like an old wives’ tale to me and told him that one day I would try it out and see for myself. The captain then warned me that if I ever made split pea soup on a boat that he was running, I would end up out on the bow standing a very long watch in the wind and rain. So I left it at that, went about my business and forgot all about it. A year later I was on a tugboat with the same captain and engineer heading across the Gulf of Alaska in the middle July. We were on our way to Bristol Bay, Alaska with a very heavily loaded barge of cargo. One evening I went up to the wheelhouse to chat with the captain and noticed the weather map. Although these can be stormy seas, I couldn’t see anything that even resembled wind or rain on the map. I asked the captain if there was any bad weather heading our way and he confirmed that there wasn’t. Feeling mischievous, I decided that the next day we would have split pea 5 2 2 2 1 2 cups flour cups Louisiana hot sauce cups melted butter cup smokey BBQ sauce tablespoons blackening spice Mix the hot sauce, butter and BBQ sauce together in a bowl and set it aside. Season the shrimp with the blackening spice and toss them around in the flour so they are coated well. Deep fry the shrimp until they are brown and crispy. Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl and smother them with the sauce. Put them in a hotel pan and set them on the steam table. soup for lunch. Of course, I didn’t say a word to the captain because I knew what kind of a discussion that would lead to. I just went to bed knowing what I was going to do that next morning. Well, I did it! I made split pea soup when no one was around, and proceeded to serve it for lunch. The captain went ballistic! He told me to take the pot off the stove and throw it over the side. “You’ve done it now,” he said. “Our good luck is over. Get ready for some rough riding!” I laughed. “Come on, captain. It is just an old tall tale like walking under a ladder or something.” He just got up, gave me a stern look and left me standing there with this to ponder. The rest of the day went smoothly, no problems, and nobody mentioned anything else to me about the soup. However, later on that night, I was wakened from a sound sleep, being violently tossed from one side of the bed to the other. I got up, pulled on my jeans and went up to the wheelhouse to see what was going on. I was not a welcome visitor at that moment! The mate at the wheel told me we were getting gale force winds holding at 45 knots, that the seas had picked up to 15 feet, and that it was all my fault we were getting pounded like this. Go figure. There hadn’t been any indication of weather like this on the map. And to tell you the truth, I was dumfounded. It had to have been the split pea soup. Storm soup. The blow lasted only until morning, but we had a terrible ride all night long, and everyone was very upset with me. The next day was picture perfect, and the captain very kindly asked me if I had learned my lesson. Of course I had to admit that I had, and peace was restored between all of us. The rest of the trip was smooth as silk, and to this day I have never made split pea soup at sea again. That should be the end of my story, but storm soup came back to haunt me a little while ago. The research ship I sailed with had a complement of more than 50 people, so there were two cooks on board. We were headed for the Azores in calm waters when the other cook made split pea soup for lunch. I was shocked! “Are you crazy?” I asked. “Do you have any idea what you are doing?” He replied just as I had years before that it was a silly superstition with nothing to back it up. So we served the split pea soup, and as everyone went through the line, I apologized in advance for the probable bad weather. Most everyone just laughed and thought nothing of it. Well, to make a long story short, the next day it blew so hard that we had to cancel work for a day and lay low. Needless to say, that made believers out of everyone. I have no good explanation for this superstition, but if you are ever brave enough to make split pea soup while you are at sea, I hope that you are also smart enough to batten down the hatches when you do. 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. 20 Seafarers LOG Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. May 2004 �22755_P01.2.3.9.10.21.qxd 4/26/2004 9:56 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. 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 Able Seaman May 24 July 5 Aug. 16 June 18 July 30 Sept. 10 GMDSS (Simulator) July 19 July 30 Lifeboatman/Water Survival May 10 June 21 August 2 May 21 July 2 August 13 Radar May 10 May 21 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) May 31 August 9 June 11 August 20 Course Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* April 19 April 30 Basic Safety Training (BST) May 10 May 24 June 21 July 19 August 2 August 30 May 14 May 28 June 25 July 23 August 6 September 3 Fast Rescue Boat May 3 June 7 May 7 June 11 Government Vessels May 17 June 28 May 21 July 2 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* May 17 July 5 May 28 July 16 (*must have basic fire fighting) (*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 selfstudy. 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 April 26, 2004. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Engine Utility (EU) May 17 July 26 June 11 August 20 FOWT July 12 September 3 Marine Electrician May 10 July 2 Course � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ May 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. 5/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:30 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 648 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 648 (in alphabetical order) Benjamin Anderson, Ernest Cannon, Orlando Caro, Kenneth Casteel, Forrest Cornelison, Michelle Garon, Mark Kane, Matthew Locklear, Lon Maduro, Jonathan Miller, David Quade II, Gilberto Quinones-Reyes, Jamar Reed, Nelton Rodriguez, Keith Rost, Cody Stasch, Mario Torrey and Brandon Jones. ARPA — Earning their ARPA certificate March 12 are (from left) Mike Smith (instructor), John Brady, Jawaid Pardesi, Arvid Friberg, Fernando Rigonan, Harlan Hulst, Kenneth Salgado, Boyce Wilson and Brian Miller. AB — Seafarers who successfully completed the AB course March 26 are (in no particular order) Victor Perez, Tavid Lewis, Ed Majesky, Jared Taylor, John Fain, Keith Gibney, James Osborne, Sergio Centeno, Keith Livermon, George Ashbridge, Jan Payne, Erik Borys, Chuck Palmer, John Smith and Guy Traynham. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. GMDSS — Upgrading Seafarers who finished the 70-hour GMDSS course are (in alphabetical order) Victor Antunez, Alexander Fyodorovykh, Denis Kay, Donald Larsen, Sherman Sakatani and John Sparks. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far right. FOWT — Completing the six-week FOWT course March 12 are (in alphabetical order) Timothy Blakley, Reginald Colbert, Terrance Colbert, Garson Elliott, Bryan Fletcher, Corey Hann, Memphis Herring, Jerrold Maggard, Gregory McKinnon, Degrick McLendon, Antonio Myrick, Antonio Perez, Richard Rowland, Steven Ruppert, John Shea, Sam Vanderbrug, William Wakeman, Brandy White, Ralph Williams and Aaron Wood. Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)— Feb. 20 gradu- ates of the tanker familiarirzation/assistant cargo (DL) course are (in alphabetical order) Abdullatif Ahmed, Richard Gathers, Nathan Hollander, Rubin Mitchell, John Nelson, Edgardo Plarisan and Juan Ruiz. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Stewards from NOAA completed a number of courses at the school, including steward department courses, safety classes and computer lab work. The students were (in no specific order) Mickey Gronski, Deana Jennings, Jo Locke, Paul Jarvi, Jesse Stiggins, Larry Phillips, Raul Monillas, Joe Lefstein, Adam Staiger, Rowell Legaspi, Romulo Reynante and Steve Ralson (not all are pictured). Also in the photo are Paul Hall Vice President Don Nolan and instructors Ed White, John Hetmanski and Shannon Twigg. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Computer Lab Class Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes at the Paul Hall Center are (from left, seated) Hugo Infante, Emmett Wattigny, (standing) Rick Prucha (instructor), Frank Ramones and Albert Bharrat. At right is B.R. Hickman with instructor Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Advanced Fire Fighting — Earning their advanced fire fighting endorsements March 5 are (in alphabetical order) Abdullatif Ahmed, Charles Cambra, Christopher Edyvean, James Fekany, Glenn Gross, Miles Janecka, Roy Logan, Freddie Malbas, Brian McLarnon, Jimmy Orr and Jerome Wong. Their instructor, Tom Cessna, is at far right. May 2004 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:31 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Radar — March 3 was completion day for students in the radar class. From the left are Mike Smith (instructor), Harlan Hulst, Jawaid Pardesi, Edgardo Plarisan, Fernando Rigonan, Kenneth Salgado, Boyce Wilson, Brian Miller and Samuel Cox. Junior Engineer — With their instructor, Jay Henderson, are Seafarers who completed the junior engineer course April 2. They are (in alphabetical order) Stephen Bradfute, Kevin Cooper, Milan Dzurek, Steven Haver, Quincy Wilson and Nathan Wirt. Small Arms — Completing the small arms training course March 5 are (from left) Richard Nemanic, Brannon Adams, Raymond Hotchkiss, Christopher Paul, Gregory Scott and Lance McFarland. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW STCW — Feb. 20: Edward Lewis, Ismael Manley, Robert Melendez, Jason Moore, Joseph Morris, Evelyn Nordbrok, Olivia Pabalan, Miguel Pilgrim, Peter Ramos, Ricardo Salazar, William Schropp, Heather Van Benschoten, Brent Varney, Will Walters, Adam Young and Roger Mellen. STCW — Feb. 20: Christine Lemke, Mario Lopes, Jim Mattson, Terry Murphy, Chris Nall, John Niedbalski, Nasser Omar, Katie Piper, Donna Raymond, Fernando Remedios, Harry Rogers, John Stewart, Mary Toledo, Stephen Wehner, Donald Williams, Jerome Wong, Kenneth Yuret and Joseph Schultz. — Feb. 27: (Two groups): Rowena Applestill, Mallory Bannister, Matthew Barry, Charles Bolig, John Brown, Eric Campbell, Chris Collins, Paul Corsentino, Milane Cremeans, Kristen Cruz, Leonard Dawson, Robert Garay, Viviana Gavronski, Wesley Godon, Donald Hagerty Jr., Richard Hernandez, Joshua Hoffman, Calvin Jacobs, Scott Johnston, Kathleen Jones, Shannan Lynn, Shelley Mallow, Scott McCabe, Sarah McLaughlin, Amber Michel, Ross Murphy, Derek Partida, Justin Querubin, Dino Pleho, Dwayne Rouse, Megan Sherman, Elizabeth Smith, Stephen Smith, Samuel Styve, Irene Tassie, Jamil Walli, Kenneth White, Don Wilhite and Gary Johnson Jr. Their instructors, Stan Beck and Larry Malone, are at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Water Survival — Feb. 27: Otsman Baudin, Stephen Wehner, Jason Moore, Mary Toledo, Dana Hicks, Amber Akana, Olivia Pabalan, David Benito, Barbra Allbritton, Victor Rapez, Tremaine Ferris, Janelle Helg, Eric Calo, Duncan Nishimura, Adrian Tam, Ryan Nitta, Greg Hayama, Jesse Nakamura, Bjorn Ramskog and Alan Schiller. Their instructors were Bernabe Pelingon and Tony Sevilla. Water Survival — Feb. 27: David Chairez, Dori Cook, Thomas Drapil, Robert Melendez, Dominic Carr, Darin Heine, Jim Farmer, Joseph Schultz, Jim Mattson, Joe Morris, Kaleinainoa Asentista, Leo Curry, Keith Cleary, Brent Varney, Patrick Helmuth, Lauren Grice, Donald Williams Sr., Migel Pilgram, Katie Piper and Adam Young. Specially Trained OS — Unlicensed apprentices in the third phase of their training completed the STOS course Feb 20. They include (back row) Brannon Adams, Chris Paul, Brett Younginger, Kenneth Sharp, David Guthrie, Raymond Hotchkiss, Gregory Scott, Lance McFarland, (kneeling) Robert Patterson, Xavier Rivera, Ramsey Ingram, John Selman, Richard Nemanic and Timothy Ross. May 2004 Specially Trained OS — Upgrading Seafarers who graduated from the STOS course Feb. 20 are Kenneth Click, David Garcia, Richard Jones, Thomas Maillelle, Ronald Merfeld, Hal Owen, Jan Payne, Gill Sickles, John Truss, Joseph Willett and Rick Worthington (not all are pictured). Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far right. Seafarers LOG 23 �22755_P4.6.11.14-17.19.20.22-24.qxd 4/28/2004 7:31 PM Page 24 M 2 2 m l o A t l c i s D s AB Gangway Watch Jack Kemp Chief Cook Tommy Kleine ACU Ricky Williams Chief Cook Edyson Chaniago Night Engineer Steve Bvkovies and OMU Curtis Barnett Right: Recertified Steward Allen Terry Thalis Ealy is the chief cook aboard the APL China. Recertified Steward Ben Opaon Left: SIU Rep Romy Lumanlan prepares to make a deposit. Right: AB Kermit Bengtston fills out paperwork for his vacation. RMST John Vierra ACU Moosa Mohamed t � 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 May 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS DELIVER THE GOODS IN OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 2 RANK-AND-FILE FINANE COMMITTEE OKAYS UNION’S RECORDS FOR 2003 LAKEN SHIPPING MARINERS VOTE SIU UNION CONTRACT BRINGS MANY GAINS FOR NEWEST SEAFARERS MORE NEW JOBS! TANKER CHARLESTON JOINS SIU FLEET MEMBERSHIP RECEIVES PRESIDENT’S PRE-BALLOTING REPORT ITF SECURES AID FOR CREWS OF TWO FOC BULK CARRIERS NEGOTIATIONS UNDERWAY AT PUERTO RICO TOWING UNIONS VOICE STRONG OBJECTIONS TO MMD PROVISIONS ALASKA TO OFFER DRILLING LEASES ON SOME STATE-MANAGED WATERS LAND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT GEARED TOWARD ‘ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT’ COAST GUARD ADMIRAL REMINDS ‘MARITIME PARTNERS’ ABOUT MTSA’S JULY 1 IMPLEMENTATION LIFELONG PASSION FOR SIU DEFINED RETIRED VP LAKE SEAFARERS COMPLETE FITOUT LAKES BOATMEN OKAY PACT ASC BOSUNS ADDRESS KEY ISSUES MEMORIAL PLANNED TO MEREDITH VICTORY CAPTAIN, NMU CREW SMPPP EARNED 15 PERCENT LAST YEAR FREE CHOICE ACT GAINING SUPPORT OPERATION DEEP FREEZE SEAFARERS HELP RESUPPLY MCMURDO STATION SEAFARING SCENES FROM SAN FRANCISCO 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 05/01/2004 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. 5 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/a5715f242f9f637f0483d8e434a5e497.pdf 233302a3669fb414f78d99dff5623331 PDF Text Text 22284_p1,2,6,10,14, 24.qxd 3/30/2004 3:50 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 4 April 2004 MTD Speakers Tell It Like It Is: America Depends On U.S. Mariners! The U.S. Merchant Marine’s role as the fourth arm of defense and the worsening U.S. health care crisis were two of the main topics discussed March 4-5 during meetings of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board in Hollywood, Fla. Members of Congress and the administration as well as military officers and labor officials examined those issues as well as port security, workers’ rights, cargo preference, shipbuilding, runaway-flag shipping and more. In photos above, MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (left) welcomes U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta (left photo) and U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow to the meetings. Pages 3, 8, 9. Seafarers Continue Sailing in ‘OIF2’ SIU-Crewed Cable Ship Instrumental In Tough Mission SIU members are sailing aboard at least 60 ships that have mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom 2, including the Flickertail State (above). Page 3. U.S. Military Leaders Speak Up for Maritime Puerto Rico Towing Boatmen Join SIU Page 2 Page 4 Stewards Complete Recertification Class Page 7 Seafarers on the Tyco Decisive last month helped in the mission to recover bodies from a water-taxi tragedy that claimed five lives. The accident happened March 6 in Baltimore when a 36-foot boat capsized in a fastmoving storm. Bosun Thor Young (left, top photo) and Bosun’s Mate Tony Sibola were among the many Seafarers who assisted in the recovery. A remotely operated vehicle (bottom photo) deployed from the Decisive proved particularly vital in recovering the last two bodies. Page 3. �22284_p1,2,6,10,14, 24.qxd 3/30/2004 12:33 AM Page 2 President’s Report A Crisis America Must Solve Everyone who cares about America’s working families owes a debt of gratitude to the 70,000 union brothers and sisters from the United Food and Commercial Workers who recently approved a new contract after more than five months on the picket lines. The union members’ courage and determination in the fight to maintain good, affordable health care benefits is admirable by itself. But the fact is those members were laying it on the line for all workers, not just themselves. They Michael Sacco made a stand that had to be made, and while they may not have gotten everything they wanted, I believe they won. Unfortunately, nationwide, the health care crisis isn’t going away. In fact, it’s getting worse. And we as a nation must solve it. You’ve probably heard the saying that there are three types of lies: lies, damn lies and statistics. But when it comes to health care, the numbers are frighteningly true. Today, the average family health premium is more than $9,000 a year. When you consider that the national median household income is a little more than $42,000, it’s obvious the cost of health care is out of control. We’re all aware that the price of health benefits normally only goes one direction—up. But did you know that more and more steadily employed workers are losing their coverage, either because their employers take it away or because they simply can’t afford the premiums? For example, the news media recently reported that a new survey by the state of South Carolina revealed that 19 percent of its citizens didn’t have health coverage the previous two years. Well over half of those uninsured people were employed. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney recently reminded us of a bigger, even more disturbing number. Namely, 44 million people in the U.S. don’t have health coverage. “The damage being done to their families is matched perhaps only by the damage being done to union members, union employers and our ability to compete in the world economy,” Sweeney said at last month’s meeting of the Maritime Trades Department executive board. “Who do you think picks up the tab for those uninsured workers—6 million of whom are fully employed? Our union employers do, and we as union members do, through higher premiums and lower benefits and through the taxes we pay.” Look beyond the statistics and you see the real costs of this crisis. Seniors who can’t afford their prescriptions. Parents who agonize over whether they’ll have enough money to maintain their family’s coverage and still save for their children’s education. Hard-working individuals who literally must choose between keeping their insurance and paying other bills. American citizens of all ages who let treatable conditions go unchecked because they don’t have the funds for health coverage. This is a national disgrace. It simply shouldn’t happen in the United States—or anywhere else. America’s unions are leading the fight to ensure good, affordable health insurance for every man, woman and child across the country. But we obviously can’t do it alone. A challenge this big demands full national debate and complete cooperation among labor, government and business. It’s a puzzle that’s long overdue for a solution. I’m proud of the way the SIU supported our UFCW brothers and sisters during the recent strike and lockout. Seafarers marched with them in California, New York and Missouri, and we also donated food and money to help them through a tremendously difficult time. But what I really look forward to is the day when health care is a given for everyone. In working toward that goal—in fighting for our very well-being—America should spare no resource. Volume 66, Number 4 April 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, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 2004 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Military Leaders Make It Clear: Strong U.S. Fleet Is Imperative Three highly respected U.S. military leaders last month jointly testified before the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee’s Seapower Subcommittee, where they reaffirmed the U.S. Merchant Marine’s importance in national security. Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC); and Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, USA, commanding general, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC—formerly the Military Traffic Management Command), submitted a joint statement to the subcommittee March 10. Chaired by Sen. James Talent (R-Mo.), the hearing pertained to a mobility requirements study. Both in their prepared text and in answering questions from Talent and Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.), the military officers offered powerful words detailing the merchant marine’s significance. “Our sealift force is vastly more capable than ever before,” the officers noted. “Strategic sealift is critical to our nation’s power projection strategy.” During the discussion with the senators, Brewer described the Maritime Security Program— which helps ensure the presence of up to 60 militarily useful U.S.flag vessels—as “extremely important. We can’t exist without it…. But more importantly, ships don’t run themselves. Mariners run them. The Maritime Security Program is providing us with a U.S.-flagged fleet that will provide us with the mariners to man these particular ships. And I have to commend some of the people sitting behind me who represent the Maritime Trades Department and unions because, without them, we could not have fought this war.” Continued on page 11 Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, Commander, U.S. Transportation Command Ready Reserve Force Is ‘Great Success’ During last month’s Seapower Subcommittee hearing, U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy, the ranking Democrat on the subcommittee, described the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) as “one of the great successes. We followed that very closely in this (Armed Services) committee. Their ships have done an extraordinary job.” In a prepared statement, Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC); and Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, USA, commanding general, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, noted, “The increased readiness standards and maintenance of our RRF have made it more efficient and better able to meet lift requirements than ever before. The RRF today is a well-maintained, ready force of 31 surge roll-on/roll-off ships and 37 special-purpose sealift ships.” During the first phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, about 22 percent of the cargo moved to support the war effort was carried aboard U.S.-flag RRF ships, most of them crewed by Seafarers. The U.S. Maritime Administration, which oversees the RRF, described the program as “a key element of strategic sealift. The RRF is specifically structured to transport Army and Marine Corps unit equipment and initial resupply for forces deploying anywhere in the world during the critical period before adequate numbers of commercially available ships can be marshaled.” The RRF made a major contribution to the success of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm from August 1990 through June 1992, when 79 vessels were activated and operated to meet military sealift requirements. Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, Commander, Military Sealift Command Maj. Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, USA, Commanding General, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command Grocery Workers Win Contract Protecting Health Care Benefits Southern California grocery workers on Feb. 29 ratified a new three-year contract that ended the longest grocery strike and lockout in U.S. history. The new pact, which covers some 70,000 members of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) at three major supermarket chains— Kroger Co., Albertsons Inc. and Safeway Inc.—was approved by 86 percent of voting members after a two-day tally which commenced Feb. 28. As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the dispute began Oct. 11 when the UFCW members refused to give in to demands to slash their health care benefits. Kroger’s, Ralphs and Albertsons, bargaining jointly with Safeway, locked out their union workers the next day. Nearly 900 stores were affected by the work stoppage. The five-month dispute centered on health care costs. The supermarket chains asserted that they could no longer afford to pay for the benefits without what many deemed unfairly high con- tributions from workers in the face of competition from nonunion rivals like Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Following 20 weeks without paychecks, the union workers won their fight to protect affordable health care, their pensions and job security. Under the new contract, workers won: „ Affordable health care benefits for new and current workers with no weekly employee premiums in the first two years, and only nominal payments, if needed, in the third year. „ Employer contributions of nearly $190 million to rebuild the health plan reserves. „ A combined pension fund for new hires and current employees—ensuring a secure pension fund in the future. „ A wage increase averaging about $500 in the first and third years of the contract. By standing up for affordable health care, the grocery workers SIU Asst. VP West Coast Nick Celona, left, and Bosun Mike Hester join striking UFCW grocery workers on the picket lines in Southern California. kept health care on the national agenda and sent a message to employers everywhere that attempts to eliminate health care benefits will come at a high price. The strike also raised the alarm for national health care reform. Continued on page 11 April 2004 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/26/2004 2:27 AM Page 3 ‘Maritime Is Essential’ Merchant Marine’s Defense Role, U.S. Health Care Crisis Addressed by MTD Insightful discussions about the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role as the fourth arm of defense and the worsening U.S. health care crisis dominated much of the proceedings March 4-5 during meetings of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board in Hollywood, Fla. Members of Congress and the administration as well as military officers and labor officials examined those issues and others including port security, workers’ rights, cargo preference, ship- building, runaway-flag shipping and more. See pages 8 and 9 for full coverage of the MTD executive board meetings. The MTD consists of 29 international unions (including the SIU) and 24 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing 6.5 million working men and women. MTD President Michael McCartney Dies at 72 George McCartney, retired SIU vice president West Coast, died March 19 after battling various ailments that had sharply worsened. He was 72. McCartney retired in 1998 after serving the previous 17 years as an SIU vice president. But anyone who knew him understood that he never really left the union. McCartney remained intensely loyal to the SIU, constantly volunteering his time and always wearing his SIU colors with pride. He attended the March membership meeting in San Francisco the day before his death. McCartney began sailing with the SIU at age 17, joining in 1948. He sailed for a dozen years before coming ashore. When he retired, he noted, “The SIU has always been my life, my main interest, since I was a kid.” Next month’s Seafarers LOG will contain a more detailed remembrance. Seafarers Continue to Sail In Operation to Rebuild Iraq At this time last year, more than 2,000 Seafarers were sailing aboard military support ships providing aid for allied troops involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). They crewed more than 100 vessels used to deliver the troops, tanks, fuel and other materiel needed by coalition forces to achieve victory in removing Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein’s regime. One year later, SIU members are mobilized for the next phase, OIF2, which is now in full swing as more than 240,000 U.S. military personnel rotate into and out of the Middle East. Pentagon planners anticipate delivering fresh divisions, with all the necessary equipment, to Iraq, while bringing home those divisions that have been there since the start of the military operation. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the cargo moving into the area aboard ship includes less armored equipment than last year but more combat service support gear for forces trying to stabilize and reconstruct the war-torn nation. Approximately 24 million square feet of cargo (10 million into and 24 million out of the country) belonging to nine units in the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army and National Guard are being moved by ship As the Seafarers LOG went to press, 60 SIU-contracted ships already had been activated for OIF2. They include vessels oper- April 2004 ated by Amsea: the Cape Jacob, USNS Algol, USNS Altair, USNS Antares, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Capella, USNS Pollux, USNS Regulus and USNS Stockham. Crowley-operated ships include the Cape Inscription, Cape Intrepid, Cape Isabel, Cape Island, Cape Washington and Cape Wrath. Those vessels operated by IUM are the Cape May, Flickertail State, USNS Chesapeake, USNS Mt. Washington, USNS Petersburg, Northern Lights and Westward Venture. From Keystone Shipping are the Cape Race, Cape Knox, Cape Kennedy, Cape Orlando, Cape Victory and Cape Vincent. Maersk Lines is operating the USNS Charlton, USNS Dahl, USNS Pomeroy, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, USNS Soderman, USNS Watkins and USNS Watson. Additionally, Seafarers are serving aboard activated ships operated by Mormac: the Cape Decision, Cape Diamond, Cape Domingo, Cape Douglas, Cape Ducato, Cape Edmont, Cape Henry, Cape Horn and Cape Hudson. From MTL is the Cape Trinity. PGM has activated the Cape Farewell, Independence and Resolve. And Patriot contract-operated vessels include the USNS Brittan, USNS Benevidez, USNS Bob Hope, USNS Gilliland, USNS Gordon, USNS Fisher, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pillilau, USNS Seay, USNS Shugart and USNS Yano. Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, opened the meetings by noting that members of MTD unions continue handling important jobs in the current phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, known as OIF2. “Just like last year at this time, the unions of the MTD are playing key roles in the mission,” Sacco said. “Already, thousands of U.S. merchant mariners have crewed up military support ships that are transporting vital cargo and relief troops to the Middle East. They’re also sailing aboard commercial ships involved in supporting our troops. “At the same time, America’s war on terrorism, while full of ongoing challenges, has become an everyday fact of life,” he continued. “Here again, the unions of the MTD are doing our part. MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco (left) greets U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow at last month’s executive board meeting in Florida. That’s true on the docks, in the shipyards, on the railroads and highways, in the skies, and on the streets of our cities.” SIU-Crewed Cable Ship Aids in Recovery Operation SIU members aboard the Tyco Decisive last month assisted in the grim task of recovering bodies from a water-taxi tragedy that claimed five lives. The accident happened March 6 in Baltimore when a 36-foot, two-ton pontoon boat, the Lady D, capsized in a fast-moving storm. Local rescuers quickly saved 22 survivors, but five passengers could not be found. It took 10 days to recover the bodies, the last three of which almost certainly wouldn’t have been found without equipment donated by Tyco and another private company for this mission. The Decisive, in addition to offering sonar, an underwater robotic device and other high-tech tools, served as the main staging point for the operation. Seafarers were at once determined, sympathetic, sad and relieved. “We were glad to help. We wished we weren’t out there having to recover bodies, but we wanted to help,” said Recertified Bosun Thor Young. “Once the last body was recovered…. I saw all three of them. It’s just very sad. Yet, we weren’t happy about it, but there was some elation just in the sense that it represented closure for the families.” “The whole atmosphere was, ‘Just get it done,’” noted Chief Cook Walter Schoppe, who submitted photos for this story. “Without Tyco helping, they never would have found those bodies. And we weren’t going back until we found them. Everybody was relieved afterwards—at least the families can bury their loved ones.” The story made international news. Victims included an engaged couple in their twenties; a 6-year-old boy; and a 60-yearold woman and her daughter, age 34. For a while, it appeared the last two bodies (those of the child and the 26-year-old woman) simply couldn’t be located in the murky, near-freezing, 51-feetdeep water, even after an extremely high-powered underwater camera was added to Tyco’s remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Nine days after the accident, there were no “targets” left, and the search momentarily was called off, according to news reports. Around that same time, the Decisive received an order for a cable repair job near Florida. “But we decided to stay out (and continue searching) for a few more hours,” Young recalled. That’s when the vessel’s equipment located the missing bodies. Baltimore Fire Department personnel, who did 35 dives altogether, recovered the last one on March 15. Both Young and Schoppe, like others involved in the task, said they felt strong mixes of compassion, sorrow and excitement as the mission ended. “To be honest, I was proud to be part of the experience,” said Young, who credited Bosun’s Mate Tony Sibola and the rest of the unlicensed crew for Board members approved 14 policy statements covering topics including the Maritime Security Program; shipbuilding; cabotage laws; support of U.S. troops; short sea shipping; runaway flags; overtime pay; health care; and other maritime and labor issues. Addressing the executive board were (in order of appearance) U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta; Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command; Thomas Mackell, managing director of The Kamber Group; Stephen Van Dyck, chairman of Seafarers-contracted Maritrans, Inc.; Vice Adm. David Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; Robert Pearlman, president and CEO, Continued on page 5 doing their part. “Maybe someday I’ll tell my grandkids that I assisted in recovering some of the victims. “We assisted in launching the ROV, ran a lot of lines out to the piers,” he added. “The dive boat was tethered to the ship…. We gave full support to the fire department, whatever they needed. The mayor came aboard and the chief of the fire department came aboard. They were very appreciative.” Schoppe and the rest of the steward department—including Chief Steward Ed Tully and SAs German Solar, Francisco Calix and Danilo Achacoso—filled a more behind-the-scenes role but still had plenty to handle. “We worked our butts off,” Schoppe said. “We fed the mayor, fed 20 to 25 (extra) people every day we were out there. But everything went well.” The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident, including whether the captain of the Lady D offered lifejackets to the passengers, but its full report isn’t due for a year. The tragedy may have occurred as little as 100 yards from shore, according to press reports. The Living Classrooms Foundation is the owner and operator of Seaport Taxi, whose fleet included the ill-fated ferry. Rescue and recovery operations in Baltimore lasted 10 days following a tragic accident in which five people perished when their water taxi capsized. The SIU-crewed Tyco Dependable (in foreground) aided in recovering victims’ bodies. Seafarers LOG 3 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/30/2004 12:40 AM Page 4 SIU Fleet Grows Boatmen at Puerto Rico Towing Choose Seafarers The SIU recently welcomed aboard new members when boatmen at Puerto Rico Towing chose to join the Seafarers. Puerto Rico Towing operates five tugs that perform docking and undocking in San Juan Harbor as well as in other ports in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and elsewhere in the Caribbean. The company is a subsidiary of Great Lakes Towing. Negotiations are well under way for a first contract covering unlicensed boatmen at Puerto Rico Towing, who sail aboard the Honcho, Punta Borinquen, Punta Lima, El Lobo Grande II and the Punta Tuna. Victor Nuñez, SIU port agent in San Juan, said that the union had unanimous support among the unlicensed mariners, and the company recognized that support. Seafarers sailing aboard Puerto Rico Towing tugboats provide services to commercial ships and barges and to military-contracted vessels. Longtime ARC Director Rick Reisman Dies at 57 Rick Reisman, longtime director of the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Valley Lee, Md., passed away March 8 after a long illness. He was 57. Reisman directed the ARC for nearly 28 years before retiring in August 2003. He earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Virginia in 1975 and was a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a member of both the American Mental Health Counselors Association and the American Counseling Association. More than 2,500 individuals have been admitted to the ARC since it opened in 1976. Reisman tried to help virtually all of them. “In a quiet way, he probably touched more people and saved more people than anybody I know,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan, who knew Reisman for 28 years. “He was an administrator and left the day-to-day operation up to his counselors and let people do their job. But he was extremely dedicated, and he did his job with class.” Bill Eckles, clinical director at the ARC and a co-worker of Reisman for 25 years, described Rick as “devoted to the center and the union members. Between us, we brought the center along in the field, to the point where it has become one of the premier treatment centers in the country.” Kerrie Thompson, ARC secretary, worked with Reisman for nearly 24 years. “He was a very dedicated, loyal man,” she recalled. “Not just to the union and its members, but also to his family and friends. He created an atmosphere here where everyone was comfortable, like a team or a family. Teamwork was big to him. It worked. He’ll be missed.” One Seafarer who recovered through the ARC noted, “I remember him telling me, you and you alone know the truth about yourself. Honesty plays a big role in our program. He helped me a lot and he told me, if you can’t make it here, where else you got to go? I really had to think about that. I had nowhere 4 Seafarers LOG else to go. My career was on the verge of being washed out; my family didn’t want anything to do with me. I was so overwhelmed that I couldn’t focus on recovery. That really stopped me in my tracks. Thank God he told me the truth. He and Bill, they were big milestones. Very powerful instruments in my early recovery, and not only that, I kept in touch with him and Bill.” “We do still have people who call who came through 20 years ago,” Thompson said. “Sometimes 10 years will go by and someone will call us and let us know, ‘Hey, I’ve been sober for 10 years.’” Bud Adams, a consultant at the Paul Hall Center who directed the school’s arts and crafts center for many years, considered Reisman a close friend. “What I’ll miss about him is his friendship, his loyalty to people. He had a calming personality,” Adams said. He and Reisman worked together to start an “art incentive” program for those in recovery. “The idea was to give people a change of pace from therapy, and also help them follow through on things that they’d never done before or never thought they could do,” Adams noted. “We eventually found that the people who weren’t (fully) participating in their recovery also weren’t participating in the art part of it, and we used that discovery to help them.” Deborah Kleinberg of the SIU’s legal department knew Reisman for 20 years. They worked together on specific issues pertaining to the ARC and also beginning in 1989 when new drug-testing regulations for mariners were issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. “Throughout his tenure at the ARC, Rick helped thousands of seafarers during the most difficult periods of their lives,” Kleinberg said. “Seafarers seeking treatment met Rick at a time when they were most vulnerable—emotionally and physically. Rick treated each individual with respect and in a dignified manner. While he believed that each person was responsible for his or her own An avid boater in his free time, Rick Reisman helped thousands of people who enrolled at the Addictions Rehabilitation Center. recovery, Rick offered every client guidance, support and encouragement. Rick worked at the ARC with great dedication to his staff and his clients and he responded to the unique challenges of his work with humor, grace and compassion.” Kitty Eno knew Reisman from when she was the personnel director at the Paul Hall Center. “He was always a gentleman, always very professional and wonderful to work with,” she said. A native of Philadelphia, Reisman was an avid boater throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his only brother, Michael Terry Reisman, and is survived by his wife of 27 years, Liz, and their two sons. A memorial service took place March 12 at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Valley Lee. Reisman’s family thanked those who have sent expressions of sympathy, including those who let them know how he helped them change their lives. Memorial contributions may be made to: Johns Hopkins Cancer Center Head and Neck Cancer Research c/o Arlene Forastiere and Michael Gibson 1650 Orleans Street, Room G-90 Baltimore, MD 21231-1000 or to: Hospice of St. Mary’s P.O. Box 625 Leonardtown, MD 20650 Seafarers Mourn Retired Patrolman Paul Warren Retired New Orleans Patrolman Paul A. Warren passed away March 1 following a lengthy illness. He was 91. Born Jan. 4, 1913 in Byhalia, Miss, the charter member joined the SIU on Nov. 16, 1938 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Warren was a key figure for the union during its infancy and worked closely with late SIU Presidents Harry Lundeberg and Paul Hall on a variety of labor and maritime issues. He was believed to be the oldest surviving SIU charter member at the time of his death. Brother Warren sailed in the deck department as a bosun and worked for a number of shipping companies, including Waterman Steamship, Mobile Oceanic Line, Delta Steamship Lines, Calmar Steamship Corp., Seatrain Lines and Alcoa Steamship. Brother Warren initially went to sea when he was 18. His first ship was Waterman’s Kenowie. Brother Warren retired from the union effective Aug. 1, 1973, following 35 years of devoted service. A highly decorated military veteran, Brother Warren served in both the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army. He participated in the Battle of Anzio (Jan. 23 to May 25, 1944) in Italy. By all accounts, this was among the bloodiest battles of World War II. Records also indicate that Brother Warren was aboard the merchant freighter Andrew Jackson when it was torpedoed and sunk on July 12, 1942 in the Gulf of Mexico by a German U-boat. Brother Warren was highly respected by his peers, including SIU retiree George M. Milazzo, who said, “Paul was one of the few men that was tough enough to fight for his beliefs.” His personal effort was instrumental in helping to form what is now the SIU, Milazzo said. Capt. Murdock A. Jackson, another of Brother Warren’s longtime friends, also attested to the late mariner’s toughness and determination. “He was on a ship in Anchorage when he enlisted in the Army,” Jackson wrote in correspondence to the Seafarers LOG. “He was in the battle of Anzio Beach in Italy … and was wounded in the neck and leg by a sniper that jumped out of an olive tree. Paul survived, the enemy did not.” Survivors include his wife Antoinette Boscareno Warren; two sons, Jimmy and Paul Earl Warren; and two daughters, Leigh Ella Jane LaForte and Christa Warren Belesimo. Brother Warren also had nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Paul Warren was a hard worker who was 100 percent dedicated to the SIU. In this photo, taken in the mid 1940s, he is shown working aboard the War Shipping Administration’s Haiti Victory. Paul Warren, left, is shown during the union’s early years with Paul Hall, who became the SIU’s second president; Buck Stephens, longserving port agent in the union’s Gulf Coast region; and Bull Shepard, a founder of the school that became the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. All four Seafarers were charter members of the SIU. MC&S Organizer Boschetti Passes Away at 82 Roger Boschetti, a former SIU patrolman and business agent in San Francisco, passed away March 8. He was 82. Born on July 13, 1921 in Italy, Brother Boschetti embarked on his career with the SIU in 1943 in San Francisco. A member of the steward department, Brother Boschetti was instrumental in organizing the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S). He worked with both the SIU and the MC&S from 1956 to 1982 and was an MC&S Official when it merged into the Seafarers in 1978. Brother Boschetti sailed in 1943, 1944 and part of 1945. He shipped primarily aboard vessels operated by APL and Matson Navigation. He served as acting port agent for the port of Honolulu from 1961 to 1962. Brother Boschetti also served as patrolman and business agent for the port of San Francisco. He retired Feb. 1, 1982 and became a restaurateur. Brother Boschetti also was a well-known television host in the San Jose, Calif. area. Brother Boschetti is survived by his wife Rachel and daughters Rogine Couch and Zita Johnson. His step-son, Dino Lopez, preceded him in death. He also had two grandchildren and two great grandchildren. A funeral mass was held for Brother Boschetti March 9 in San Francisco. April 2004 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/30/2004 12:44 AM Page 5 Growing Loss of White-Collar Jobs Harms America, Federation Warns The AFL-CIO executive council last month unanimously passed a resolution urging reversal of the growing loss of servicesector and other white-collar jobs in the United States. While the federation unfailingly battles to protect jobs for working families, the specifics of this latest fight include some startling statistics. According to the executive council: „ Forrester Research Inc. predicts that American employers will move about 3.3 million white-collar service jobs and $136 billion in wages overseas in the next 15 years, up from $4 billion in 2000. „ Gartner Inc., a high-tech forecasting firm, estimates that 10 percent of computer services and software jobs will be moved overseas by the end of this year. A survey by Deloitte Research found that the world’s 100 largest financial services firms expect to shift $356 billion worth of operations and about 2 million jobs to low-wage countries over the next five years. The study also revealed that one-third of all major financial institutions in the world are already utilizing offshore outsourcing, with 75 percent reporting that they would be doing so within the next 24 months. „ A recent study by INPUT Research, a market research firm in Reston, Va., projects that outsourcing of state and local government technology contracts will grow from $10 billion last year to $23 billion in 2008. „ A report published by the University of California at Berkeley projects that some 14 million jobs are at risk of being outsourced overseas, and that job losses will likely exceed what the Forrester study reports. In its resolution, the AFL-CIO executive council noted, “Recent studies and analyses predict dire consequences should current trends continue unabated. What these reports make clear is that any work that can be digitized and transmitted through cyberspace is a target for export… The labor movement has fought the flawed trade and tax policies of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s that rewarded companies for shipping American manufacturing jobs overseas. Today, we stand united in opposition to outsourcing away our best service-sector jobs as well. “Like Americans everywhere, we believe that American corpo- MTD Meetings Continued from page 3 our economic strength and to our productivity, as well as in the creation of American jobs.” Diabetes Research Institute; U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert; AFL-CIO President John Sweeney; United Food and Commercial Workers President Doug Dority; U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.); U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas); Stephen Cotton, head of the Special Seafarers’ Department for the London-based International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF); and U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow. Most of the speakers commended the unions of the MTD for their respective roles in helping preserve U.S. economic and national security. Many spoke at length about the importance of the U.S.-flag fleet. Secretary Mineta stated, “The maritime industry is essential to The U.S. Merchant Marine’s role in national defense was addressed by numerous speakers including SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco (left) and Vice Admiral David Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command. Welcoming New Affiliate Seafarers International Union of North American President Michael Sacco (second from right) recently presented American Maritime Officers National President Michael R. McKay with a charter identifying AMO as an affiliate of the SIUNA. Joining them are SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) and AMO SecretaryTreasurer Robert W. McKay. As previously reported, the AMO became an affiliate of the SIUNA in November 2003. April 2004 rations have a moral obligation to create and to keep good jobs in America. We support raising living standards around the world, but we steadfastly reject and resist any notion that improving living standards elsewhere requires sacrificing good jobs and living standards for American workers and their families.” The board cautioned that America is on the verge of repeating mistakes that allowed “two decades of devastation of the U.S. manufacturing sector and the permanent loss of millions of highwage, good benefit, middle-class jobs. America is now threatened with a similar hollowing out of its service sector. Included among the millions of service jobs now threatened are high paying, professional and technical career opportunities which are at serious risk due to the growing offshoring trend.” While recognizing that offshoring by companies wanting to exploit workers in other countries instead of hiring U.S. workers will be difficult to deter, the federation declared, “Public policies that aid and abet runaway corporations must change, and the U.S. must proactively develop a coherent and comprehensive employment policy…. “Other issues also need to be addressed. Our health care system adds significantly to the cost of doing business and makes U.S. products and services uncompetitive, even with the economies of developed nations. Health care reform is long overdue and, if we are to compete effectively in the Questions Surround ISPS Code Deadline Chaos may lurk on the horizon in the global seaborne trade arena, according to industry sources and security experts. Nations are struggling to comply with requirements of the new International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS), which goes into effect July 1. Adopted by the United Nations in December 2002 subsequent to the September 11 terrorist attacks, the ISPS Code contains detailed security-related requirements for governments, port authorities and shipping companies as well as guidelines on how to meet them. It specifically requires all ships to be security-certified by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) before they are free to trade. The code regulates all vessels over 500 gross tons engaged in international voyages effective July 1, 2004. By this date, ports that are not ISPS compliant could face sanctions, and shipments from that port may face strict evaluation and be refused entry in all international ports, especially ports in the United States. The European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO) has warned that many of its members will struggle to comply with the ISPS Code in time. World Shipping Council President and Chief Executive Christopher Koch said shipping lines and their customers should work together in urging ports to ensure that the new global antiterrorist measures are in place by the July deadline. A survey by the Brussels-based body has revealed a backlog of work throughout the EU which might not be overcome by the time the new international rules are supposed to be in force. Of greater significance, the study showed that the implementation of the anti-terrorism measures is behind schedule in several areas: „ Few authorities have designated “recognized security organizations.” „ A “limited” number of countries have completed their port facility security assessments. „ Development of port facility security plans are “mostly in the early stages of preparation or have not been started.” The assessment’s lone positive item suggests that most countries have appointed port facility security officers. As far as funding for the new security measures is concerned, ESPO said “virtually no government has released or indicated it is planning to release public funding for the measures.” Elsewhere, anxiety also is rising in the global tanker market that a significant portion of the world’s fleet could be excluded from the charter market if the July 1 deadline to improve ship security is not met. United Nations estimates say more than 90 percent of world trade, including key raw materials such as oil, iron ore, coal and grain is conveyed by sea. But according to Andy Easdown, only three percent of the world’s 30,000 ships over 500 gross tons which are engaged in international trade global economy, it is imperative that the problem of sky-high health care costs be fixed.” Perhaps with grim irony, the board pointed out that when U.S. manufacturing jobs started moving overseas in large numbers, “American workers were told by free trade ideologues not to worry, that the U.S. comparative advantage was in services—especially high-tech and other knowledge-based industries. We were assured that the new global division of labor was both natural and benign—we would keep the highpaying, high-skilled jobs, while the workers in developing countries would do the actual work of making things. Displaced workers were smugly told to simply acquire new and better skills and more education in order to succeed in the changing American economy. Many workers did, but now they find that knowledge and talent can’t compete against the chase for higher profits and cheaper labor in the new global marketplace.” have been ISPS certified. He added that of the 6,000 port facilities receiving internationally traded goods, only a small proportion had been approved. Easdown is a maritime training manager at Lloyds Register in London, one of the world’s largest merchant ship classification societies. “We are in a state of panic—there is a very short space of time to comply,” he said in a March 15 article by Stefano Ambrogi of Reuters. “Not everyone is prepared, and there is a complete lack of direction from governments on how it should be done.” A parallel view was voiced in the same article by Gunnar Knudsen of Intertanko, the world’s largest oil tanker owners’ association. “The international axe will fall on July 1 and you are simply either in or out,” he said, “and right now it doesn’t look good.” The U.S. Coast Guard has stated that it will deny entry to any oil tanker lacking a security certificate after July 1, and is planning to monitor the last 10 ports each tanker has visited. It may deny entry to vessels if any of the ports they visited previously are thought to have inadequate security. 4 SIU Officials Appointed To Maritime Security Groups In an ongoing effort to protect members’ interests and to help safeguard U.S. mariners, ships and ports, four more SIU officials recently accepted appointments to separate maritime safety committees run by the U.S. Coast Guard. Receiving five-year appointments from the agency earlier this year were SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (Port of New York/New Jersey Area Maritime Security Committee, or AMSC); Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz (Baltimore AMSC); Hawaii Port Agent Neil Dietz (Central Pacific AMSC); and Boston Port Agent Gerard Dhooge (Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts AMSC). The positions are voluntary. “It’s an honor for SIU officials to be chosen to serve on the safety committees,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as vice chairman of the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s Special Seafarers’ Section—a body that performs considerable work on maritime security. “They understand the committees will require a lot of time and effort, but there’s no question that the SIU must be involved. It’s another way to protect our members’ rights and to play a role in the ongoing effort to improve shipboard and port security.” As previously reported, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey late last year was appointed to the HoustonGalveston AMSC. Seafarers LOG 5 �22284_p1,2,6,10,14, 24.qxd 3/30/2004 3:50 PM Page 6 Fire Damages Shughart in Kuwait, But No Serious Injuries Reported The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) credited the “quick thinking and action” of crew members aboard the USNS Shughart for limiting the scope of a shipboard fire that started March 5 aboard the vessel in Kuwait. MSC also lauded “the able assistance from crew members from USNS Red Cloud, USNS Sisler, Cape Ducato and Cape Douglas, and the invaluable help of Kuwaiti fire fighters” in minimizing the fire’s extent. SIU members sail in the steward department aboard the Shughart, a roll-on/roll-off ship operated by Patriot Contract Services for MSC. According to the agency, three crew members from the Shughart were treated for “minor smoke inhalation.” All of the ship’s cargo was safely delivered, but the vessel sustained serious damage—mainly to its electrical system. “It’s a big relief that no one was seriously injured,” Shughart Chief Steward Fernando Guity said from Kuwait. Guity said he recognized some fellow Seafarers from other ships who aided in the fire fighting— ironically, from time spent together in safety courses at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. “It was a big effort from all the ships, and there’s no question the training helped,” he observed. For nearly two weeks after the fire, Guity said the Shughart steward department utilized a barbecue pit for heating everything from coffee to full meals, because the ship had no electrici- Seafarers sail in the steward department aboard the USNS Shughart. ty. The vessel reportedly was scheduled to be towed in mid- to late March, as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press. “It turned out to be a huge fire,” Guity added. “The steward department did our part. We helped people suit up and provided water and whatever else was needed.” John Reinhart, CEO of Maersk Line, Limited, credited the crew and officers of the Red Cloud and Sisler for their efforts. “You put your own lives at risk to assist your fellow seafarers in the finest tradition of the sea,” Reinhart wrote in a letter to both ships. “We are proud of your actions and recognize that you have helped enhance the reputation of our entire organization.” MSC reported that the fire started while the Shughart was off-loading cargo for the U.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division. According to an MSC news release, “Although the U.S. Coast Guard investigation continues, it appears that the fire originated in the auxiliary machinery room on the starboard side of the 950-foot large, medium speed, roll on/roll off ship midway between the water line and the main deck. “Shughart was about 75 percent off-loaded when crew working in the area of the auxiliary machinery room area smelled smoke. Upon investigation, they found thick black smoke coming from the auxiliary machinery room and used extinguishers and water hoses to tamp down what they thought was a fire and to cool the area. After about 90 minutes and with smoke still billowing, it was clear the technique was not working. “The crew secured the engine room ventilation system and all other systems they could reach, and left the space to muster for a head count. Once all crew members were accounted for, the ship’s carbon dioxide fire fighting system was activated in the affected spaces. The system floods the area with carbon dioxide which depletes the oxygen in the space and extinguishes the fire…. “About six hours from the time smoke was discovered, the fire was declared to be out, and the spaces were left to cool. Stevedores worked quickly to finish off-loading the remaining cargo. Without warning about 12 hours later, fire flashed again. It appears that the re-flash may have come from fire in the electrical cables that penetrate the decks. Again, crew members and Benavidez Galley Gang Garners Rave Reviews U.S. Military Personnel Credit Seafarers Military personnel who sailed aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Benavidez during Operation Iraqi Freedom offered expansive compliments for the steward department. In a handful of recent letters, members of the armed forces commended Recertified Steward Lonnie Jones, Chief Cook Ambrose Gabriel, Assistant Cook James Macklin and SA Tommy Fiorella. “The professional courtesy we Seafarers Appeals Board Approves 2 Actions Amends Standby and Port Relief Jobs; Eliminates 120-Day Rotation for Some The Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) last month issued two actions which amend the shipping rules. The first deals with extending reliefs when the merchant mariner documents (MMDs) of Seafarers have not been renewed in time; the second modifies tours of duty for rated unlicensed personnel employed on Ready Reserve Force Fleet vessels or other activated MSC ships. Both actions went into effect March 1, 2004. Action number 423 recognizes the additional time needed by the U.S. Coast Guard to process and renew MMDs in the wake of September 11, 2001. Under certain circumstances, it allows Seafarers to extend their reliefs when their MMD renewals have not been processed in time. In an effort to secure and maintain qualified personnel aboard various military vessels, Action number 424 eliminates the maximum period of employment of 120 days for rated unlicensed personnel aboard activated military-contracted vessels that do not have permanent rotations. The SAB is composed of representatives from the union and its contracted operators. The complete text of each of the actions is printed below. Action Number 423 The Seafarers Appeals Board acting under and pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Union and the various Contracted Employers, hereby takes the following action. 6 Seafarers LOG WHEREAS, by prior action the Board recognized the need for appropriate Shipping Rule adjustments from time to time to accommodate changes in the shipping industry; and WHEREAS, with the change in security measures since September 11, 2001 the application of merchant mariner documents (MMD) has become more in depth, thus taking the U.S. Coast Guard longer to process; and WHEREAS, the Seafarers Appeals Board wishes to make provisions to allow members under certain circumstances to extend reliefs when their MMD renewal has not been processed in time. NOW THEREFORE, the Seafarers Appeals Board wishes to add the following provision to the Shipping Rules: Amend Rule 6. Standby and Port Relief Jobs by adding a new item G. to read: “A seaman employed as a permanent or trip tour rating who has registered, in accordance with rule 2. Shipping Procedure, Item G., 7, and is waiting on the return of his Merchant Mariners Document (MMD) while renewing, and has submitted evidence that a renewal MMD has been applied for within at least ninety (90) days prior to the expiration date of the MMD, may have a relief period extended until such time as his Merchant Mariners Document has been returned. Once the permanent or trip tour seaman has received the document, he may return to his permanent position aboard the vessel and transportation to the vessel shall be paid by the Company in accordance with the provi- fire fighters sprang into action. Flames were now visible from the starboard side of the ship, the first time actual flames were seen. Smoke had been the culprit during the first battle. “Fire fighters decided that the auxiliary machinery room was the likely epicenter of the fire, and getting foam into that space was crucial to extinguishing the fire. The crew immediately went to work cutting holes through the deck above the room, and the Kuwaiti fire trucks pumped foam into the machinery room. It worked. Twenty-four hours after discovery, the fire was finally out. “Three crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation. The cargo had all been safely and successfully delivered, but the ship was seriously damaged. “Electrical systems were most affected. An auxiliary diesel generator and an adjacent power pack room were destroyed. The auxiliary switchboard appears to be damaged, and electrical cabling in the fire area must be replaced, but the best news was that everyone was safe.” sions of these rules. The departing relief shall also have his transportation paid by the Company back to his original U.S. port of engagement.” Action Number 424 Ready Reserve Force Fleet and other Military Sealift Command Activation Vessels The Seafarers Appeals Board acting under and pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Union and the various Contracted Employers, hereby takes the following action. WHEREAS, by prior action the Board recognized the need for appropriate Shipping Rule adjustments to secure and maintain an adequate supply of qualified and trained personnel aboard various military vessels; and WHEREAS, the Union acknowledges the importance proper manning plays in the successful operation of these vessels and because of Ready Reserve Force Fleet or other Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel activations the Board wishes to amend the shipping rules to ensure that every rated unlicensed billet aboard Ready Reserve Force Fleet or other MSC vessels not having permanent rotations established is filled by eliminating the maximum period of employment. NOW THEREFORE, tours of duty shall be modified for rated unlicensed personnel employed on Ready Reserve Force Fleet vessels or other MSC vessels that activate to Full Operational Status that do not have permanent rotations established by eliminating the maximum period of employment of one hundred twenty (120) days. The maximum sixty days off will still be in effect. This SAB action shall remain in full force and effect until modified by future SAB action. have received from the entire crew on the ship has been nothing short of phenomenal,” wrote U.S. Army Capt. Elisabeth J. Collura, officer in charge of the 12-soldier detail assigned to the Benavidez. “Many thanks are due to the steward department. After almost a full year of deployment, the soldiers and I have come to appreciate the simpler things in life—in particular, good food.” Collura added, “The service from the crew in the galley has been exceptional. The food was absolutely amazing at every meal, and the steward’s crew was always willing to put in extra effort to accommodate our needs…. They provided a very refreshing and welcomed atmosphere after a year in the combat environment.” SFC Carlos M. Arzola praised the galley gang for “your outstanding support, professionalism and dedication during our mission. We appreciate your performance and the dedication of your department to maintain high morale in our soldiers. Keep up the good work.” Merchant marine officers aboard the Benavidez also were happy with the steward department. In a joint letter to Jones, five members of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association credited the galley crew for maintaining a positive attitude and delivering great service. “This steward department is to be commended for their efforts to feed around 50 people, maintain the sanitation of the galley, provide the officers with the service they expect, and maintain the sanitation of their areas of responsibility in the house,” the officers noted. Jones said, “Our department worked hard. We did our best, and everyone seemed happy with the department.” The Benavidez is a large, medium-speed roll-on/roll-off ship (LMSR). It is 950 feet long. April 2004 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 8:25 PM Page 7 Recertified Stewards Stress Pride in Union, Family, Selves As the seven recertified stewards came to the podium at last month’s membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. to receive their graduation certificates and say a few words about their experiences, the overriding theme was that of pride: pride in themselves, in their union, in their families and in the jobs they are performing. Michael Briscoe, Peter Crum, Robert Davis, Michael Gramer, George Maranos, Robert Valentine and Waymond Watson III comprised the latest group of Seafarers to complete the fourweek steward recertification curriculum at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point. Designed to upgrade members of the steward department and impart upon them culinary, social and union leadership skills, the course is considered the school’s top curriculum for members of the steward department. During the month-long program, the seven students were exposed to many different facets of steward department training, including menu planning, sanita- tion, contemporary nutrition, sauces, baking and a variety of culinary demonstrations. It also included computer lab work, fire fighting and small arms training and meetings with SIU department representatives at the Piney Point school, at the headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. and at the offices of the Maritime Trades Department in Washington, D.C. Many of the graduates particularly enjoyed the small arms training sessions. As members of the steward department, they don’t expect to use a weapon while aboard ship, but they found it a useful experience and were thankful for the self-defense training. George Maranos, who ships from the port of Houston, was the first of the graduates to be called to the podium. When he joined the union in the early ’90s, he had been an unemployed victim of a sluggish economy. The union, he stated, took a chance on him and gave him numerous opportunities to work and support his family. His experiences at Piney Point have been positive ones, and he Waymond Watson III (right) and the other recertified stewards received instruction in the use of small arms, though they hope they never need to use weapons defending U.S.-flag ships. The union’s newest class of recertified stewards joins SIU officials after last month’s membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. at which they each addressed the audience with a few words of thanks and support. encouraged the unlicensed apprentices in the audience to use the chances they have been given to build and promote their lives as well. “Grow with us and keep the SIU to its highest standards,” he told them. “Be proud to be a member.” Robert Valentine comes from a large family of Seafarers. Like many of his classmates, he credits the SIU with helping him turn his life around. Valentine, who sails from the port of Tacoma, met his wife through his merchant marine career. He told the trainees, “If I can make it, you can, too.” The Paul Hall Center has the best teachers, he continued, but the main focus of his advice to the younger generation was “Take pride in what you do.” Another of the recertified stewards sailing from Tacoma, Michael Gramer has been a member of the SIU since graduating from the Piney Point trainee program in 1981. This was his seventh time returning to the school for upgrading. Gramer thanked all the union officials—past and present—for their hard work and dedication to the membership. He noted there are lots of opportunities available within the organization and advised the trainees to take advantage of them. Robert Davis, who joined the union in 1986 in Honolulu, now sails from the port of Houston. This was his sixth visit to the school, and he believes that the skills he learns each time continue to help him be a better crew member and shipmate. He congratulated the unlicensed apprentices on a wise and sound decision to join the merchant marine and stressed the need for them to “participate in Peter Crum and Waymond Watson The mystery basket cookoff allowed the recertified stewards to do what they do best: cook. The Seafarers were paired off randomly into four teams (and since there was an odd number, Michael Briscoe was paired with another student, Chief Cook Pat Davis). Each team was presented with a mystery basket of the same ingredients and was given 15 minutes to write their menus. They were required to have soup, salad and a main April 2004 your safety drills, be informed, know what’s expected of you, and do it well and with pride.” Michael Briscoe told those in attendance at the meeting that he was proud to have them share in his graduation. “Completing my steward recertification course has been a goal of mine since I left the cruise ships in Hawaii,” he said. Now sailing from the port of Tacoma, Briscoe has been a member since 1983 and has upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center five times previously. The SIU, he told the trainees, “has been there for me time and time again, insuring me living wage jobs, safe working conditions aboard our contracted vessels, and the best available medical coverage for my family, which provides me with peace of mind while I am away.” He added that when his children are old enough, they will have an opportunity to become “part of this proud tradition or go on to college with the help of our union-sponsored scholarship program and forge their own dreams and way of life.” In discussing the benefits of belonging to the SIU, Briscoe also spoke about the responsibilities. “Present and future members have and will continue to be there when our country calls to deliver the goods . . . No matter the risks, the SIU membership will proudly and unselfishly take their places in the galleys, on the decks or down in the engine rooms on board our nation’s vessels and continue to sail into harm’s way whenever and wherever we are needed.” This was Peter Crum’s fifth visit to the school for upgrading. A graduate of trainee class 434, himself, the recertified steward was in a good position to advise Robert Valentine and Michael Gramer Michael Briscoe spoke of how the SIU has helped him continue to attain his goals. the future members that by working hard and staying focused, they also could reach the highest level in their chosen department. Crum sails from the port of Mobile, Ala. Waymond Watson III thanked the SIU for the tremendous opportunity it has given him over the years to travel to places that most people only dream of. “Twenty years ago, I was a kid on the street with no college or degree,” he said. Watson was the third of this group of recertified stewards to have graduated from the school’s trainee program. He was in class 387. Watson, who ships from the port of Jacksonville, Fla., told the trainees that when they graduate and become members in good standing with the union, they, too, will become part of a foundation upon which this union is always building. And some of the benefits of their union membership, he noted, are continuous employment, great health benefits and prosperity to afford one’s family the best of everything. Robert Davis and George Maranos course with an accompanying starch and vegetable. After the menus were submitted, the teams were given three hours to prepare four servings of the three-course meal and an additional 15 minutes to serve the meal to a panel of judges. Ultimately, the team of Michael Briscoe and Chief Cook Pat Davis were declared the winners. All the judges agreed that the food was some of the best they had tasted in the four-year competition. Seafarers LOG 7 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/30/2004 12:54 AM Page 8 Cabinet Secretaries Underscore Maritime’s Vital Importance Mariners Credited for Role in National Security U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta, U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow and U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert emphatically stated the administration’s support for the U.S. Merchant Marine during last month’s Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting in Hollywood, Fla. Mineta announced plans to move forward on a proposal he has long advocated. “I have called for a comprehensive marine transportation system/maritime industry initiative—a full-scale review of current policies with recommendations that will seek to increase the competitive standing of our domestic shipping industry,” he said on March 4. “The maritime initiative we envision, known as SEA-21, will complement other transportation efforts.” He explained that the SEA-21 initiative “will emphasize leadership and coordination within the Department of Transportation and across the federal government. It will focus on leveraging funds from federal, state, and local governments, as well as the private sector, to address the capital needs of the maritime transportation system. “While infrastructure is important, the heart and soul of our maritime system is its merchant mariners—the men and women who make this system work day in and day out,” Mineta continued. “I recognize that America’s merchant marine competes against foreignflagged vessels whose owners and crews pay minimal taxes. For this reason, I am advocating that the Bush Administration should carefully examine the tax burdens on our maritime industry and to our mariners, with the goal of improving our fleets’ and their workers’ ability to compete internationally.” The secretary described the U.S. maritime industry as essential to America’s economic strength and productivity, as well as to the creation of American jobs. “Nor can we afford to take for granted the crucial relationship between our maritime industry and national security,” he added. “I would like to personally thank all of you who have been there on the front lines of democracy and freedom.” Mineta cited the recent extension of the Maritime Security Program (MSP) as reflecting the administration’s “great respect for the role of the merchant marine and tremendous confidence in its future…. The Maritime Security Program, the Jones Act, and cargo preference laws are essential elements of America’s national maritime policy. This administration supports these laws and programs.” Snow, who once served as chairman and CEO of CSX Transportation (parent company of the U.S.-flag CSX Lines), said that passage of the new Maritime Security Program late last year was a good move for the country. “It is hard to overstate the importance of this program to the vital interests of the U.S.,” he declared. “Because of it the U.S. government has continual access to the global logistics system made possible by the modern and sophisticated container shipping industry, which ties the ports of the world together with an intermodal transportation system linking the rail and trucking industries with the U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert (left) says that the Iraq missions “once again show how invaluable the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine is to our national security.” Listening are SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco (center) and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow Maritrans, Inc. Chairman of the Board Stephen Van Dyck ocean container ships. These extraordinary logistic capabilities are continuously at the ready in case of any need. “MSP is a vital element of our military’s strategic sealift and global response capability, so it was high time we got a bill through expanding it—because this country needs you more than ever before.” Snow said that the legislative process itself also proved benefi- cial, as “people got a chance to examine the realities of what the Merchant Marine does and how the program actually works. MSP is another example of questionable theory taking a back seat to observable facts and realities. This is a program that serves America well. It is a program that must be and will be preserved.” Turning his attention to the war on terrorism and the continuing mission in Iraq, Snow sated, “This country needs you to protect it, and help us win the war on terror and face the threats to our security wherever they arise. You are part of the legions of working men and women who have responded to the terrorists with guts and determination. Your patriotism and skills have made our response to September 11 as strong as it has been, and I want to thank you for that. You’re showing the enemy that we won’t be beaten or deterred. When we needed to defeat the Taliban in Afghanistan, you were there. And when we needed to remove Saddam Hussein from power, you were there.” He added a word of praise for the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and for other vocational schools operated by MTD affiliates. “Through these schools you are giving people the opportunity to learn the skills they need to have good jobs, and that’s exactly what our country needs right now.” Lastly, Snow said he appreciates the cooperative, industry-wide efforts in tackling the enormous task of shipboard and port security. “I know that you and your membership really understand that we are living in a different world since September 11,” he said. “That’s why it’s so good to work with merchant mariners on the huge task of protecting our vessels and ports.” Schubert credited the MTD unions that mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom. “Over a year ago, when we first learned that U.S. armed forces would again be relying on American sealift to bring freedom to the Middle East, we called on you,” he recalled. “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 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.” Stephen Van Dyck, chairman of the board for SIU-contracted Maritrans, Inc., also discussed the industry’s importance and future. He noted the vital importance of political action and also singled out SIU President Michael Sacco along with other union officials for their efforts to help maintain a viable U.S.-flag fleet. “My hat goes off to you,” Van Dyck said. “This is not a platitude—this is a fact of life. You guys have dealt with the reality of a very difficult situation in a realistic way. And the kind of working experience that our people have on our equipment today—where they get good pay, they work hard and they are true professionals—is due in no small part to the responsible attitude that you all have taken over the years.” TRANSCOM, MSC Officers Laud U.S. Crews’ Reliability Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); and Vice Adm. David Brewer, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), offered strong words of praise for U.S. mariners in remarks to the MTD on March 4. Hughey discussed Operation Iraqi Freedom and asserted that the sealift mission was much more efficient than that of the Persian Gulf War. “During Desert Shield and Desert Storm, we delivered a lot of things. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, we delivered combat capability,” he said. He credited U.S. mariners with creating “a steel bridge (of military support ships) that was and is maintained today by this nation’s merchant mariners, who sailed in harm’s way to deliver America’s power on distant shores and who stand ready to repeat that accomplishment anytime, anywhere…. The legacy of the U.S.-flag fleet in deploying and maintaining our war fighters cannot be overstated. OIF would not have happened without you. OIF couldn’t have happened without your vitality, determination and commitment.” Hughey concluded, “We will win the global war on terrorism. We will defeat this new ‘ism,’ just like we defeated fascism in World War II and communism during the 8 Seafarers LOG Cold War. I also know that our merchant mariners will go in harm’s way on a moment’s notice to maintain our war fighters, anyplace and anytime. The U.S.-flag fleet and our merchant mariners will literally carry forth our nation’s strength and resolve.” Brewer described the maritime industry as “America’s greatest and most vital industry.” He explained MSC’s role and said the agency couldn’t get the job done without the “unsung heroes” who are members of MTD unions. The admiral also discussed the USS Coronado “test program,” which marks the first time civilian mariners are deployed on a Navy ship in support of a combat mission (see story, page 24). He is very confident the program will succeed. Lt. Gen. Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) He cited an old blues song that notes, “‘You don’t miss your water until your well runs dry.’ This industry is the well that pumps the cargo, the commerce, and all of those good things that keep this country running....People in uniform cannot get this job done without you. You are, as far as I am concerned, our right hand in this war on terrorism.” He closed, “My fellow Americans, it’s the soldier, the sailor, the airman, the Marine, the Coast Guardsman, and yes, the maritime team members who understand best that freedom is not free.” Vice Adm. David Brewer says mariners are the U.S. military’s “right hand in this war on terrorism.” Also pictured is MTD Vice President Ernie Whelan. April 2004 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/26/2004 3:40 AM Page 9 Health Care Crisis Only Gets Worse AFL-CIO President John Sweeney said the unending U.S. health care crisis hurts all working families but often is especially damaging to union workers and their contracted companies. Addressing the MTD executive board March 5, Sweeney and Doug Dority, the newly retired president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, urged the department’s affiliated unions to win the fight for good health care coverage. A day earlier, Thomas Mackell, managing director of The Kamber Group and deputy chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, also emphasized the devastating effects of America’s current health care woes. Sweeney pointed out that 44 million people in the U.S. don’t have health coverage. “The damage being done to their families is matched perhaps only by the damage being done to union members, union employers and our ability to compete in the world economy,” he said. “Who do you think picks up the tab for those uninsured workers—6 million of whom are fully employed? Our union employers do, and we as union members do, through higher premiums and lower benefits and through the taxes we pay.” For instance, the federation president referred to a new study “documenting how we’re all subsidizing Wal-Mart, which provides so-called health insurance for its employees that virtually none of them can afford to purchase. The study concluded that every Wal-Mart with more than 200 employees requires a $400,000 per year subsidy from the taxpayers, because when those workers need health care, they have to depend on taxpayer-supported medical facilities.” Thomas Mackell, managing director, The Kamber Group AFL-CIO President John Sweeney UFCW President Doug Dority Sweeney suggested that unfair competitive advantages through health care extend beyond U.S. shores. “At a time when trade and our trade deficit are hot topics of discussion, it’s useful to note that employers in other industrial countries have an advantage over American industry, because they all have some form of universal publicly financed health care—in effect, a giant subsidy,” he said. He also praised the 70,000 UFCW members who recently concluded a five-month strike that centered on health care. The strike was “a fight on behalf of all of us, on behalf of all working families. Because what the employer was trying to do was rip the guts out of collective bargaining and undermine a very good health program and a very good retirement security program,” Sweeney said. Dority said that while his union is proud of its members’ courage during the strike—and pleased with the contract it generated—the health care crisis virtually ensures more difficulties in the near future. “Working families in this country are taking it on the chin. I know that this strike in Southern California is not going to be our last strike,” Dority said. “We’re going to have strikes over health care in many areas. But it’s not just our industry, it’s every industry. “We as a labor movement, as people who care about workers, we’ve got to put health on the national agenda,” he continued. “But we’ve got to do more than that. We’ve got to mobilize our members. We’ve got to get our members registered to vote and signed up in our political action committee…. “Health care is an important issue in this country. We had incredible consumer support (during the strike) because they knew our people were out there fighting for something that’s near and dear. Working people in this country should have employer-provided health care, and we should never let them get away with not providing it.” Dority singled out Wal-Mart as the strike’s primary cause. He said that the West Coast grocery chains’ first contract offer was intended to cause a work stoppage. Those companies repeatedly cite their need to compete with Wal-Mart—a blatantly anti-union company—as the reason for driving down wages and benefits. “Wal-Mart doesn’t believe in pension plans, doesn’t believe in health and welfare. They pay the lowest wages in the retail industry,” Dority said. “A Wal-Mart employee that has health insurance—and way less than one-third have it—pay big premiums. They have to spend $6,400 a year before they get anything out of their health and welfare. That amounts to almost half of what they make—their total gross salary.” Mackell said America should strive to be a nation “where health care is a right and not a privilege. Today, health care represents 14 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). And we have 44 million people—by and large who are working—who have no health care coverage. The projections are that by 2008, health care represents 18.2 percent of GDP, and that number of 43 (million) goes to 50 million…. It’s our obligation to thoughtfully develop policies that will make this a better place to leave for our children and their children.” ITF’s Cotton Updates FOC Campaign Stephen Cotton, secretary of the Special Seafarers’ Department for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), provided a detailed, interesting update on the federation’s campaign against runaway-flag shipping (also known as flag-of-convenience or FOC shipping) during the MTD meetings March 5. Cotton reported that the campaign has progressed well, but much work remains. SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco (left) welcomes U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) to last month’s meeting. Clyburn thanked mariners for their dedication. Port Security Deserves Attention Two members of Congress told the MTD executive board that port security is extremely important and should be addressed accordingly. U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (DS.C.), vice-chair of the House Democratic Caucus, and U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, spoke to the board March 5. Both are keenly aware of port security issues—Clyburn’s district includes Charleston, while Green’s includes Houston. “It’s very important that port security be enhanced—not just what happens once they get there, but that we ensure that proper inspections take place before they leave their point of origin,” Clyburn asserted. Additionally, he noted the importance of dredging, how it impacts local economies, and also credited mariners for their excellent work. “What you do is so important to the future growth and development of our nation,” he said. Green’s district includes a port as well as an airport. He noted that the maritime industry generates far more jobs and commerce than the airlines. “It worries me that we’re not seeing the emphasis on port security that we saw on airports,” Green stated. “It’s a threat. The aviation industry still hasn’t recovered from the attacks. I wonder how long it would take us to respond or recover from an attack on one of our ports. We have to deal with that, and the MTD has provided that leadership.” MTD Holds Annual Meeting The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, consists of 29 international unions (including the SIU) and 24 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing 6.5 million working men and women. The articles on this page and page 8 are based on remarks presented March 4-5 during the MTD executive board meeting in Hollywood, Fla. April 2004 SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right) congratulates U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas) on his remarks to the MTD executive board. Seafarers LOG 9 �22284_p1,2,6,10,14, 24.qxd 3/29/2004 12:43 PM Page 10 Reliable SIU Boatmen Get the Job Done in Port Arthur, Lake Charles For SIU tugboat crews in Port Arthur, Texas and Lake Charles, La., the routines may not change much, but their approach to the next task also doesn’t vary. “Our union tug crews at Moran and Seabulk are some of the best and most well-trained in the industry,” asserted SIU Houston Patrolman Kevin Marchand, who supplied the photos for this story. “They aren’t always as visible as the deep sea members, but they’re the backbone of the river operations. And they take the same professional attitude, day after day, week after week.” SIU boatmen at Seabulk and Moran perform docking services, pushing vessels to berths or assisting while under way in the rivers. In between, they perform maintenance on the tugs. Seabulk is based in Lake Charles, while Moran works from Port Arthur (and elsewhere). The SIU crews normally maintain a seven-days-on, seven-days-off timetable, sometimes working overtime to ensure the ships stay on schedule. Many have been involved in assisting SIUcrewed military support ships that mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom and OIF2. “With the large movement of cargo and troops during the past year-plus, our tugboat crews have always been there,” Marchand noted. The photos were taken during recent meetings aboard the boats conducted by Marchand and SIU Assistant Vice President Gulf Coast Jim McGee. During those visits, the crews discussed upcoming boats including the contract negotiations as well as Seafarers-crewed Goliath handle important harbor towthe importance of maintaining ing services in Texas and Louisiana U.S. cabotage laws. (and elsewhere). SPARTAN, SAMPSON – Quartermaster Jamie Norsworth, Mate Rick Street, AB Darryl Jones, Assistant Engineer Richard Allen, Quartermaster Brent Goodridge, Assistant Engineer Curtis Abshire, Mate Brian Thibodeaux, AB Kenneth Poole Jr. GOLIATH – Mate James Shipley, Quartermaster James Y’barbo, Asst. Engineer Joseph Matte, Deckhand Gus Leday NIKE – Engineer Mark Phillips, Mate Denis Abshire, Quartermaster Larry DeWitt, OS Eric Moore CAPE ANN, MARY MORAN, GREG TURECAMO – Engineer Gary Davis, OS Eddie Heredia, OS James Bertrand, Captain Alan Self, Quartermaster Andy Ashworth, Engineer Gary Cormier, Engineer Chris Badgett, AB Glenn Dupree, Captain Gustavo Flores. HERMES – Wheelehouseman Bryan Welch, Quartermaster Chris Kibodeaux, Engineer Charles Durgin, OS Buck Shoenaker Seafarers Rally with Flight Attendants Houston-area Seafarers last month joined flight attendants from the Transport Workers Union who are battling to secure a new contract at Southwest Airlines. Negotiations have dragged on for nearly two years. The photos at left and at right were taken at Hobby Airport, about seven miles south of downtown Houston. 10 Seafarers LOG April 2004 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/30/2004 3:01 AM Page 11 SIU Officials Visit Seafarers-Crewed Ships in L.A. Mid-February found SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive VP John Fay and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel on the West Coast, where they met with some of the membership and took their place on the picket line in support of striking UFCW members. They also had an opportunity to visit crew members aboard the Horizon Consumer pierside in Los Angeles. In photo at left, from the left, are AB Gerry Gianan, Chief Cook Tom Kleine, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Unlicensed Apprentice Adam Begleiter, Standby Steward/Baker Don Dwyer, Sacco and DEU Editho Barraca. UNITE, HERE Announce Merger Two unions for apparel workers and employees of hotels and restaurants tentatively have given the go-ahead for a merger, the executive boards of the two organizations announced Feb. 23. The Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees International Union (HERE), and UNITE, the clothing, textiles and laundry union, have unanimously agreed in principle to join forces to create UNITE HERE. Rank-and-file members from both unions are expected to ratify the tentative agreement in July during a special joint convention in Chicago. Should the merger be endorsed, the new organization will be headquartered in New York City and represent 460,000 active members and more than 400,000 retirees throughout North America. Chartered in 1891 by the American Federation of Labor, HERE has 260,000 members through 111 affiliated local unions across the United States and Canada. UNITE represents more than 200,000 workers through joint boards and local unions in the United States and Canada. UNITE was formed in 1995 by the merger of two of the nation’s oldest unions—the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union and the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union. Bruce Raynor of UNITE will serve as general president of the new alliance, and HERE’s John Wilhelm will be president/hospitality industries. The two presidents will share executive, budgetary and personnel authority. Grocery Workers Ratify New Contract Continued from page 2 SIU officials surprised Seafarers on the Matsonia when they dropped by the Matson vessel in Long Beach. Above, with President Michael Sacco, is Steward/Baker Jennifer Jim. Other steward department members on the Matsonia, posing with SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and VP West Coast Nick Marrone (second from left), are Chief Cook Cleto Lindong (left) and GSTU Sam Rashid. After the Liberator cleared customs and immigration in Los Angeles, SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right in photo at right) speak with crew members aboard the USSM vessel, which had just returned from a 35-day run to the Far East. The support and solidarity of millions of people and organizations across America was essential to the workers, UFCW officials said. From the first day on, customers refused to cross the lines with an average of 75 percent of customers shopping elsewhere, amounting to estimated loses of more than $2 billion for the companies. Workers’ spirits were also lifted by community support including rallies and hundreds of thousands of dollars in food and financial aid. Many national and local political, faith and labor leaders defended the grocery workers and America’s middle class. Seafarers and SIU officials supported UFCW members in Washington, D.C., New York, St. Louis and Southern California. UFCW International President Doug Dority, who postponed his U.S. Military Leaders Reaffirm Importance of U.S. Merchant Marine Continued from page 2 Talent then noted, “It’s an amazing civilian and military synergy. I don’t know if there is a parallel for it in the history of warfare.” Brewer replied, “Yes, sir. Without them, it does not happen. Period.” Highlights of the prepared statement by Handy, Brewer and Dunwoody follow: Operation Iraqi Freedom “We successfully implemented a ‘force packaging’ strategy during OIF that synchronized the movement of combat-ready modules of unit equipment. This strategy allowed units like the Army’s 101st Airborne Division to quickly and coherently assemble upon debarkation overseas. SDDC loaded the entire division, nearly 4,000 vehicles and 250 helicopters, on only five vessels that offloaded overseas in just a 12day period, adding striking power to the combatant commander’s arsenal in a fraction of the time required during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. It ensured the integrity and rapid availability of a combat-effective fighting force far faster than the prior piecemeal movement of unit equipment.” Partnership between Labor, Management and Government “USTRANSCOM relies on its commercial transportation indus- April 2004 try partners and associated labor organizations to provide significant transportation capability during contingencies. Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom are no exception.” Value of LMSRs in OIF “The large medium-speed rollon/roll-off (LMSR) vessel emerged as USTRANSCOM’s strategic sealift success story. Procured based upon the lessons of Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm, 18 LMSRs completed 38 total voyages during initial OIF deployment operations, lifting more than 5.3 million square feet of cargo. This was approximately 26 percent of the total requirement. “By comparison, one LMSR in OIF carried the equivalent of six commercial charter ships during Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm. From another perspective, it requires 300 C-17s to deliver the amount of cargo carried by one LMSR.” Importance of U.S. Crews “Another USTRANSCOM area of concern is the availability of a sufficient number of qualified civilian mariners willing and available to fulfill the additional requirements created by the activation and long-term operation of MSC and MarAd surge sealift vessels. Volunteer commercial mariners crew the surge vessels. The decline in U.S.-flagged fleet size, increased training require- ments, and more attractive shoreside employment have led to a decrease in the number of fully qualified mariners. Fortunately, mariner availability was sufficient to consistently ensure on-time vessel activation of the ships supporting OEF/OIF, to include fast sealift ships (FSS), LMSRs, a hospital ship, and numerous MarAd RRF ships…. “In the future, there are no guarantees that sufficient mariners will be available when needed. USTRANSCOM, MSC, SDDC, and MarAd support the maintenance of a viable U.S. mariner pool through enforcement of cargo preference requirements, support for the Maritime Security Program (MSP), and vigorous maritime training and education. MSC has initiated a collaborative effort with USTRANSCOM and MARAD, in concert with the maritime industry, to revalidate and compare the peacetime/wartime requirements of mariner qualifications and availability in order to specifically identify potential shortfalls…. “We continue to urge the Administration and Congress to support programs to promote the expansion of the U.S. merchant mariner pool.” Maritime Security Program “MSP, another critical element of our commercial sealift program, provides assured access to sealift/intermodal capacity and a readily available, highly trained and qualified work force of merchant mariners employed in U.S.flagged shipping. The recent authorization of the Maritime Security Act of 2003 expands the current MSP fleet from 47 to 60 vessels. This increase allows the opportunity to better assure access to U.S.-flagged ‘low density-high demand’ assets (e.g., RO/RO and heavy lift ships). “MSP provides an underpinning for [the related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement] by helping to guarantee the continued presence of a minimal U.S.flagged commercial fleet operating in international commerce and that fleet’s availability to provide sustainment of sealift capability in time of war or national emergency. This guarantee is particularly critical should the U.S. find itself in a position where it must act alone. “Additionally, this increase in fleet size should play a critical role in expanding the U.S. mariner base. Currently, the MSP fleet accounts for more than 900 crew billets that provide jobs to roughly 1,800 trained and qualified mariners. “Finally, MSP provides financial assistance to offset the increased costs associated with operating a U.S.-flagged vessel. In return, participating carriers commit vessel capacity and their intermodal transportation resources for DOD use in the event of contingencies.” planned retirement until the strike ended, expressed his approval with the strike outcome. In a statement issued on the verge of the rank-and-file vote on the new contract, he said, “Today, I am pleased to join with the officers of the seven Southern California UFCW local unions in their announcement of a tentative agreement in the longest major strike in the history of the UFCW, the largest and longest strike in the history of the supermarket industry, and the first major strike of the 21st century … “The men and women on the picket lines are genuine heroes. Their sacrifice for affordable family health care has motivated and activated workers across the nation. I am honored to be part of their union, and I am humbled as well as inspired by their dedication, strength and selflessness… “These members will never be forgotten. They will always be honored and respected. We owe them a debt of gratitude. They have sent a message to employers everywhere that attempts to eliminate health care benefits will come at a high price. Workers will not sit idle as their families are denied health care protection. Workers will stand united and fight for health care… “Through their struggle, the striking and locked out workers have performed a service for the whole country. They have sounded the alarm for all of America— your health care benefits at work are at risk. If the supermarket giants—profitable, growing Fortune 50 mega-corporations— can launch an attack on health care benefits, then every employer is sure to follow. They have sounded the alarm that the American health care system is ready to collapse.” Although UFCW employees in Southern California reached agreement for their contract, labor experts say the uncertainty is just beginning for Bay Area grocery workers as well as others from across the country who also will seek new contracts this year. Two separate contracts covering about 50,000 workers in northern and central California expire in July and September, respectively. Contracts in Phoenix, Indianapolis and Chicago, which have already expired, were temporarily extended. The contract covering 29,000 workers in Baltimore and Washington ended March 27. Seafarers LOG 11 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 8:39 PM Page 12 The Steven Bennett is one of MSC’s seven containerships and is part of the 37 vessels in the prepositioning program. Positive, Produc Highlight Overs Seafarers Ably Man M Recertified Steward Manny Basas meets with Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus aboard the Eric Gibson in Diego Garcia. Seafarers aboard the Bennett confer with Port Agent Jeff Turkus (center) in midFebruary. From left, Frances Booker of the SIU’s Guam office; Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell; and Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus recently serviced vessels together. When SIU officials recently met with Seafarers aboard six U.S. military support ships (along with two other vessels) in Diego Garcia, Singapore and Malaysia, the discussions were wide-ranging—and overwhelmingly positive. “Overall, it was extremely upbeat,” noted SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell, who serviced the vessels with SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus. “There are a few vessels that operate in those areas without returning to the United States very much if at all, and the crews seemed to appreciate the effort to service ships in remote areas. It was a very positive trip.” Powell and Turkus serviced the ships from early to mid-February. In Diego Garcia, they met with Seafarers on the USNS Capable, USNS Chesapeake, Bernard F. Fisher, and Steven Bennett. In Singapore and Malaysia, they serviced the Eric G. Gibson, USNS Invincible, Prince William Sound and Sagamore. All but the latter two of those ships are military support vessels. Understandably, the SIU’s role in both Operation Iraqi Freedom last year and the current OIF2 were prime topics during the shipboard gatherings. Seafarers crewed up more than 100 U.S.-flag ships during the allout combat phase of the war in 2003; they already have mobilized dozens of ships for the enormous sealift component of OIF2 (a mission that includes troop rotations and resupply as well as other cargo that’s needed to help stabilize and reconstruct Iraq). “As always, the members are very proud of their role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and very serious about it,” observed Turkus. “That was evident in all of our discussions but, more importantly, in their actions.” In this U.S. election year, political action also proved a Pictured in Diego Garcia, the Chesapeake carries Defense Logistics Agency petroleum products. Aboard the USNS Capable, Port Agent Bryan Powell discusses the vital role of political action for U.S. mariners. Taking on stores aboard the Sagamore in Singapore are Chief Steward Claudia Mauricio and AB Chris Amigable. 12 Seafarers LOG April 2004 m v f i s t e h a S C t I �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 8:40 PM Page 13 uctive Meetings rseas Servicing The USNS Capable is MSC’s only air defense ship. Military Support Ships d ssia h se d It e n s S d d G. e ut y n st e pae g lof y if ross d s dd major subject. The SIU officials and crews discussed the vital role of SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. They also reviewed the importance of laws including the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program. Other topics included updates, reviews and discussions concerning: NCL America, the new U.S.-flag cruise operation scheduled to begin offering voyages this summer. Numerous new shipboard job opportunities secured for SIU members during the past year. How the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan works. The bidding process for the “RFPs” to operate military vessels. U.S. health care woes, including the fact that many employers have cut benefits while increasing premiums and co-payments. The new agreement between the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan and Prescription Solutions, which has been extremely wellreceived by the membership. Methods of transportation to and from Diego Garcia. “We went away from each vessel with a sense that the crew felt better-informed,” Powell concluded. “The membership signaled their pleasure and high degree of satisfaction with the current SIU administration, particularly (SIU President) Mike Sacco’s leadership and (SIU Vice President Contracts) Augie Tellez’s hard work in securing better and better contracts.” Diego Garcia is home to a U.S. Navy support facility. It is a British Indian Ocean Territory located near India. Steward Lonnie Jones Jr. helps keep the crew well-fed on the USNS Capable. SIU members man the USNS Capable, a T-AGOS 16 vessel. Bosun Michael Habib (left) welcomes SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell aboard an SIU ship. s s f s s. ur rr, a Port Agent Jeff Turkus (second from left) meets with the unlicensed crew of the Fisher in Diego Garcia. The Bernard Fisher transports U.S. Air Force munitions. April 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �22284_p1,2,6,10,14, 24.qxd 3/30/2004 1:13 AM Page 14 E njoy Your Summer Vacation at Burials at Sea Piney Point On the first beautiful day after a fairly rough passage from the Far East, crew members aboard the Liberator mustered on the ship’s stern for a service held by Capt. Douglas T. Fifield as the remains of John David Hanten and Mark Anthony Stevens were committed to the sea. At approximately 60 nautical miles, 230 degrees off the coast of Point Sur, Calif., the ashes of the two mariners were scattered in the ship’s wake, accompanied by a reading of Psalm 107:23-31 (In Praise of God’s Goodness). A mariner’s salute was then sounded on the ship’s whistle. On behalf of the entire crew, Capt. Fifield extended his sympathies to the families and friends of the two Brothers of the Sea. It’s been a long, cold winter, and thoughts of the summer’s warmth are becoming more of a reality. But with the approach of the summer season also comes the perennial question: Where will we spend our summer vacation? Many Seafarers, pensioners and their families have already found the answer. The Paul Hall UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at the Paul Hall Center is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.00/day Spouse $10.00/day Child $10.00/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed above include all meals but do not include tax. Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. offers just about everything one could possibly want to make a memorable summer holiday. For those who haven’t yet tried it, take your cue from those who have and make this year the first of an annual summer tradition. For up to two weeks at a time, the center opens its doors to SIU members and their families to enjoy a dream vacation of their own, spending their hard-earned time off in an excellent location—and at a great value. The facility offers affordable accommodations, three meals a day, a health spa, tennis courts, sailboats, Olympic-sized swimming pool, a maritime museum and so much more. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, jogging and sumbathing at nearby beaches. Southern Maryland also hosts lots of other activities: festivals, celebrations, fairs and craft shows, to name a few. And then, of course, there are the museums, historic sites, baseball games and sightseeing activities in Washington, D.C., Alexandria and Arlington, Va. and Baltimore and Annapolis, Md.—all within an easy hour-and-a-half drive from Piney Point. Are you ready? The first step is to decide when you want to arrive. Then, fill out the reservation form below, mail it to the Paul Hall Center, wait for summer, and kick back and enjoy. PAUL HALL CENTER TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: ____________________________________________________________ Social Security number: _____________________ Book number: Working Aboard the Cape Kennedy Steward Eddie Taylor mans the griddle on board the Cape Kennedy, whose home port is New Orleans. The Cape Kennedy was activated in February for OIF2. Kent Law is the chief cook on the Cape Kennedy, a RO/RO vessel operated for MarAd by Keystone Shipping Co. ____________ Address:____________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Telephone number: __________________________________________________ Number in party / ages of children, if applicable: ____________________________ Date of arrival: 1st choice: ______ 2nd choice: ______ (Stay is limited to a maximum of two weeks) 3rd choice: ______ Date of departure: ___________________________ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 14 Seafarers LOG Members of the deck department are (from left) ABs Leroy Taylor, Michael J. White, Jesley Callum and Willie Howard III. 4/04 April 2004 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 9:47 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 2 6 11 15 29 1 12 15 12 11 3 4 4 8 2 22 18 176 3 0 1 4 14 16 3 2 11 10 6 0 1 1 4 2 22 10 110 0 3 1 3 19 23 0 7 12 21 10 4 1 7 18 1 21 17 168 0 3 1 6 9 19 0 7 6 10 4 2 2 0 12 2 9 8 100 2 6 3 5 7 22 0 2 7 3 14 1 4 3 8 2 15 3 107 1 1 0 0 2 5 0 1 1 5 5 2 0 1 1 0 8 6 39 2 2 0 2 9 14 0 2 9 7 9 4 2 4 8 1 8 5 88 0 1 1 13 14 20 0 4 4 12 5 2 2 1 13 0 23 12 127 0 1 2 3 3 8 0 3 3 3 12 1 1 1 0 1 3 3 48 0 2 0 2 2 7 0 2 0 5 6 0 1 1 3 0 3 3 37 0 3 0 9 7 14 0 5 5 13 7 3 1 2 18 1 12 11 111 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 4 2 2 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 5 21 1 4 5 8 12 10 0 4 2 27 5 1 5 3 8 2 26 7 130 1 6 0 6 14 21 0 1 4 20 11 1 46 3 4 1 19 12 170 0 0 0 3 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 5 2 18 0 4 2 3 7 4 0 1 4 14 10 1 5 4 6 2 8 4 79 Totals All Departments 442 461 356 385 345 Port 0 4 3 8 8 24 0 7 11 14 13 3 6 6 5 2 22 14 150 1 1 1 1 7 7 2 2 5 4 4 1 0 1 3 2 22 7 71 0 0 1 2 7 10 0 1 9 6 3 2 1 5 7 1 9 11 75 3 9 0 14 30 51 0 14 22 32 19 3 0 12 31 1 45 28 314 1 1 5 13 21 35 1 15 20 16 15 4 3 4 11 1 25 23 214 2 0 2 3 22 21 1 1 11 16 6 2 1 2 2 3 19 15 129 0 3 0 2 4 6 0 2 2 1 4 0 0 4 5 0 10 3 46 0 6 1 9 18 34 0 9 7 16 5 1 3 6 16 2 18 15 166 2 2 2 9 10 28 0 6 10 4 17 2 4 2 11 4 18 7 138 2 1 0 2 7 6 0 1 4 10 4 1 1 1 2 0 11 8 61 1 8 2 2 6 16 0 4 5 2 8 1 2 3 2 1 12 5 80 0 1 0 1 4 7 0 1 4 6 1 1 1 1 8 0 7 5 48 0 1 2 17 26 28 0 7 9 15 9 4 3 1 26 0 30 26 204 0 3 2 2 5 17 0 4 7 6 17 0 1 1 4 0 7 4 80 0 1 0 2 4 9 0 3 1 6 4 0 0 2 2 0 2 6 42 0 8 0 2 7 12 0 1 1 8 11 0 19 1 4 0 13 8 95 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 4 2 0 2 3 6 0 0 0 2 6 0 5 4 43 1 1 4 12 20 13 1 7 8 30 5 0 5 4 15 1 28 13 168 2 2 0 10 21 23 0 2 5 29 8 1 45 2 6 2 18 19 195 211 169 727 600 427 0 0 1 0 4 8 0 1 1 3 3 1 0 0 0 0 3 2 27 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 1 0 5 1 7 0 2 1 5 3 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 36 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 5 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 18 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. April 2004 Piney Point .............Monday: May 3, June 7 Algonac ..................Friday: May 7, June 11 Baltimore ................Thursday: May 6, June 10 Boston.....................Friday: May 7, June 11 Duluth .....................Wednesday: May 12, June 16 Guam ......................Thursday: May 20, June 24 Honolulu .................Friday: May 14, June 18 Houston ..................Monday: May 10, June 14 Jacksonville ............Thursday: May 6, June 10 Joliet .......................Thursday: May 13, June 17 Mobile ....................Wednesday: May 12, June 16 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 1 7 0 4 24 28 0 14 9 22 13 1 0 7 17 2 27 18 194 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs May & June 2004 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters New Bedford ..........Tuesday: May 18, June 22 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: May 11, June 15 New York................Tuesday: May 4, June 8 Norfolk ...................Thursday: May 6, June 10 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: May 5, June 9 Port Everglades.......Thursday: May 13, June 17 San Francisco .........Thursday: May 13, June 17 San Juan..................Thursday: May 6, June 10 St. Louis..................Friday: May 14, June 18 Tacoma ...................Friday: May 21, June 25 Wilmington ...............Monday: May 17, June 21 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 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. Seafarers LOG 15 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 8:49 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 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 Port TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 7 1 4 13 2 0 4 31 0 0 1 3 3 0 0 3 10 0 7 0 3 3 0 0 0 13 Port 0 7 3 3 17 1 0 4 35 0 1 1 1 3 0 0 0 6 0 2 0 1 3 0 0 0 6 2 8 4 3 5 0 4 4 30 0 14 14 12 37 3 4 13 97 0 2 7 4 6 0 1 5 25 0 18 10 15 0 0 0 2 45 0 3 1 1 1 2 0 0 8 0 10 9 4 16 2 3 16 60 0 4 5 2 3 0 1 7 22 0 17 10 12 0 0 1 0 40 0 3 0 0 1 1 2 0 7 0 4 4 5 14 4 3 12 46 1 2 1 3 10 0 4 6 27 0 15 5 9 0 0 0 2 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 6 2 2 6 1 2 10 29 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 0 3 0 4 0 0 0 0 7 Port 0 2 3 3 6 0 3 4 21 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 1 3 4 1 0 5 14 0 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 7 0 4 1 0 3 0 0 0 8 Port 0 2 2 2 7 1 0 2 16 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 0 5 ENTRY DEPARTMENT NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 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 0 0 0 0 0 0 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 3 0 3 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Totals All Departments 74 21 28 72 11 12 46 203 74 119 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST 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 Charles Cvetich in 1943 as a cadet at Kings Point . . . . . . catching salmon on the Columbia River . . . These photos were sent to the LOG by Gordon P. Driscoll. of Warren, Ore. They are of his friend Chuck Cvetich, a former NMU member. Cvetich was a cadet at Kings Point in 1943, but decided to join the war effort as an AB. He sailed on six Liberty ships and a T2 tanker. He says he enjoyed sailing with the NMU so much that he . . . working in his garden today. never bothered to test for his officer’s rating. He further remarked that going to sea was an education one could not learn in college. He left sailing in 1947 to become a teacher, but continued to work aboard tugboats in Alaska during the summer months. Today, at the age of 83, Cvetich enjoys hunting, fishing and the Seafarers LOG. April 2004 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 8:55 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 YAHYA A. ALHAHJ, 66, commenced his seafaring career in 1972 in Detroit. Brother Alhahj’s first vessel was American Steamship Corp.’s Saginaw Bay. The Arabian-born mariner worked in the deck and engine departments and sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. Brother Alhahj upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. in 1971 and 2001. He last sailed aboard the TOTE’s Northern Lights. Brother Alhahj lives in Detroit. CARLOS E. BONILLA, 65, hails from Puerto Rico. He joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of New Orleans. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Brother Bonilla first sailed aboard the USNS Potomac. He worked in the deck department and enhanced his skills on four occasions at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bonilla last went to sea on the Horizon Navigator. He makes his home in Wilmington, Calif. WILLIAM DEAN, 45, joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Dean first worked aboard the Sea-Land Portland. Born in St. Louis, he shipped in the deck department as a bosun. Brother Dean also worked in the engine and steward departments and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. He completed the bosun recertification course there in 1992 and last shipped on the Sea-Land Defender. Brother Dean resides in Auburn, Calif. HAMID HIZAM, 57, was born in Arabia. Brother Hizam started his career with the SIU in 1969. His first voyage was aboard American Steamship Corp.’s American Sea Ocean. Brother Hizam shipped in the engine department and sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. His last voyage was aboard the Sam Laud, another American Steamship vessel. Brother Hizam is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. CARL T. LARSON, 68, became an SIU member in 1989 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother April 2004 Larson’s first voyage was aboard the USNS Harkness. Born in Rhode Island, he worked in the deck department. Brother Larson honed his skills in 2001 when he attended the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. His last trip to sea was on the USNS Mt. Washington. Brother Larson lives in his native state in the city of Middletown. NORBERTO PRATS, 69, commenced his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of New York. Brother Prats’ first voyage was aboard the Merrimac, a Merrimac Transport, Inc. vessel. A native of Puerto Rico, he worked in the deck department as a bosun. Brother Prats was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. He attended the institution on four occasions, including in 1981 when he completed the bosun recertification course. Brother Prats last sailed on the Horizon Expedition and lives in his native commonwealth. BLADEMIRO S. SANTANA, 58, began his seafaring career in 1976 in the port of New York. His first vessel was the Sea-Land Boston. Brother Santana sailed in all three departments and upgraded his skills on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last worked aboard the Chemical Explorer. Brother Santana, who was born in South America, makes his home in Rochester, N.Y. INLAND JAMES E. FOSTER, 61, was born in Alabama. Boatman Foster joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Mobile, Ala. after serving in the U.S. Army. Boatman Foster initially worked aboard a Dravo Basic Materials Co. vessel and was last employed on a Martin Marietta vessel. A member of the deck department, he makes his home in Semmes, Ala. GREAT LAKES ALBERT L. CROPEK, 61, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in Detroit. Prior to joining the SIU, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Cropek shipped in the deck department, working primarily aboard Luedtke Engineering Co. vessels. He upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1994 and 2001. Brother Cropek, who was born in Westfield, N.Y., now resides in Girard, Pa. SAIF K. SHAJIRA, 59, began his seafaring career in 1967 in Detroit. His initial voyage was aboard a Bob-Lo Island vessel. Born in Arabia, Brother Shajira worked in the deck department. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point training school in 1980. Brother Shajira last worked on American Steamship Corp.’s H. Lee White. He makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 Headquarters of the SIU Atlantic and Gulf District announced this week that two tanker companies, Tanker Sag Harbor Corporation and Petrol Tanker Industries had agreed to wage increases which granted unlicensed seamen in those outfits the highest wages in the industry. The wage boosts ranged from $5 to $25 per month, and overtime rates were also increased. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. NAME (last, first) AGE Ali, Mohamed 70 Aurelio, Perez 65 Cyrus, Carlton 69 Manousaridis, Stavros 65 Martinez, Ernesto 80 Maynard, Leroy 65 Price, Egbert 65 Rocker, Steven 56 Shields, Thomas 60 EDP Feb. 1 Feb. 1 Jan. 1 Mar. 1 Feb. 1 Feb. 1 Dec. 1 Jan. 1 Oct. 1 1975 SIU Headquarters Representative Edward X. Mooney was one of three labor representatives who served on the Virgin Islands Minimum Wage Industry Committee last month. The committee, which reviewed minimum wage rates for all industries in the Virgin Islands, met for two weeks on the islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix. This Month In SIU History 1968 As a result of protest by the SIU and management officials of the unsubsidized sector of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Maritime Administration has set slightly higher guideline rate ceilings for U.S.-flag vessels carrying full loads of government-sponsored cargoes. They replaced temporary rates in effect since last December and are effective until January 1, 1969. The main objection of the SIU and the industry to MarAd’s method of establishing ceilings for the so-called 50-50 cargo rates has been that they discriminate against the more efficient intermediate-sized vessels—those between 15,500 tons and 39,999 tons—and cater to higher-cost smaller ships. 1991 The head of the U.S. Transportation Command visited the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship to inspect the training facility and to thank the members of the manpower office for their work in crewing merchant vessels for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. “We want to thank all of you for the great work you have done,” Air Force General Hansford T. Johnson told members of the recertified bosun course and other classes at the school as well as the manpower staff. “At the very beginning—on a moment’s notice— we pulled everything together and broke out 17 fully manned and loaded ships in just five days. We appreciate all your efforts. Many said it would not work, but it did work because of you. Many thanks.” 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. Seafarers LOG 4/04 17 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 9:09 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JIM ABELLANO Pensioner Jim Abellano, 55, passed away Dec. 8. Brother Abellano began his career with the SIU in 1966 in the port of New York. His first vessel was the Steel Artisan, operated by Isco. Born in the Philippines, Brother Abellano worked in the steward department. He last went to sea on the Sea-Land Patriot and resided in Daly City, Calif. Brother Abellano began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2003. JOHN ADAMS Pensioner John Adams, 76, died Jan. 5. He started his career with the SIU in 1951 in New Orleans. The Louisianaborn mariner worked in the steward department and started receiving retirement compensation in 1980. He made his home in Tyler, Texas. ROSCOE ALFORD Pensioner Roscoe Alford, 85, passed away Feb. 4. Brother Alford joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Mobile, Ala. A native of Mt. Herman, La., he worked in the steward department and lived in Franklinton, La. He last worked on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Jefferson Davis and started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1980. PERTWEE ANDREPONT Pensioner Pertwee Andrepont, 76, died Nov. 11. He started his SIU career in 1967 in the port of Houston after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first ship was the Globe Explorer, a Sea Liberties vessel. Born in Louisiana, he worked in the engine department. The Lake Charles, La. resident last went to sea on the USNS Mt. Vernon. Brother Andrepont started receiving retirement stipends in 1992. GUADALUPE BANDA Pensioner Guadalupe Banda, 69, passed away Jan 1. Brother Banda began his career with the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York. A native of Sugar Land, Texas, he shipped in the engine department. Brother Banda last worked on Pacific Gulf Marine’s Diamond State and began collecting his pension in 2003. He was a resident of Galveston, Texas. JOHN L. BELLAMY JR. Pensioner John L. Bellamy, Jr., 76, died Nov. 18. Brother Bellamy commenced his career with the SIU in 1969 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. His first vessel was the Buckeye Victory. Born in Florida, Brother Bellamy shipped in the steward 18 Seafarers LOG on pension in 1992. department. His last voyage was on Puerto Rico Marine Management’s Guayama. A resident of Center Hill, Fla., Brother Bellamy went ALFRED BODIE Brother Alfred Bodie, 63, passed away Nov. 27. He joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of New York. Brother Bodie’s first voyage was aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Wild Ranger. The Alabama-born mariner sailed in the steward department and lived in Mobile, Ala. Brother Bodie last worked on American Ship Management’s Cape Breton. BIAGIO CARUSO Pensioner Biagio Caruso, 87, died Nov. 14. Brother Caruso joined the SIU in 1972 in San Francisco. The steward department member worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Michigan Tankers. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1980. Brother Caruso, who was born in North Carolina, made his home in Merced, Calif. SHONG LING CHIANG Pensioner Shong Ling Chiang, 82, passed away Jan. 2. He launched his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Born in China, he worked in the steward department. Brother Chiang began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1973. He lived in San Francisco. JOHN CONNORS Pensioner John Connors, 82, died Nov. 26. Brother Connors began his seafaring career in 1969 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first ship was the Sea Georgia, a Seatrain Lines vessel. The Massachusetts-born mariner worked in the deck department and made his home in Seabrook, N.H. Brother Connors last went to sea on Interocean Management Corp.’s Patriot State. He went on pension in 1987. MAURO G. GUTIERREZ Brother Mauro G. Gutierrez, 58, passed away Jan. 22. He joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Gutierrez was born in the Philippines. He worked in the deck department as a bosun, sailing in both the deep sea as well as inland divisions. His last ship was the Horizon Consumer. Brother Gutierrez was a resident of Norwalk, Calif. THOMAS HARRIS Pensioner Thomas Harris, 64, died Dec. 3. Brother Harris started his seafaring career in 1962 in the port of Philadelphia. His first vessel was Calmar Steamship’s Losmar. Born in Maryland, he worked in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Harris resided in Huntingdon, Tenn. and last sailed on the LNG Capricorn. He went on pension in 1998. ALLEN McKELLIPS Pensioner James Higgins, 69, passed away Nov. 9. He began his career with the SIU in 1967 in New Orleans after serving in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force. Brother Higgins’ first voyage was aboard the Oceanic Wave. The Louisiana native worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Sea-Land Achiever. Brother Higgins made his home in Fairfield, Calif. and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2000. Brother Allen McKellips, 56, passed away Nov. 8. He joined the SIU in 1995 in the port of Honolulu. Brother McKellips first sailed aboard American Hawaii Cruises’ SS Independence. A deck department member, he last sailed on the American Tern. Brother McKellips, who was born in California, made his home in Honolulu. PHILLIP HUSS HARVEY MILLS Pensioner Phillip Huss, 80, died Dec. 24. Brother Huss joined the SIU in 1952 in Boston, Mass. His first vessel was the Sand Captain. Born in Ft. Scott, Kan., Brother Huss shipped in the engine department. His last ship was the Horizon Discovery. A resident of Moorestown, N.J., he began receiving retirement stipends in 1989. Pensioner Harvey Mills, 67, died Jan. 3. Brother Mills began his career with the Seafarers in 1967 after serving in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy. His first ship was the Del Alba. The Manchester, Ky.-born mariner shipped in the deck department and worked in all three divisions. He last worked on the SeaLand Quality and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1998. Brother Mills lived in his native state. JAMES HIGGINS CHEE JANG Pensioner Chee Jang, 84, passed away Jan 3. He started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Born in California, Brother Jang worked in the steward department. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1970 and resided in San Francisco. JOSEPH KORCHAK Pensioner Joseph Korchak, 75, died Nov. 5. Brother Korchak joined the ranks of the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. The deck department member was born in Pennsylvania and made his home in Ridgefield Park, N.J. Brother Korchak went on pension in 1993. He last went to sea on Liberty Maritime’s Liberty Wave. JOHN LAN Pensioner John Lan, 96, passed away Jan 3. He began his seafaring career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Born in China, Brother Lan shipped as a member of the steward department. He started receiving his pension in 1974 and made his home in San Francisco. JOSEPH McGILL Pensioner Joseph McGill, 77, died Dec. 12. Brother McGill became a Seafarer in 1950, joining in Tampa, Fla. His first vessel was Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Monarch of the Sea. Born in Bay Minette, Ala., he worked in the deck department. Brother McGill lived in Orange Beach, Ala. and went on pension in 1976. TEODULO PADERES Pensioner Teodulo Paderes, 92, passed away Dec. 31. He embarked on his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Brother Paderes worked in the steward department and resided in San Francisco. He began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1971. ADOLPH RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Adolph Rodriguez, 74, died Nov. 11. Brother Rodriguez joined the ranks of the SIU in 1980. Born in Texas, he sailed as a member of the deck department. The Texas City, Texas resident went on pension in 1994. ALFRED ROY Pensioner Alfred Roy, 75, passed away Nov. 4. Brother Roy joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Houston after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Roy’s first vessel was the Sabine. Born in St. Martinville, La., he sailed in the engine department. Brother Roy last worked aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Sam Houston and lived in Lafayette, La. He started receiving his pension in 1993. STANLEY SCHNITZER Pensioner Stanley Schnitzer, 81, died July 31. He launched his seafaring career in 1955 in the port of San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Navy. The California-born mariner sailed in the engine department and last worked on Delta Steamship’s Santa Mariana. Brother Schnitzer went on pension in 1987. He made his home in San Francisco. GILBERT SCHUSTER Pensioner Gilbert Schuster, 75, passed away Dec. 16. Brother Schuster commenced his Seafaring profession in 1959 in New Orleans. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he first sailed for the SIU aboard Pennsylvania Transportation Co.’s Manta. Brother Schuster was born in Iowa and sailed in the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the SS Independence. Brother Schuster began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. He made his home in Madison, Wis. NANCY SCOTT Pensioner Nancy Scott, 75, died Dec. 4. Sister Scott began her career with the MC&S in 1978 in San Francisco. She worked in the steward department and made her home in Clovis, Calif. Sister Scott last went to sea on American Hawaii Cruises’ SS Constitution. Sister Scott began receiving her pension in 1980. ROBERT SIPSEY Pensioner Robert Sipsey, 77, passed away Dec. 13. Brother Sipsey embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first vessel was Sinclair Oil Co.’s Robin Mowbray. Born in Massachusetts, Brother Sipsey sailed as a member of the deck department. He last worked aboard the Horizon Spirit. Brother Sipsey, who lived in Vallejo, Calif. began receiving his retirement compensation in 1996. THOMAS SPANGLER Brother Thomas Spangler, 63, died Dec. 29. He joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Baltimore after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Spangler’s first voyage was aboard the Transyork. The Maryland-born mariner sailed in the deck department, last working on the OMI Missouri. Brother Spangler was a resident of Baltimore. YOCIE WILSON Pensioner Yocie Wilson, 91, passed away Dec. 12. Sister Wilson commenced her career with the MC&S in San Francisco. She sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving compensation for her retirement in 1975. Sister Wilson lived in San Francisco. INLAND EUGENIO GESTIDO Pensioner Eugenio Gestido, 83, died Jan. 22. Boatman Gestido launched his seafaring career in 1962 in the port of Baltimore, Md. Born in Spain, Boatman Gestido shipped in the engine department. He last worked aboard a Continued on page 20 April 2004 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/30/2004 1:22 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), Jan. 9—Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Fausto D. Aranda, Educational Director Lamar A. Parker, Engine Delegate Anibal O. Vega, Steward Delegate William M. Simmons. Bosun announced payoff Jan. 11 in New York. He led discussion of president’s report in Seafarers LOG and advised crew to read LOG to stay informed about union matters. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. whenever possible. He stressed importance of safety on board vessel at all times and asked that any safety problems be reported to supervisor immediately. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. Crew gave thanks for good food and look forward to happy new year. Next ports: Greece and Israel. USNS CHESAPEAKE (IUM), Jan. 27—Chairman David B. Zurek, Secretary Michael E. Hammock, Educational Director Earl M. Macom, Engine Delegate Justin Valencia. Chairman announced ship to start discharging cargo Feb. 20 in Diego Garcia before cleaning up and heading to shipyard in Singapore. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade skills by taking courses at Paul Hall Center and reminded them to check that all documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new TV. Crew thanked steward department for good job. ALLEGIANCE (Maritrans), Feb. 1—Chairman Philip A. Corl, Secretary Henry E. Manning, Deck Delegate Ray G. Johns, Engine Delegate George B. Lockett, Secretary Sherman Harper. Chairman stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Educational director said new movies and books have been purchased. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine department delegate asked for clarification of wages for absent crew member. Request made for hookup of washing machine expressly for dress clothes and whites. ATLANTIC (USSM), Feb. 15— Chairman David B. Campbell, Secretary Gerald B. Kirtsey, Deck Delegate Carl J. Sands, Steward Delegate Charles K. Fincher. Chairman announced receipt of communications from headquarters. Educational director advised those needing z-cards renewed do so one year in advance. He also reminded crew members of opportunities available for upgrading skills at Piney Point. No beefs reported; some minor discrepancies brought up in deck department relating to overtime. Suggestions made for option of direct deposit of vacation checks and to allow pension with 20 years’ seatime, regardless of age. Request put in for new mattresses, lounge chairs and keys to drawer locks. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next ports: April 2004 Elizabeth, N.J.; Charleston, S.C.; Miami; Houston. EL MORRO (IUM), Feb. 1— Chairman David I. Murray, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 7 in San Juan, P.R. Secretary thanked everyone for helping take on stores and reminded them to leave fresh bed linen for relief person. Educational director urged crew members to take advantage of upgrading courses held at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding retirement benefits and money purchase pension plan. Vote of thanks given to steward department for putting out delicious meals, especially over Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year holidays. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. GREAT LAND (IUM), Feb. 4— Chairman Ernest J. Duhon, Secretary Antoinette M. Spangler, Educational Director Azeem A. Modak, Steward Delegate Mose Peacock Jr. Chairman reported new prescription plan now in effect. Treasurer noted $240 in ship’s fund. Recommendation made to purchase DVDs instead of videos. Crew voted to buy new DVD/VCR player. No beefs or disputed OT noted. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Feb. 1—Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Donnell C. Tagart Jr., Deck Delegate John T. Emrich, Engine Delegate Eric Campbell, Steward Delegate Thomas E. Kleine. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 10 in Oakland, Calif. Secretary thanked bosun and deck gang for good painting job. He also reminded crew members that this is an election year and to help support maritime industry by contributing to SPAD. Educational director encouraged everyone to attend upgrading classes at Piney Point facility. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding transportation home. Steward department thanked for good service. Crew sends condolences to Gutierrez family for their loss. “Brother Mauro G. Gutierrez was a recent crew member aboard the Horizon Consumer, and he will be missed.” Next ports: Oakland; Los Angeles; Honolulu. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), Feb. 8—Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Melvin E. Morgan, Educational Director David S. Goodpastor, Engine Delegate Ralph D. Thomas, Steward Ahmed Sharif. Chairman announced vessel payoff Feb. 11 in Tacoma Wash. with blanket relief that day. He advised everyone to check with boarding patrolman and be sure to pay dues. Educational director spoke about courses offered at Paul Hall Center and of keeping all necessary shipping documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for bosun or steward to accompany captain during room checks. Request put in for locker repair in all departments. Next ports: Tacoma; Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), Feb. 15—Chairman William E. Lough, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director Benny A. Orosco. Chairman stated that special informational meeting was held at request of Wilmington Port Agent John Cox. Information was passed out to crew regarding draws and checks. Chairman noted supply fan now working again. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. He stated Coast Guard station moved to downtown Oakland; no longer in Alameda, Calif. Beefs reported in engine department. Crew agreed that furniture in crew lounge should be replaced as soon as possible. Suggestion made that DVD player and VHS rewinder be purchased from ship’s fund. Request made for better mattresses and pillows. Vote of thanks to Chief Cook Carlito Navarro for good food. Next ports: Oakland; Honolulu; Long Beach, Calif. INNOVATOR (USSM), Feb. 1— Chairman Stephen R. Kastel, Secretary Charles A. Medeiros, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Adel B. Irani. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 4 in Los Angeles. He thanked deck department for job well done and asked those getting off to clean rooms for next persons. Secretary noted tax time is near and advised crew members to get necessary documents ready. He also talked about new prescription plan and posted information for all to read. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LIBERATOR (USSM), Feb. 8— Secretary Guillermo F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate Edward F. OBrien, Engine Delegate Si I. Hughes. Chairman posted president’s report from recent Seafarers LOG and advised everyone to read it. Educational director suggested crew members check that all necessary shipping documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made that dinner meal be only 30 minutes while in port. Crew members were asked to help maintain lounge and laundry areas and to keep lounge locked during stays in port. Clarification requested on 90day working rule for emergency trip off. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles, Calif. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Lines), Feb. 1—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director John A. Collins Jr., Engine Delegate Stephen J. Dillon Jr., Steward Delegate John Padilla. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 9 in Newark, N.J. He noted good trip and thanked crew for outstanding team effort in keeping good gangway security watches in all ports. He reminded crew members to keep up to date on union news by reading monthly Seafarers LOG. He also asked those getting off to be sure to clean room, provide fresh linen for next person and remain on board until properly relieved. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean. Educational director reminded crew members about courses offered at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $1,545.85 in ship’s fund. Beef noted in steward department regarding duties of chief cook; no disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done, including great food and service. Clarification requested on extra days of vacation for completion of assigned tours. Next ports: Newark; Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C. PERFORMANCE (USSM), Feb. 1—Chairman Jimmie L. Scheck, Secretary Gualberto M. Mirador, Educational Director Daniel P. Gibbons, Steward Delegate Joel A. Molinos. Chairman informed crew of payoff upon arrival Feb. 8 urged Seafarers to take advantage of upgrading facility at Paul Hall Center. He also talked about keeping all required shipping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to have one day’s pay in lieu of day off. Thanks given to steward department for good job. SEALAND ACHIEVER (USSM), Feb. 1—Chairman David N. Martz, Secretary Winston E. Marchman, Educational Director Niko M. Monsales, Deck Delegate Frank L. Thompson, Engine Delegate John A. Osburn Jr., Steward Delegate Obercio M. An Enterprising Mid-Winter’s Barbecue Thanks to the hard work of (from left) Chief Cook Henry Wright, Chief Steward Steve Dickson and SA Abdullah Musaid, crew members (below) enjoy a mid-winter barbecue on the Horizon Enterprise. The vessel was en route from Honolulu to Guam. in New Jersey. He thanked everyone for their hard work and encouraged them to read Seafarers LOG and communications from headquarters. Secretary noted smooth trip. Educational director asked mariners to pay close attention to expiration dates on shipping documents. Treasurer stated $340 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new linen. Vote of thanks given to all patrolmen and officers. Special vote aboard ship to Steward Mirador, Chief Cook Molinos and Steward Utility Janusz Z. Smolik for great job— and to AB Charles B. Collins for wonderful barbecues. SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Shipholding), Feb. 2—Chairman Aristeo M. Padua, Secretary Thomas C. Barrett. Chairman read president’s report from LOG and thanked crew for job well done. He stated vessel will be in shipyard for about 50 days. Secretary noted that with shipyard time coming up, laundry bags will be out for dirty linen. Educational director said that shipyard time would be good time for upgrading at Paul Hall Center. He also advised them to be sure shipping documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEABULK MARINER (Seabulk Tankers), Feb. 8—Chairman Ramon Castro, Secretary Abraham M. Martinez, Educational Director Oscar Garcia, Deck Delegate Michael A. Riley, Engine Delegate Gregory A. Grove, Steward Delegate Spencer Moxley. Chairman announced arrival Feb. 9 in Long Beach, Calif. He noted ship will stay on West Coast run for several months. Those crew members getting off ship were asked to leave room clean for next person. Educational director Espinoza. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 10 in Houston. Educational director talked about the importance of upgrading one’s skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEALAND COMMITMENT (USSM), Feb. 21—Chairman Kyle F. Schultz, Secretary Douglas A. Hundshamer, Educational Director Ahmet K. Yazansoy, Deck Delegate Greg Johnson, Engine Delegate Mohammed Hadwan, Steward Delegate Ali Hassan. Chairman announced payoff Feb. 22 in Houston with patrolman due aboard upon arrival. He stated trip was good overall and encouraged everyone to keep up with union and maritime matters by reading Seafarers LOG. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new mattresses, fans in rooms and chairs for crew lounge. Suggestion made that contracts department look into reducing age and seatime requirements for full pensions. VOYAGER (USSM), Feb. 7— Chairman Glenn R. Christianson, Secretary Grady C. Ingram III, Educational Director Morris A. Jeff, Deck Delegate Konstantinos Prokovas, Steward Delegate Ruben Padilla. Chairman reported arrival Feb. 10 in Newark. N.J. He thanked crew for safe trip with no injuries. Secretary and educational director stressed need for Seafarers to improve skills by upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Educational director further advised members to make sure all documents are kept current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new vacuum cleaner. Suggestion made to increase pension benefit. Thanks given to entire unlicensed crew members for working well together. Seafarers LOG 19 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/30/2004 1:24 AM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Support H.R. 3729 I’m writing this letter to all active and retired merchant mariners to ask for their support of H.R. 3729 to amend Title 46, United States Code, to provide a monthly monetary benefit to certain individuals who served in the United States Merchant Marine (including Army Transport Service and Naval Transport Service) during World War II. H.R. 3729 was introduced in the House of Representatives on Jan. 27 by Congressman Bob Filner of California. The short title is, Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2004. H.R. 3729 would pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to qualified merchant mariners who served during the period Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946. Your readers can give us their support by writing to their congressperson and senators requesting they cosponsor Bill No. 3729. Thank you for your help and smooth sailing. James W. Hassett President, American Merchant Marine Veterans of WWII Hudson Valley Chapter Baldwin Place, N.Y. Thanks and a Request First, I and my veteran shipmates would like to thank you and your union for helping get us (U.S. World War II merchant seamen) our veterans’ status. It was a long and tough battle. Thank you for a job well done. Without the union, you don’t have anything. We feel very proud of what the U.S. Merchant Marine is doing today in Iraq and around the world. While there’s nothing we can do for the 238,000 mariners who’ve passed away since World War II, we can do something for the surviving U.S. Merchant Marine veterans—if we can get Bill No. 3729 through Congress. You can help us by contacting your congressman and senators. To write to a senator, address the letter to: The Honorable (Name) United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 To write to representative, address the letter to: The Honorable (Name) U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 If your representatives agree to vote for H.R. 3729, please let me know by email at dickwiggins@yahoo.com Here is a sample letter: Regarding H.R. 3729, Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act 2004, almost a quarter-million men volunteered to serve in the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II. In 2004, approximately 5 percent are alive. The Know Your Rights average age of WWII U.S. Merchant Marine veterans is about 81 years. Merchant mariners delivered 85 percent of all goods used by U.S. armed services. They delivered guns and ammunition, bombs, airplanes, aviation gasoline and a lot more. They “delivered the goods”—but not without a cost. Approximately 800 ships were sunk and almost 8,000 mariners gave their lives. They were torpedoed, bombed, shot and taken prisoner. Many ships were hit by Kamikaze planes. They died for their country so we could be free. In 1944 President Roosevelt signed the G.I. Bill for the military, and they deserved it. On signing the bill, he said, “It is my wish that our Congress will do the same for our Merchant Marine.” They didn’t and FDR died. Forty-four years later, the U.S. Merchant Marine veterans of World War II were granted veterans’ status. The U.S. Merchant Marine missed out on low-pay education, G.I. housing, medical care and job preference, to name a few. They were forgotten. H.R. 3729 will give them some compensation for lost benefits. Therefore, I am asking for your support and sponsorship of this bill. Since I live and vote in your district, will you vote for H.R. 3729? To our friends in the SIU, God bless you. Thank you very much. Richard Wiggins Kansas City, Mo. Final Departures Continued from page 18 Moran Towing Co. vessel. The Lineboro, Md. resident began collecting stipends for his retirement in 1985. GEORGE NAUGLE Pensioner George Naugle, 75, passed away Nov. 11. Boatman Naugle began his seafaring career in 1969 in the port of Philadelphia after serving in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Naugle shipped in the deck department as a barge captain and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Interstate Oil Transport Co. Born in Alliance, Ohio, he made his home in Waynesville, N.C. Brother Naugle went on pension in 1989. The following brothers, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME (last, first) Alvarez, Justino Anderson, Ernest Ballard, James Bell, George Bentsen, Palle Bergeron, Ronald Chabot, John Cook, William Cruz, Antonio Cruz, Gregorio 20 AGE 86 83 89 81 81 76 76 78 85 99 DOD Jan. 1 Aug. 23 Jan. 21 July 6, ’03 Aug. 21, ’03 Jan. 25 Feb. 8 Feb. 5 Aug. 29, ’03 Feb. 3 Seafarers LOG HENRY PUTEGNAT Pensioner Henry Putegnat, 85, died Nov. 8. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of Houston. A veteran of the U.S. Army and U.S. Coast Guard, Boatman Putegnat sailed in the deck department, working primarily aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing. He lived in Galveston, Texas. Boatman Putegnat started receiving his pension in 1986. LLOYD TAYLOR Pensioner Lloyd Taylor, 76, passed away Dec. 1. Boatman Taylor embarked on his career with the SIU in 1970 in the port of Philadelphia. Cruz, Pablo 68 DeSilva, Charles 78 DeSilva, Jose 101 Faughtenbery, Jesse 79 Fernandez, John 89 Foster, Walter 76 Geron, Caldwell 78 Gilliam, Arthur 85 Graves, Allen 73 Griffin, Freddie 86 Harris, Robert 87 Kotch, Stephen 88 Lacombe, Ludger 82 Lazorko, Steve 81 Montgomery, James 80 Murray, Vernon 75 Pequeno, Jose 72 Pitts, William 84 Feb. 18 July 11, ’03 Jan. 1 Feb. 9 Feb. 4 Jan. 19 Feb. 17 Jan. 16 Nov. 1 Jan. 29 Sept. 1, ’03 June 23, ’03 Jan. 24 Feb. 14 July 23, ’03 Feb. 1 Feb. 2 Feb. 3 Born in Genesco, Kan., he sailed in the deck department as a captain. The Mocks Corner, S.C. resident last shipped on a Pennsylvania Maritime Inc. vessel. Boatman Taylor went on pension in 1996. WILLIAM TUCKER Pensioner William Tucker, 63, died Dec. 19. He began his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of Houston. Boatman Tucker shipped in the deck department as a captain, last working aboard a Crescent Towing and Salvage Co. vessel. He was a resident of Chickasaw, Ala. Ponce, Ramon 77 Powell, Warren 80 Rasco, Hermogenes 98 Rathstone, Robert 77 Reeves, Curtis 75 Rodriguez, Isidro 91 Rogers, John 76 Roldan, Vincent 86 Rubin, Bernard 79 Sampson, Samuel 78 Sanza, Miguel 84 Talley, Freddie 76 Taylor, Earl 83 Ventura, Julio Walker, Thomas Warner, Gerald Williams, Charles Zemis, Charles 75 79 72 78 78 Feb. 16 Feb. 17 Feb. 17 Feb. 2 Feb. 1 Jan. 7 Jan. 11 Dec. 23, ’03 Feb. 5 Feb. 6 June 24 Jan. 29 Jan. 31 Jan. 29 Jan. 18 Jan. 17 Feb. 8 May 21, ’03 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. April 2004 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/26/2004 3:59 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. 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 Advanced Fire Fighting* April 19 April 30 Basic Safety Training (BST) April 19 May 10 May 24 June 21 July 19 August 2 August 30 April 23 May 14 May 28 June 25 July 23 August 6 September 3 Fast Rescue Boat May 3 June 7 May 7 June 11 Government Vessels April 5 May 17 June 28 April 9 May 21 July 2 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* May 17 May 28 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion April 12 May 24 July 5 Aug. 16 May 7 June 18 July 30 Sept. 10 Lifeboatman/Water Survival May 10 June 21 August 2 May 21 July 2 August 13 Navigation Fundamentals April 26 May 7 Radar May 10 May 21 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) April 5 May 31 August 9 April 16 June 11 August 20 Course Able Seaman (*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 selfstudy. 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 March 29, 2004. Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Engine Utility (EU) May 17 July 26 June 11 August 20 FOWT July 12 September 3 Marine Electrician May 10 July 2 Refrigeration April 12 May 21 Course � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ April 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. 4/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �22284_P3_5, 8, 9, 21, 22.qxd 3/30/2004 1:31 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 647 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 647 (in alphabetical order) Michael Broadway, Christopher Czarske, David Gibson, Jonathan Hardiman, Brian Leach, Douglas Lewis, Michael Maskalenko, Daniel Miller, Jose Nunez, Terry Smith, Michael Snowden Jr., Joseph Waldera, Russell Wall, Joseph Waller Jr., Christopher Wheeler, Richard Wiltison and Christopher Yohe. Celestial Navigation — Completing the six-week navigation course Feb. 6 are (from left) Janet Baird, Joseph Butasek, Arvid Friberg, Vessislav Dyoulgerov and Ian Ferguson. Advanced Fire Fighting — Earning their advanced fire fighting endorsements Feb. 13 are (from left) Joe Grandinetti, Tom Cessna (instructor), Edgardo Plarisan, Abdullatif Ahmed, Chris Waldo, Andrzej Tlalka, Daniel Lovely, Fernando Rigonan, Charles Sadler, Harlan Hulst and Brian Miller. Fundamental Concepts of Navigation — Upgrading deck department members who successfully completed the navigation fundamentals course Feb. 20 are (from left) Brian Miller, Robert Wobil, Fernando Rigonan and Harlan Hulst. ARPA — With their instructor, Mike Smith (right) are Feb. 13 graduates of the ARPA course. From the left are William Powell, Mark Pruitt, Edward Rittenhouse and Daniel Lovely. Medical Care Provider— Feb. 13 graduates of the medical care provider course are (from left) Lawrence Holbert, Alexander Fyodorovykh, Nebojsa Milosevic, Joseph Butasek, Vessislav Dyoulgerov, Kenneth Salgado and Hal Owen. Any student who has registered for a class and finds— for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Engine Utility — Seafarers and unlicensed apprentices in phase III of their training completed the engine utility course Feb. 20. They are (in alphabetical order) Michael Alexander, Timothy Belcher, Robert Brady, Rollin Crump, Noland Earl, Elvin Ellis, Jim Farmer, Damien James, Carlo Johnson, Mitchell King, Ryan Krom, James Perkins, Jonathan Scurry and Daniel Smith. Their instructor was Ben Vernon (far right). Computer Lab Class Kenneth Salgado (left) and Wesley Slattery (right) show off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes at the Paul Hall Center. With them is their instructor, Rich Prucha. Able Seaman — Working their way up in the deck department are SIU members who completed the AB course Feb. 13. From the left are Roy Logan, Jamie Parker, Tom Gilliland (instructor), Jerry Guglielmello, Ricardo Salazar, Wesley Slattery, Christopher Gustafson, William Mele, Felipe Zepeda and Manuel Davis. 22 Seafarers LOG April 2004 �22284_P7,11_13,15_20,23.qxd 3/24/2004 9:17 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Feb. 9: Antonio Bastidas, Sergio Beldean, Kenneth Click, Ian Corriette, Orozco Delacruz, David Garcia, Robert Gates, Christopher Grant, Renee Hill, Richard Jones, Jeno Koch, Damian Kreipe, Chad Leibner, Thomas Maillelle, Pam Mancilla, Tom Miller, Sean Nakamura, Brian Nash, Jan Payne, Osborn Pinder, Christian Schagerl, Laura Stock, Sean Sullivan, Andreas Tuma, Francisco Valencia, Tore Wiksveen, Douglas Wilson, Terrence Koch, Audrey Brown, Ronald Merfeld, Gill Sickles, Heather Racine, Peter Galia, Lubomir Dvonc Jr. and Etburn Gordon. STCW — Feb. 20: Barbra Allbritton, Otsman Baudin, David Benito, Dominic Carr, David Chairez, Keith Cleary, Dori Cook, Austin Dimmick, Mark Dominiak, Jonathan Fiske, Lauren Grice, Darin Heine, Patrick Helmuth, Robert Horhager, and Thomas Krapil. STCW — Feb. 13: Francisco Arguilla, Khaled Ayad, Dariusz Czepczynski, Juanito Julaton, Maji Musaid, Jose Navarro, David Parker, Ronald Poole, Justin Rodgers, Yadira Rosa, Victor Tayeri, Rose Vasilas, Edward Washington Jr., Jonathan Watkins, Brock Wilson, Marisa Escher, Jose Rojas-Morales and Michael Denny. STCW — Feb. 20: Amber Akana, Robert Baucum, Daniel Biggs, Cliff Broussard, Joseph Butasek, Sixto Carcamo, Leo Curry, Noah Curtiss, Evan de Harne, Shannon Fitzpatrick, Amy Gillette, Kristin Green, David Hicks, Eric Johnson, Michelle Johnson and Daniel Kilimann. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Water Survival — Feb. 20: Khari Hatten, Danilo Ramos, David Smith, Kyle Barril, Ann Ziegler, Kolomona Purdy, Eddie Johnson, Winston Madayan, James High, Guy Traynham, George Ashbridge and Eric Borys. Their instructors were Stan Beck and Tony Sevilla. Water Survival — Feb. 13: Wayne Agustin, Elmer Clemente, Evan de Harne, Leighton Enomoto, Shannon Fitzpatrick, Kristin Green, Michelle Johnson, Daniel Kilimann, Tiana Lau, Edward Lewis, Mindy Napoleon, John Niedbalski, Tiffany Niven, Nathan Ono, Ferindo Renedios, William Schropp and Kenneth Yuret. Water Survival — Feb. 13: Francisco Valencia, Osborn Pinder, Lubomir Dvonc Jr., Christian Schagerl, Andreas Tuma, Sean Sullivan, Etburn Gordon, Jeno Koch, Peter Galia, Brian Nash, Damien Kreipe, Antonio Bastidas, Pam Mancilla, Douglas Wilson, Sergio Beldean, Laura Stock, Heather Racine, Chad Leibner, Robert Gates, Agustin Orozco, Cliff Broussard, Noah Curtiss, Amy Gillette, Robert Baucum, Eric Johnson, James Lines, Daniel Biggs, Christopher Nall, Jonathan Fiske and Roger Mellen. April 2004 Water Survival — Feb. 6: Gary Barnett, Lorenzo Calasicas, Herman Cobile, Christina Costanzo, Desiree Kalankoa, Holly Kiyabu, Stephanie Nieves, Randolf Rabago, Christopher Rosse and Barrett Winning. Seafarers LOG 23 �22284_p1,2,6,10,14, 24.qxd 3/30/2004 11:42 AM Page 24 Volume 66, Number 4 April 2004 Attention Seafarers: Get a head start on planning your summer vacation. See page 14 for more information. Government Services Division Seafarers Make Historic Climb onto USS Coronado Transfer Ceremonies Mark Official Start of Pilot Program Members of the SIU’s The Coronado Government Services carries more Division made history last than 100 CIVNovember when they crewed MARS and is up the USS Coronado for the 567 feet long. U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The Coronado is believed to be the first Navy command and control ship manned with a largely civilian crew. Normally, significant numbers of senior military officers and their staffs (from each of the armed services) sail aboard such vessels during military operations and exercises. The transfers marked the start of a pilot program which may lead to additional Navy ships joining the MSC fleet. Vice Adm. David Brewer, MSC commander, recently expressed great confidence that the test program will succeed. It is scheduled to run through September 2005. Ceremonies marking the transfers took place on the West Coast Feb. 18 and March 4. At the latter event, a number of SIU Government Services Division members who sailed during Operation Iraqi Freedom received U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals, issued by the U.S. Maritime Administration. During both ceremonies, speakers noted the effective work of SIU Government Services Division Representative Chester Wheeler in leading the successful effort to secure a high-quality habitability agreement for Coronado crew members. Wheeler was credited for keeping the negotiations on track during challenging periods. Highlights of the contract include MSC’s agreeing to follow “prevailing maritime practice regarding wages and working conditions aboard the USS Coronado.” MSC also agreed to pay habitability allowances to specified unlicensed mariners at the rate of $35 per day. Further, the agency committed to utilizing available habitability funds, CIVMARS or others to make necessary habitability improvements whenever possible. Other beneficial provisions address everything from email for the unlicensed crew to the establishment and furnishing of the crew lounge and much more. The USS Coronado was built by Lockheed Shipbuilding and Construction Company in Seattle. Its keel was laid May 3, 1965, and the ship was launched July 30, 1966. It was commissioned May 23, 1970. The Coronado was designed as an Amphibious Transport Dock (LPD), built to transport Marines and their equipment to the scene of an amphibious assault and move them ashore by landing craft and helicopters. The ship is one of seven fitted with additional superstructure for command ship duties. Rear Adm. Deborah Loewer, USN, vice commander of MSC, congratulates Chet Wheeler on the pilot program’s start. Honor for Retired Port Agent Martin Retired SIU Port Agent Jim Martin (left) last month was inducted into the Louisiana State AFL-CIO Hall of Fame. Celebrating the occasion with him were (from left) SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd (who serves on the state AFL-CIO executive board as special assistant to the president on maritime affairs), SIU New Orleans Safety Director Chris Westbrook and SIU Representative James Brown. The ceremony took place March 1 in Baton Rouge, La. Martin still serves as a consultant to the union and as president of the Greater New Orleans Port Council of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. He also is a vice president on the state federation. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division await presentation of their U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals last month aboard the USS Coronado. SIU Rep Chet Wheeler (left) and 3rd Fleet Commander Vice Adm. Michael McCabe confer during the Feb. 18 ceremony in San Diego. Pictured at the San Diego event are (from left) SIU Rep Chet Wheeler, USS Coronado Captain Chris Noble, Bosun Billy Bonds and Bob Rosemeyer, director of the West Coast customer service unit of the Afloat Personnel Management Center. Merlin Rescues Mariner As previously reported, the Seafarers-crewed MV Merlin on Jan. 23 rescued Egyptian Second Officer Eslam Hassan Osman Morgan (standing center with arm in sling) near Malta. Morgan’s vessel, the 390-foot Greek-owned MV Kephi, sank in rough seas while carrying some 8,800 pounds of cement from Istanbul, Turkey to a West African port. Moore was the lone survivor of the Kephi’s 17-person crew. Joining Moore on the deck of the Merlin are Seafarers and officers including GSU Terrance Bing, AB Harry Champagne, AB Jules Delgado, AB John Holmes, DEU George Melton, Bosun Michael Nee, AB Joey Pauley, AB Luisito Tabada and OMU Michael Watkins. Eslam Hassan Osman Morgan (center) poses with Steward Prescillano Gamboa, left and Chief Cook Eddie Siplin in the galley of the MV Merlin. � 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 April 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MILITARY LEADERS MAKE IT CLEAR: STRONG U.S. FLEET IS IMPERATIVE GROCERY WORKERS WIN CONTRACT PROTECTING HEALTH CARE BENEFITS ‘MARITIME IS ESSENTIAL’ MERCHANT MARINE’S DEFENSE ROLE, U.S. HEALTH CARE CRISIS ADDRESSED BY MTD MCCARTNEY DIES AT 72 SIU-CREWED CABLE SHIP AIDS IN RECOVERY OPERATION SEAFARERS CONTINUE TO SAIL IN OPERATION TO REBUILD IRAQ SIU FLEET GROWS LONGTIME ARC DIRECTOR RICK REISMAN DIES AT 57 SEAFARERS MOURN RETIRED PATROLMAN PAUL WARREN MC&S ORGANIZER BOSCHETTI PASSES AWAY AT 82 GROWING LOSS OF WHITE-COLLAR JOBS HARMS AMERICA, FEDERATION WARNS QUESTIONS SURROUND ISPS CODE DEADLINE 4 SIU OFFICIALS APPOINTED TO MARIITME SECURITY GROUPS FIRE DAMAGES SHUGHART IN KUWAIT, BUT NO SERIOUS INJURIES REPORTED BENAVIDEZ GALLEY GANG GARNERS RAVE REVIEWS SEAFARERS APPEALS BOARD APPROVES 2 ACTIONS RECERTIFIED STEWARDS STRESS PRIDE IN UNION, FAMILY, SELVES CABINET SECRETARIES UNDERSCORE MARITIME’S VITAL IMPORTANCE MARINERS CREDITED FOR ROLE IN NATIONAL SECURITY TRANSCOM, MSC OFFICERS LAND U.S. CREWS’ RELIABILITY HEALTH CARE CRISIS ONLY GETS WORSE PORT SECURITY DESERVES ATTENTION RELIABLE SIU BOATMEN GET THE JOB DONE IN PORT ARTHUR, LAKE CHARLES UNITE, HERE ANNOUNCE MERGER POSITIVE PRODUCTIVE MEETINGS HIGHLIGHT SERVICING SEAFARERS ABLY MAN MILITARY SUPPORT SHIPS GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION SEAFARERS MAKE HISTORIC CLIMB ONTO USS CORONADO 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 04/01/2004 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. 4 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/eb405f71c5d44dc6e9c054267a73a6b6.pdf 997759f4f4be3c2bbaa3df22d29baa72 PDF Text Text 21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/27/2004 4:05 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 3 March 2004 Seafarers Deliver for U.S. National Defense AP Photo/Cpl. Matthew Orr SIU members are sailing aboard dozens of U.S.-flag military support ships in Operation Iraqi Freedom 2. Last month, Seafarers reported to the Ready Reserve Force vessels Cape Wrath (right) and Cape Washington (center) in Baltimore, while the Seafarers-crewed LMSR USNS Brittin (lower left) helped move vital cargo from Antwerp, Belgium for the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division. Overall, at least 57 SIU-crewed ships have mobilized for OIF2. Pages 3, 12, 13. MSC Photo by Ed Baxter SIU Backs Grocery Workers SIU members and officials last month rallied in support of striking UFCW members who are fighting to maintain affordable health coverage. In Carson, Calif., SIU President Michael Sacco (right photo, far right) on Feb. 11 joined officials from the Seafarers-affiliated UIW on a grocery store picket line, as did (left photo, from left) SIU Executive VP John Fay and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Earlier, dozens of Seafarers and officials from New York and Philadelphia took part in a major UFCW demonstration on Wall Street. Page 3. Liberty Eagle Joins SIU Fleet The SIU gained new shipboard jobs with the Jan. 27 delivery of the MV Liberty Eagle (left). It is the eighth vessel in Liberty Maritime Corporation’s SIU-crewed fleet, which transports food shipments overseas as part of the U.S. government’s “Food for Peace” program. The Liberty Eagle is 623 feet long and can travel at 15.3 knots. Page 3. �21722p2.qxd 2/27/2004 4:13 PM Page 2 ITF Secures Millions for Crews President’s Report Jones Act Must Stay Intact I’ve never understood how anyone can keep a straight face when they say the Jones Act somehow is bad for the national economy or for U.S. citizens. The facts overwhelmingly support the nation’s freight cabotage law, which specifies that cargo moving between domestic ports must be carried on U.S.-crewed, U.S.-owned, U.S.-built, U.S.-flag ships. The Jones Act helps preserve a viable American maritime industry. It provides an estimated 125,000 American jobs. It generates tax revenues Michael Sacco without any cost to the government. As Seafarers know, jobs aboard Jones Act ships help maintain a pool of loyal, well-trained U.S. crews. With the second phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom under way, the importance of dedicated U.S. mariners to our nation’s military capabilities once again is as plain as day. There are other specific benefits to the law, but the bottom line is that the Jones Act works. It helps our economy and our national defense capabilities. It’s a source of good jobs. It’s also constantly under attack by foreign-flag interests who couldn’t care less about what’s best for America. Unfortunately, that has been the case since the law was enacted back in 1920. The enemies of the Jones Act apparently don’t see a problem with opening the domestic trades to runaway-flag rustbuckets. They don’t see a problem with massive U.S. job loss, or threats to our national security or environment. In the late 1980s, there was a full frontal assault against the law. Foreign shipping interests launched a well-funded grassroots effort to have the law repealed. Eventually, the Persian Gulf War helped kill the anti-Jones Act movement, partly because it reminded policymakers that sealift remained as important as ever. Since then, opponents of the Jones Act have changed tactics by trying to weaken the law one waiver, one exemption at a time. Most recently, it happened last year with the introduction of Congressional legislation that supposedly centers on shipping rates in the Hawaiian livestock trade. Those bills haven’t gotten much support, but the issue isn’t dead. A related development involves the Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA), a companion law to the Jones Act that covers domestic cruises and ferries. The government of Panama is pressing the U.S. Customs Service to change the Central American country’s designation as a “nearby foreign port” to that of a “distant foreign port.” If that happens, then Panama could avoid parts of the law that block foreign-flag cruise ships from carrying passengers from one U.S. port to another. That’s not all. Some Mexican and Canadian officials want changes to the so-called North American Free Trade Agreement that would allow one cabotage law encompassing U.S.-, Canadian- and Mexican-flag ships. This would have the same devastating effect on the Jones Act fleet as we’ve seen in the domestic manufacturing sector. Similarly, foreign groups may push to use short sea shipping— waterborne alternatives to ease congestion on the nation’s highways and railways—to open the Jones Act trade to Mexico and Canada. In promoting short sea shipping, the U.S. Maritime Administration clearly has stated that its plans don’t include changing U.S. cabotage laws. But there are warnings that opponents of the U.S. maritime industry will try to use the program to abolish or weaken the Jones Act. On that note, I offer a word of praise for the recent ruling by the U.S. Coast Guard on vessel lease financing. The agency’s decision clearly shows that regulations for vessel documentation are not tools for opening the Jones Act to foreign interests. It’s no stretch to say that, without the Jones Act, the U.S. eventually would be forced to rely on foreign-flag ships to supply American forces overseas with vital materiel. And it’s just good common sense to recognize that without Jones Act vessels and their U.S. crews, America would depend on foreigners to deliver the 2 billion barrels of refined petroleum products on U.S. waters currently handled each year by U.S.-flag ships. Those scenarios are beyond risky. They’re unacceptable. The Jones Act is a huge plus for national security, economic security—and our job security. That’s why the SIU will do whatever it takes to uphold this essential, effective law. Volume 66, Number 3 The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) last month announced that the claims of 700 mariners on the Greekflagged Olympia Explorer and Olympia Voyager have been settled after six weeks of work by the federation, which applauded the cooperation with the owners and bank. SIU ITF inspector Scott Brady played a key role in helping multinational crew members from the Voyager. Overall, mariners from both vessels received more than $5 million in back pay and severance. They have been repatriated. The ships remain arrested in the ports of Long Beach and Miami, respectively, following demands by creditors—among them German state bank KFW, the ships’ mortgage holder—that the owners pay all outstanding debts. The ITF said it is working to settle outstanding claims for Greek crew members who are on leave, and may need to intervene legally on their behalf. According to the federation, ITF representatives are on board both vessels in support of ITF affiliate the PanHellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO), and are seeking to secure an amicable resolution with the owners, Royal Olympic Cruise Lines, and KFW. “The responsible role taken on by both the owners and the bank played a significant part in reaching this settlement. We hope the outstanding claims for the crew members on leave will be similarly resolved,” said Steve Cotton, secretary of the ITF’s Special Seafarers’ Department. After crew members from the Voyager contacted Brady, he Crew members from the Olympia Voyager (above) have reason to smile following a shipboard payoff Jan. 30. The ITF secured more than $5 million for mariners from the Voyager (below) and sister ship Olympia Explorer. boarded the ship in Port Everglades, Fla. and stayed there for nearly two weeks, negotiating with a shipping manager appointed by the owner. “They were long and grueling, round-the-clock negotiations, but the ITF and the entire crew showed solidarity from day one and prevailed,” Brady stated. Apostleship of the Sea Steps Up to Protect Shore-Leave Rights The Apostleship of the Sea of the United States is working to improve potentially dangerous and often unnecessary restrictions on mariners’ shore-leave rights. Fr. Sinclair Oubre—president of the Apostleship of the Sea and an active SIU member—recently met with representatives of Congress, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the labor movement in Washington, D.C. to advance the cause. He also conferred with SIU President Michael Sacco. The organization is urging Congress to begin ratifying International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention 185 “in the most expedient manner possible so that seafarers do not become the latest victims of terrorism.” Unanimously ratified (392-0) last year by delegates to the ILO forum in Geneva, Convention 185 calls for a universal mariner identification docu- March 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, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 2004 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Fr. Sinclair Oubre discuss the importance of ILO Convention 185, which addresses mariner identification and shore leave. The Voyager crew—from Greece, the Philippines and several Eastern European nations— received $2.5 million in back wages and severance. The ITF is a federation of 621 transport trade unions (including the SIU) in 137 countries, representing approximately 5 million workers. ment. It also states the critical need for shore leave and further specifies that “seafarers shall not be required to hold a visa.” Convention 185 also indicates that “any member (nation) which is not in a position to fully implement this requirement shall ensure that its laws and regulations or practice provide arrangements that are substantially equivalent.” For now, however, all mariners must possess “D1” (non-immigration) visas to go ashore in the U.S. “After September 11, 2001, the Immigration and Naturalization Service ceased issuing crew list visas,” explained Oubre. “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. The new regulations only allow a supervisor to waive the D-1 visa requirement and, unlike the airline industry, have no avenue for appeal.” One consequence is that mariners have been denied shore-side medical care because they lack visas. “They can’t get off the ship unless it’s a lifethreatening condition,” Oubre noted. “This has led to mariners sailing from U.S. ports on voyages that are weeks long without necessary health care. We can only hope that by the time the vessel reached its next port, the situation did not evolve into a lifethreatening problem.” Another concern is that such instances may lead to U.S. mariners unjustly being denied leave overseas. “The bottom line is we don’t see the relationship between the D-1 visa and security,” Oubre said. “Our present policies assume that the greatest threat to maritime security comes from mariners leaving the vessels. However, the real threat is a terrorist posing as a mariner and staying on the vessel. He or she could blow up the ship at dock or scuttle it at an important waterway junction. Preventing the seafarer from leaving the vessel because the mariner lacks a visa will not prevent either of these security concerns.” In a recent letter outlining the situation, the Apostleship of the Sea asks Congress to enact Convention 185 on seafarer documents “and let these new documents be accepted as identification for the mariner, and in place of the D-1 visa.” March 2004 �21722p3_4_7_12_13.qxd 2/27/2004 4:25 PM Page 3 Liberty Eagle Joins SIU Fleet The union recently welcomed new shipboard jobs with the Jan. 27 delivery of the MV Liberty Eagle. It is the eighth vessel in Liberty Maritime Corporation’s SIU-crewed fleet, which transports food shipments overseas as part of the U.S. government’s “Food for Peace” program. Seafarers flew from New York to Japan to join the ship and sail it to the United States. It arrived in New Orleans late last month to load humanitarian aid cargo for East Africa. “The addition of this vessel to the U.S.-flag fleet not only strengthens America’s economic security but also boosts our national defense,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. SIU members aboard the Liberty Eagle’s first voyage were Recertified Bosun Thomas W. Lasater, ABs Juan L. Torres, José E. Ortiz, Ed- gardo Castro, Mohamed S. Soliman and John S. Daunoras, GUDE Vicente T. Cueva Jr., QMED Jimmy Sabga, Oiler Calvin Hicks, Recertified Steward Richard M. Worobey, Chief Cook Benjamin J. Advincula and GSTU Simon Perez . The U.S.-flag vessel was built at Oshima Shipyard in Japan as were two sister ships, the Liberty Glory and Liberty Grace, delivered in April 2001 and July 2001, respectively. All are 623 feet long with a 105-foot beam and can travel at 15.3 knots. The bulk carriers are equipped with four cranes and six hatches apiece and have the additional ability of carrying containers. The Liberty Eagle, however, at 52,500 DWT, is slightly heavier than the other two at 50,599 DWT each. Liberty Maritime Corporation is based in Lake Success, N.Y. The SIU-crewed Liberty Eagle is the eighth vessel in Liberty Maritime Corporation’s fleet. Following its arrival in New Orleans last month, the bulk carrier loaded humanitarian aid cargo for East Africa. SIU Mobilizes for OIF2 Seafarers-Crewed LMSRs Carry Vital Materiel for ‘Big Red One’ Seafarers are tackling the giant sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom 2, crewing dozens of ships in support of U.S. troops. By mid-February, at least 57 SIU-crewed vessels had mobilized for a mission that’s expected to last at least into summer. The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) early this year announced that an estimated 23 million square feet of cargo will be moved by sea to support the armed forces as nearly a quartermillion military personnel rotate into and out of the Middle East. An early highlight of the mis- Bosun William Dowzicky (top photo) and AB John Barcroft (below) help prepare the Cape Wrath last month in Baltimore. March 2004 sion involved five Seafarerscrewed large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) ships loading out more than 70,000 tons of Army hardware in The SIU-crewed USNS Watkins recently helped transport materiel for the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division. See pages 12-13 for more coverage of OIF2 Antwerp, Belgium for the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division— better known as Big Red One. From Jan. 25 to early last month, the LMSRs (USNS Brittin, USNS Red Cloud, USNS Dahl, USNS Charlton and USNS Watkins) took on a wide range of materiel for delivery to an area northwest of Baghdad, where Big Red One is relieving the 4th Infantry Division. The cargo included M1A1 Abrams heavy battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, Bradley fighting vehicles, heavy trucks, humvees, fuel trucks and containers loaded with various supplies. During a ceremony aboard the Red Cloud in Antwerp, Col. Susan Sowers, USA, commander of the Army’s 37th Transportation Battalion, told the crew members, “It makes a difference in the world, what you do. We couldn’t get there without you.” SIU members are embracing the mission. Bosun William Dowzicky, helping ready the Cape Wrath last month in Baltimore, said, “The major combat may be over, but it’s still very important that we resupply our troops. We’re going to do our part. This is still serious— we still have soldiers over there.” Jim Porter, making his first trip as third engineer after sailing as a QMED with the SIU, noted, “The first trip (last year) was smooth, and I expect the same thing this time.” Among the SIU-crewed ships Sealift Statistics from Operation Iraqi Freedom More than 2,000 SIU members sailed aboard 100-plus U.S.-flag ships in support of American and Allied forces. U.S.-flag commercial ships carried more than 45,000 TEUs to our forces. 12 Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement ships were charted by MSC, and 18 VISA liner ships were used by the Military Traffic Management Command. An average vessel moved the equivalent of 300 C-17 cargo aircraft, which freed up aircraft for other critical missions. sailing in OIF2 are 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. SIU Rallies with Grocery Workers In a show of solidarity with their fellow union brothers and sisters, SIU members and officials last month marched with striking and locked-out members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) in New York and California. SIU President Mike Sacco, Executive Vice President John Fay, and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel walked a UFCW picket line in Carson, Calif. for several hours on Feb. 11. One week earlier, dozens of Seafarers and officials from New York and Philadelphia took part in a major UFCW demonstration on Wall Street. At the New York rally on Feb. 5, workers marched on Wall Street to urge investors to avoid buying supermarket stocks one day after stores in Southern California rejected an offer from the UFCW. About 1,500 people, including elected leaders and community and faith-based activists, rallied in support of the UFCW members. Roughly 59,000 grocery employees have been on strike or locked out for four months at Safeway Inc., Kroger Co. and Albertsons Inc. They are fighting against unfair cuts in their health benefits, among other concerns. The SIU contingent at the New York demonstration included (from left) Raphael D’Ambrosio, Chris Nardone, Charlie Collins, Bennie Santos, Marie Sacco, C.J. Williams, George DiCanio, Justine Soresi, Joe Corr, Eddie Doruth, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Jake Joyce. All three companies are publicly traded. “Your support has kept us stronger day after day,” Maria Patrice, a worker at a Safeway store in California and a 31-year member of the UFCW, told the New York crowd. “We are going to stay out there as long as it takes to win this whole thing.” The rally’s speaker list included: AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda ChavezThompson; New York City Central Labor Council President Brian McLaughlin; U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.); and New York State Comptroller Alan Continued on page 9 Seafarers LOG 3 �21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/26/2004 12:12 PM Page 4 Merlin Rescues Egyptian Officer The captain and crew of the SIU-contracted MV Merlin on Jan. 23 came to the rescue of an officer who was adrift from the stricken vessel MV Kephi near Malta. Laden with some 8,800 pounds of cement from Istanbul, Turkey, the 390-foot Greekowned Kephi was headed to a West African port. While situated some 320 nautical miles east of Malta, the vessel found itself in difficulty and faced with extreme sea conditions. Registered in the Comoros, the vessel was carrying 16 Egyptian crew members and one Greek when it began taking on water. At about 0055 hours, the Merlin received a Mayday call from the Kephi. According to Merlin Captain Joe Solberg, the Kephi reported that it had a heavy list and was in danger of capsizing. Responding to the call, the SIU ship altered course and headed for the distressed vessel’s location. Not long thereafter, the Merlin crew caught sight of the Kephi’s lights. According to Solberg, at that time, it was The Seafarers-crewed Merlin overcame rough weather to save an officer from a disabled runaway-flag ship. underway and doing about seven knots. At 0230 and at location 3510.9N/021-09.3E, the Kephi sank. Some 35 minutes later, the Merlin arrived at the scene and commenced search and rescue operations. After investigating the scene to get a positive sighting (debris, lifejackets, etc.), a flare was spotted at 0620 hours. Shortly after daybreak, the Merlin crew saw a life raft with two people aboard. Solberg maneuvered his vessel into position to rescue the pair. At 0915, one survivor was brought aboard the Merlin. The second individual slipped away in the heavy weather. Subsequently, several passes were attempted to save the second survivor, but to no avail. Another vessel in the area, the MV Yuri Savinov, recovered the second person. He, along with his 15 remaining shipmates, however, did not survive. Gale force winds and high waves were cited as a major cause of the crew members’ demise. Both significantly hampered rescue operations. According to a Greek Merchant Marine spokesman, “The weather conditions in the area are atrocious.” The rescued crewman aboard the Merlin was treated, given food and dry clothing. He had sustained fractures to his right shoulder and had symptoms of shock. The mariner, who later was evacuated by the Malta Armed Forces, was identified as Eslam Hassan Osman Morgan, a 28-year-old Egyptian who was the Kephi’s Second Officer. Seafarers aboard the Merlin at the time of the rescue included: ABs Michael Nee, Harry Champagne, Jules Delgado, John Holmes, Luisito Tabada, and Joey Pauley; GUDE George Melton, OMUs Glenn Barnes and Michael Watkins; Chief Cook Prescillano Gamboa and GSTU Terrance Bing. Following the rescue, the Merlin received a congratulatory message from Sealift, Inc. the vessel’s operator. In part the message said: “Captain Joe, all of us at Sealift are proud of what you and the crew have done….The message you received from the Navy advising that you have been professional and timely with your actions is also shared by us…This was a job well done.” Dennis Is New Plans Administrator Delma Retires After 38 Years, Will Remain as Consultant Bill Dennis is the new Seafarers Plans Administrator, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (chairman of the union trustees) announced in December. Formerly the plans administrator of the National Maritime Union (NMU)—which merged into the SIU in May 2001— Dennis replaces Lou Delma, who retired effective Jan. 1 following more than 38 years of service to the various employee benefit plans. Delma had been the Administrator since 1995. Dennis served in his previous position for six years. Prior to that, he held the title of NMU Benefit Plans controller for three years beginning in 1994. A former member of the U.S. Army Reserve, Dennis holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, N.Y. He was born and raised in Brooklyn and has spent most of his adult life working in the accounting profession. Dennis and his wife, Mary Jane, have been married for 42 years. They are the proud parents of three children and grandparents of two. “I look forward to the challenge of continuing to maintain the high level of service that the Plans provided to the membership,” Dennis said. “Like Lou, I have a very high level of concern for the welfare of our membership. To that end, I’ll ensure that all of our programs are carried out in accordance with established rules and regulations so that all benefits are disbursed in a timely fashion.” Dennis said he will continue the practice of evaluating existing services to the membership and, like Delma, he will continuously look for opportunities to improve the benefit delivery system. He cited the recently enacted pre- scription program as an example of improvements in the benefits system. He said, “In today’s world, we see annual increases of 15 to 20% in the cost of health benefits. A big part of my job is to contain these cost increases while providing these benefits to plan participants. I fully expect to draw on Lou’s almost 40 years of acquired knowledge concerning our Plans. Lou has put together a very good staff. I look forward to working with them. I consider myself to be a hands-on type of manager. To this end, we will have NMU Medical Plan Merges Into Seafarers Health Plan Trustees of the National Maritime Union (NMU) Welfare Plan last month recommended that the Plan merge into the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). Seafarers Trustees approved the recommendation Feb. 6 during a meeting at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. The target date for implementation of the health plans’ merger is June 1. “It should be a seamless move and a big money-saver,” stated Seafarers Plans Administrator Bill Dennis. “The NMU schedule of benefits will remain unchanged, other than they will be administered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. But the benefits themselves are exactly the same, and they’re available specifically for people who had been covered by the NMU. “Likewise, there’s no change for members covered by the Seafarers Plans,” Dennis added. Carolyn Gentile, General Counsel to the Seafarers Plans, noted, “The merger basically keeps the status quo in terms of benefits, but the administration will be under one roof. It will be more efficient because operations will be uniform, though of course according to the separate benefit schedules.” Similar consolidations of medical plans have occurred between other unions that merged with the SIU. The NMU merged into the SIU in June 2001. The last NMU contract expires in 2006. NMU retirees don’t receive medical benefits. 4 Seafarers LOG SIU President Mike Sacco (left) presents Lou Delma with a ship’s wheel at Delma’s retirement gathering late last year. regularly scheduled staff meetings. We will always look for ways to improve our internal operating procedures. We are a team with a big responsibility. Working together, we will accomplish our mission.” Although Delma retired as administrator, he will remain at headquarters as a consultant. A native of Brooklyn, Delma began his career with the Seafarers Plans in 1965 in the claims department preparing Seafarers’ medical expense requests for processing at the former office, located at 17 Battery Place in Manhattan, N.Y. From 1965 until 1977, he held various positions in the Seafarers claims department. At the end of 1977, Delma went to work with the manpower department. In 1980, he became supervisor of the records and vacation department, assisting Seafarers in processing their vacation applications. Delma began working as an assistant to the Administrator for the Benefits Plans in 1991. In 1992, he became the Assistant Administrator for the welfare, pension and vacation programs. Continuing his career, he assumed his position as Seafarers Plans Administrator in 1995. In this capacity, he was responsible for all aspects of the welfare, pension and vacation programs associated Seafarers Plans Administrator Bill Dennis with the union. “Bill will have some big shoes to fill in replacing Lou Delma as Plans Administrator,” SIU President Michael Sacco said. “I have only good things to say about Lou because he has been one of the most dedicated employees this organization has ever had. Over the years, no one has worked harder or been more energetic than he has been in getting our membership every kind of advantage that they deserve. I can’t put into words what having him on our team has personally meant to me. “But Bill’s track record speaks for itself and I have every confidence in his abilities,” Sacco added. “He has a rich history that’s marked by consistent contributions to the membership and I look forward to more of the same from him.” Seafarers Say Prescription Card Is Just What the Doctor Ordered SIU members are happy with the new prescription identification cards recently issued as part of a new program with Prescription Solutions. Member feedback at the union halls and at the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan office has been very positive, according to port officials and Plan representatives. “The card is really good. I’ve already used it and I’m very happy with it,” said SA Leonel Montes at the Houston hall. “I’ve used it several times and it has worked out fine,” said AB Lonale Andrews at the hall in Norfolk, Va. “You hand them your card, they scan it and you get your medicine.” As reported in previous issues of the Seafarers LOG, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan in December entered into the agreement with Prescription Solutions to provide pharmacy benefits to all eligible participants. The program provides coverage for new as well as refill prescriptions filled at participating retail pharmacies and through the Prescription Solutions Mail Services Pharmacy. To use the program, members need only present their Prescription Solutions ID cards at any participating pharmacy. For AB Edward Milstead, eliminating or reducing out-of-pocket costs is a highlight of the new program. “That’s big, especially if you have kids,” Milstead noted at the hall in Mobile, Ala. “Everyone I’ve talked to is happy with the new card, and I look forward to using it when needed. I’m sure it’ll come in handy.” March 2004 �21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/26/2004 12:47 PM Page 5 SIU Mourns Retired Patrolman Joe Sigler Manuel “Joe” Sigler, a former SIU patrolman, business and port representative and safety director, passed away Feb. 12 in Indianapolis following a lengthy illness. He was 76. “He was a great union representative—always considerate and always looking out for the underdog,” said SIU President Michael Sacco upon learning of Brother Sigler’s death. “Joe was just a really great union guy, all the way around. He’ll be missed.” “He was a beloved union guy from the old school,” said St. Louis SIU Port Agent Becky Sleeper, whom Sigler mentored. “Joe was port agent when I arrived here. He took me under his wing, taught and showed me what I needed to know and do to be successful as a port agent…. He was totally union and would take the shirt off his back and give it to just about anybody if he thought it would help them.” “Joe’s death is such a great loss to all of us,” offered Valerie Miller, St. Louis SIU representative. “I have known him since I was about 6 or 7 years old … from way back in the old Lundeberg days. He always cared about his union brothers and sisters and kept in touch with us Mississippi Mishaps Orleans. The accident reportedly caused 22,000 gallons of fuel oil to leak from the moored Marshall Islands-flagged tanker into the river. In 1996, the Bright Field smashed into the shopping center and nearby Hilton Hotel, causing about $19 million in damage. Just two days after last month’s mishap, the Mississippi’s only entrance for deep sea ships from New Orleans to the Gulf of Mexico was closed again—this time due to a fatal accident. According to news reports, the 178-foot supply boat Lee III sank Feb. 21 after striking the 534-foot containership Zim Mexico III in the fog. The five-man crew of the supply boat remained missing after two days of searching (as this issue of the LOG went to press). The Zim Mexico III reportedly is registered in Antigua and Barbuda, owned by Germany’s B. Rickmers GMBH Cie., and operated by Zim American Israeli Shipping Co. A 739-foot freighter owned by the same Chinese company whose vessel Bright Field hit New Orleans’ Riverwalk shopping center in 1996 added to the unfortunate legacy last month. Cosco Shipping’s Bright State on Feb. 19 hit the stationary 600foot vessel Genmar Alexandra on the Mississippi near New U.S.-Flag Cruise Plan Remains on Schedule NCL America recently confirmed plans to rechristen the Norwegian Sky as the Pride of Aloha and introduce the 2,000-passenger vessel into the company’s new U.S.-flag division this summer. The ship will undergo a multi-million dollar refurbishment. The Pride of Aloha will fill in for the Pride of America, which recently sustained storm damage in a German shipyard. The latter vessel was refloated Feb. 15, exactly one month after the storm hit it. According to news reports, though other parts of the ship were damaged, the Pride of America’s hull wasn’t harmed and the vessel will be completed. No official estimated completion date has been announced. The Pride of America initially was included in Project America, a substantial effort to enhance U.S. shipbuilding and the U.S.-flag cruise industry. The development was hurt by the attacks of September 11, 2001, but NCL last year committed to beginning a U.S.-flag operation in Hawaii. Free Choice Act Gains Support in Congress Even though the National Labor Relations Act—which established the legal right to form unions and negotiate for better benefits, pay, safety standards and working conditions—was enacted in 1935, employers across the country continue to use threats, coercion and intimidation to block workers’ efforts to unionize. For that reason, Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.) on Nov. 21, 2003 introduced the Employee Free Choice Act (S.1925 and H.R. 3619). The proposed legislation ensures that when a majority of employees in a workplace decide to form a union, they can do so without the debilitating obstacles used by employers to block their workers’ free choice. “We like to think that workers are free to join a union,” Kennedy stated. “But too often that basic aspect of freedom is denied in our modern society because hard-line corporate managers succeed in denying a fair choice by workers.” Miller added, “We are here…to demand for workers in America the basic legal, labor and human rights by which we judge other nations around the world: the freedom of association and the right to collectively bargain.” The AFL-CIO picked Dec. 10—International Human Rights Day—to highlight the fact that March 2004 U.S. labor laws not only do not protect workers who want to organize unions, but in many cases facilitate employers’ efforts to block them. Civil rights leaders, Democratic presidential candidates and major labor advocates stood with tens of thousands of workers at 90 events in 37 states that day to ask that their rights be recognized. Workers at many of the marches, press conferences, hearings and other venues spoke about the opposition they have faced in attempting to exercise their right to form a union. “Behind the closed doors of the workplaces of America, workers face incredible—often ruthless—opposition when they try to come together in a union,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “These employers are literally robbing working people and their communities of better lives. At a time in our nation when the middle class is shrinking, when the gap between the rich and poor is growing, workers deserve the right to form a union to win a real voice on the job through collective bargaining.” Federal labor law protects workers’ freedom to form unions—in theory. In reality, employers’ most powerful tactics to suppress workers’ freedom to form unions are legal under U.S. law. Others, such as firing workers for union activity, are technically illegal—but are penalized John Sweeney AFL-CIO President so lightly or enforced so poorly that the law is no deterrent. The Employee Free Choice Act will: Allow employees to freely choose whether to form unions by signing cards authorizing union representation. Provide mediation and arbitration for first contact disputes. Establish stronger penalties for violation of employee rights when workers seek to form a union and during first contract negotiations. Members of Congress appear to be listening to the workers. In less than three months, 155 members of the House and 27 senators had agreed to co-sponsor the bill. Union members are encouraged to get involved with the nationwide campaign by calling their U.S. senators (202) 224-3121 and representatives (202) 225-3121, and urging them to co-sponsor the Employee Free Choice Act. here at the port. Joe always wore his SIU T-shirt, jacket and his Lundeberg beef cap. He was SIU through and through.” Born in Gary, Ind., Brother Sigler donned the SIU colors in 1952 in the port of Chicago. Prior to joining the Seafarers, he served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947. Brother Sigler spent the majority of his career working on the Great Lakes, but also worked in the deep sea and inland divisions. A deck department member, he sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Towing Co. Brother Sigler came ashore in 1980. Thereafter, he held the positions of patrolman and SIU representative in Chicago; SIU representative, port representative and safety director in Algonac, Mich.; and safety director and port agent in the port of St. Louis. He retired in January Joe Sigler, pictured at his retirement gathering in St. Louis, started his SIU career in 1952. 1995. Brother Sigler’s two sons, Manuel and Raymond; and one daughter, Terrilyn, survive him. A memorial service for Brother Sigler was held Feb. 14 in Indianapolis. Trustee Mike Swayne Passes Away at Age 69 Michael E. Swayne, an SIU trustee, passed away Jan. 23 at Somerset Medical Center in Somerville, N.J. He was 69. Born in Bronx, N.Y., Swayne initially was appointed alternate trustee for the SIU Employment Board in June 1981. He achieved full board status in August 1992 and thereafter served as a trustee for the Seafarers Welfare Plan, the Seafarers Pension Plan, and the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Swayne worked as a manager of labor relations for SIUcontracted Transoceanic Cable Ship Co. of Morristown, N.J. for more than 40 years. He retired in 1996. “Mike was a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine,” said SIU President Mike Sacco. “He really looked out for the people aboard the ships and made sure that they got a fair shake. I’m personally grateful for everything he did for the union and especially our membership. He was a model for good labor-management relations and he will truly be missed. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez echoed Sacco’s views, offering, “Mike was a real advocate for the welfare of the ship’s crew. He understood that the success of a vessel depended on the continued effectiveness and efficiency of its crew. Mike worked tirelessly to ensure that crews always were treated fairly. He was a very strong advocate for training and, in short, a real people’s guy.” Carolyn Gentile, general counsel to the Seafarers Plans, worked closely with Swayne. “He was a consummate gentleman and a real pleasure to work with,” Gentile said. “Michael had a very sweet disposition about him and wonderful sense of humor. I’m sure I speak for the entire SIU family when I say we all will miss him and his talents.” An avid gardener, Swayne took great pride in his horticultural skills. He also enjoyed the culinary arts. He was a communicant of St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church and was on the board of trustees for the American Maritime Officers in Dania, Fla. Swayne also was past vice chairman of the American Maritime Officers Service. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, the former Ida Murphy; three sons, Michael, Jr., James, Sr., and John; three daughters, Patricia Swayne, Maureen Swayne and Anne Sickles; and seven grandchildren. Funeral services for Swayne on Jan. 28 were held at St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church in Somerset, N.J. Interment followed in the Cedar Grove Cemetery in Franklin, N.J. The late SIU Trustee Michael Swayne, left, chats with Tony Naccarato of Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning during a 1993 trustee/port agents meeting in San Francisco. Swayne, who achieved full board status as an SIU trustee in August 1992, passed away Jan. 23. Seafarers LOG 5 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:25 PM Page 6 Maritime Administration Approves Deepwater Liquid Natural Gas Port The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) last month stated that it soon will be easier to import natural gas from fuel tankers without disruption to shoreline communities and the environment, thanks in part to a new deepwater liquid natural gas (LNG) port approved by the agency. The LNG port, to be built by El Paso Energy Bridge Gulf of Mexico LLC about 116 miles south of New Orleans in the Gulf of Mexico, is a terminal to process and transfer natural gas received from LNG transport ships to a pipeline system, which will carry the natural gas ashore for distribution to U.S. markets. “This new facility will improve efficiency by eliminating the need for a carrier to come all the way into a shore side port and save money in the process,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta. Worldwide, natural gas is in plentiful supply. However, the United States holds less than 4 percent of the world reserves. The Deepwater Port Act of 1974, as amended in 2002, recognized the need for new LNG import facilities and provided American industry with the option of constructing new LNG port facilities in the waters beyond U.S. territorial limits. According to MarAd, the construction and operation of deepwater ports “will enhance the options available for the importation of natural gas into the U.S., thus allowing greater benefits from the economic and environmental advantages of LNG imports.” This is the second approval issued under the Deepwater Ports Act; the first approval was issued in November 2003. Maritime Administrator Captain William G. Schubert noted that his agency has three additional applications under review, and expects to receive more. “Natural gas consumption is rising rapidly, and an increased supply is important for our energy independence,” he said. MarAd reported that Energy Bridge Gulf of Mexico LLC (Energy Bridge GOM) is a whollyowned subsidiary of El Paso Field Services Holding Company, which is 100 percent owned by El Paso Tennessee Pipeline Company, which is, in turn, a major subsidiary of El Paso Corporation, based in Houston, Texas. Joint Action With Saudi Arabia Aims to Fight Terrorist Financing The United States and Saudi Arabian governments again have joined together to ask the United Nations to add four branches of the Al-Haramain Islamic Foundation to its consolidated list of terrorists tied to al-Qaida, Osama bin Laden and the Taliban. The U.S. Treasury Department recently announced that the designation of the Al-Haramain branches in Indonesia, Kenya, Tanzania and Pakistan under Executive Order 13224 “is the latest in a series of public joint actions with our ally in the war on terrorist financing. These branches have provided financial, material and logistical support to the al-Qaida network and other terrorist organizations.” U.S. Treasury Secretary John W. Snow stated, “The United States and Saudi Arabia share a deep commitment to fighting the spread of terrorism in all its forms. The branches of al Haramain that we have singled out today (Jan. 22) not only assist in the pursuit of death and destruction; they deceive countless people around the world who believe that they have helped spread good will and good works. By working together to take action today and calling on the United Nations to do the same, our two countries send a clear message: Those who hide intensions of terror behind a veil of benevolence and charity will not escape justice from the international community.” The Saudi government in 2003 ordered Al-Haramain to close all of its overseas branches. AlHaramain stated it closed branches in Indonesia, Kenya, Tanzania and Pakistan, but continued monitoring by the United States and Saudi Arabia indicates that these offices and/or former officials associated with these branches are either continuing to operate or have other plans to avoid these measures. The actions by the Bosnia-Herzegovina branch, designated in March 2002, to reconstitute itself and continue operations under the name “Vazir” is one example. Similarly, the Indonesian branch of AlHaramain has attempted to operate under an alias. According to the Treasury Department, the four branches designated earlier this year “are only the most recent of AlHaramain’s overseas branches to be investigated, and the U.S. remains committed to ensuring U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert Liberator Crew Welcomes SIU President, Other Officials Seafarers aboard the Liberator welcomed SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive VP John Fay, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, West Coast VP Nick Marrone and Wilmington Port Agent John Cox for a surprise shipboard meeting Feb. 11 at Berth 403 in Los Angeles. Sacco led discussions with the crew about Operation Iraqi Freedom 2, the new U.S. Maritime Security Program, political action, health care and more. Below are a few snapshots from the impromptu meeting. Executive VP John Fay (left) and President Michael Sacco climb aboard the Liberator. U.S. Treasury Secretary John W. Snow that the branches of this charity cannot be used to support terrorism. The Saudi Arabian government has informed the host countries that these entities are not Saudi entities and should be treated appropriately under local law. Designation at the UN triggers international obligations on all member countries, requiring them to take steps to ensure that these offices cannot continue to use their remaining infrastructure or finances to fund or otherwise support terrorism. It is also a critical action to publicly identify these supporters of terrorism, providing warning to other entities that they are prohibited from doing business with them.” President Sacco and crew members discuss the vital role of Seafarers in Operation Iraqi Freedom 2. Mulholland Retires from Matson After more than 38 years of service, C. Bradley Mulholland retired Jan. 1 from Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, Inc., which he served as vice chairman of the board. He also retired from his position as executive vice president of Alexander & Baldwin, Inc., Matson’s parent company, and from director positions on the boards of both companies. Mulholland joined Matson in 1965 and served in a variety of increasingly responsible positions throughout the company, ultimately being named president and chief operating officer of Matson in 1990, and then president and chief executive officer in 1992. He became vice chairman of the board in 2002. “We thank Brad for his many years of devoted service to Matson and his contributions to the organization over an extended period,” 6 Seafarers LOG said A&B President and CEO Allen Doane. “We wish him the best in his retirement.” Mulholland started as an assistant booking clerk in Southern California and, over the years, held such varied positions as district sales manager, regional sales manager, vice president sales, vice president of Matson Agencies, senior vice president in freight operations and president of Matson Terminals, Inc. In 1996, Mulholland was honored by the United Seamen’s Service with the prestigious Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award (AOTOS). He is a lifetime member of the National Defense Transportation Association and currently serves on the Board of the Standard Steamship Owners’ Association and the San Francisco Bay Area Council. Mulholland is also on the Board of Trustees of the National Maritime Museum Pictured from left to right are AB Dante Cruz, AB Joshua Mensah, President Sacco and AB Ivan Ingram. C. Bradley Mulholland Association in San Francisco. He also served for 10 years on the Mainland Distribution Committee of the A&B Foundation, the company’s charitable giving arm. Matson is the principal carrier of containerized freight and automobiles between the U.S. Pacific Coast and Hawaii, Guam and the mid-Pacific. West Coast VP Nick Marrone (left) and Port Agent John Cox (right) flank Bosun Manola Delos Santos. March 2004 �21722p3_4_7_12_13.qxd 2/23/2004 5:09 AM Page 7 SIU President Describes Key Aspects of Union, School Emphasizing the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role as America’s fourth arm of defense, SIU President Mike Sacco delivered an informative and well-received presentation Jan. 22 to more than 100 officials and staff members from the U.S. Department of Labor. Sacco also highlighted the unlicensed apprentice program offered by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education—a program approved last year by U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao through the department’s National Apprenticeship Standards. The speech took place in Washington, D.C. and was part of the department’s staff training. Sacco noted that Seafarers were mobilizing for the next phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom —a mission that involves transporting new materiel and troops to Iraq as well as bringing back other equipment. “More than 2,000 of our members sailed during the all-out combat phase of the war, and they delivered the goods. In fact, the entire U.S. Merchant Marine has U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao warmly introduces SIU President Mike Sacco. SIU President Mike Sacco addresses a U.S. Department of Labor audience—including Secretary Elaine L. Chao, right—during a Jan. 22 presentation in Washington, D.C. been praised at the highest levels of government for what has been described as the most efficient sealift operation in history,” Sacco told the audience. SIU members crewed more than 100 vessels during the war. Overall, the merchant marine moved more than 20 million square feet of vital cargo— enough to fill more than 350 football fields. “I want all of you to know that our membership is very proud and very serious about supporting our troops,” the SIU president stated. “They understand their role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and they are committed to getting the job done, wherever and whenever needed. “Here again, the Paul Hall Center plays an important role. The school helps ensure that our loyal U.S. citizen crews are properly trained to work aboard all types of vessels.” Speaking of both the union and its affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md., Sacco noted, “We help people by giving them great career opportunities and educating them for a lifetime. For instance, earlier this month I met a first-time student at the Paul Hall Center who told me the school almost seemed too good to be true. Here was a guy who simply needed some direction—who just needed an opportunity to have a good career. And he’s finding that opportunity in Piney Point. He was absolutely beaming when he talked about the school.” Among the other points made by Sacco were: „ The Paul Hall Center (named after the union’s second president, who was inducted into the Department of Labor Hall of Fame last year) offers education beyond vocational training, from remedial reading and math, all the way to a two-year college program that offers degrees in nautical science and marine engineering „ Since 1984, more than 2,000 Seafarers have earned their GEDs through the Paul Hall Alaska Tanker Company Reaches Safety Milestone Even for a business that must be accustomed to racking up safety awards, the latest milestone attained by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) stands out. ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur recently reported that the company in late January completed 5 million man-hours without a single “lost time” injury. “When our young company started up some five years ago, we used to have on average one lost time injury every month, matching the industry average at the time,” Mathur reported. “We have now gone well over two years—including all of 2002 and 2003—without any lost time injuries. “The ATC team’s relentless drive to create an incident-free workplace continually propels us past significant safety and environmental milestones,” he added. SIU Vice President Augie Tellez said that ATC “deserves all of the positive recognition that they receive. They’re always eager to accept input from the crews, and they’re very inclusive when it comes to building a commitment to safety. The SIU members who crew their ships, along with the officers and company personnel, have every reason to feel proud.” Last year, seven Seafarerscrewed ATC ships received vessel Center’s high school equivalency program. „ The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan offers annual scholarships for SIU members and their dependents. The scholarship program started in 1952, with the values of the scholarships increasing from time to time. Currently, the Plan offers eight scholarships annually, with a total value of $132,000. Sacco also discussed the school’s facilities; the manpower office; the veterans’ program; anti-terrorism training; recruiting efforts made by the union and the school; and the SIU’s history of wartime service. safety awards at an annual industry gathering in New Orleans. Also last year, the Alaska state legislature formally congratulated the company for its outstanding safety and environmental record. ATC then earned a major Washington State award for excellence in marine safety and environmental stewardship. ATC’s fleet eventually is expected to include four new Alaska-class tankers. The doublehull ships are being built in San Diego for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA; the first is slated for delivery in June. The Alaskan Frontier, scheduled for delivery in June, is one of four double-hull Alaska-class tankers being constructed on the West Coast. SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company will operate the new vessels. Sentencing Announced in U.S.-Flag Vessels, Port Facilities Submit Security Plans to Coast Guard Mariner Document Scam By early February, 90 percent of U.S.-flag vessels and port facilities had submitted security plans as required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) of 2002, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The agency said penalties already are being issued to those that have not submitted any of the information required. The organization has begun issuing notices of violation with a $10,000 penalty. The names of specific vessels and facilities that have received notices have been designated “Sensitive Security Information” and will not be released to the public. It is believed that all SIU-contracted companies already are complying. “Security in America’s ports is a shared responsibility,” said Rear Adm. Larry Hereth, director of port security for the Coast Guard. “We have made tremendous progress protecting the ports, and we need everyone to continue that progress by meeting these requirements.” Designed to protect the nation’s ports and waterways from a terrorist attack, the MTSA March 2004 Shipboard and port security has come under closer scrutiny because of new regulations including the Maritime Transportation Security Act. requires the development and implementation of security plans for vessels and facilities that have higher risks of involvement in transportation security incidents. The act further mandates that all affected vessels and facilities be in compliance by July 1, and timely security plan submission is a key milestone in reaching that goal. Under the act, large cargo and passenger vessels, port facilities, outer continental shelf facilities, and others in the maritime industry were required to submit vulnerability assessment reports and security plans. Additional civil penalties for failing to submit the security plan may be issued at a later date, and non-compliant operators may have their operation shut down after July 1, if an approved security plan is not in place. The Coast Guard has established a Help Desk to assist industry with understanding the regulations. It can be reached from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST Monday through Friday at (202) 366-9991, toll-free at (877) 6872243 or, or by e-mail at uscgregs @comdt.uscg.mil. The full text of the rules and other information can be found on the Coast Guard’s Help Desk website at: h t t p : / / w w w. u s c g . m i l / h q / g m/mp/mtsa.shtml. The U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Department of Justice recently announced that a woman has been sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment and two years of supervised release following her conviction for conspiring to create false mariner documents. According to the agencies, Maria Machado Diaz “was found by United States District Judge Adalberto Jordan to be a leader and organizer in the conspiracy, which involved the smuggling of illegal aliens into the United States posing as commercial seamen. Three other defendants in the case pled guilty and were sentenced to lesser sentences.” Diaz was sentenced Jan. 21. The announcement was jointly made in Miami by Marcos Daniel Jiménez, 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, one defendant, Marvin Joseph, Jr., fled South Florida after his indictment and remains a fugitive. All defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit offenses or to defraud the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and encouraging or inducing an alien to come to, enter, or reside in the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1324. The agencies investigated Diaz and her co-defendants from October 2002 until March 2003. Undercover agents conducted numerous operations in which they purchased false mariner employment documents, kept tight surveillance and obtained video and audio recordings of the suspects. The indictment charged that the defendants sent numerous letters to the United States 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. The indictment also charged that by sending the letters, the defendants were inducing and encouraging the aliens to enter the United States despite knowing that the aliens did not have authority to enter the country. Seafarers LOG 7 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:25 PM Page 8 Seafarers and Guests Enjoy Holiday Event In Wilmington Hall Chief Cook Douglas Burch Steward/Baker James Lewis SIU Wilmington Safety Director Marshall Novack and MTL Port Captain Igor Loch EU Steven Benivedes, Bosun Mauro Gutierrez and GVA James Smith Chief Cook James Boss GSTU Jorge Barahona Storekeeper Terry Malone, AB Richard Volkart and EU Steven Benavides. QMED David Hamilton AB Vincent Ippolito QMED David Watkins GUDE/EU Rigoberto Beata SIU Wilmington Dispatcher Jesse Solis QMED Erik Nappier and SIU Wilmington Dispatcher Nick Rios Tausha Cox, GVA/Wiper Alonzo Sanz and AMC CEO Bob Shanazarian 8 Seafarers LOG March 2004 �21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/26/2004 11:55 AM Page 9 BLS Updates Union Statistics Union membership among wage and salary workers in the United States declined to 12.9 percent in 2003, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. The rate fell from 13.3 percent the previous year. Labor Department statistics show that men are more likely to be union members than women; blacks are more likely to belong to a union than whites, Asians or Hispanics; and nearly two-fifths of education workers and police and firefighters are union members. From a geographical perspective, four states had union membership rates over 20 percent in 2003—New York (24.6 percent), Hawaii (23.8 percent), Alaska (22.3 percent), and Michigan (21.9 percent). The largest number of union members, 2.4 million, lived in California. New York came in second with 1.9 million followed by Illinois with 1.0 million. About half—7.9 million—of the 15.8 million union members in the United States lived in six states (California, New York, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania) although these states accounted for just over one-third of wage and salary employment nationally. In the earnings arena, full-time wage and salary workers who were union members in 2003 had median usual weekly earnings of $760, compared with a median of $599 for wage and salary workers who were not represented by unions. USNS Mercy Becomes Home For Displaced Fire Victims When devastating fires blazed through the San Diego, Calif. area last fall, hundreds of homes were destroyed, and residents were ordered to evacuate. Temporary housing was set up in gymnasiums and theaters on local military bases and at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego—as well as aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy—to serve as shelters for the displaced persons. The USNS Mercy is crewed by SIU members in the Government Services Division. The vessel, normally kept in reduced operating status in San Diego, is designed to provide emergency care for U.S. combat forces. More than 100 victims of the fires were given beds and meals aboard the 894-foot vessel, and the ship’s medical treatment facility was prepared to open an intensive care unit for those requiring respiratory care. The USNS Mercy became home to victims of the San Diego fires. The USNS Mercy is the sister ship of the Baltimore-based USNS Comfort, also crewed by SIU members in the Government Services Division. It was the Comfort that assisted in the relief efforts in New York following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center and also took part in Operation Iraqi Freedom, treating more than 650 patients, including members of the U.S. forces as well as Iraqi civilians and prisoners of war. Kilauea Completes Record Transfer On Oct. 23, 2003, the USNS Kilauea, a Military Sealift Command ammunition ship crewed by SIU members in the Government Services Division, and the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz completed the largest at-sea transfer of ordnance since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Aircraft operating off the Navy carrier had dropped 125,000 pounds of ammunition during Operation Iraqi Freedom but the Nimitz had to offload the remaining 4.3 million pounds before heading for home. Planning and coordinating for the transfer began 45 days in advance. With personnel from both vessels working together as one team, it then took 12 hours of vertical replenishment (assisted by a Seahawk helicopter) and five hours of connected replenishment with the 564-foot Kilauea for each of two days to complete the transfer. SIU crew members from the USNS Kilauea, a Government Services Division vessel, helped offload the largest at-sea transfer of ammunition from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. Seafarers Rally with UFCW Members Continued from page 3 Hevesi (D). Along with SIU rank-and-file members, the event was attended by SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph T. Soresi, SIU Government Services Representative Kate Hunt, SIU Brooklyn Patrolman Joe Baselice, and SIU Philadelphia Representative Joe Mieluchowski. The work stoppage has idled grocery clerks from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. The companies have kept stores open with scabs but have lost tens of millions of dollars in sales. “I don’t see how they can stay in business unless they agree to a fair contract with the workers,” said Heindel. “We were on the picket line for at least three hours, and in all that time maybe a handful of people went into the store (an Albertsons Market). More than twice that many people respected the line and went to a different (non-boycotted) store two blocks away.” In the latest development Seafarers took part in a major rally for UFCW members Feb. 5 on Wall Street. before the LOG went to press, supermarket executives and UFCW leaders on Feb. 11 met in a secret location for the first formal strike negotiations in nearly two months. Sources said the talks went into the evening and were expected to continue the following day. The three supermarket operators on Feb. 3 rejected an offer from the union to have its members return to work immediately if the markets would agree to binding arbitration. ‘Union Plus’ Offers Consumer Benefits Union Plus gives Seafarers and their families access to a number of cost-saving benefits programs. Union Plus (formerly Union Privilege) is a non-profit entity created in 1986 by the AFL-CIO to provide union members and their families with valuable consumer benefits. Basically, the organization secures good rates for union members who are enrolled in the various programs, based on the potential collective purchasing power of all members of participating unions. In short, it’s a case of strength in numbers. The following is a list of Union Plus programs in which the SIU participates. For more information about a particular program, call the appropriate Union Plus telephone number or visit www.unionplus.org Credit Card This union-endorsed credit card may save you money. Features of the card include a competitive rate, no annual fees and a unique, valuable member advocacy program. Apply online at www.unionpluscard.com or call 1800-522-4000. Secured Credit Card This is a special credit card that is designed to help you establish or reestablish your credit. Features include no application fees, a credit line equal to 100 percent of deposit and a 25-day grace period. Call 1-800-622-2580. Mortgage and Real Estate Buying, selling or refinancing a home can be made easier and more affordable through this offering. Program features include strike, layoff and disability assistance and an easy over-the-phone application process. The program also is open to your parents and children. Call 1-800-848-6466. Life Insurance Members may purchase term insurance at low group March 2004 rates and premium waver during layoffs. Call 1-800-8992782. Health Savings This program makes it possible for members to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses on a variety of health care services such as prescriptions, vision care and more. Participants receive quarterly savings statements. Call 1-800-228-3523 for more details. Auto Insurance Program Under this program, low rates and many discounts are available for members who have good driving records and safety devices installed on their vehicles. Customer service is available 24 hours a day. For comparison quotes, go to www.unionplus.org or call 1-800-294-9496 to apply. Education Services Information about loans, scholarships, how to select a school, prepare for college entry tests, and much more is provided in this program. Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-877-881-1022. National Labor College Scholarship This offering is designed especially for working adults who want to pursue a bachelor of arts degree while continuing their trade union work. For more details, call 1-301-431-5404. Loan Program Competitive-rate personal and home equity loans are available under this program. It can be ideal for debt consolidation. Apply online at www.unionplusloan.com or call 1-888-235-2759. Accidental Death Insurance Members can receive $10,000 worth of workplace accidental death insurance at no cost. They also may pur- chase “all-cause” accidental death coverage up to $200,000. Call 1-800-899-2782 or enroll online at www.unionplus.org. Family Savers Hotel Royal Plaza Special leisure rates are available at the Hotel Royal Plaza in the Walt Disney World Resort. Call 1-800-2487890. Car Rentals Union members can receive discounted rates on rentals. To find out more, visit www.unionplus.org; call Avis at 1-800-6985685, ID# B723700 or Budget at 1800-455-2848, ID# V816100. Union-M Made Checks Union-printed checks and return address labels that feature your union logo are offered under this program. Call 1-888-864-6625. Flower Service As an SIU member, you can save 15 percent when you send floral arrangements, wreaths or gift baskets. Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-888-667-7779 to place an order. North American Van Lines Members can realize savings on interstate moves. Call 1-800-524-5533. Your Credit Score For $11, you can get your credit score, credit report, and suggestions for improving your score. Visit www.unionplus.org. Vacation Tours Discount travel packages are available to worldwide destinations. This program is open to union members, retirees and their families. Call 1-800-590-1104 for more information. Seafarers LOG 9 �21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/27/2004 4:05 PM Page 10 Bill Calls for Monthly Payment to WWII Mariners The American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV), which includes thousands of retired Seafarers, is urging passage of a new bill that would provide a monthly payment to World War II merchant marine veterans or their widows. U.S. Rep. Bob Filner (DCalif.) on Jan. 27 introduced the “Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2004.” The legislation (H.R. 3729) calls for compensation of $1,000 per month. In official remarks to fellow members of Congress, Filner noted, World War II Merchant Mariners suffered the highest casualty rate of any of the branches of services while they delivered troops, tanks, food, air- planes, fuel and other needed supplies to every theater of the war. Compared to the large number of men and women serving in World War II, the numbers of merchant mariners were small, but their chance of dying during service was extremely high. Enemy forces sank over 800 ships between 1941 and 1944 alone.” Filner further pointed out mariners weren’t included in the GI Bill of Rights, which Congress enacted in 1945. “The merchant marine became the forgotten service,” he said. “The fact that merchant seamen had borne arms during wartime in the defense of their country did not seem to matter.” Many WWII mariners finally received veterans’ recognition in 1988, along with access to what Filner described as a “watereddown” GI Bill. It took another 10 years to extend the cutoff date for recognition of mariners as veterans so it matched the date utilized by the military. A member of the U.S. House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Filner observed, “While it is impossible to make up for over 40 years of unpaid benefits, I propose a bill that will acknowledge the service of the veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine and offer compensation for years and years of lost benefits. The average age of (World War II) merchant marine veterans is now 81. Many have outlived their savings. A monthly benefit to compensate Attn: WWII Mariners The AMMV’s Just Compensation Committee urges all U.S. mariners who sailed during World War II to help gain more support for H.R. 3729 – the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2004. “It will take a lot of determined effort to finish this job,” said Ian Allison, retired Seafarer and co-chairman of the committee. For a copy of the bill, along with guidelines on how to help support the legislation, send your name and address to: Henry Van Gemert, Co-Chairman Just Compensation Committee 800 West 25th Ave. Palmetto, FL 34221 Telephone (and fax) (941) 722-1194 Email Henry1124@aol.com for the loss of nearly a lifetime of ineligibility for the GI Bill would be of comfort and would provide some measure of security for veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” St. Louis AMMV Chapter Helps Secure Recognition for WWII Merchant Mariners The S.S. Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine and U.S. Navy Armed Guard Veterans (AMMV) continues doing its part to help ensure that World War II-era mariners are recognized and remembered. Late last year, the chapter had a hand in the dedication of two U.S. Merchant Marine memorials —one in Woodson Terrace, Mo., the other in St. Peters, Mo. Altogether, the chapter (with varying degrees of involvement) has helped spur the creation of four such memorials in and around St. Louis since 1998. Bill Hessi, head of the Samuel Parker Chapter, said he and the other members particularly were pleased with the St. Peters dedication last Veterans’ Day. That memorial is sponsored by the local V.F.W., whose national organization hasn’t officially recognized merchant mariners as veterans. “The ceremony was aweinspiring and we were extremely proud to be a part of it,” said Hessi, who sailed on two Victory ships during the war, starting at age 19. “The recognition can only help, and I think it also may help our chances of passing H.R. 3729 (see story, this page).” Earlier last November, the Woodson Terrace memorial was unveiled. It includes the U.S. Merchant Marine flag along with those of the armed forces. Previously, the chapter dedicated a nine-ton anchor in downtown St. Louis (1999) and a granite memorial in the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. The anchor is located outside the Soldiers’ Memorial, a museum with displays from various wars. In 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said of the U.S. Merchant Marine, “They have delivered the goods when and where needed in every theater of operations and across every ocean in the biggest, the most difficult and dangerous transportation job ever undertaken. As time goes on, there will be greater public understanding of our merchant fleet’s record during this war.” Members of the St. Louis AMMV (top photo) stand beneath the U.S. Merchant Marine flag at the Woodson Terrace Memorial (pictured below, far right). National WWII Memorial Includes Merchant Mariners Last Veterans’ Day, a new Field of Dreams Memorial (above, at left and below) was dedicated in St. Peters, Mo. that includes the U.S. Merchant Marine. A nine-ton anchor outside the Soldiers’ Memorial in downtown St. Louis recognizes the contributions of the U.S. Merchant Marine and U.S. Navy Armed Guard in World War II. The National World War II Memorial, scheduled for dedication May 29, in Washington, D.C., includes the U.S. Merchant Marine. According to the memorial’s parent organization, “The memorial plaza and Rainbow Pool are the principal design features of the memorial, unifying all other elements. Two flagpoles flying the American flag will frame the ceremonial entrance at 17th Street. The bases of granite and bronze will be adorned with the military service seals of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Army Air Forces, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine.” Photos by Ivar Link This stone at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery memorializes U.S. Merchant Mariners and U.S. Navy Armed Guard members who gave their lives in the war. 10 Seafarers LOG The National World War II Memorial will be dedicated in Washington, D.C. during a four-day span in late May. March 2004 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:26 PM Page 11 At Sea and Ashore With the SIU Mississippi Queen Executive Chef Paul Wayland-Smith (left) presents 2nd Cook James H. Neuner with a cake, congratulating him on his retirement last August. Brother Neuner started sailing with the SIU in 1993 primarily aboard vessels operated by the Delta Queen Steamboat Co., including the American Queen and Mississippi Queen. He makes his home in Paducah, Ky. Thanks to Delta Queen Chief Purser Kathleen Cade for sending in this photo. Seafarers gather in the SIU Algonac hall for the November membership meeting. In the Santurce, P.R. hall, SIU Patrolman Amancio Crespo issues union books to Seafarers (clockwise from top left) John Walsh, Daniel Herrera, Helia Calderon and Antony Mendez. Recertified Bosun Jesse Mixon celebrates his November birthday on board the Overseas Chicago with fellow shipmates (from left) Chief Steward Don Lewis, Capt. Craig Grosso, Chief Pumpman Mark Sawin, Mixon, Chief Mate Nick Karagiannis, 2nd Engineer Gordon Marsh and Chief Engineer Mark Nowak. Thanks to AB James Elbe for sending in this photo. From Bosun Andrew N. Boney come these two photos of the Keystone State during the first operation of the cranes. ROYAL TREATMENT – The SIU-crewed tugboats Z-ONE and Z-TWO, operated by Great Lakes Towing, expertly escorted the Queen Mary 2 (right) into Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. on Jan. 26 as the new ocean liner made its first arrival into the United States. The cruise ship is 1,100 feet long. Pictured above at the arrival are (from left) SIU members Ken Bower and Derek Tracy; Sheldon Guren, owner of The Great Lakes Group; Gregg Thauvette, assistant VP operations of The Great Lakes Group; and Seafarers Al Zapata, Miguel Martinez, Ben Johnson, David Wander, Michael Worthington and Rich Williams. March 2004 Seafarers LOG 11 �21722p3_4_7_12_13.qxd 2/27/2004 4:54 PM Page 12 ` MSC Photo by Ed Baxter The USNS Red Cloud and four other Seafarers-crewed LMSRs loaded more than 70,000 tons of U.S. Army hardware in Antwerp, Belgium from Jan. 25 into early February. SIU DELIVERS MSC Photo by Ed Baxter Just as th first phase o roles in “pa crewed ship (MSC) rece at several U 240,000 U. An estimate those troop The pho porting our Merchant M fo MSC Photo by Ed Baxter Materiel loaded on SIU-crewed ships in Antwerp (more than 1 million square feet of cargo) included tanks, personnel carriers, heavy trucks, Humvees, fuel trucks, containers and more. Baltimore Port Agent De Metz, 3rd Engineer (and hawsepiper) Jim Port Cape Wrath MSC Photos by Ed Baxter During the first phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, an average U.S.-flag vessel moved the equivalent of some 300 C-17 cargo aircraft, which freed up aircraft for other critical missions. MSC Photo by Ed Baxter SIU-crewed LMSRs handling the loadout in Antwerp included the Brittin, Dahl, Watkins, Red Cloud and Charlton. 12 Seafarers LOG March 2004 �21722p3_4_7_12_13.qxd 2/27/2004 6:03 PM Page 13 AP Photo/Julie Jacobson AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia t as thousands of SIU members answered their nation’s call during the hase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Seafarers once again are playing vital n “part 2” of the mission. By mid-February, no fewer than 57 SIUd ships had mobilized for OIF2. The U.S. Military Sealift Command ) recently announced that sealift operations for this phase “will occur eral U.S. and overseas ports over the next few months. Approximately 00 U.S. military personnel will rotate into and out of the Middle East. imated 23 million square feet of cargo will be moved by sea to support troops….” e photos on these two pages exemplify the SIU’s commitment to supg our troops and helping maintain the proud tradition of the U.S. ant Marine as America’s fourth arm of defense. AP Photo/SSG. Eric Foltz for U.S. Troops in Iraq The SIU-crewed Cape Washington mobilized last month. AB John Barcroft Cape Wrath nt Dennis (and SIU Porter h SA Ricky Goodman, GVA Jacqueline Ellsworth, Chief Steward McKinley Jones Cape Wrath Pictured on the Cape Wrath in Baltimore are (kneeling, from left) AB Charles Ellsworth, GVA Jacqueline Ellsworth, AB Al Barnett, (standing) AB John Barcroft, QMED Dennis Bennett, AB John Toomey, GVS William Scott, QMED Bob Oppel and Bosun William Dowzicky. DEU Dawn Williams Cape Wrath March 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/26/2004 2:18 PM Page 14 Seafaring Career Agrees with Hansen Although she never fulfilled her ambition to become a member of the U.S. Navy, steward department Seafarer Kathryn Hansen still is enjoying a rewarding career at sea—one that in her estimation rivals any which she may have experienced while wearing a Navy uniform. “When I graduated from high school, my dream was to go into the Navy as a WAVE (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) but I did not,” recalled the Michigan native who embarked on her seafaring career in 2000 in the port of Piney Point, Md. “Before becoming a Seafarer, my failure to join the Navy was one of the biggest disappointments in my life because I thought I had missed out on my chance to get quality sea service training and be exposed to the regimented and highly disciplined lifestyle that are hallmarks for the military. “But the Seafarers gave me that chance even at my age,” she continued, “and it’s been smooth sailing ever since. I love being a merchant mariner and I’ll continue sailing as long as my health permits me to do so.” Hansen’s love for the merchant marine and life at sea put her in potential danger last year when she—along with some 2,000 of her fellow SIU brothers and sisters—was called upon to From sailing in a war zone to upgrading at the Paul Hall Center, Kathryn Hansen takes her tasks in stride. crew vessels laden with military personnel, equipment, ammunition and various other supplies bound for the war zone during Operation Iraqi Freedom. As always, Seafarers answered their call to duty, and Hansen was no exception. She heeded her country’s appeal without hesitation. “I made two trips to Kuwait during the war against Iraq,” said Hansen, who sailed aboard the USNS Pillilau and USNS Gordon. She worked 12-hour days during both runs and not surprisingly encountered little difficulty keeping up with the IMPORTANT NOTICE SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN COBRA NOTICE hectic pace. “Being in a war zone while working on those vessels was stressful, but I really had no trouble coping” she said. “Once I got everything organized, it went very smooth.” In addition to crew members, active duty military people were aboard each of the ships during her voyages. “They all were well-mannered and extremely disciplined,” Hansen said. “Most of them were very young …you could tell when they came through the food lines. This part was rather difficult for me because I have children (Sean, who served during Desert Storm; Joseph and Travis) who are their ages,” she continued. “When I looked at the young soldiers, I thought of my own children and I just kept praying that they all would return home and have the chance to have a good life.” Hansen made it through her trips to the war zone without incident, but the experiences left a lasting impression. “I came home with a totally new outlook on life and a different appreciation of the world and the things that go on in it,” she said. “You can only imagine what it’s like to live in a Third World country until you see it firsthand … then you get a sense of how blessed we are to live in the United States. You finally understand how fortunate we all are.” When Hansen’s war zone voyages ended, she returned to the familiar surroundings of vessels on the Great Lakes. It was there that she spent the early days of her career sailing in the steward department on such vessels as the Adam E. Cornelius, Walter J. McCarthy and Paul H. Townsend. Currently, she is undergoing certified chief cook upgrade training at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “I’d put the quality of the training that I am receiving here up against any available anywhere,” Hansen said. “The instructors are all wonderful people who answer all your questions. If you don’t know how to do something, they’ll gladly show you. “As far as the facilities here are concerned, I can only say that they are excellent. I highly recommend that all brothers and sisters come here to enhance their skills and make a better living for themselves and their families. It’s the best. “Although I’ve only been sailing SIU for about five years, I’ve actually been involved with the merchant marine for more than 30 years,” Hansen said. “Previously, I was married to a chief engineer who also sailed on the Great Lakes, so the merchant marine is a way of life for my family.” Apparently, Hansen wants to keep it that way. She recently convinced her nephew to take advantage of all that the SIU has to offer. He is slated to attend entry level training at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point. HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. SEAFARERS 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 Attention: Seafarers During this election year especially, help SPAD push the SIU message. March 2004 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:26 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 2 7 11 15 31 1 12 17 12 12 3 4 4 9 2 24 18 185 4 0 1 4 14 16 3 2 11 10 6 0 1 1 4 2 22 11 112 0 5 1 3 25 27 0 9 14 25 12 5 1 7 22 1 23 18 198 0 4 1 6 10 19 0 7 6 10 4 2 2 1 13 2 9 9 105 2 6 5 5 7 23 0 2 7 3 15 1 4 3 8 2 15 4 112 1 1 0 0 2 5 0 1 1 5 5 2 0 2 1 0 8 6 40 2 3 0 2 10 16 0 3 9 8 9 4 2 5 10 1 9 5 98 0 1 1 14 15 20 0 4 4 13 5 2 3 1 14 0 23 14 134 0 1 2 4 3 9 0 3 3 4 13 1 2 1 0 1 4 3 54 0 2 0 2 2 8 0 2 0 5 6 0 1 1 3 0 3 3 38 0 3 0 9 10 16 0 6 7 15 7 3 2 2 18 2 14 13 127 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 4 2 2 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 5 22 1 5 6 8 13 13 0 4 3 31 7 1 6 4 9 2 26 8 147 1 7 0 6 14 21 0 1 5 20 13 1 46 3 6 1 22 13 180 0 0 0 3 1 4 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 0 5 2 22 0 5 2 5 11 7 0 2 4 16 12 1 5 5 7 2 9 5 98 Totals All Departments 470 498 370 445 404 Port 0 5 3 8 10 28 0 8 13 14 16 3 6 7 8 2 24 15 170 1 1 1 1 9 8 2 2 6 4 4 1 0 2 3 2 24 8 79 0 2 0 0 7 14 1 4 7 10 3 1 1 3 6 0 8 9 76 3 11 1 16 43 62 0 18 31 41 19 4 0 13 32 1 50 40 385 1 3 7 13 24 40 1 16 23 20 16 4 3 7 12 2 35 26 253 4 1 2 4 26 27 2 2 14 25 8 4 2 1 3 4 20 19 168 0 0 0 2 1 3 0 2 1 2 6 1 0 2 5 0 7 1 33 0 10 1 9 20 41 0 14 10 20 8 1 3 6 16 2 20 17 198 2 5 5 11 12 34 1 5 14 12 19 2 6 1 12 4 20 10 175 2 1 0 2 11 8 1 1 6 14 5 1 1 0 4 0 11 10 78 1 8 2 3 6 18 0 5 6 2 10 2 2 4 2 1 13 6 91 0 2 0 2 6 1 0 1 2 7 4 0 0 0 6 0 12 1 44 0 2 2 23 28 33 0 8 14 20 13 4 4 2 28 0 35 34 250 0 3 4 5 6 25 1 3 7 7 18 0 2 1 4 0 7 4 97 0 1 0 3 4 11 0 3 3 11 4 0 1 2 2 0 4 5 54 0 8 0 2 8 13 0 1 1 8 12 0 19 1 4 0 13 10 100 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 4 2 0 2 4 7 0 0 0 2 7 0 7 5 53 2 3 6 13 23 21 1 10 13 44 8 1 7 5 18 1 33 16 225 2 3 0 17 32 28 0 2 10 52 14 2 47 2 9 3 29 25 277 231 155 886 750 577 0 0 1 1 4 8 0 1 1 3 3 1 0 2 1 1 3 2 32 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 1 0 6 1 7 0 4 1 6 5 1 2 2 4 1 2 2 45 0 1 1 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 5 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 20 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. March 2004 Piney Point .............Monday: April 5, May 3 Algonac ..................Friday: April 9, May 7 Baltimore ................Thursday: April 8, May 6 Boston.....................Friday: April 9, May 7 Duluth .....................Wednesday: April 14, May 12 Guam ......................Thursday: April 22, May 20 Honolulu .................Friday: April 16, May 14 Houston ..................Monday: April 12, May 10 Jacksonville ............Thursday: April 8, May 6 Joliet .......................Thursday: April 15, May 13 Mobile ....................Wednesday: April 14, May 12 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 1 8 1 5 26 29 0 14 9 23 14 1 0 7 18 2 28 23 209 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs April & May 2004 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters New Bedford ..........Tuesday: April 20, May 18 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: April 13, May 11 New York................Tuesday: April 6, May 4 Norfolk ...................Thursday: April 8, May 6 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: April 7, May 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: April 15, May 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: April 15, May 13 San Juan..................Thursday: April 8, May 6 St. Louis..................Friday: April 16, May 14 Tacoma ...................Friday: April 23, May 21 Wilmington ...............Monday: April 19, May 17 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals PAUL MORAN (QMED or Wiper) Mike Sano, a fellow shipmate from the late 1980s and early ’90s on Maersk Lines’ M/V Anderson in Diego Garcia, is trying to get in touch with you. Please call him at (504) 259-7546 or contact him by e-mail at: masanoce@aol.com. Correction The February issue of the LOG contained an incorrect phone number for Prescription Solutions customer service. The correct number is 800 797-9791. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 15 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:26 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269-7877 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 1 3 6 12 1 0 6 29 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 4 0 5 1 5 7 0 0 0 18 0 6 6 9 16 1 1 8 47 0 4 1 4 1 0 0 1 11 0 7 1 5 7 0 0 0 20 0 4 4 3 6 2 0 0 19 0 13 16 11 37 1 8 17 103 0 4 6 2 7 0 2 2 23 0 14 10 14 0 0 0 2 40 0 1 2 1 4 2 1 0 11 0 8 10 6 14 1 4 11 54 0 3 6 2 5 0 2 7 25 0 14 11 9 0 0 2 0 36 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 5 0 6 5 5 14 4 3 10 47 1 2 1 3 8 0 4 5 24 0 14 5 9 1 0 0 2 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 3 2 1 1 2 12 24 0 1 2 0 2 0 0 1 6 0 5 0 5 3 0 0 0 13 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 0 6 4 4 4 1 1 12 32 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 3 0 0 0 10 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 1 3 6 2 1 1 17 0 0 0 1 4 0 1 4 10 0 11 1 7 5 0 0 0 24 Port 0 4 2 6 5 2 0 1 20 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 1 0 3 6 0 0 0 10 ENTRY DEPARTMENT NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Totals All Departments 70 20 55 99 21 40 40 204 72 110 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Port TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Seafarers LOG PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the LOG by Pensioner Troy Smith of Rome, Ga. The picture below was taken aboard the SS Mary Adams in 1952. The Liberty ship was on a run to Korea. Smith is at far left. The other picture was taken aboard the SS Steel Worker in 1956, sailing to the Persian Gulf. Smith sits in the center of the front row. He shipped as a wiper on both vessels. Troy Smith, 76, began his seafaring career in 1945 in the port of Baltimore. He retired in 1989. In addition to the above mentioned vessels, Brother Smith’s career also included voyages on the SeaLand Consumer, the Humacao and the Ponce. If any of the other crew members in either photo would like to contact Troy Smith, they may write to him at: 5 Clarendon Place, Rome, GA 30165. 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. March 2004 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:27 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 SALIF AHMED, 64, began his seafaring career in 1968 in San Francisco. His first ship was the Robin Hood. Born in Yemen, he shipped in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Ahmed upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1977. He last went to sea on Interocean Management’s Great Land. Brother Ahmed lives in Seattle. ELBIO CALACE, 66, joined the SIU in 1995. Born in Uruguay, Brother Calace worked primarily aboard American Hawaii Cruises’ SS Independence. A member of the steward department, he enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Seafarers training school. Brother Calace is a resident of Honolulu. BILLY RAY EASTWOOD, 48, hails from Louisiana. Brother Eastwood started his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first voyage was aboard the Suamico. Brother Eastwood worked in the deck department as a bosun and improved his skills often at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. He completed the bosun recertification course there in 1996. Brother Eastwood last sailed on the Cape Texas, a Mormac Marine Enterprise vessel. He makes his home in Beaumont, Texas. JAMES A. HATFIELD, 64, started his seafaring career in 1972 in San Francisco. Brother Hatfield’s first voyage was aboard Delta Steamship Lines’ Santa Magdalena. The Louisiana-born mariner shipped in the steward department, last sailing on the R.J. Pfieffer. Brother Hatfield lives in San Francisco. WILLIAM HUDSON, 63, joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was Emerson Steamship Co.’s Catherine. Brother Hudson was born in Leaksfield, Miss., and worked in the engine depart- March 2004 ment. He enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hudson’s final voyage was on the Blue Ridge. He resides in Mobile. WILFREDO MIRANDA, 64, hails from Puerto Rico. Brother Miranda started his seafaring career in 1969 in the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard Isco’s Steel Engineer. Brother Miranda worked in the steward department, last sailing on the Horizon Expedition. He lives in his native commonwealth in the city of Santurce. ABDULLA SALEH, 65, began his seafaring career in 1991 in the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard the Franklin J. Phillips. Born in Yemen, Brother Saleh worked in the steward department. His final trip to sea was board the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge. Brother Saleh is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. INLAND W. ROY GOLDEN , 64, was born in Harold, Texas. He started his SIU career in 1981 in Houston. Boatman Golden worked mainly aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. He shipped in the deck department as a captain and calls Many, La. home. MARC F. GORFINE, 61, joined the Seafarers in 1987 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Boatman Gorfine sailed in the deck department and worked chiefly aboard vessels operated by the Association of Maryland Pilots. Virginia Beach, Va. is his home. WILLIAM GOSSETT, 62, is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Gossett initially worked on an Admiral Towing vessel. Born in Ottawa, Kan., he shipped in the deck department as a captain. He upgraded his skills on two occasions at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Gossett resides in Aiken, S.C. MARTHA KELL, 61, launched her career with the Seafarers in 1987, joining in the port of Piney Point, Md. Born in Arkansas, Sister Kell worked in the steward department. She upgraded her skills in 1995 and 1999 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Sister Kell worked mainly aboard vessels operated by Orgulf Transport Co. She makes her home in Edwardsville, Ill. ROBERT MORTON, 63, joined the SIU ranks in 1980 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The U.S. Navy veteran first sailed with the SIU aboard a Steuart Tanker Co. vessel. Brother Morton worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers training school in 2001. He last shipped on a Pennsylvania Maritime, Inc. vessel. Brother Morton was born in Nashville, Tenn. and makes his home in Hertford, N.C. HARRY SCHOLER, 61, was born in New Jersey. He began his seafaring career in 1979 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Scholer worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions, first sailing on the Guayama. A member of the deck department, he enhanced his skills in 1982, 1992 and 1998 in Piney Point, Md. A resident of Orlando, Fla., he last sailed aboard a Maritrans Operating Co. vessel. JOSEPH SHUBERT, 62, began his SIU career in 1968 in St. Louis. Before launching his seafaring career, Boatman Shubert served in the U.S. Air Force. The Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1941 More than 2,500 members of the Atlantic and Gulf District participated in the election of officers of the SIU Atlantic & Gulf District for 1941. This was the first election conducted since the two districts were amalgamated into the one district. The election covered the Atlantic District representative, the Gulf District representative, and the port agents and patrolmen in all ports from Boston to Texas City and including San Juan, Puerto Rico. 1955 Gastonia, N.C. native sailed in the deck department as a captain and worked mainly aboard National Marine Service, Inc. vessels. Boatman Shubert resides in Orlando, Fla. 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 Bello, Ramon 65 Jan. 1 Coiro, Louis 78 Jan. 1 Dorsey, John 60 Dec. 1 Ebanks, Willam 58 Jan. 1 LaPlante, Raymond 60 Jan. 1 Richard, Virgil 60 Feb. 1 Cuba and Florida where Cuban MIGs attacked the American shrimp boat Ala with rockets and machine guns on February 20. Seafarer Jack Nelson, an AB, took pictures of the attack from the deck, which he handed over to U.S. intelligence sources when the ship docked in Miami. 1975 The SIU-contracted Golden Monarch, the last of three 90,000-ton tankers built for Aeron Marine Shipping Co., was launched last month at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. in San Diego, Calif. The Golden Monarch joins her sister ships the Golden Dolphin and Golden Endeavor on the waterways; both of those ships were launched in San Diego last year. All three vessels are 894 feet long, and are capable of carrying 25 million gallons of crude oil (500,000 barrels). They are the first double-bottom ships (to protect against oil spillage in collisions) of their size ever constructed, and the largest vessels ever built on the West Coast. This Month In SIU History The membership of the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic & Gulf District, ratified a newly negotiated contract clause establishing a seniority hiring provision with contracted companies. The new hiring system involves three classes of seniority. Men sailing before Dec. 31, 1950 got “A” ratings; men sailing regularly since Jan. 1, 1951 were rated Class “B” and men who had no time aboard SIU ships before Jan. 1, 1955 or who had not shipped regularly during the periods to cover classes A and B received a “C” rating. In the future, seamen with “A” ratings will receive preference over the other two categories for job calls and the “B” rated seamen will receive preference over “C” men. 1963 The SIU-manned Floridian became the first American merchant ship fired on by Cuban MIG jet airplanes when she was attacked last Thursday, March 28, by two Russian-built aircraft about 50 miles north of Cuba. The jets first circled the ship for 20 minutes before opening up with their machine guns. The attack came in the same waters between 1993 SIU-crewed ferries were called into service to transport thousands of people from Manhattan across the Hudson River following the explosion which rocked the World Trade Center. The ferries, which traditionally operate between Manhattan and New Jersey, quickly increased the number of runs and pick-up locations. The blast, which resulted in at least five deaths and thousands of injuries, also severely disrupted local subway, train and bus service. But 10 SIU-manned passenger ferries, operated by ARCORP of New Jersey, quickly started an emergency schedule that afternoon and relieved the overcrowding for the city’s stranded commuters. Seafarers LOG 17 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:27 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA EDWARD ATKINS Pensioner Edward Atkins, 76, passed away Dec. 11. Born in North Carolina, Brother Atkins joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. His first ship was the Robin Gray, a Sinclair Oil Corp. vessel. Brother Atkins worked in the deck department and last sailed on the SS Independence. He resided in San Luis Obispo, Calif. and began receiving his pension in 1992. JAMES BROOKS Pensioner James Brooks, 73, died Nov. 7. He began his SIU career in 1965 in the port of Mobile, Ala. A veteran of both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army, Brother Brooks’ first SIU ship was the Wingless. The Alabama-born mariner sailed in the deck department. He last went to sea on the Cove Leader and made his home in Gulfport, Miss. Brother Brooks started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1990. ROBERT CASTILLO Pensioner Robert Castillo, 59, passed away Oct. 15. Brother Castillo became a Seafarer in 1978 in the port of New York. His first ship was Interocean Management’s Cantigny. Born in Chile, Brother Castillo worked in the steward department. His last vessel was the Sea-Land Developer. Brother Castillo resided in Lynwood, Wash. and began receiving retirement compensation in 2003 JOSEPH CROWLEY Pensioner Joseph Crowley, 76, died Oct. 11. Brother Crowley began his seafaring career in 1956 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first vessel was the Ocean Deborah. The New York native worked in the deck department and went on pension in 1992. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Anchorage. Brother Crowley made his home in Shelton, Wash. JUAN GARCIA Pensioner Juan Garcia, 72, passed away Dec. 9. He joined the SIU in 1969 in San Francisco. Brother Garcia, who was born in Puerto Rico, first sailed aboard the Osprey, a Puerto Rico Marine Management vessel. He worked in the engine department. Brother Garcia started receiving his pension in 1993. He called Stockton, Calif. home. JOHNNIE H. GREEN Pensioner Johnnie H. Green, 85, died Jan. 8. Brother Green began his SIU career in 1947 in the port of 18 Seafarers LOG Norfolk, Va. His first vessel was the Alcoa Patriot. Born in Savannah, Ga., he worked in the steward department. Brother Green last sailed on the Sea-Land Pittsburgh. The Bronx, N.Y. resident started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985. DAVID GUAJARDO Brother David Guajardo, 53, passed away Oct. 19. He embarked on his seafaring profession in 1977 in the port of Houston. Brother Guajardo’s maiden voyage was on Interocean Management’s Banner. The Texas-born mariner worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Overseas Marilyn. He resided in San Antonio. ANIBAL GUTIERREZ Brother Anibal Gutierrez, 79, died Oct. 10. Brother Gutierrez launched his seafaring profession in 1992 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first vessel was the Sealift Pacific. Brother Gutierrez shipped in the deck department and last worked aboard the Sea-Land Developer. Born in Honduras, he called Houston home. ROBERT HUTCHINS Pensioner Robert Hutchins, 88, passed away Nov. 18. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of Blakely, Ga., he worked in the steward department, last sailing on the Sea-Land Pioneer. Brother Hutchins, who lived in Jacksonville, Fla., went on pension in 1981. EVERETTE KLOPP Pensioner Everette Klopp, 76, died Dec. 24. Brother Klopp commenced his SIU career in 1951 in San Francisco. A native of Minnesota, he sailed in the deck department and worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Klopp last sailed on American Maritime Transport’s Golden Endeavor. The Granite Bay, Calif. resident started receiving his pension in 1992. CHRIS MAGBANUA Pensioner Chris Magbanua, 87, passed away Dec. 12. He began his seafaring career in 1965. Born in the Philippines, Brother Magbanua first sailed on the Ocean Pioneer. The steward department member resided in San Francisco and went on pension in 1982. He last worked on the SeaLand McLean. JAMES MATES Pensioner James Mates, 73, died Oct. 26. Brother Mates embarked on his seafaring career in 1960. He worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Sea-Land Innovator. Brother Mates began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1999. He was a native of Pennsylvania, but called San Francisco home. NICHOLAS MORAMARCO Brother Nicholas Moramarco, 54, passed away Oct. 15. He began his career with the SIU in 1989 in the port of Piney Point, Md. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Moramarco’s first vessel was the SS Independence. The California-born mariner worked in the deck department and last shipped on the Horizon Navigator. He began receiving retirement stipends in 2000. Sherman Oaks, Calif. was his home. GILBERT MURRAY Pensioner Gilbert Murray, 73, died Dec. 8. Brother Murray embarked on his profession with the SIU in 1967 in San Francisco after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Murray first went to sea aboard Hudson Waterways’ East Point Victory. Born in Yale, Mich., he shipped in the steward department. Brother Murray last sailed on the Ambassador, a Crowley American Transport vessel. He became a pensioner in 1992 and resided in Jacksonville, Fla. JAMES O’DONNELL Pensioner James O’Donnell, 83, passed away Oct. 5. A native of Montana, Brother O’Donnell launched his SIU career in 1968 in San Francisco. He initially went to sea aboard the Burbank Victory. Brother O’Donnell shipped in the engine department and last worked on the Sea-Land Mariner. He began receiving his pension in 1986. He made his home in Cave Junction, Ore. ANN RAFALOVICH Pensioner Ann Rafalovich, 93, died Nov. 17. Sister Rafalovich started her career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. The McKees Rock, Pa. native worked in the steward department and made her home in Portage, Pa. Sister Rafalovich began receiving compensation for her retirement in 1978. RALPH REYNOLDS Pensioner Ralph Reynolds, 82, passed away Dec. 17. He embarked on his profession with the MC&S in San Francisco. Brother Reynolds sailed as a member of the steward department and became a pensioner in 1975. He was born in New York, but made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. RAMON SANTANA Pensioner Ramon Santana, 93, died Oct. 30. Brother Santana commenced his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. The steward department member started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1972. Brother Santana made his home in San Diego. PEDRO SAQUILAYAN Pensioner Pedro Saquilayan, 85, passed away Dec. 13. He began his seafaring career in 1953 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. His first ship was Isco’s Steel Worker. Born in the Philippines, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Saquilayan last went to sea on the Santa Lucia, a Delta Steamship vessel. He became a pensioner in 1981 and resided in Melbourne, Fla. JOHN SCHAEFER Pensioner John Schaefer, 75, died Nov. 22. Brother Schaefer started his career with the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. His first vessel was Delta Steamship’s Del Aires. Born in Detroit, he sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Schaefer last worked aboard the Duchess, a Seahawk Management vessel. The Rose City, Mich. resident began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1993. WALTER SUSKA Pensioner Walter Suska, 79, passed away Jan. 2. He began his seafaring career in 1943 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Suska’s first vessel was Isco’s Steel Fabricator. The South River, N.J. native worked in the engine department. Brother Suska lived in his native state and started receiving his pension in 1986. WILLIAM WALKER Pensioner William Walker, 82, died Oct. 20. Brother Walker initiated his SIU career in 1953 in Lake Charles, La. after serving in both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Walker worked in the deck department, last sailing on the Stonewall Jackson. He went on pension in 1992 and resided in Wiggins, Miss. INLAND ROBERT CAMPBELL Pensioner Robert Campbell, 83, passed away Oct. 7. Boatman Campbell launched his career with the Seafarers in 1977, joining in the port of Piney Point, Md. Born in Philadelphia, he sailed in the deck department and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Taylor Marine Towing Co. Boatman Campbell began receiving his pension in 1986. He resided in Camden, N.J. ELLIS SPIVEY Pensioner Ellis Spivey, 75, died Nov. 8. He joined the SIU in 1970 in Port Arthur, Texas. Born in Tampa, Fla., Boatman Spivey worked mainly aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. He shipped in the deck department as a captain. Boatman Spivey went on pension in 1993. He made his home in Beaumont, Texas. GREAT LAKES ANDREW ASPSETER Pensioner Andrew Aspseter, 95, passed away Dec. 21. Brother Aspseter embarked on his career with the SIU in 1963. Born in Michigan, he worked primarily aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Company. The deck department member made his home in Sawyer, Wis. and began receiving his pension in 1974. ROBERT BAUGHMAN Pensioner Robert Baughman, 75, died Oct. 29. He commenced his SIU career in 1963 in Frankfort, Mich. The Michigan-born mariner worked in the engine department and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1992. Brother Baughman lived in Frankfort. THOMAS HART Pensioner Thomas Hart, 64, passed away Nov. 24. Brother Hart joined the ranks of the SIU in 1970 in Detroit. He first sailed aboard the Raymond Reiss. Born in Michigan, Brother Hart sailed as a member of the engine department, last working on the H. Lee White. He went on pension in 1991. New Matamoras, Ohio was his home. JOHN McCLINTON Pensioner John McClinton, 78, died Oct. 21. He became a Seafarer in 1960, joining in Detroit after serving in the U.S. Navy. His first SIU ship was the Mt. McKinley, an American Tramp Shipping & Development vessel. Brother McClinton shipped in the deck department and worked in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. His final voyage was on the Paul H. Townsend. Brother McClinton was born in Detroit but lived in Alpena. Mich. He became a pensioner in 1991. Continued on page 20 March 2004 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/27/2004 5:11 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. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), Dec. 22—Chairman Kelvin S. Cherington, Secretary Mark Wertanen, Educational Director Marvin Wilmoth, Deck Delegate Phillip A. Morris, Engine Delegate Joseph L. Sam, Steward Delegate Wilbert Williams Jr. Chairman praised crew for good job on recent fire incident; everyone reacted quickly and efficiently. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $470 donated to steward for death in his family. No beefs reported. Engine department requested clarification on weekend time off for day workers and information about cleanup of greasy equipment while on watch. Many thanks given to Seamen’s Center in Texas City and Freeport for gifts and support given to mariners working during holiday season. Next port: Norfolk, Va. COAST RANGE (Intrepid), Dec. 23—Chairman Marvin P. Zimbro, Secretary Lanette A. Lopez, Educational Director Candido Castro, Deck Delegate Donnie Collins. Chairman announced end-of-year payoff in Garyville, La. Dec. 31. He encouraged crew members to read LOG to keep current on union and maritime issues, with particular attention to president’s report. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to reduce age and seatime requirements for pension. ENDURANCE (USSM), Dec. 20 —Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Michael L. Baker, Educational Director Ron M. Schexnayder, Deck Delegate Feliciano M. Gimutao Jr., Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Thurman C. Johnson. Chairman reported good trip. He and secretary wished happy holidays to crew members. Treasurer stated $1,825 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department (Steward Baker, Chief Cook Johnson and GSU A. Saleh) for fine holiday meals. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. 1st LT. JACK LUMMUS (Amsea), Dec. 17—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary John J. Fallon III, Educational Director Michael S. Rueter. Chairman announced crew change Jan. 6. Secretary read minutes from last meeting. Educational director stressed importance of education and spoke about opportunities available at Paul Hall Center to help mariners upgrade skills. Treasurer stated $198 in ship’s fund. DVD player was recently purchased for crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone reminded to pay dues in order to continue sailing. Thanks given to steward department for delicious Thanksgiving Day meals and to engine department for fixing range. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Dec. 28—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Steven M. Dickson, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Erowin C. Udan. Chair- March 2004 man announced arrival Jan. 3 in Tacoma, Wash. with payoff following customs inspection. He noted that repairs to garbage disposal completed. Fans will be placed in rooms currently without them. Secretary noted sanitary inspection due Dec. 31. Educational director stressed importance of contributing to SPAD and for crew members to keep all documents and paperwork up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to San Francisco union officials for assistance and information. Everyone reminded to vote on contract changes. Steward department given vote of thanks for holiday meals and festivities. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), Dec. 7—Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Vainuu L. Sili, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Robert J. Natividad, Steward Delegate Glenn A. Taan. Chairman announced arrival Dec. 9 in Oakland, Calif. with payoff same day. He asked that everyone have change of linen for relief and that doors be kept locked in port. Secretary added that everything running smoothly. Educational director talked about opportunities available at Piney Point to upgrade skills. Good time to do so would be from Dec. 30 to Jan. 21, 2004, when vessel is in Hong Kong shipyard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about tax withholding on vacation checks. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), Dec. 17—Chairman Howard W, Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Educational Director Lorance D. Pence. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 19 in Tacoma, Wash. He thanked everyone for following safety procedures and for donating money for fresh fish in Guam. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Schedule of upgrading courses is listed in each issue of Seafarers LOG. He also stated that the Southern Maryland facility is good place for family summer vacations. Treasurer stated $210 in video fund. New movies to be purchased next trip. New tape rewinder needed as well. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for getting ship in holiday spirit with decorations, good food and lots of cookies. Next ports: Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong. ITB BALTIMORE (USS Transport), Dec. 28—Chairman Jeffrey H. Kass, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director Geoffrey L. James, Deck Delegate Khaled Munassar, Engine Delegate Ahmed Salim. Chairman spoke about vital importance of contributing to SPAD. He reminded crew to keep passageways quiet, respect each other’s work and keep laundry facilities clean. He also encouraged everyone to utilize excellent facilities at Paul Hall Center for upgrading and improving skills, and he informed them of new prescription drug program and of need to renew z-cards early. Educational director stated $200 in movie fund and said that magazine subscription to Sports Illustrated will be renewed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Cherry Point, Wash.; Long Beach, Calif. ITB JACKSONVILLE (USS Transport), Dec. 23—Chairman John R. Lamprecht, Secretary John A. Stephen, Educational Director Stanley M. Sporna. Chairman noted long trip to Pakistan. He requested list of everyone who wants to be relieved. Captain will send those names to manpower. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD and vote for legislators who support maritime issues. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members asked to help steward department keep ship clean. Bosun trying to establish new system for storing trash. Request made that prior arrangements be made for shore leave. Repair to bosun’s sink needed, and new mattresses on order. Next ports: Portland, Maine; Houston. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), Dec. 30—Chairman Thomas P Banks, Secretary James A. Jackson, Educational Director Alton P. Hickman Jr., Steward Delegate Romalies J. Jones. Chairman announced next trip to Haifa, Israel. Educational director advised crew members to take full advantage of upgrading courses available at Piney Point. Some disputed OT noted in deck department; no beefs reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Lines), Dec. 17—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director John A. Collins Jr., Deck Delegate Juan I. Arzu, Engine Delegate Alexander Koroteyev, Steward Delegate John Padilla. Chairman announced payoff Dec. 21 in Newark, N.J. Educational director advised crew members to check expiration dates on z-cards and submit for renewal at least six months in advance. He also encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point whenever possible. Treasurer stated $1,516.63 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase vacation benefits. Everyone asked to rewind movies and return them to locker and to continue keeping laundry room clean and orderly. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C. Seen in San Juan ... Bosun Charles David James works aboard the Atlantic Guardian at Pier 10 in San Juan, P.R. The Global Marine Systems vessel is one of the most advanced cable ships in operation. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (OSG), Dec. 20—Chairman Timothy J. Olvany, Secretary Jose A. Rivera, Educational Director Edgar G. Pacana, Deck Delegate Daniel Vasquez, Engine Delegate William Pough, Steward Delegate Henry Greene Jr. Chairman informed crew members of possibility of lengthy job on coastwise tankers. Secretary advised everyone to check that all shipping documents are kept current. Educational director spoke about upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $1,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone asked to check crew mess information board daily. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into option of retiring after 20 consecutive years in union. Vessel in need of all forms on board (e.g., minutes, crew lists, medical, vacation). Next port: Tampa, Fla. SEABULK CHALLENGE (Seabulk Tanker), Dec. 28— Chairman Harold L. Sebring, Secretary Timothy J. Dowd, Educational Director Daniel W. Fowers. Chairman noted new washing machine on board. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Safety money from company (for 500+ days with no lost time) available after first of year. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested about endof-year pay. Thanks given to steward department members Timothy Dowd, Heath Bryan and Nelson Bernardez for great holiday spread. Next ports: Jacksonville and Port Everglades, Fla., Texas City, Texas. SEALAND ACHIEVER (USSM), Dec. 28—Chairman David N. Martz, Secretary Andrew Hagan, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate Frank L. Thompson, Engine Delegate John A. Osburn Jr., Steward Delegate James R. Thacker. Chairman thanked crew for pleasant voyage and for good job separating plastic items from garbage. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and to remember importance of supporting SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New mattresses and recliner chairs received aboard ship. Steward department given vote of thanks for great holiday meals. Thanks also given to those who helped fix washing machine and ice machine. Next port: Houston. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Lines), Jan. 1—Chairman Raymond Henderson. Chairman announced payoff Jan. 3 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He asked crew members to keep all doors locked while in port and to follow new Coast Guard security procedures. Educational director reminded members to take advantage of union’s upgrading program at Paul Hall Center and of need to renew z-cards early. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to purchase larger TV, new DVD player and treadmill for gym. Laundry parts on order. Crew wishes all union brothers and sisters and their families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thanks given to Steward Billy Gigante for wonderful holiday dinner and GU John Nunez for keeping ship clean. Next ports: Newark, N.J.; Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C. Seafarers’ Training Helps Save Crew Member’s Life The following letter was received from Tony Mociun, chief mate aboard the SIUcrewed Mahimahi during voyage 79. Guam, January 15, 2004. At 0940 in the port of Guam, quick thinking by the crew members of Matson’s MV Mahimahi saved Ernesto (Ernie) Villanueva, the steward utility, from choking to death. The recertified steward, Lou Laupati, heard Ernie choking in the pantry as he was preparing for the afternoon meal. He heard Ernie cough loudly three times and then the coughs became softer. Lou called to Ernie from the galley but there was no answer. Lou quickly dropped what he was doing and rushed into the pantry to find Ernie bent over the sink with his finger in his mouth. He immediately noticed that Ernie’s face and neck were dark blue. Lou did what he was trained to do first: He called for help by dialing Capt. Ted Bernhard’s number. The captain got on the radio to the deck gang and passed the word for the sailors to ‘drop everything’ and make haste in getting to the galley. Without missing a beat, the captain radioed the tower and reported the emergency. Ron Barrer responded that he was calling the paramedics. All of this happened in the space of less than one minute! With everyone racing toward the galley, AB Brian Burns ran to the sailor’s deck and grabbed the Automatic Emergency Defibulator (AED), which was easily accessible, being hung on a hook outside his room. The bosun, Vernon Haik, grabbed the resuscitator, and the captain retrieved the emergency medical “go-bag.” In the meantime, after Lou hung up the phone, he returned to Ernie, whose head was now hanging into the sink. Putting together the clues that Ernie had given him—choking and a finger Recertified Steward Lou Laupiti put his Piney Point and shipboard training to practice when he helped save a crew mate’s life aboard the Mahimahi. in his mouth, Lou figured Ernie had something stuck in his throat. He grabbed Ernie from behind, clasped his hands together just under Ernie’s rib cage and gave a mighty thrust. Nothing happened. He gave another more powerful thrust, and a piece of ham flew out of Ernie’s throat. The captain and crewmembers arrived just as Ernie’s breathing was restored. It was a happy ending to what could have resulted in death had it not been for the quick thinking all around. As Laupiti said, “I knew what to do because I pay attention to those lectures and demonstrations we get on the ship.” Seafarers LOG 19 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:27 PM Page 20 Letter to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) A Grateful Family Of Seafarers The SIU has been good to me ever since I finished high school and went to work. I am grateful to the Seafarers International Union for all the Final Departures Continued from page 18 good work on union ships that it has brought to my family. Most of my family worked and organized out of New Orleans. Nearly 50 years later, uncles and sons and nephews of my brothers still are working aboard union vessels. My uncle, J.A. Spina, and my brother, S.J. Canales Sr. were full book members and lifelong Seafarers. They began in the ’40s from New Orleans. I was taken to the union hall on Decatur Street in New Orleans by an uncle to see Harry Lundeberg and hear Paul Hall speak. I began working tugs and Higgins boats intercoastal to Orange and Port Arthur. I got my Coast Guard papers in Mobile and then sailed deep sea. Back in 1945 and ’46, the line around the Customs House on Canal Street was two and three rows thick. I gave up my permit in 1950 to go to Korea. I had sailed Delta and Alcoa bauxite and coffee runs to South America. But I had to sign up to go fight the communists. I knew the battle it was to keep them out of the halls. God bless the SIU. the SS Galveston Bay. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1995. Dec. 2. Brother Ransom joined the NMU in 1943 in the port of Houston. Born in Texas, his first voyage was on the SS O.M. Bernuth. Brother Ransom initially worked in the steward department and frequently upgraded his skills. Moving to the deck department, he became a bosun in 1957. His last voyage was on the Gulf Supreme. Brother Ransom began collecting retirement stipends in 1980. TEOFILO CAMACHO WAYNE PERKINS Pensioner Wayne Perkins, 85, passed away Dec. 28. A veteran of the U.S Army, Brother Perkins joined the SIU in 1963 in Detroit, initially working on an Inland Lakes Management vessel. Born in West Branch, Mich., he sailed in the steward department. Brother Perkins’ last voyage was aboard the Niagara, an Erie Sand vessel. He began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1984 and called Claire, Mich. home. Pensioner Teofilo Camacho, 92, passed away Feb. 15. Born in Chorillis, Peru, he joined the NMU in the port of Philadelphia. A deck department member, Brother Camacho’s first ship was the SS Mormacland. He began receiving his pension in 1978. WEYMAN DICKERSON Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. Pensioner Weyman Dickerson, 75, died Dec. 21. Brother Dickerson joined the ranks of the NMU in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Pennsylvania, he worked in the deck department. Brother Dickerson last went to sea in 1966. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1967. EMILIO ALDARONDO THEODORE FERGUSON Pensioner Emilio Aldarondo, 83, died Jan. 12. Brother Aldarondo launched his NMU career in 1947. Born in Puerto Rico, his first ship was the SS Boringuen. Brother Aldarondo shipped in the steward department and frequently upgraded his skills. He started receiving his pension in 1970. Pensioner Theodore Ferguson, 80, passed away Jan 25. A native of St. Louis, he initially sailed from the port of San Francisco. Brother Ferguson’s first ship was the SS American Carrier. The steward department member began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1989. He last sailed on the SS Dawn. ANTHONY ARNICEVICH EDWARD HASKINS Pensioner Anthony Arnicevich, 84, passed away Jan. 30. He joined the NMU in 1937 and initially went to sea out of the port of Philadelphia. Brother Arnicevich’s first ship was the SS Astral. Born in Italy, he shipped in the steward department. Brother Arnicevich began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1986 and last sailed on the Chesapeake. Pensioner Edward Haskins, 92, died Nov. 11. Brother Haskins launched his career with the NMU in 1963. Born in Birmingham, England, he initially went to sea aboard the Santa Mariana. Brother Haskins worked in the steward department and last sailed on the American Legend. He began receiving his pension in 1977. DEATRICE BEACHUM Pensioner Edward Kisner, 80, passed away Dec. 30. The West Virginia-born mariner commenced his NMU career in 1961. Shipping from the port of New York, he first went to sea on the Gen. R.M. Blatchford. Brother Kisner worked in the engine department and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1983. His last ship was the SS Texaco Trader. Pensioner Deatrice Beachum, 70, died Nov. 29. Brother Beachum began his NMU career in 1963. A native of Mount Calm, Texas, his first ship was the SS Gulftiger. Brother Beachum worked in the steward department, last sailing on 20 Seafarers LOG Know Your Rights DAVID KISNER FRANK RANSOM Pensioner Frank Ransom, 79 died Modesto Canales San Benito, Texas LEON VANTERPOOL Pensioner Leon Vanterpool, 86, passed away Jan 16. He began his NMU career in 1946. Born in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Brother Vanterpool initially sailed on the Mitchell. He sailed in the steward department as a chief steward. Brother Vanterpool last shipped on the Santa Elena. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1967. 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 Barabash, Frederick 83 Dec. 12 Berghaus, Herbert 62 Jan. 9 Brown, Charlie 79 Jan. 21 Covington, Curtis 92 Jan. 7 Diaz, Luis 83 Jan. 4 Durborow, Edgar 87 Jan. 2 Ebanks, Erlin 99 Jan. 2 Hernandez, Ramiro 84 Jan. 20 Hunt, Jeanette 82 Dec. 21 Irigoyen, Manuel 82 Dec. 18 Martin, Gilbert 81 Jan. 18 Martinez, Angel 86 Dec. 18 Ortiz Rabassa, Antonio 85 Nov. 15 Ramos, Alejandro 70 Dec. 22 Reyes, Nick 76 Nov. 23 Riva, Antonio 94 Jan. 13 Rivers, Robert 76 Jan. 24 Rodriguez, Mario 84 Jan. 8 Schultz, George 84 Jan. 5 Uscocovich, Marcos 80 Sept. 8 Yoko, Kumagai 90 Mar. 4,’03 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. The annual financial committee will be elected during the April 5 headquarters membership meeting to review the 2003 records. 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. March 2004 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/20/2004 3:27 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. for the next few months. 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. Date of Completion Engine Utility (EU) March 22 May 17 April 16 June 11 Marine Electrician May 10 July 2 Refrigeration April 12 May 21 Welding March 29 April 16 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* April 19 April 30 Basic Safety Training (BST) March 15 March 29 April 19 May 10 May 24 March 19 April 2 April 23 May 14 May 28 Fast Rescue Boat May 3 June 7 May 7 June 11 Government Vessels March 22 April 5 May 17 June 28 March 26 April 9 May 21 July 2 Medical Care Provider March 8 March 12 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* March 29 May 17 April 9 May 28 March 15 March 19 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman March 1 April 12 May 24 March 26 May 7 June 18 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids * (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) March 8 March 12 Celestial Navigation March 29 April 23 GMDSS (Simulator) March 1 March 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival March 29 May 10 April 9 May 21 Navigation Fundamentals April 26 May 7 Radar May 10 May 21 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) April 5 May 31 April 16 June 11 Course Start Date Course (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Steward Upgrading Courses Academic Department Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most recently beginning February 16, 2004. 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. Recertification Bosun (to be announced) See page 24 for an overview of the Government Vessels courses. 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 ________________________________________________ March 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. 3/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/27/2004 5:12 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 646 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 646 (in alphabetical order) Carlo Balajadia, Robert Beck, Branden Blees, Nicholas Collins, Michael Cox Jr., Timothy Dexter, Rocky Dupraw, Kevin Ford, Peter Jensen, Kevin Johnson, Brandon Jones, Jayme Jones, Joseph Maloney, Jaime Medina Vazquez, John Niday IV, Jose Nunez, Orlando Pabon, Hashiem Pittman, Antoine Rainey, Coda Russell, Shawn Sayers, Christopher Stroh, David Tran, Patrick Van Heck, Ty Varnadoe, Vinh Vo and Djuan Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding — Certificates of graduation for completion of the welding course were given Jan. 23 to (in alphabetical order) Towanda Brown, Thomas Cleary, Adnan Nasser, Johanna Saul and Mark Wain. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is second from left. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Unlicensed apprentices completing the tanker familiarization/assis- Crane Operations — Malcolm Harris (left) and Tony Corcino (center) successfully completed the crane operations course Jan 16. With them is their instructor, Greg Thompson. tant cargo (DL) course Jan. 16 are (in alphabetical order) Brannon Adams, Michael Alexander, Robert Brady, Gary Cruz, Jim Farmer, David Guthrie, Raymond Hotchkis, Ramsey Ingram, Reginald Jackson, Damien James, Carlo Johnson, Ryan Krom, Lance McFarland, Jermaine McNish, Richard Nemanic, Robert Any student who has registered for a class and finds, for whatever reason, Patterson, Christopher Paul, James Perkins, Xavier Rivera, that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that Rimothy Ross, Gregory Scott, Jonathan Scurry, John Selman, another student may take that place. Kenneth Sharp, Daniel Smith, Keith Smith and Brett Younginger. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Jan 23: John Adkins, Alberto Arhas, Patrick Clarke, Keiva-Lei Cadena, Randall Coard, Paul Conway, Chad Costa, William Gartland, Fernando Grant, Latchesara Kaymakanova, Tyson Kurtz, Garrett Ireland, Bjorn Ramskog, Jacob Lippertz, Jarrod McNeil, Tor Nygren, Jennifer Ranada, Chris Robinson, Frosti Smith, Ken Stanley, Derrenda Strother, Gay Netta Taay, Joseph Taylor IV, Jerald Topasna, Joseph Winningham, Latasha Woodruff and Heidi Zibell. STCW — Jan 9: Mark Campbell, Victor Cintron, Malcolm Demery, George Heyson, Nathan Hollander, Mark Lance, Jose Montero, Kenneth Nance Jr., Robert Nelson Jr., Jason Peters, Charles Peyton III, Richard Sullivan and Jeffrey Williams. STCW — Jan 9: André Gross, Benjamin Blanchard, Regina Moore, Errol Menair, Ralph Lawson, Thomas Solnok, Erin Richardson, Luis Lopez, Glenn Ferguson, Angelo Golden, Donna Laulu, Danielle Mueller, Tyson Kurtz, Daniel Stock, Jaime Mullins, James Herring, Santiago Corre, Jon Chavez, Jonathan Heu, Fernando Grant, Jerald Topasna, Selena Francisco, Rodel Austria, Bryan Abuluyan, Francis Sueño, Michael Sakalauskas, Adam Brown, Christopher Barnett, Anna Wagner, Kepola Ahin, Dimitre Mladenov and Todd Steele. 22 Seafarers LOG March 2004 �21722p6_8_11_15-23.qxd 2/27/2004 5:12 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Lifeboatman/ Water Survival With instructors Stan Beck and Tony Sevilla are Jan. 16 graduates Glenn Ferguson, Tyson Kurtz, Selena Francisco, Kepola Ahin, Daniel Stock, Dimitre Mladenov, Jonathan Heu, Fernando Grant, Erin Richardson, Luis Lopez Jr. and Jaime Mullens. Another group of Jan. 16 water survival course graduates includes Ricardo Salazar, Jerry Guglielmeno, Mario Suazo, Angelo Golden Jerald Topasna, Bryan Abuluyan, Rodel Austria, Francis Sueño, Todd Steele and John Janis. In the rear is instructor Tom Gilliland. Under the instruction of Stan Beck (standing) are Dec. 5 graduates of the water survival course. They are (in no particular order) Brenda Nett, Richard Sabino, Eric Johnson, Luis Rhee, Ryan Bucasas, Pauahi Maikai, Giuseppe Saverino, Timothy Daily, Benjamin Paulo, Lamberto Palamos Jaime Manzon, Renato Ballestero, Bianca Contreras, Celia Acacio, Gabrielle DePaulis and Pamela Phillips. Completing the water survival course Jan. 16 are Latasha Woodruff, Andrea Urlie, Bonny Pak, Derrenda Strother, Joseph Taylor, Greg Gandeza, Jacob ZLippertz, Joseph Winningham, Chad Costa, Daryl Whitney, Randall Coard, Willy Gartland, Latchesara Kaymakanova, John Janis, John Adkins, Clint Nishimiya and Stacy Ann Nishimura. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Another recent group of graduates of the water suvival course are Donna Laulu, Jeff Howard, Danielle Mueller, Ben Blandard, Santiago Corre, Mike Hayden, Kyle Riley and Anna Wagner. GMDSS — With instructor Brad Wheeler (left) are Jan. 16 graduates of the GMDSS course. They are (in alphabetical order) Daniel Lovely, Brian Miller, Nebojsa Milosevic, William Powell, Fernando Rigonan and David Steinberg. March 2004 Jan. 30 was graduation day for Garret Ireland, Jarod McNeill, Frosti Smith, Heidi Zibell, Keiva-Lei Cadena, Jennifer Ranada, Patrick Clarke, Chris Robinson, Ken Stanley, Gay Netta Taay, Scott Dayoan, Tanya Fau, Sean Nakamura, Michele Lono, Melanie Acpal, Renee Hill, Kathleen Silva, Joanne Walden, Brandy Filtzer and Andrew Ancog. Their instructor was Tony Sevilla. Graduating recently from the water survival course are André Gross, Geroge Richardson, Adam Brown, Regi Moore, Michelle Hayes, Jon Chavez, Cheri Conklen, Chris Burnett and Hilary Lohman. ARPA — Boatmen from New York Waterway completed the ARPA course Jan. 30. From the left are Mike Smith (instructor), Richard Silverthorne, John Willette, Norman Littles, John Winiarski and Brad Johnsen. Seafarers LOG 23 �21722p1_2_4_5_9-10_14_24.qxd 2/27/2004 4:06 PM Page 24 Volume 66, Number 3 March 2004 Upgrading at the Paul Hall Center Take advantage of the upgrading courses available at the Paul Hall Center. See page 21 for a schedule of upcoming classes. Government Vessels Courses Seafarers Train to Support U.S. Military T he Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. offers a curriculum of Government Vessels courses to boost and refine the skills of mariners who sail aboard military-contracted vessels. Because of the unique requirements of the military contracts, the program is structured as three 1-week modules which are open to mariners sailing in any department—but are mandatory for all QMED Oiler/Motor and Able Seaman (AB) ratings. The modules may be taken in any order. Upon completion of the full Government Vessels curriculum, a certificate will be issued by the Paul Hall Center. Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command and military vessels, damage control, CBRD (chemical, biological, radiological defense), Level I: Anti-Terrorism/ Personal Protection Brief 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. Students learn the safe way to operate and maintain the necessary equipment and are given opportunities for practical application. The next Government Vessels course at Piney Point is scheduled to begin March 22. Damage Control — This course is designed to provide mariners with the specific objectives of damage control and the knowledge, understanding and practical experience required for damage control at sea. Cargo Handling and Crane Operations — Included in the third week of the government vessels course of study, this class provides students with a comprehensive examination of cargo handling situations aboard vessels. The operation and maintenance of equipment is stressed, along with safety precautions and requirements. Students are given opportunties for practical application. Anti-Terrorism Briefing Given to All Upgraders Each week, as new students arrive to upgrade their skills and ratings at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., they are required to attend “Level I: Anti-Terrorism/Personal Protection Brief,” a one-hour course designed to familiarize them with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves when traveling abroad, particularly those who are employed, or may be employed, on government vessels. Currently being taught by Pat Vandegrift, assistant manpower coordinator, the classroom lecture meets the requirements issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Vandegrift incorporates a training video and student handouts as part of the course, each item of which has been selected to support, identify or reinforce specific learning objectives. All members of a ship’s crew are critical to vessel security, he stresses, and need to be in compliance with the current maritime security program. Only through individual awareness, knowledge and an ability to effectively communicate can there be an effective security plan aboard ship. Following a brief introduction of the course in which Vandegrift defines terrorism as “the calculated use of unlawful violence or threat of unlawful violence to inculcate fear intended to coerce or to intimidate governments of societies in the pursuit of goals that are generally political, religious or ideological,” he then talks about possible causes (e.g., intimidation, notoriety, revenge), characteristics of terrorists (e.g., political, religious, criminal, mentally disturbed), various tactics used by terrorists (including bombs, kidnapping, hostage- Assistant Manpower Coordinator Pat Vandegrift instructs new students at the Paul Hall Center about vessel and personnel safety and security in a one-hour anti-terrorism course. taking), identification of threat conditions (normal, heightened, imminent risk) and explains the factors involved in assessing threats. The next part of the briefing deals with individual actions that may be taken to avoid a terrorist attack and what to do in the event of being taken hostage. Of particular importance is knowing the locations of local police, fire departments, the U.S. Embassy or other safe, public places. He discusses the importance of a personal contingency plan (upto-date will, power of attorney), and gives the students important telephone numbers they can use to keep informed of terrorism alerts. Material Handling (Forklift) — This course provides students with a comprehensive examination of basic material handling operations, maintenance and safety. The class concentrates on the proper use and care of equipment and the prevention of user or handling errors. Students are provided an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills learned through participation in actual cargo handling operations. � 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 March 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF SECURES MILLIONS FOR CREWS APOSTLESHIP OF THE SEA STEPS UP TO PROTECT SHORE-LEAVE RIGHTS LIBERTY EAGLE JOINES SIU FLEET SEAFARERS-CREWED LMSRS CARRY VITAL MATERIAL FOR ‘BIG RED ONE’ SIU RALLIES WITH GROCERY WORKERS MERLIN RESCUES EGYPTIAN OFFICER DENNIS IS NEW PLANS ADMINISTRATOR DELMA RETIRES AFTER 38 YEARS, WILL REMAIN AS CONSULTANT NMU MEDICAL PLAN MERGES INTO SEAFARERS HEALTH PLAN SIU MOURNS RETIRED PATROLMAN JOE SIGLER MISSISSIPPI MISHAPS TRUSTEE MIKE SWAYNE PASSES AWAY AT AGE 69 U.S.-FLAG CRUISE PLAN REMAINS ON SCHEDULE FREE CHOICE ACT GAINS SUPPORT IN CONGRESS MARITIME ADMINISTRATION APPROVES DEEPWATER LIQUID NATURAL GAS PORT LIBERATOR CREW WELCOMES SIU PRESIDENT, OTHER OFFICIALS JOINT ACTION WITH SAUID ARABIA AIMS TO FIGHT TERRORIST FINANCING MULHOLLAND RETIRES FROM MATSON SIU PRESIDENT DESCRIBES KEY ASPECTS OF UNION, SCHOOL ALASKA TANKER COMPANY REACHES SAFETY MILESTONE U.S.-FLAG VESSELS, PORT FACILITIES SUBMIT SECURITY PLANS TO COAST GUARD SENTENCING ANNOUNCED IN MARINER DOCUMENT SCAM KILAUEA COMPLETES RECORD TRANSFER USNS MERCY BECOMES HOME FOR DISPLACED FIRE VICTIMS BILL CALLS FOR MONTHLY PAYMENT TO WWII MARINERS ST. LOUIS AMMV CHAPTER HELPS SECURE RECOGNITION FOR WWII MERCHANT MARINERS SIU DELIVERS FOR U.S. TROOPS IN IRAQ SEAFARING CAREER AGREES WITH HANSON SEAFARERS TRAIN TO SUPPORT U.S. MILITARY 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 03/01/2004 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. 3 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log